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The Ultimate Shopping Guide to Carolina Premium Outlets

The Ultimate Shopping Guide to Carolina Premium Outlets

Whether you are cruising down the East Coast on an Interstate 95 road trip or planning a dedicated weekend wardrobe refresh, Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, North Carolina, stands as Eastern North Carolina's premier destination for serious savings. Featuring over 80 designer and name-brand outlet stores, this sprawling open-air center offers up to 65% off retail prices every single day.

To help you maximize your time and budget, the team at Masters Inn Selma—located just four minutes up the road at I-95 Exit 97—has compiled this ultimate insider's guide to shopping, dining, and exploring the area.

1. Navigating the Outlets: Location & Parking

Carolina Premium Outlets is conveniently situated right off I-95 at Exit 95 (at the intersection of US-70 Business and Outlet Center Drive). If you are staying with us at Masters Inn Selma off Exit 97, you are only a straight two-mile drive down South Pollock Street / US-301.

  • Parking Perks: Parking is plentiful and free throughout the perimeter lots.
  • Pro Tip: Park behind the center near the Food Court if you want quick access to central restrooms, customer service, and easy navigation to both east and west wings.

2. Must-Visit Designer Brands

The center features an exceptional roster of upscale fashion, athletic wear, and home goods. Key anchor stores include:

  • Fashion & Accessories: Coach Outlet, Michael Kors, Kate Spade New York, Tommy Hilfiger, and Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store.
  • Sportswear & Active Living: Nike Factory Store, Under Armour, Columbia Factory Store, and Adidas.
  • Footwear & Basics: Vans Outlet, Skechers, Levi's Outlet Store, and Carter's Babies and Kids.

3. Insider Shopping Strategies to Maximize Savings

  • Join the VIP Shopper Club: Before you leave your hotel room, sign up for Simon's free VIP Shopper Club online to access exclusive digital coupons and promo codes on your smartphone.
  • Shop Mid-Week or Morning Hours: For a relaxed shopping trip without crowded fitting rooms, visit Tuesday through Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
  • Holiday Weekend Sales: Major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday offer extra storewide clearances, making a stay at nearby Masters Inn Selma ideal for catching early-bird doorbusters.

4. Local Dining: Fuel Your Spree

Shopping works up an appetite, and while the outlet complex offers fast bites like Auntie Anne's and quick-serve options, Johnston County's local culinary scene is right around the corner:

  • Classic North Carolina Barbecue: Head into Smithfield along Brightleaf Boulevard for pulled pork, hushpuppies, and sweet tea at local institutions like White Swan Bar-B-Q.
  • Casual Pub Fare: Visit nearby downtown Smithfield or Selma for artisan burgers, craft beers, and homestyle Southern cooking.

5. Pair Your Shopping with Selma & Smithfield Attractions

Don't limit your trip to just the outlets. Johnston County is steeped in culture and Southern hospitality:

  • Historic Selma Antique District: Just two minutes from Masters Inn Selma, explore sprawling antique malls packed with vintage treasures, mid-century furniture, and collectibles.
  • Ava Gardner Museum: Located in downtown Smithfield, celebrate the legendary Golden Age Hollywood actress who grew up just miles from the outlet mall.
  • The Rudy Theatre: Catch a classic variety show or seasonal Christmas production at this historic venue right in downtown Selma.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hours to visit Carolina Premium Outlets to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM from Tuesday to Thursday offer the lightest foot traffic and easiest parking. Peak shopping periods occur on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday weekends between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, when travelers along Interstate 95 stop in for midday breaks.

How far is Carolina Premium Outlets from Masters Inn Selma?

Carolina Premium Outlets is located just 2.5 miles south of Masters Inn Selma. Travelers can reach the outlet center in approximately four minutes by taking US-301 South or driving one exit south along Interstate 95 from Exit 97 down to Exit 95 in Smithfield, North Carolina.

What designer stores are located at Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield?

Carolina Premium Outlets features over 80 major brand stores including Nike Factory Store, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Under Armour, Levi's, Columbia Factory Store, and Tommy Hilfiger. Brand selections focus on premium sportswear, luxury leather goods, everyday apparel, and children's fashion.

Plan Your Stay at Masters Inn Selma

After a full day of bargain hunting and exploring Johnston County, you need a comfortable, budget-friendly place to relax. Situated right at I-95 Exit 97 and US-70, Masters Inn Selma offers clean, quiet rooms, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, truck and RV parking, and unbeatable proximity to Carolina Premium Outlets and the Historic Selma Antique District.

Skip the overpriced chain hotels and book directly with Masters Inn Selma to guarantee the best rates on your next North Carolina shopping getaway!

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