Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia to Gloucester Outlets

If you’re thinking about making a day trip from Philadelphia to some serious outlet shopping, this private tour might seem like a straightforward way to go. It promises the comfort of door-to-door service, access to a variety of designer stores, and the chance to score discounts up to 65%. But, as with any experience, there are some things to consider before booking.

What we like about this tour is how hassle-free it sounds — no worries about transportation or parking, and the itinerary is designed to maximize your shopping time. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off from your hotel can be a real time-saver, especially if you’re looking to keep things simple. On the flip side, one potential downside is that the tour is fairly standard – it covers the basics without much in the way of extras or personalized touches.

This tour is best suited for those who want to skip the logistical headache of arranging transport on their own, especially if shopping is their main goal. If you’re a serious shopper looking for discounts and a variety of stores, this could be a good fit. But if you’re after a more curated or experiential outing, you might find it a little too straightforward.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with a private, fully insured vehicle makes for a stress-free trip.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off save time and effort on logistics.
• Access to 90 stores, including big names like Michael Kors and Nike, with savings up to 65%.
• Limited shopping time (about 4 hours at the outlets), which may feel restrictive for some.
• Price point of around $239 per person might seem high for the experience, especially if parking costs at the outlets are a concern.
• Tour is private, meaning only your group participates, which can be nice for privacy and flexibility.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

The tour starts with a quick 30-minute pickup from your Philadelphia hotel, during which you’ll be greeted by your driver and transported in a clean, comfortable vehicle. This initial leg sets the tone for a hassle-free experience, especially when traveling with luggage or if you prefer not to navigate unfamiliar roads yourself.

Once you arrive at Gloucester Premium Outlets, you’ll be dropped right at the entrance of the shopping center, which houses around 90 stores. This is where the real shopping begins. Stores like Vera Bradley, Under Armour, and Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store are among the highlights, and you’ll find discounts of up to 65% every day. The outlets are designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes, from luxury accessories to sportswear and home goods.

You’ll have about 4 hours of shopping time, which might seem generous to some but can feel tight if you’re a serious shopper or planning to visit multiple stores. The outlets are large enough that it can take some walking and planning to hit all your must-see shops. The review from a Tripadvisor user points out a common frustration: “Very limited to 4 hours due to rip off parking charges. 4 hours is over £5, disgusting.” This highlights that even with a private transfer, some of the logistical frustrations at the outlets—like parking fees—can cut into your time and budget.

After your shopping session, your driver will return you to your hotel in Philadelphia, completing what is meant to be a straightforward, relaxing day. The company emphasizes their decade of experience and attentive service, which can make a difference in how smooth your day feels.

What Does the Price Cover?

At roughly $239 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, especially considering the shopping itself is free. The cost mainly covers private transportation and the convenience of a dedicated driver who handles the logistics. This is appealing if you value comfort and time savings or dislike navigating public transit or driving yourself.

However, the experience’s value depends on how much shopping you plan to do and how important comfort and convenience are to you. If parking fees at Gloucester Outlets are a concern — as some reviews suggest— it’s worth factoring that into your overall budget.

Transportation and Comfort

All vehicles are described as fully licensed, insured, and well-maintained. The driver will speak English and be attentive, helping with luggage and greeting you with a sign. Child seats are available upon request, making it somewhat family-friendly if you’re traveling with kids.

The downside here is that, while the ride is comfortable, the actual experience is quite transactional — you’re primarily there for the shopping, and the trip itself is limited in terms of sightseeing or additional activities.

The Shopping Experience

The core draw of this tour is the shopping. The outlets offer big discounts every day, which is a significant perk for bargain hunters. But, the reviews point out some frustrations: parking charges can be annoying, and the limited four-hour window might not be enough for those who like to browse leisurely or take breaks for lunch.

It’s worth noting that some outlets, like Mansfield and Swindon, offer free or reduced parking, but Gloucester’s parking fees are seen as a deterrent by serious shoppers. One reviewer remarked, “Why is it so expensive to park, it doesn’t encourage spending in the shops/restaurants?”

You can expect a typical outlet shopping experience—discounted designer brands, busy stores, and the need to plan your route if you want to hit all your favorite shops within the time frame.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for busy travelers who want a straightforward shopping day without the hassle of driving or parking. It suits those who value comfort and convenience over a more personalized or adventurous experience. If you’re a dedicated outlet shopper looking to maximize savings and minimize fuss, you’ll appreciate the dedicated transportation and door-to-door service.

That said, if you’re not a big shopper or prefer a more relaxed day with more options for sightseeing or dining, this might feel a bit too utilitarian. The fixed schedule and limited time could leave you feeling rushed, especially if you want to take your time.

Final Thoughts

This private shopping tour from Philadelphia to Gloucester Outlets offers a practical way to enjoy some retail therapy without the stress of planning transportation or battling parking issues. The comfort of private transportation and the access to numerous stores with significant discounts are definite highlights. However, the relatively high cost and the four-hour shopping window are notable considerations — especially given the parking charges at the outlets, which some travelers find discouraging.

If you value efficiency, comfort, and a hassle-free experience, and you’re prepared for the fixed schedule, this tour could be a good fit. On the other hand, if you’re after a more relaxed, flexible day with ample time for breaks and sightseeing, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a fully private experience, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized and flexible.

Does the tour include any entrance fees?
No, the tour itself doesn’t include admission or entrance fees because shopping at the outlets is free. However, you are responsible for your purchases and any parking fees at the outlets.

How long is the shopping time?
You’ll have approximately 4 hours to shop at Gloucester Outlets, which is enough for most people to visit several stores but might feel rushed if you want more leisurely browsing.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Philadelphia, and you’ll be dropped back after shopping.

Are child seats available?
Yes, child seats can be provided if requested, making the experience suitable for traveling with children.

What should I consider about parking costs?
Some reviewers have mentioned that parking charges at Gloucester Outlets can be over £5 for just four hours, which they feel is excessive and discourages longer visits or spending in shops.

Is this tour suitable for serious shoppers?
It can be, especially if you want to maximize your shopping with minimal fuss. But remember, the time limit might be tight if you plan to browse extensively.

In the end, this tour offers a straightforward, comfortable way to get to Gloucester Outlets and enjoy shopping discounts without the hassle of driving. We recommend it for those who prioritize convenience and have a clear shopping list, but if you prefer a more relaxed pace or additional sightseeing, consider your options carefully.