Category: Orlando Shopping

My Favourite Shop at the Mall at Millenia in Orlando, Florida

Anthropologie at the Mall at Millenia in Orlando Florida
Anthropologie at the Mall at Millenia in Orlando Florida

We travel to Orlando, Florida a few times a year, but at the top of my personal shopping list is a browse round a small store in the Mall at Millennia called Anthropologie.  Located in a quiet corner on the ground floor of the mall, the seating outside will be full of husbands and boyfriends falling asleep as their partners are trying on stunning outfits!  The window displays are something to behold and admire, even before you enter the shop, changing with each season, they often use inventive ways to recycle old everyday items into stunning works of art.  It’s an interesting place to be swathed in lovely clothes and fabulous home décor.  A different world to all the chain brands you would normally see in the mall, Anthropologie is for those that want to stand out from the crowd.  I’m a huge fan of the knitwear, and make it a personal goal to finda new addition to my wardrobe with each visit.  The assistants in the store are very friendly, and only too happy to help put together an outfit for you, or run for a different size from the changing room.  For those looking for a bargain, you have to explore the ‘sale grotto’ at the rear of the shop, tucked away on the left hand side.  Enjoy! – Claire, VR360

Downtown Disney Orlando

Downtown Disney equals lots of entertainment and nightlife all in one Disney hotspot. Situated on Buena Vista Drive, follow the signs for Walt Disney World and then you’ll see signs for Downtown Disney, taking you to the free parking lots. The majority of our Florida villas to rent are within a 20 minute drive away.  You can stroll along the scenic walkway of the 3 distinct sections, all bordering the village waterfront and experience the dining, shopping and entertainment on offer. On the West side – you can take in a live theatrical show of breathtaking acrobatics at the Cirque du Soleil theatre – tickets can be purchased at the box office in the theatre or by calling 407-WDW-SEAT. Or perhaps see the latest Hollywood movie at the AMC Pleasure Island 24 screen cinema – we have a handy post on our Florida Villas blog for film showtimes. Soak up the party atmosphere on Pleasure Island with the bars, discos and eateries. You’ll also find the very best Disney souvenirs and gifts for friends and family at the World of Disney store (largest Disney character store in the world) in the shopping hub of Downtown Disney Marketplace on the East side. Featured in the store is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique salon for girls and boys who want the ultimate princess and knight fairytale makeovers. This is extremely popular with young children over 3 years and we would advise calling in advance to make reservations. Makeover package prices vary.  The marketplace also has a fine art gallery which is fun to browse called The Art of Disney.  There are an abundance of themed restaurants for the family – the Rainforest Cafe has casual dining in an amazing tropical rainforest setting. For an unforgettable experience, try the T-Rex Cafe – a prehistoric adventure where you can eat, shop and gaze at the moving T-Rex dinosaur.

For music lovers, back on the west side, the House of Blues offers southern-inspired food along with live music from Rock ‘n’ Roll to R&B in their Music Hall adjacent to the diner. Once you visit, you’ll be coming back again and again. Check out Leona Lewis below…..

Why not try a 400ft balloon ride in the Characters in Flight open everyday.

Florida Mall Shopping, Orlando

The Florida Mall in Orlando

As well as visiting all the theme parks and attractions, you won’t want to miss out on the shopping in Orlando.  The Florida Mall, Central Florida’s largest mall at a whopping 1.9 million square feet of shopping, features 260 speciality stores and will provide you with an unforgettable shopping experience. Stores include Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, M&M World, Hollister Co, Apple, Abercrombie & Fitch, MAC, Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Bodyworks to name a few. Florida Mall is located at 8001 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando FL 32809. Regular Mall hours are Mon-Sat 10am – 9pm, and sun 12pm – 6pm.

Handy tips for you: For the easiest route to the Florida Mall and avoiding the toll booth charges, take the 528 Toll Road, exit 72 off the I-4. Take the Orange Blossom Trail junction (exit 4), turn left onto the OBT, Florida Mall is on your right.

And another tip…Macy’s department store are offering special travellers’ savings and international visitors can receive the Welcome Savings Card valid for 30 days, giving a 10% discount on your purchases. Domestic visitors can receive the Welcome Savings Pass, offering 10% discount valid for 3 days. Just ask at a register before you start shopping and they can assist you in getting your discount card. For international visitors, take along proof of your international status ie driver’s licence or passport.

The Florida Mall is located about 20 minutes from most of our Florida holiday villas and is a great way to spend a day!!!

Universal Studios City Walk

Universal Studios City Walk is located at the entrances to Universal Studios and Islands of Adverture and features loads of different restaurants, bars, night clubs, shops and a even a 20 screen cinema, it’s the ideal place to spend an evening out or grab something to eat on your way out of the Universal parks.

City Walk if home to some of the bigger chains of bar and restaurants like the Hard Rock Cafe, Nascar Sports Grille, Margaritaville, NBA City and the all new Bubba Gump Shrimp Co plus many more.

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