Orlando is best known for its premier attraction – the Walt Disney Theme Parks. However, the family-friendly state has plenty more on offer besides film-set reconstructions and Micky Mouse. Shopping in Orlando is second to none, reaching dizzying new heights with mega malls, shopping streets and local boutiques. Did you ever think indoor skydiving, glow-in-the-dark crazy golf and shopping could go together? They can in Orlando.
Downtown DisneyFormed of three different regions, Downtown Disney is simply bursting at the seams with unrivaled shops, restaurants and entertainment. Stock-up on your souvenirs at the Walt Disney Theme Parks, making a beeline for the flagship Disney store. With over 50,000 square foot of space stuffed full of recognisable Disney memorabilia, you are unlikely to walk away empty-handed. Also recommended for family-friendly shopping is the Lego Imagination Center, where you can marvel at boldly colored displays of towering LEGO.
Winter Park
Exclusive boutique shops line the shady avenues of Winter Park’s Park Avenue. Follow the cobblestone route and you will have access to over 140 trendy shops, containing quirky and one-off items. Refuel in one of the many restaurants, boutique style cafes and inspirational art galleries. If you are here in March, why not check out the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival and marvel at the various artistic designs? For further artistic leanings, visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and take note of the inspirational murals found there.
International Drive
Northeast of Disney, the International Drive is one of the most popular tourist districts in Orlando. Occupied by restaurants, amenities and two main shopping areas - Vineland Avenue and Orlando Premium Outlets – there’s plenty to see and do here. Also home to unexpected shopping mall activities including indoor skydiving and glow-in-the-dark golf, newfound gimmicks can distract you for hours. For the height of luxury shopping, visit the Pointe Orlando to browse through exclusive boutiques and secluded courtyards.
Celebration
For a leisurely stroll along the quaint streets of Orlando, visit Celebration. A Disney-designed community offering the quintessential American-style shopping experience, here you will discover hundreds of shops, art galleries, restaurants and movie theaters surrounding the central enclave of Market Street. Forming part of the backdrop for The Truman Show, avid movie fans will be able to relive scenes from the mind-boggling movie. Also catering for the cautious shopper, Celebration is a great spot for simply window shopping and taking in the sights.
