Orlando offers shopping for all

Many people visit Orlando with shopping on the bottom of their to do list, thinking they’ll grab a few quick souvenirs and get back to sightseeing. But with more than 50 million square feet of shopping space in Central Florida, an array of specialty stores and new world-class stores coming onto the scene, Orlando is becoming a legitimate player in the upscale shopping arena.

The Mall at Millenia: Central Florida now boasts eight shopping malls, including The Mall at Millenia, a 1.2-million square-foot brand new shopping experience. Featuring the theme of man, time and universe, the two-level shopping complex is anchored by the world-famous department stores Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus. Half of the retailers are new to the Orlando market, including luxury stores such as Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

Also new to the Orlando retail scene are Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor which recently moved in to Orlando’s Florida Mall

Aside from shopping malls, there are many specialty stores that offer quirky knick-knacks, chic souvenirs and hip clothing throughout Central Florida. 

Just outside Orlando in Winter Park, take a stroll down Park Avenue. This European-style avenue is filled with small boutiques, art galleries and antiques shops -- with mainstream stores like Talbot’s and Gap to specialty stores where you can find everything from the perfect couch to handmade stationary.

In Downtown Orlando, you’ll find several shopping areas. Thorton Park features specialty stores perfect for an afternoon of meandering and exploring. And even the most experienced of antique shoppers will be impressed with what Antique Row on Orange Avenue or the nearby Ivanhoe shops offer in old-world treasures.

Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando also offer extensive shopping areas for when you need a break from the parks.

Head back to Downtown Disney where you’ll find an array of specialty stores amid the Disney paraphernalia. Be sure not to miss Celebrity Eyeworks and get fitted for sunglasses just like your favorite celebrity wears; Hoypoloi, a gallery featuring art glass, ceramics and sculpture; and Starabilias, where you can track down movie memborabilia from classic movies.

Universal CityWalk offers many stores mixed throughout the restaurants and nightclubs. Snap up authentic items from your favorite sports stars at All Star Collectibles; get ready to catch a wave with hip beachwear from Quiet Flight Surf Shop; or find out about Earth's delicate ecosystem at The Endangered Species Store.

Make sure to hit Celebration, Disney’s version of small town America. Shop on Market Street where you’ll find such stores as G.S. Winston Fine Jewelers, Nottingham’s, featuring old world antiques and antique reproductions and the Market Street Gallery with fine gifts and unique home accents.

The Mercado Mediterranean Village on International Drive offers up 60 specialty stores with an international flare.

Or maybe you just want to look like you’ve spent a million bucks. If that’s the case, check out Belz Designer Outlet Centre on International Drive, which has 45 of the hottest designer outlets, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren and DKNY.

Orlando Premium Outlets features Versace and Burberry to name just a few of the 110 upscale discount shops.