Shopping Guide To Miami, Florida
When you combine south Florida's sunshine with some of the state's most popular marketplaces, you are sure to have an amazing time. That is why the Miami area is one of the hottest destinations in Florida for those looking to shop 'til they drop. While in Miami you will have a variety of stores surrounding you and access to some of the hottest labels, designers and unique items.
You will find everything from outdoor shopping venues to malls and luxury boutiques to one-stop shopping destinations right here in the heart of Miami. Looking for a bargain? Those of you on a budget will have plenty of places to shop, too, while visiting south Florida.
Shopping Malls
You will definitely be able to shop until you drop when visiting Miami. Why? Because this area is filled with so many different malls and shopping districts that you will not know where to begin. If you are looking to go shopping at one of the area malls, here are some of the top shopping malls in the Miami area:
Luxury Shopping
In addition to traditional mall-style shopping, Miami also offers luxury boutiques and high-end stores for those looking to purchase the best of the best. If you are looking for star treatment while shopping for high-end fashion brands, you will definitely want to check out the following malls and shopping districts:
- Aventura Mall
- Bal Harbour Shops
- Downtown Miami Design District
- South Beach area
- Village of Merrick Park
Outdoor Shopping
You will quickly find out just how beautiful south Florida is when you come for a shopping excursion. So why would you want to spend the entire time indoors in an enclosed shopping center? If you are looking to get the full experience Miami has to offer, but still get some shopping done, check out some of the area's top outdoor shopping venues and malls. These will get you outside in the Florida sun as you explore the unique shops and restaurants these shopping venues have to offer.
The Bayside Marketplace offers a culturally diverse selection of shops, provides visitors nonstop entertainment and has an amazing waterfront view. You will find more than 150 nationally recognized stores at the Bayside Marketplace, making it possible to find just about anything you want. Located in downtown Miami, you will find Mary Brickell Village, a shopping center that offers tree-shaded courtyards that lead to unique boutiques and restaurants.
Other outdoor shopping venues in the Miami area include:
Bargain Shopping
Of course you will find some of the highest-end merchandise items in Miami, however, that does not mean you cannot go bargain shopping while visiting the area. If you are looking to save some money or are on a tight budget, but still want some of the hottest items found at the many boutiques and malls in Miami, there is still hope. You can still find stylish and name brand items for a fraction of the cost. It is just a matter of looking for a bargain and finding it.
There are many different ways to stretch your dollar while in Miami, including shopping at outlets, thrift stores and local consignment shops. Many of these locations carry the name brands you want, but for a fraction of the cost. The Dolphin Mall is home to many of the top outlet stores, including Banana Republic Factory Store, Bloomingdale's The Outlet Store, Coach Outlet and Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th.
Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise offers the largest outlet shopping destination in the country and is home to more than 350 name-brand outlets and off-price retail stores. You will find amazing deals with prices from 40 to 60 percent off of retail stores such as Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Kate Spade and La Perla.
Many area residents take their unwanted, high-end, name brand clothing and items to local thrift and consignments shops. This is where you can find gently used merchandise for pennies on the dollar. Top Miami thrift, vintage and consignment stores where you are sure to find a bargain include:
Shopping Districts
There are many malls in the Miami area featuring plenty of stores to shop from. In addition to typical malls, both outdoor and indoor, Miami is home to a variety of different districts featuring boutiques and unique shops for those not looking for a mall when shopping in Miami. These districts have become one-stop shopping venues for those looking to purchase souvenirs, clothes, household items and other specialty items to take home with them from their south Florida getaway. These street shopping districts are definitely the hidden gems of Miami, and if you have time you have to make your way there; even if it is just for some window shopping.
Looking for designer shops? Visit South Beach, where you will find one-of-a-kind items, plus stores featuring some of the top designers in home and fashion accessories. The best South Beach stores are lined along Lincoln Road, Washington Avenue, Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Espanola Way.
Looking for a one-stop shopping location for all of your bridal needs? Check out the Coral Gables Promenade in downtown Coral Gables. You are sure to find everything you need from gowns to cakes and gifts to chocolates in the stores just off Miracle Mile in the downtown area.
If time allows, make time to visit two of Miami's hottest shopping villages. You will find a small-town designed shopping village on the northern end of the county in Miami Lakes featuring specialty shops and local restaurants. Then just to the northeast you will find the Village at Gulfstream Park, an outdoor shopping village featuring shopping, dining and live entertainment.
While out experiencing the shopping opportunities Miami has to offer, do not forget to grab a bite to eat and relax at some of the many unique restaurants and cafes located throughout the city. Combine mouthwatering local cuisine with the bright sunshine, and sprinkle it with some shopping and you are sure to have an amazing time exploring South Florida.
Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.