Shop Until You Drop in Orlando

Between Vista Cay and the Airport, it is perfect as a stop off if you have a late flight. It’s central Florida’s largest mall and all the big names and usual suspects are here; Apple, Sephora, Victoria’s Secret, A&F plus a few not seen so often like Zara, H&M, Michael Kors and the Crayola Experience. You can easily spend a few hours here and there is a good food mall if you need to refuel mid shopping spree.

Without doubt Orlando’s most upscale mall. Small and bijoux with big names and a stylish environment. Here you will find Chanel, Louboutin, Coach, Gucci, Hermes, Kate Spade, Prada,…and also more affordable Tommy Bahamas, Lululemon, Psycho Bunny, Under Armor and Urban Outfitters. Anchored by Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales. there is also a post office on site so you can even mail home what you can’t carry. There is a food court but if you are shopping late there are also some great choices along the outside of the Mall for dinner, Capital Grille, PF Changs and the CheeseCake Factory.

Just 5 minute from Vista Cay, this is the largest of the Premium Outlets and you can easily spend a day wandering the outlet village. Stores include Saks With Avenue Off 5th, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Marc Jacobs, Hugo Boss, Coach, Converse, Guess, Kate Spade, OshKosh, 180+ stores. It’s an open village layout with partial cover of the alleyways. Bear in mind that during the summer months it often rains in the afternoons, so best to plan your shopping expeditions in the mornings.

Tip. Parking is free but always super busy here so save yourself the hassle and time and take advantage of valet parking. Florida residents get Free valet parking between 10- 11am.

Also just a few minutes from your vacation home and close to Disney. This mall is slightly smaller and, I think, more upscale and interesting. There are a few stores you won’t find in the International outlet: Victoria’s Secret, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Disney Outlet, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Lacoste, max Mara, Prada, Superdry… Parking is also easier here.

Tip. I have learned over the years that there are different discounts at either mall. So if you are a true bargain hunter, there is good reason to explore both. You can check out the different discounts on their websites and do join the VIP club online. It’s free and gives you additional discounts. You pick up the VIP discount book at the information desk in the food hall. Sign up for everyone in your group/family and you will all get a discount book.

If you prefer a more European shopping experience, Winter Park is a gorgeous upscale area of Orlando with fabulous shopping and dining. Park Avenue is the area to head for where you will find a mix of top brands and unique individual shops. Don’t miss the Peterbrooke Chocolatier and you can do a little mid-shop wine tasting before you buy at the Wine Room.

Some of the best dining in Orlando is in the Winter Park area.