Poor Staten Island.
Among New York City's five boroughs, it gets the least amount of publicity - for better or worse - when compared to its siblings in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.
That might be about to change.
Empire Outlets, New York City's first outlet mall, officially opened for business today, Thursday, May 16, after a lavish ribbon-cutting ceremony and a private party for 600 guests on Wednesday night.
Empire Outlets is located on the St. George waterfront, just steps from the free Staten Island Ferry. It's perfect for tourists, many of whom already flock to take the Ferry from lower Manhattan to get an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty and a unique view of the city's iconic skyline.
Many also turn right around and take the Ferry back once it docks at St. George.
Now they have an even more compelling reason to stay and shop and visit Staten Island with the opening of Empire Outlets.
The development represents the first shopping destination within the five boroughs and an ideal activity for groups. Beyond approximately 100 discounted retail shops and distinct dining experiences onsite, various promenades and spaces can also be used for cultural activations and group gatherings.
A visit could encompass both Empire Outlets and additional cultural and entertainment experiences in the borough, such as Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanic Garden, the Alice Austen House, Flagship Brewery and more.
Major retailers coming to the center include Nordstrom Rack, Nike, H&M, Levi's, Cotton On, Converse, Jockey, Starbucks, U.S. Polo, Crocs, American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Broom & Greene, Columbia Sporting Goods, and True Religion.
Eateries slated to open in Empire Outlets include Shake Shack, Mamoun's Falafel and MRKTPL, Staten Island's first artisanal food hall.
There will even be an indoor golf simulator called FlyingTee.
The $350 million, 340,000-square foot project will create 1,200 new jobs, organizers said.
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