Metro Detroit Has More Mall Options Than Most People Realize
The major malls in Detroit Michigan span from luxury to outlet shopping across the metro area:
| Mall | Location | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Somerset Collection | Troy | 1,450,000 sq ft | Luxury shopping |
| Twelve Oaks Mall | Novi | 1,500,000 sq ft | Largest selection |
| Great Lakes Crossing Outlets | Auburn Hills | 1,400,000 sq ft | Outlet deals |
| Fairlane Town Center | Dearborn | 1,225,000 sq ft | Family shopping |
| The Mall at Partridge Creek | Clinton Township | 640,000 sq ft | Pet-friendly, open-air |
| GM Renaissance Center | Detroit (downtown) | ~60 stores | Tourist/urban shopping |
| Briarwood Mall | Ann Arbor | 983,000 sq ft | Full-service regional |
| Oakland Mall | Troy | – | Family-friendly events |
| Westland Mall | Westland | – | Community events |
Metro Detroit is one of the most mall-dense regions in the country. Michigan has more than 50 shopping malls statewide, and a large chunk of the best ones are clustered right here in Southeast Michigan. Whether you want designer labels, deep discounts, open-air lifestyle shopping, or a family day out with entertainment built in — there’s a mall for that within a reasonable drive.
And it’s not just about the shopping. Many of these malls double as entertainment and dining destinations, with attractions like the SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, axe throwing, and full-service restaurants all under one roof.
I’m Sean Swain, and as a Detroit-based short-term rental host who helps visitors explore the city every day, I’ve personally navigated the malls in Detroit Michigan from downtown landmarks to the sprawling suburban super-regionals. That local perspective shapes everything in this guide.
Quick malls in detroit michigan terms:
The Big Three: Premier Malls in Detroit Michigan
When we talk about the heavy hitters in the Michigan retail scene, three names consistently rise to the top. These “super-regional” malls are so large and influential that they draw shoppers from across the state and even across the border from Canada.
Somerset Collection: The Luxury Standard
If you are looking for the “Rodeo Drive” of the Midwest, you’ll find it at the Somerset Collection in Troy. Spanning 1.45 million square feet, this isn’t just a mall; it’s a fashion statement. Somerset is divided into North and South buildings, connected by a stunning glass-enclosed skywalk that allows you to traverse Big Beaver Road in style.
With over 180 stores, Somerset is the exclusive home to many luxury brands that don’t have other locations in Michigan. We’re talking about heavyweights like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. The atmosphere here is intentionally upscale, featuring valet parking, concierge services, and high-end dining. It’s the kind of place where you go to see and be seen, or simply to marvel at the pristine architecture and rotating art installations.
Twelve Oaks Mall: The Largest Shopping Destination in Detroit Michigan
Located in Novi, Twelve Oaks Mall holds the title of Metro Detroit’s largest shopping and dining destination. At a massive 1.5 million square feet, it houses more than 170 stores and restaurants, making it a true one-stop shop for just about anything you could need.
Twelve Oaks has successfully evolved with the times, recently adding modern “lifestyle” brands and massive experiential stores. One of the biggest draws currently is the upcoming DICK’S House of Sport, which promises to be more of an athletic destination than just a retail store. You’ll also find popular staples like lululemon, Pottery Barn, and Anthropologie. If you get hungry, the dining options here are top-tier, ranging from quick bites to sit-down favorites like The Cheesecake Factory.
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets: The Ultimate Discount Hub
For the bargain hunters among us, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills is the undisputed champion. It is the largest outlet center in Michigan, and what makes it truly unique is that more than 50 of its 180+ stores cannot be found anywhere else in the state.
But Great Lakes Crossing is just as much an entertainment complex as it is a mall. It’s home to the SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and Peppa Pig World of Play. If you’re looking for a place to keep the kids entertained while you hunt for deals at the Nike Factory Store or Coach Outlet, this is it. It’s entirely enclosed, which makes it a perfect destination for those cold Michigan winters.
Unique Shopping Experiences and Lifestyle Centers
While the “Big Three” offer massive scale, sometimes we want a shopping experience that feels a bit more integrated with the outdoors or focused on community vibes. This is where Metro Detroit’s lifestyle centers and regional mainstays shine.
The Mall at Partridge Creek: Open-Air and Pet-Friendly
Located in Clinton Township, The Mall at Partridge Creek offers a refreshing change of pace. It is an open-air lifestyle center, meaning you walk between stores on beautiful outdoor paths rather than through enclosed hallways. On a sunny Michigan day, there is nothing better.
The standout feature here is that it is incredibly dog-friendly. You’ll frequently see shoppers with their four-legged friends, and the mall even provides “comfort stations” for pets. With roughly 90 stores, a movie theater, and even axe throwing, it’s a vibrant community hub. If you find yourself in the area, you might also want to check out the nearby Macomb Mall services for a more traditional, high-value indoor experience.
Village of Rochester Hills and Westland Mall
The Village of Rochester Hills is another fantastic open-air option. At 375,000 square feet, it’s smaller and more manageable than the super-regionals, offering a “main street” feel with high-quality retailers. It’s known for its beautiful seasonal decorations and community-focused events.
On the other side of the metro area, Westland Mall serves as a vital community pillar. While it offers traditional retail, it has gained popularity for its unique initiatives, such as a weekly Farmers Market every Sunday and a year-long sneaker recycle drive. It’s a great example of how malls in detroit michigan are reinventing themselves to offer more than just clothes and shoes.
Historic and Urban Shopping in Downtown Detroit
Shopping in the heart of the city offers a completely different flavor than the suburban sprawl. Here, the architecture is the star of the show, and the stores often lean toward local artisans and unique Detroit-branded merchandise.
GM Renaissance Center and The Oakland Mall
The GM Renaissance Center is perhaps the most iconic building on the Detroit skyline. Inside, it houses about 60 stores and services. While it functions as the global headquarters for General Motors, the lower levels offer a “tourist theme” mall experience. You can find official GM merchandise at the Company Store, enjoy waterfront dining with views of Windsor, Ontario, or grab a coffee in the stunning Wintergarden.
Meanwhile, Oakland Mall in Troy remains a favorite for families. It’s a classic enclosed mall that has stayed relevant by leaning into seasonal events. Whether it’s photos with the Easter Bunny or holiday festivities, Oakland Mall maintains a nostalgic, welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.
Hudson’s Detroit: The Future of Malls in Detroit Michigan
The most exciting development in downtown retail is undoubtedly Hudson’s Detroit. Built on the site of the legendary J.L. Hudson Department Store on Woodward Avenue, this mixed-use project is the future of urban shopping. It features Nick Gilbert Way, a pedestrian-forward plaza that hosts live music, art installations, and retail pop-ups.
Hudson’s isn’t just about shopping; it’s a massive block that includes luxury residences and Class A office space. It’s designed to be a “city within a city,” where you can dine at world-class restaurants and shop at curated global retailers like ALO and Tecovas, all while honoring the historic legacy of the original Hudson’s.
The Fisher Building: A Retail Art Object
No guide to malls in detroit michigan would be complete without mentioning the Fisher Building. Often called “Detroit’s Largest Art Object,” this Albert Kahn-designed masterpiece features a three-story arcade filled with marble, mosaics, and brass.
The shopping here is boutique-focused. You’ll find one-of-a-kind local retailers, a stunning pharmacy, a salon, and several clothing boutiques. It’s also home to the Fisher Theatre, where some of the world’s most famous Broadway shows got their start. Shopping here feels like stepping back into the Gilded Age of Detroit.
The Canadian Shopper’s Guide to Metro Detroit
For our neighbors across the bridge in Windsor and the surrounding Ontario area, Detroit is the ultimate shopping destination. Because Detroit is under a four-hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area, it’s a popular spot for weekend shopping getaways.
Tax Savings and Duty-Free Allowances
One of the biggest draws for Canadians is the tax savings. Michigan’s sales tax is a flat 6%, which is significantly lower than Ontario’s 13% HST. When you’re making large purchases at places like Somerset or Twelve Oaks, those savings add up quickly.
Canadians also benefit from generous duty-free exemptions:
- Under 24 hours: No personal exemption.
- 24 to 48 hours: Up to CA$200 worth of goods.
- 48 hours or more: Up to CA$800 worth of goods.
Pro tip: To maximize your “bang for your buck,” plan a stay of at least 48 hours. This allows you to bring back a significant amount of merchandise without paying additional Canadian duties.
Border Crossings and Navigation
There are three main ways to get across the border into the Detroit shopping scene:
- The Ambassador Bridge: Connects Windsor to Detroit; best for reaching downtown and western suburbs like Novi (Twelve Oaks).
- The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel: The most direct route into downtown Detroit and the Renaissance Center.
- The Blue Water Bridge: Connects Sarnia to Port Huron; often has shorter wait times and is a great route if you’re heading to Great Lakes Crossing in Auburn Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Detroit Malls
Which malls in Detroit Michigan offer the best luxury shopping?
The Somerset Collection in Troy is the premier destination for luxury. It features high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, along with boutiques for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. For a more historic luxury experience, the Fisher Building offers high-end local boutiques in a breathtaking architectural setting.
Are there any dog-friendly malls in the Detroit area?
Yes! The Mall at Partridge Creek in Clinton Township is a fully open-air, dog-friendly lifestyle center. They have outdoor fireplaces, water bowls, and plenty of space for your pup to walk with you while you shop.
What are the best outlet malls near Detroit?
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills is the largest and most popular outlet mall in the state. It features over 180 stores, including many “factory” versions of designer brands like Coach, Michael Kors, and Nike.
Conclusion
The landscape of malls in detroit michigan is incredibly diverse. From the towering luxury of Somerset to the family-friendly fun at Great Lakes Crossing and the historic charm of the Fisher Building, there is a retail experience for every taste and budget.
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we know that a great shopping trip is even better when you have a comfortable home base to return to. We offer centrally located, fully equipped, and pet-friendly apartments throughout Detroit, making it easy for you to drop off your bags and relax after a long day at the malls. Whether you’re visiting from Canada for a weekend haul or staying for a few months on business, our units provide the proximity to Detroit’s best attractions that you need.
Ready to plan your Detroit adventure? Don’t forget to check out our Detroit Grocery and Drug Store Guide to stock up your kitchen once you’ve finished your mall crawl!
