Visit the Top Shopping Malls in Orlando

If this is your first time visiting Orlando, you'll need to do a bit of research to know where you'll want to go during your trip. Aside from the theme parks and amusement centers, you will want to set out some time for shopping, even if just window shopping. The city is filled with malls and shopping centers which easily accommodate the crowds. There is a wide variety of malls to choose from. Shop for bargains in bazaars or the best in class at upscale boutiques, and everything in between. Here are a few that you’ll want to explore:

This outdoor shopping center is a sprawling area with several stores and restaurants to choose from. Although the shopping center is in need of some shaded areas, the camouflaged speakers play some lovely music to help create a beautiful ambiance as you shop. Among the stores that you can find here are most of the mall staples such as BestBuy, Super Target, Bath & Body Works, and Victoria's Secret. There are also some quality chain restaurants you can dine at such as California Pizza Kitchen, Five Guys Burgers, and Miller's Ale House. Aside from being a local mall, tourists can enjoy the weekend events held here such as carnivals, farmer's markets, and even festivals.

This 700,000 square foot area of space is composed of two larger sized malls as well as four strip centers with 16 dining areas to indulge in with restaurants such as Pinkberry, or you can check out familiar brands like Brooks Brothers, Chico's, Calvin Klein, and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th just to name a few. Orlando Premium Outlets located on International Drive Orlando has much to offer where it seamlessly combines fine dining with some great retail brands perfect for every type of shopper. You should also check out Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets as well. Many say this is the best outlet shopping mall in Orlando.

Is high-end shopping on your bucket list? The Mall at Millenia has got you covered with well-known brands such as Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. The design of the mall is quite special as well. Glitzy and soaring, and dripping in luxury. Mall at Millenia is an ideal mall for those who want to splurge, or maybe just daydream and window shop. The dining options here draw quite a crowd, especially on weekends, but who can blame them? You have options such as The Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen, and even P.F Chang's China Bistro. The location of the Mall at Millenia is also quite convenient as it’s just a few minutes drive away from SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and even Disney. If you’re a fashionista, you may just find this to be the best shopping mall in Orlando.

If you’re looking for laid-back shopping that is not overly crowded, and a break from the madness of the malls, Winter Park Village is a great option. Located in Winter Park, they offer a fine collection of high-end retail, salons, and restaurants in a “Main Street” setting. The cobbled streets will take you to a time even before Universal Studios, and Disney came to the area; however, during the weekends, you may find it tough to find a table at some of the bars. What you can find in Winter Park Village is a collection of handicrafts, local fashion designers, homeware, accessory boutiques, and art pieces too.

This is the largest shopping mall that you’ll find in Central Florida with more than 250 stores for your shopping pleasure. Every year, there are more than 20 million visitors to this mall which is one of the reasons you shouldn't miss out on all the action. With a new Dining Pavilion that has 22 eateries ranging from your usual fare to the healthier options, you’ll satisfy your appetite here. Aside from dining and shopping, the Florida Mall also offers the Crayola Experience which is a unique attraction that seamlessly combines digital technology, chemistry, and color all in one. Your kids will fall in love with this attraction for sure.

International Drive has undergone quite a transformation over the past few years and now features a brand-new shopping and entertainment center that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Pointe Orlando is near the Orange County Convention Center which is perfect for both a day or night filled with fun. There are numerous options to enjoy here such as the Hard Knocks Laser Tag, Regal Pointe Orlando Movie Theater, and Main Event Entertainment which are ideal for de-stressing. You can also check out the shops here including Tommy Hilfiger, Charming Charlie, and Hollister along with several dining options that range from the very casual to fine-dining options.

For those who are looking for the best outlet shopping in Orlando, Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores should be at the top of your list of shopping malls to visit. Lake Buena Vista is one of the best-kept secrets in the city where you can get some fantastic deals. There are more than 40 outlet stores such as Gap, Aeropostale, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour, and Old Navy. This is another contender for best outlet shopping in Orlando.

Formerly referred to as Downtown Disney until it was recently changed to Disney Springs, you can expect more than only Disney-related shops because there are over 150 types of retail, entertainment and restaurants in the area that are frequented by tourists and locals alike. Parking and entrance are free, but there will be charges when you go to some of their entertainment venues. There are many types of shops here such as gifts, clothing, collectibles, and art. Of course, there are also tons of fun stores that you can choose from such as the Coca-Cola Store, Disney Pin Traders, Cirque du Soleil Boutique, and DisneyQuest Emporium just to name a few. Oh, and did we say, the largest selection of Disney merchandise anywhere?

Head north of downtown Orlando to reach Altamonte Mall where stores like Aeropostale, Banana Republic, and Barnes & Noble can be found. If you want to grab a quick bite, there are fast food restaurants like the Mandarin Express and a Taco Bell, but there will also be more upscale restaurants available as well such as Bahama Breeze and Miller's Orlando Ale House.

What other great shopping malls in Orlando can you head out to? Try Ivanhoe Village which is north of downtown Orlando. You can drop by here and indulge in their four-course meal or just sip on a glass of wine if you prefer. If you’re a fan of antiques, head out to the Antique Row which has been modernized and expanded with plenty of collectibles for you to choose from. Bring home some vintage vinyl from Rock & Roll Heaven or some décor from the set of "A Clockwork Orange" if you like.

Situated between two theme parks, Universal's City Walk is described as “the Epicenter of Awesome,” offering plenty of gift shops, food, and entertainment areas well worth checking out. There is a free self-parking from 6 pm and after. Here you'll find mini golf, a movie theater, family-friendly dining options, as well as night clubs for a fun night out.

Depending on what you’re looking for in the best shopping mall in Orlando, you'll find that this city will cater to your every need. You'll be surprised that you can hunt for bargains in this city, or indulge at the Mall in Millenia, where you'll find upscale brands that offer clothes, bags, shoes, and other accessories if you prefer. Head to International Drive, or go to Lake Buena, or even try Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets if you want. You won't run out of outlet stores or high-end stores to satisfy your shopper's heart.
Orlando may be home to two of the best theme parks in the world, but there’s more to this vibrant city than the adrenaline pumping roller coaster rides and amusement parks. Here you can satisfy your desire for a unique and pleasurable shopping experience.

[1] 10 Best USA Today; Mall In! Melt your Credit Card at Orlando's Top Shopping Centers, A.D. Thompson.
[2] Blogs by Hotels.com; 9 Best Shopping Experiences in Orlando.
[3] Orlando Informer; Top 5 shopping areas in Orlando.
[4] Orlando Vacation; 8 Best Orlando Malls, January 2017.