When you think of shopping in Orlando, probably the first thing that comes to mind is the city’s favorite outlet stores, which most of the time offer some of the biggest discounts you could find on big-name designer labels. The thrill of the hunt for a bargain is a major part of the Orlando experience for many, turning a simple shopping trip into an exciting treasure hunt for fashionistas and families alike. This reputation for unbeatable deals is well-earned, drawing savvy shoppers from across the globe.
There are also many malls dotted around the city, including The Florida Mall, which draws no less than 20 million visitors a year with its 250 fashion, electronics, and homeware stores. These sprawling, air-conditioned havens offer a respite from the Florida heat and serve as all-in-one entertainment destinations. Beyond just shopping, they provide a vast array of dining options, movie theaters, and even unique attractions. This is Orlando, and it really shouldn’t surprise anyone that Disney subscribed to this retail action, too, creating its own immersive shopping universe.
This luring downtown hub of the city offers fewer touristy shopping opportunities in the form of markets and local boutiques. Venturing away from the major theme park corridors reveals a more authentic side of Orlando’s retail scene. Here, you’ll discover charming, tree-lined streets with independent shops, artisan markets brimming with local flavor, and galleries showcasing Central Florida’s creative spirit. From huge shopping malls all the way to local markets in Orlando, we made a list of some of the best spots for your upcoming shopping trip. And judging from all these offers, it’s going to be pretty soon!
Orlando Premium Outlets at International Drive
Both locals and tourists prefer the outlet scene in Orlando, but this one in particular. The giant store on International Drive is by far the best one. You’d be shocked to find out that many Americans plan entire road trips from other states just to grab a good deal at Orlando Premium Outlets. Its sprawling, Mediterranean-inspired outdoor layout creates a village-like atmosphere, but be prepared for a marathon of walking. A pro tip: arrive early in the morning to snag a good parking spot and beat the afternoon crowds, especially on weekends.
Here, discounts are offered on a wide range of brands, including Adidas, Victoria’s Secret, Hugo Boss, Diesel, Levi’s, Nike, Quicksilver, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and many more. You’ll also find luxury brands like Kate Spade New York and Michael Kors offering steep price reductions. Some items are plucked straight from the factory, so you might want to expect discounts of up to 50%. For even deeper savings, be sure to visit the Guest Services office to inquire about a savings passport, which often provides additional coupons for many of the center’s 180+ stores. When you need a break, a large central food court offers plenty of quick-service options to refuel before your next round of bargain hunting.
The Mall at Millenia
The Mall at Millenia is the perfect place to go for some high-end shopping. It’s an upscale sanctuary for those who appreciate the finer things. The stores in this multi-level shopping space also include your favorites, such as Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, Prada, Chanel, Cartier, and Gucci. You can also find coveted brands like Rolex, Tiffany & Co., and Saint Laurent. The building itself looks and feels just as posh, especially with all those spacious walkways, bright atriums, and a glass roof that’s bringing Millenia up to date with other fancy malls in Orlando. The experience is enhanced by top-tier amenities, including valet parking, a concierge desk that offers a range of services, and even personal shoppers to guide your spree. The mall is also an architectural marvel, featuring dramatic water fountains and contemporary art installations that make browsing feel like a gallery visit.
The Florida Mall
With more than 250 stores and an impressive number of 20 million visitors every single year (which are just as many as the ones that go through Universal’s gates), the Florida Mall is definitely the most popular place you could shop in Orlando. It is one of the largest single-story malls in the United States, and its sheer scale is something to behold. It truly is a destination in its own right, offering a comprehensive and diverse retail experience that caters to every budget and taste.
There are more than 2 million square feet of space where you can find everything you can think of. From mid-range fashion stores all the way to luxury designer brands, electronics, homeware, health, and beauty, there’s something for everyone. Anchor stores like Macy’s, Dillard’s, and JCPenney provide a solid foundation, while unique attractions like the Crayola Experience and the M&M’s World store make it an exceptionally family-friendly destination. Kids and adults alike can spend hours in these immersive brand environments.
And if you get hungry, you can find an interesting list of dining options with all the big-name fast food joints you like. The massive Dining Pavilion features over 20 restaurants, offering a global selection of cuisines far beyond typical mall food. From sit-down restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and Buca di Beppo to quick bites, you won’t go hungry. The 510-room Florida Hotel is a big part of the shopping mall, too, allowing dedicated shoppers to stay right in the heart of the action.
Orlando Premium Outlets at Vineland Avenue
If all the people who are also shopping at Premium Outlets International Drive are just too much for you, you could always head to its sister mall, Premium Outlets at Vineyard Avenue. Located conveniently close to the Walt Disney World resort area, this outlet center often feels slightly more relaxed and upscale than its I-Drive counterpart. Don’t worry; they also have a ton of designer brands.
The outlet stores here usually see smaller crowds because it’s further away from downtown and not so close to Orlando, as the range of brands and discounts is pretty much the same, continuing the same outdoor community mall vibe we all like so much. You’ll find a fantastic selection of high-end brands here, including Bottega Veneta, Jimmy Choo, and Salvatore Ferragamo, which you might not find at other outlets. The layout is similarly pleasant, with covered walkways providing shade and a sophisticated ambiance for a more comfortable day of bargain hunting.
Disney Springs
If you decide to come to Orlando with your little ones to visit Walt Disney World, then you can’t leave without getting the minimum amount of Disney souvenirs! Luckily, you don’t really need any kind of ticket to explore Disney Springs, which was formerly known as Downtown Disney. This sprawling complex is divided into distinct “neighborhoods” like the Marketplace, Town Center, The Landing, and West Side, each with its own unique feel and architecture.
This entertaining restaurant and dining district is free for everyone. When it comes to buying, you should expect to bump into top-name brands for Disney-inspired clothes, accessories, toys, and memorabilia, as well as various opportunities to customize other products. Must-visit locations include the colossal World of Disney store, The LEGO Store with its incredible sculptures, and specialty shops that you won’t find anywhere else. But it’s not just Disney merchandise; you’ll also find popular retailers like Zara, Anthropologie, and UNIQLO. Beyond shopping, you can enjoy unique entertainment like a ride in an amphibious “Amphicar” or a breathtaking view from the Aerophile tethered balloon.
Winter Park Avenue
Winter Park Avenue is a very cute collection of local boutiques, stalls, and diners that can be easily found in the leafy suburbs, north of Orlando’s main metropolitan area. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for a more “local” shopping experience in Orlando. The main thoroughfare and its hidden side alleys offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the theme park districts, with a distinctly European charm. It feels a world away, inviting a slower pace of exploration.
The quaint cobbled streets will definitely take you back to a time before Disney and Universal took over, but you might still have a hard time finding a table at some bars and bistros here during the weekend. A stroll down Park Avenue reveals a sophisticated mix of high-end fashion boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet food shops. For a dose of culture, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, is an essential stop.
As for the shopping side, you should prepare for some of the best local fashion designers, art pieces, homewares, and handicrafts all around the main Winter Park Avenue and nearby lanes. If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning, the Winter Park Farmers’ Market, held at the old train depot, is a beloved local tradition offering fresh produce, plants, baked goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to start a day of leisurely exploration.
East End Market
If you’re looking for a change but still want to shop, then East End Market is for you. This place is away from the world of malls, outlet stores, and Disney, only a few minutes’ drive northeast out of the downtown area. This innovative space serves as a cultural and culinary hub for the local community, celebrating the best of Central Florida’s artisans and food entrepreneurs under one roof. It’s a must-visit for foodies and anyone interested in the local maker movement.
This 2-story market arcade aims to showcase some of the best of what Central Florida can offer when it comes to cooked food, art, and fresh produce. Inside, you’ll find a collection of merchants, including artisan bakers, gourmet cheese purveyors, a local coffee roaster, a craft butcher, and juice bars. The market also has some world-class restaurants, a very large event space, and a live cooking area. You might also want to check their website for upcoming special events, workshops, and cooking classes which are frequently held. The market’s garden provides fresh ingredients for its vendors, truly embodying a farm-to-table ethos.
Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores
Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores is a well-known outlet shopping mall that shares the same theme as the two premium outlets around International Drive. Rows of shops are set around a beautiful outdoor space, displaying big discounts on apparel and homeware taken fresh out of the oven, so to speak. Often considered a hidden gem by locals, this outlet is typically less crowded and easier to navigate than its larger competitors, offering a more relaxed and stress-free bargain-hunting experience. Free parking is a major plus.
However, it’s worth mentioning that you won’t have as many choices here, but there are also fewer people. Some of the best stores include Reebok, Crocs, Calvin Klein, Justice, Tommy Hilfiger, Timberland, Fossil, and Nike. It’s also the only place in the area where you’ll find an outlet for Old Navy. The manageable size makes it an excellent choice for a quick shopping trip when you don’t have a full day to spare. As for the discounts, boy, oh boy! Expect to see discounts as big as 70% off the usual price, making it a very rewarding stop for savvy shoppers.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora showcases a wonderful range of shops and dining options that are only a stroll away from its picturesque namesake lake. The beautiful town center was commonly known as the “antique capital” of the region, and rightfully so. This historic lakeside town offers a charming step back in time, with a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for a day trip away from the Orlando buzz.
There, you can find some of the finest antique and collectible stores in Florida, and if you’re really not into that, you’ll be glad to know that their shopping options have diversified since then. Exploring the shops is like a treasure hunt, with everything from vintage furniture and rare books to classic memorabilia. You can easily find a plethora of art galleries, fashion boutiques, gardening stores, home decor items, jewelers, and wine cellars. The town is also famous for its annual festivals, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival, which attracts hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors each year.
All of these make it a highly recommended area to spend at least one afternoon. But trust me, you will come for more! Most of these stores can be found around 3rd–7th Avenue, which also comprises the main town center. The beautiful waterfront setting, complete with a lighthouse and scenic parks, adds to the town’s undeniable appeal, making the experience about much more than just shopping.
Lee Vista Promenade
Lee Vista Promenade comes with some of the most convenient shopping and dining options in Orange County. It’s also within a 15-minute drive south of central Orlando and a 6-minute drive north of Orlando International Airport. This prime location makes it an ideal first stop after you land or a perfect last stop for picking up forgotten items before you fly home. Its convenience is truly unmatched for travelers.
You can stop and check out their wide variety of street-level shopping options in a promenade-like setting. This open-air center is easy to navigate by car or on foot. Not only will you find the typical clothing brands that you would normally expect from a shopping mall, but there are also many stores that specialize in outdoor sports, crafts, and even home goods. Key retailers include major names like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ross Dress for Less, Hobby Lobby, and Petco, offering a practical and diverse shopping mix.
Also, if you’re getting hungry, you can stop at some well-known chain restaurants like Starbucks, Panda Express, and Outback Steakhouse on the Lee Vista Promenade. The area is packed with familiar and reliable dining choices, making it easy to grab a quick meal or have a sit-down dinner. Also, there’s an onsite movie theater that showcases the latest movies. The Epic Theatres at Lee Vista is a modern cinema perfect for relaxing after a long day of travel or shopping.
If you’re going to visit all these places, be sure you’ll need comfy shoes! With the sheer size of these malls and outdoor outlets, covering miles of retail space in a single day is common. That’s why I advise you to add to your cart these comfortable gems that will get you in places! What can I say? You will feel as if you’re walking on a cloud!
If you’re looking for similar articles, and now that you’re prepared to shop smart, consider how you pay. You have to check out this one: 5 Purchases You Should NEVER Make with Cash
