Citadel Outlets

Citadel Outlets is an outlet mall located at 100 Citadel Drive #480 in the City of Commerce, just southeast of downtown Los Angeles, California. The mall sits along the Santa Ana Freeway (Interstate 5), making it easily accessible by highway. The surrounding area is primarily industrial and commercial, historically known for manufacturing and automotive industries rather than tourist or beach destinations. The City of Commerce itself is an industrial suburb of Los Angeles, distinct from the coastal or tourist-heavy parts of the region.

The mall is uniquely housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1929 as the Samson Tire and Rubber Company factory. This structure is notable for its striking Exotic Revival architecture, modeled after the ancient Assyrian palace of King Sargon II, featuring concrete battlements and winged figures. The factory closed in 1978, and the site was redeveloped into an outlet center in 1990, preserving much of the original architectural character. Over the years, the mall has undergone expansions, including a significant 157,000-square-foot addition completed in 2010.

Citadel Outlets offers a diverse mix of outlet stores, including fashion, footwear, sportswear, home goods, and luxury brands. Retailers range from more affordable brands like Old Navy and H&M to higher-end labels such as Armani and Coach. The mall also provides various services and amenities including multiple dining options, ample parking facilities, and a nearby hotel (originally a Wyndham Garden, now a DoubleTree). The mall is known for hosting major shopping events like Black Friday, which attract large crowds and require enhanced security measures.

Operating hours typically align with standard retail schedules, generally opening mid-morning and closing in the evening, though exact times can vary by store and day. The Citadel Outlets combine historic architectural significance with a broad retail offering, serving both local shoppers and visitors traveling through the Los Angeles metropolitan area.