Shopping

 
 
Did you know that NJ doesn't charge sales tax on either clothing or shoes? Savvy shoppers will also discover that, when they buy from an authorized Urban Enterprise Zone* retailer, the sales tax is half the normal rate!
 
Best of all, New Jersey is loaded with upscale malls and premium factory outlets, in addition to the plentiful antiques and specialty shops that abound across the state.
 
If you're seeking variety, consider Princeton's Market Fair or the Cherry Hill Mall with its 130 specialty shops and three major department stores. Both offer a Shangri-La of shopping choices.
 
In Haddonfield, shoppers will find a gold mine of antiques and boutiques to explore. Another long-time favorite: the fine stores at Liberty Village Premium Outlets in Flemington, America's first outlet village.
 
In Elizabeth, you will find the Jersey Garden. As New Jersey's largest outlet mall, it has 200 stores under one roof. Or you might want to consider the Mall at Short Hills, where you will find more than 175 quality retailers ready to satisfy any material craving.
 
Truly unique shops can be found in Lambertville and at the Bridgewater Commons. For a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience, visit the historic town of Smithville where, in addition to year-round shopping, you can enjoy the regular calendar of events, festivals and historical reenactments.
 
To find a special gift, check out the Freehold Raceway Mall or the more than 70 name-brand stores at Jackson Outlet Village. The state's newest outlet is Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in Tinton Falls.
 
It features upscale outlet shopping at 120 designer and name brand stores. For New York City residents there is easy access to Jersey Shore Premium Outlets. Academy Bus runs daily service from the Port Authority Terminal (42nd St. and 8th Ave.) to Jersey Shore Premium Outlets.  Call (212) 971-9054 for schedule information.
 
For a real change of pace, escape to the Washington Street Mall in Victorian Cape May or tempt yourself with one of the many fine shops in exciting Atlantic City.
 
For a truly unique shopping experience visit the Towne of Historic Smithville & Village Green. It's a restored colonial village that features cobblestone paths, 60 specialty craft shops, quaint restaurants and lodging.
 
*There are 30 Urban Enterprise Zones in New Jersey. The zones allow certified retailers to charge one-half the normal sales tax rate on many items. A listing of the zones can be found at http://www.state.nj.us/njbusiness/locationdata/uez.