Tuesday, May. 01, 2012

Shop Til You Drop

Visit Orlando's Susan Lomax says Orlando is the fourth-biggest shopping destinations in the country. It has two open-air outlet malls managed by Premium Outlets on opposite sides of town that, combined, include more than 500 stores. Score deals on labels like Burberry, Coach, Fendi and Prada. If you get carried away, there are more than half a dozen stores that sell luggage, so you can get your finds home (just watch out for those baggage weight limits!)

Upscale mallgoers will want to check out the Mall at Millenia. Anchored by Bloomingdale's and Neiman Marcus, this is the place to go if you want high-end designer brands like Chanel and Jimmy Choo. If your style is a little more Gap than Dolce and Gabbana, the Florida Mall has more than 250 stores, including hot brands like Apple, Zara and pretty much everything in between.

If you love to shop but malls aren't your thing, Winter Park probably is. This quaint town to the northeast of Orlando seems like the perfect destination for shoppers who revel in the thrill of discovering a one-of-a-kind find. The town's 10-block main drag, lined with trendy boutiques and art galleries, is perfect for strolling or just escaping the Orlando crowds for a day. It also has a bevy of chic restaurants and wine bars to grab a bite or a drink while browsing.