Flowers are blooming and the birds are chirping. Spring is in the air. The beginning of a new season makes it a perfect time to buy new sheets and towels or special dishes for an outdoor garden party. So get in the car and head up to the sprawling North Georgia Premium Outlets.

While you're there

With more than 140 stores in an outdoor village setting, the Dawsonville outlet mall is a haven for shopaholics and bargain hunters. The center includes boutiques for name-brand goods —- such as Brooks Brothers, OshKosh B'Gosh and Williams-Sonoma —- at prices that are typically 25 percent to 65 percent lower than those at the stores' regular retail locations. The items in the stores are a combination of current-season fashions, factory overruns, last season's styles and items made specifically for outlet shops.

Parents can find bargains for their little ones at Carter's, the Children's Place Outlet and about a dozen other stores specializing in children's merchandise. Audiophiles should visit the Bose Outlet and check out the speakers of various sizes on display. If you're looking for unique goodies, check out the Harry and David store for chocolate-covered fruit and other sweets.

And don't worry if you forget to wear comfortable walking shoes. With nearly 30 shoe stores from Adidas to Timberland, you'll have plenty of chances to pick up a new pair.

Taking a break

Shopping may not be everyone's ideal way to spend the day. Bring a book (or buy one while you're there) and sit in one of the shady gazebos while the rest of the family bounces from store to store. A playground between the Children's Place and Gap Outlet is perfect for the little ones. They can climb over the jungle gym and go down the slides. And, of course, there is a food court.

Special sales

Be sure to stop by the information desk before shopping. They'll provide you with a coupon booklet and a list of any special sales. Every Tuesday is the 50-plus Shopper Club at the outlet center. Show a photo identification card with proof of your age, and you'll get an extra 10 percent off at participating stores.

How to get there

North Georgia Premium Outlets is on the southbound side of Ga. 400 in Dawsonville, about 45 minutes north of the tollbooth. The shops are open 10 a.m-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Call 706-216-3609 or visit www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=16 for more information.