Groups in the Orlando area have many options for carefree shopping, from major malls to theme park gift shops. Aside from the choices mentioned in the “Orlando Shopping Magnets” article in the February issue of Leisure Group Travel magazine, here are some more places to consider:
Festival Bay at International Drive offers more than 30 stores, restaurants and family fun venues. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Sheplers Western Wear, Universal Orlando Store and more awaits group travelers. Enjoy indoor glow-in-the-dark miniature golf at Putting Edge Fun Center. (shopfestivalbay.com)
The Florida Mall
You’d expect nautically themed shops at Waterfront Place at SeaWorld Orlando, a Mediterranean-style village at the home of Shamu and friends. Besides whale, shark and dolphin toys, shoppers can buy apparel and jewelry at Golden Seahorse, LoggerHead Larry’s, Gulf Breeze Trader, Manatee Gifts and other shops throughout the park. (seaworldparks.com)
With more than 8,000 items located on two levels, The Space Shop at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex sounds more like a shopping mall than a shop. In reality it is the world’s largest store featuring only space memorabilia. (kennedyspacecenter.com)
Exceptional boutique shopping is scattered throughout the Orlando area. Located just north of downtown Orlando, Park Avenue, Winter Park, home to 140 specialty shops, is often called the “Rodeo Drive of the East.” With more than a century of playing host to visitors escaping the winter chill, downtown Winter Park and its tranquil setting makes it a relaxing, yet lively destination. Truly distinctive stores and shops, from the global artisans featured at the Ten Thousand Villages to the most stylish clothing designers, welcome you. The Wine Room on Park Ave, The Cheese Shop on Park, tea and coffee shops, and more than a dozen restaurants are available to satisfy your palate. When you are ready to totally relax, enjoy a scenic boat tour through the canals that link the Winter Park lakes. (parkave-winterpark.com)
Developed by The Disney Company as the perfect American town, Market Street in Celebration features distinctive shopping and a variety of dining options. With a strong monthly events calendar, planning your visit around an activity enhances any visit. The annual Happy Holidays event from late November through December is a great addition to any Orlando-based holiday tour. (celebrationtowncenter.com)
In addition to mega-centers like The Mall at Millennia and The Florida Mall, Visit Orlando lists six additional malls in the area. There’s sure to be one close to you with its own character, style and shopping opportunities. Look for Altamonte Mall, Orlando Fashion Square, Osceola Square Mall, Oviedo Marketplace, Seminole Town Center and West Oaks Mall.
Contributing to the Orlando shopping scene are museums with gifts and collectibles found nowhere else. And if you’re a true shopping aficionado, you’ll be delighted with the many antique shops, flea markets and farmers markets.
