When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Village Discount Outlet

Why Village Discount Outlet is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Village Discount Outlet offers an exceptional thrift shopping experience with its expansive stores averaging over 20,000 square feet, providing a vast selection of used merchandise. Operating primarily in Ohio and the Chicago area, this business prides itself on its wide variety of second-hand items including clothing, shoes, linens, houseware, home décor, accessories, small appliances, jewelry, pet products, books, and more. What makes Village Discount Outlet a great place to meet up with friends is not only the thrill of discovering treasures at affordable prices but also the welcoming environment of their stores that are well-organized by departments and further sorted by color, material, and condition. New merchandise arrives daily, ensuring a constantly refreshed shopping experience for visitors. The store emphasizes value by pricing items based on style, condition, brand, and market worth, catering to budget-conscious shoppers. Additionally, they demonstrate community and environmental responsibility by partnering with local charities and hiring veterans, highlighting their commitment beyond retail. Regular store hours and multiple locations within Chicago and Ohio make it convenient to visit and explore unique thrift finds.
Here's what people think of Village Discount Outlet
As of recent, Village Discount Outlet holds a 3.9-star rating based on 380 reviews.
Customer reviews for Village Discount Outlet display a blend of positive and critical feedback, resulting in an average rating of 3.9 from around 380 reviews. Positive reviews often highlight the store’s extensive inventory offering an eclectic mix of merchandise at competitive prices, emphasizing the excitement of thrifting and the joy of finding valuable items. Shoppers appreciate the friendly staff who are helpful in locating items and knowledgeable about product categories. The continuous influx of new stock and the cleanliness and organization of many stores also receive commendation. On the other hand, some negative critiques focus on inconsistent quality and condition of items, with some customers finding certain merchandise damaged or safety concerns unaddressed due to the high volume of used goods. The policy of all sales being final and no refunds or exchanges has led to dissatisfaction in some instances. Additionally, a few reviewers mention variations in customer service and store upkeep between locations, suggesting room for improvement in consistency. Overall, reviews suggest that while Village Discount Outlet delivers significant value and a fun shopping experience for thrift enthusiasts, shoppers should inspect items carefully before purchase and be mindful of the no-return policy. Many customers conclude that the store offers a worthwhile thrift adventure, especially for those patient and savvy about second-hand shopping.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Evelyn Schlagel
Would have been 5 stars but the prices have really gotten ridiculous, some items you can get at the dollar store cheaper.Handbags are crazy priced,and shoes Some jeans are so worn they are paper thin in the crouch and costly. And I was going to buy a purse there it was half price red ticket put it back and went to see if they still had it would still be half price, to no surprise they changed the ticket to non sale price.They do this alot.Sell knock offs in handbags, which I'm not sure but think it is illegal. They really need to pay attention to pricing people come to save money, if you can get a brand new item for 10 dollars more that will last.longer go for it.Remember the Mondays all white tickets were half price they managed to take that away now you have to spend a small fortune to collect points.Go back to rewarding you customers.
Ellen McCammon
The fact that you can’t buy an item if the village discount tag is missing or has fallen off is extremely irritating. It’s totally ridiculous that they don’t have a way to figure that out at checkout. I’d even be fine with a mark up if the tag is missing but it’s unbelievably frustrating to find something really cute with the original store tags on it and then not be able to buy it because it was put out on the floor by mistake before someone put on the tag or the tag fell off (they aren’t that secure, either…)
Amber Farooq
I visit this store at least once a week 🙃 I always find new and great condition shoes, clothes, coats for myself and my children. Some items are over priced but just pay attention to the tags. They also have a rewards program, ask at the register on how to sign up. If your a thrifter this is a great place. These are a few items that I bought today, and the Crayola are vans!!!
LiS Wright
It's good and it's bad. The Good - 1) I can find some gems at low prices. 2) it's easy to get to by transit 3) Their prices especially on discount days is very good. The Bad - This store and their others that I visit need a good scrub down. It's not clean. Wear gloves. They're more concerned about bringing out more product on the floor than filtering the product to see if it works. For example, the toys. Some of the toys are broken or they're recalled for faulty parts. The same with appliances and electronics. In those cases, they need to discard the product, not leave it on the shelf. This place and there others should follow the lead of Salvation Army and Goodwill and remodel and update the stores. Better lighting, wider aisles. There's no way you can socially distance. It would be better if they could keep the shelves orderly. For example, the clothing. They just rack it and not in any order. How about separating the small sizes and the large sizes like they do at Savers?
Tania Samoshkina
This location used to be quite good, but now it is cooked (as many other VD stores in the city). Greedy and delusional management. Prices make no sense. There is no point to shop here.
How to reach Village Discount Outlet
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Why Village Discount Outlet may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Village Discount Outlet with your friends?
Gathering your friends and family at Village Discount Outlet creates an exciting and memorable outing because it offers much more than just shopping—it’s a thrifting adventure full of discovery, value, and social fun. At this bustling thrift store chain, with locations primarily in Chicago and Indiana, you’ll find a vast selection of over 30,000 new treasures each week, ranging from clothing and shoes to accessories and jewelry. This constant influx of new items means every visit brings the thrill of finding unique, unexpected gems, making it a perfect place for friends to explore together, share style inspiration, and even spark creative conversations. The affordable prices allow everyone to indulge without pressure, while the wide assortment caters to diverse tastes, ages, and styles in your group. Shopping at Village Discount Outlet isn’t just about buying—it’s about creating an experience through shared discovery, laughter, and the chance to uncover something special that none of you have seen before. Its welcoming atmosphere, extended hours, and multiple Chicago-area locations also make it convenient for groups looking for a flexible and engaging place to meet up and enjoy a day out. This sense of community, combined with unbeatable thrift bargains, makes Village Discount Outlet an ideal rally point for anyone wanting to connect, shop smart, and have fun with friends or family.
What activities can you do at Village Discount Outlet with a group?
Village Discount Outlet offers an array of engaging activities that make it an excellent spot for group meetups. The core activity, thrifting, is a shared journey of exploration where each friend can hunt for second-hand treasures among countless racks of clothing, shoes, and accessories. As you browse, you can compare finds, swap fashion tips, and even encourage one another to try new styles or bold choices that might have been overlooked alone. Beyond apparel, there are often interesting household items and collectibles that add another layer of discovery to your outing, sparking conversation and surprise. The variety of merchandise organized by department and sorted by condition, color, and style makes group members’ searches productive and fun without feeling overwhelming. Village Discount Outlet also offers regular deals, coupons, and cash-back rewards for shoppers, which can enhance the collective excitement as everyone maximizes their savings. Because the store is open seven days a week with long hours, groups can plan meetups at their convenience without rushing. Whether it’s a Saturday afternoon spree or a Sunday afternoon rendezvous, the store’s friendly staff are on hand to assist your group in locating specific items or answering questions, making the experience smooth and interactive. This environment promotes group bonding through shared goals and mutual encouragement, transforming an ordinary shopping trip into a lively social event filled with memorable moments.
Why is Village Discount Outlet perfect for hosting a meetup?
Village Discount Outlet perfectly suits group meetups because it combines affordability, variety, and a casual, inclusive atmosphere that welcomes shoppers of all ages and styles. For friends or families seeking a low-cost yet fun way to spend quality time, this thrift store removes the usual pressure of spending large amounts while still offering a vast inventory that appeals to many personal tastes simultaneously. The layout of the stores into distinct departments makes it easy for groups to split up or stay together according to preference, while always having a common meeting point nearby. Customers appreciate how well-organized the items are, which minimizes the hassle and maximizes the thrill of finding a great deal. Moreover, the store encourages creativity and fashion experimentation, making it an inspiring space for groups interested in style, sustainability, and self-expression. Since all sales are final, shoppers can commit to impulse buys within the group without worrying about returns, adding to the spontaneity and adventure of the outing. The extended store hours during weekdays and weekends give meetups great flexibility, while multiple locations in the Chicago area mean groups can choose the most convenient site based on their gathering plans. Finally, the friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute a warm and helpful environment, ready to assist and enhance the group experience. Taken together, these features make Village Discount Outlet not just a store but a community hub where friends can connect, create memories, and enjoy the simple pleasure of thrifting together.
How can you make the most out of a group visit to Village Discount Outlet?
To maximize fun and value during your group visit to Village Discount Outlet, a little planning helps to complement the natural excitement of thrifting together. First, agree on a budget or spending goal so everyone can shop comfortably without pressure, enhancing the collective enjoyment rather than stress. Arriving early in the day or during weekdays can give your group the freshest stock and a less crowded experience, allowing everyone more space and time to explore. Consider assigning “thrift buddies” for a buddy system—pairing up for mutual advice and support or dividing by style preferences to cover more ground quickly. Don’t forget to bring reusable bags or tote bags for your treasures, helping your group be environmentally considerate while keeping purchases organized. Taking breaks together in or near the store to share your best finds and swap stories strengthens the social aspect of the outing. Many Village Discount Outlet locations also have nearby cafes or parks, perfect for extending the meetup beyond shopping into relaxing or dining together. Encourage your group to follow the store on social media for exclusive offers, events, and fresh stock alerts, which can fuel future group trips. Lastly, embracing a spirit of openness and adventure makes the experience richer—being open to unexpected styles or items can lead to the most memorable discoveries. With these tips, your group can turn a simple thrift store visit into a rewarding and joyful occasion filled with shared moments and fantastic finds.
What unique features make Village Discount Outlet stand out from other thrift stores?
Village Discount Outlet stands out from other thrift stores due to its impressive blend of variety, volume, and customer-centric policies designed to enhance the thrifting experience. One of its most notable features is the sheer volume of new merchandise added weekly—over 30,000 items—ensuring that inventory is always fresh and exciting, which keeps customers returning regularly. The store's organization by department and further by item, color, and condition helps shoppers navigate its vast offerings with ease, unlike more chaotic thrift environments. Flexible store hours from early morning to late evening seven days a week offer exceptional convenience that accommodates varying group schedules. The absence of return policies (all sales final) simplifies transactions and keeps the flow steady, catering to thrifters who know the thrill lies in quick decisions and fresh finds. Additionally, Village Discount Outlet engages customers through cash-back rewards, coupons, and exclusive offers that provide further value beyond low prices. Its presence in multiple locations throughout the Chicago metropolitan area and Indiana gives shoppers accessible options while maintaining consistent quality and service across stores. The store’s active social media presence, including Instagram and TikTok, creates a community vibe where customers can share their finds and styling ideas. This combination of accessibility, selection, service, and social engagement positions Village Discount Outlet as a leader in the resale thrift market and an enjoyable destination for groups to gather and shop.
What do customers say about their experience at Village Discount Outlet?
Customer reviews reflect a generally positive experience at Village Discount Outlet, with many appreciating the store’s commitment to variety and affordability. The 3.9 out of 5-star rating based on nearly 380 reviews highlights a solid reputation with room for occasional critiques, which is common for large thrift establishments dealing with high traffic and inventory turnover. Shoppers often praise the ever-changing stock, describing the store as a treasure trove of unique finds that encourage repeat visits. Customers also note the helpfulness of staff who assist in locating items and maintaining organization throughout the store, contributing to a pleasant shopping atmosphere. For many, the store balances the thrill of thrifting with a clean, well-lit environment, making shopping comfortable for families, groups, and individual customers alike. Some reviews suggest that at certain peak times, the store can feel crowded, which can affect the leisurely browse experience for group meetups. However, most shoppers agree that the value for money, the breadth of merchandise, and the store’s accessibility outweigh such minor inconveniences. Guests often leave the store excited to share their finds on social media, participating in the broader Village Discount Outlet community. These insights suggest Village Discount Outlet offers a worthwhile and enjoyable outing for friends and families who love thrifting.
How does Village Discount Outlet support sustainable shopping and community impact?
By encouraging customers to shop second-hand, Village Discount Outlet actively promotes sustainable shopping practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. Purchasing from a thrift store reduces demand for new clothing and goods production, which in turn lowers resource consumption, pollution, and waste—a critical impact given the fashion industry’s environmental footprint. Village Discount Outlet’s continuous influx of gently used items extends the lifecycle of goods, making reuse convenient and accessible. Moreover, the store partners indirectly with donation pickup services that support local and national nonprofits, fostering charitable giving and community support. Through this model, used items find new homes, keeping them out of landfills while providing affordable access to quality goods for diverse socio-economic groups. The store’s community-focused approach helps foster a culture of conscious consumerism where group meetups and shared shopping adventures can also underscore messages about sustainability. By shopping and socializing at Village Discount Outlet, groups contribute positively to these efforts, making their fun outing doubly rewarding. This alignment with environmental and social values adds a meaningful dimension to the group experience and reinforces why this outlet is an appealing destination for thoughtful, stylish shoppers.
Where is Village Discount Outlet located and what are their hours of operation?
Village Discount Outlet has 11 locations, primarily in the Chicago metropolitan area and one in Indiana, easily accessible to many residents and visitors. Two notable Chicago locations include their stores on North Milwaukee Avenue at 2032 N Milwaukee Ave and on West Lawrence Avenue at 3301 W Lawrence Ave. These stores maintain similar hours designed to fit busy lifestyles: open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 9 PM and Sundays from 10 AM to 7 PM. This schedule permits flexibility for group meetups any day of the week, whether for a midday excursion or an evening outing. These stores are designed to accommodate a steady flow of customers with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of shopping room. Each location features well-organized departments for clothing, shoes, accessories, and more, ensuring efficient and enjoyable shopping experiences. If visiting, it’s advised to call ahead or check their website for any special holiday hours or updates. With multiple locations and generous hours, Village Discount Outlet remains a convenient and accessible hub for group gatherings focused on thrifting and social fun.
What should groups know before visiting Village Discount Outlet?
Groups planning to visit Village Discount Outlet should be aware that all sales are final, so it’s a good idea to thoroughly inspect items before purchase to avoid any surprises. While the store provides fitting rooms in some locations, shoppers should check availability before planning a try-on session with friends. The store does not support in-store returns or exchanges for health and safety reasons, which means group members should be confident when selecting items. Donation pickup services are not directly handled by the store, but they partner with external organizations, so those interested in donating can ask staff for guidance on these services. The store is well-staffed and happy to assist customers in locating specific items, making it easy for groups to split up and regroup effectively. Additionally, since the store can be busy during peak hours, groups might prefer off-peak times for a more relaxed shopping pace. Bringing a list of items or a shared wishlist can help the group stay focused and get the most out of their visit. Lastly, don’t forget to bring reusable bags or tote bags, since many thrift stores encourage sustainable shopping practices by reducing plastic usage. Understanding these details helps ensure that your group has a smooth, enjoyable, and rewarding visit to Village Discount Outlet.