Why take this tour in November & December?
This is Prime Sample Sale season for your holiday or personal shopping.

Why take this tour in January & February?
Showrooms will offer deeper discounts on Winter merchandise. Besides, it’s cold out. Why not shop?

How long is the tour?
The Garment Center tour runs about 3 hours long. Depending on the size of the group, the tour may be a little bit shorter or longer.

How many people are on the tour?
Group size varies from tour to tour. Our preferred group size is 12 guests or less. We aim for a high level of personalized attention on all tours. Our guides are trained to provide a significant amount of guide/guest interaction to insure the best possible tour experience.

Is transportation included?
This is a walking tour so there is not transportation. This tour requires a significant amount of walking, so please wear comfortable shoes and dress weather appropriately.

Where will we be shopping?
We will be shopping at sample sales, showrooms, retailers offering special discounts, and a couple of other fascinating area-specific shops. Sample sales vary from week to week so the sale stops vary from tour to tour.

What is a sample sale?
Originally, sample sales existed so designers could make money from selling production samples or samples from their current collections that were displayed for buyers to preview and order. Today, sample sales are primarily overstock/overrun sales at which designers sell items from previous or current seasons that they did not sell to stores. Sample sales usually carry a range of sizes. Sample sales tend to run seasonally with winter clothing sold in November & December and spring items sold in April/May.

What type of payment is accepted at sample sales and showrooms?
Many sample sales and showrooms accept credit cards but it is always a good idea to bring cash as many sales either have a minimum charge amount or give a better discount for cash purchases.

How much time do we spend shopping?
Because we do not want to miss out on any bargains, , the only time we are not shopping is when we are walking from one destination to the other. Certain showrooms are not open to the public. Your guide will let you know which stops you can return to shop on your own after the tour.

Are there any places to stop and rest along the route?
Plan for an active afternoon because there is a lot to see and you will be on the move! A number of our shopping stops have seating, so you can take a break while the rest of the group shops.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included. There are some delis and shops in the neighborhood to buy a snack. It is suggested that you eat a hearty breakfast to maximize your shopping time!

Should I tip my guide?
It is a customary and very appreciated gesture to tip your tour guide at the end of the tour.