Places for Great Orlando Shopping

Orlando shopping is a popular activity for tourists. The city and surrounding area is home to several malls, outlet centers and open air markets. If you want shopping, this is the place to go. There are a large variety of shops, both big and small in these shopping malls and outlet centers. In addition to brand name merchandise, you will find a variety of items that are unique to Florida.

Orlando Shopping Malls:
The Florida Mall is the largest shopping area in Orlando. The mall has 245 stores, including eight department stores. Whatever you are looking for, you are likely to find it here. The mall is located near International Drive, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. The prices are much better than you will find in the resort shops or theme parks. Stop by the mall to buy souvenirs and gifts for the whole family.

Alamonte Mall is located not too far from the downtown area. This mall has over 150 stores for convenient shopping. The atmosphere in this mall is very Floridian. There are indoor palm trees and native vegetation in the mall.

Orlando Shopping at Outlet Malls:
Outlet malls are known for great deals. The Orlando area is home to several outlet centers. Two are located right on International Drive: The Belz Factory Outlet and Belz Designer Outlet Center. These are very convenient, if you are staying near the theme parks or at one of the resorts. Belz Factory Outlet is the largest outlet center in the United States. The designer outlet has Ralph Lauren, DKNY and many other famous designer names.

There are two other outlet centers in this area. The Orlando Premium Outlet is known for discount merchandise. You will find many good deals here at just about every store. Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores is convenient to Walt Disney World. There are a wide variety of stores in this outlet. You will find something for the whole family here. There is a playground for the kids when they need a break from shopping.

Open Air Shopping:
International Drive is home to two large, open air markets. The Mercado has a variety of designer clothing stores. There are several stores selling art work created by local artists. This is also a great place to find distinctive Floridian merchandise, including many offerings reminiscent of the Florida Keys. The cobblestone walk ways give this market a unique feeling.

The Pointe Orlando is a large open air market. There are many choices here not only for shopping, but for dining and evening entertainment. Visit the sixty stores and shop till you drop. When you have finished shopping, enjoy a meal in one of the seven restaurants located in the market. If you are looking for night life, there are two night clubs here as well.

There are two other open air markets in the area: the Church Street and Central Florida Farmer's Market. You will enjoy browsing in these markets while enjoying the beautiful weather. The Farmer's Market has fresh produce, locally made crafts and a variety of other merchandise.