The following is a "copy and paste" of a post I made a few months back. It covers some points already made in this thread, but it pretty much sums up my feelings about the shopping opportunities in the Disney area. Also, I should add that I wasn't overly impressed with the LBV Factory Stores, although it is years since we went, so it could have improved. I'd say that both Premium Outlets and Prime Outlets have more to offer. Another outdoor mall we've never visited, but which looks fairly interesting is
The Loop.
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My favourite is the
Mall at Millenia. If I was restricted to just one shopping trip this would be my "must-do". It's easy to navigate, has some superb dining options and a good mix of department stores, designer outlets and regular shops. It has a lovely bright, airy feel with lots of marble and glass. As well as the main mall, there are standalone stores and restaurants close by. All the dining choices are good, but if you've never been to one before, you shouldn't miss the Cheesecake Factory.
Second on my list would probably be
The Florida Mall. It's bigger than the Mall at Millenia, but nowhere near as upscale. You'll find all the usual suspects there as well as a few surprises. The M&Ms store has to be seen to be believed. My favourite there is the Nordstrom department store. There is a big food court as well as a few individual restaurants. Salsa Taqueria & Tequilla Bar is good and Buca di Beppo is huge fun, if not the most authentic Italian you'll ever have eaten.
Orlando Premium Outlets is enormously popular and always packed - so much so that we give it a wide berth these days. If you're looking for bargains, though, there are definitely some to be found here. Don't even think about doing it at weekends (and, in fact, that holds true of shopping in general).
Pr1me Outlets is a similar complex which has recently opened at the top of I-Drive (where Belz used to be). When we were there in January, it was up and running and new stores are opening there all the time. You could combine this with
Festival Bay located opposite. Whilst there are a few very good stores there, it's never really taken off and there are far too many empty units, so it wouldn't be one to do in isolation.
A trip to Orlando wouldn't be complete for us without visiting
Pointe Orlando at the opposite end of I-Drive. However, the shopping options there have dwindled and it's now more of a night-time entertainment and eating district. It's home to my favourite shop, the Tommy Bahama Emporium and Tropical Cafe.
