Tampa's top shopping venues: from historic districts to outlet malls (2024)

Photo courtesy of University Mall

University Mall is conveniently located neighborhood shopping center near Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, USF and the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). Fondly referred to as "U-Mall," the complex underwent an $11 million renovation in 2008 and popular amenities were added such as a play area and Wi-Fi lounge. The Mall offers Sears, Grands, Dillard's and Burlington Coat Factory as its anchor stores along with 140 more shops featuring men's and women's apparel, jewelry, sports equipment, and much more. If you get hungry there is a variety of dining choice in their large food court.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: University Mall, located near the University of South Florida, is anchored by Sears and Dillard's with 140 additional stores to choose from.

Skye's expert tip: If you're looking for bargains, this is a good place to find them as prices are generally lower than at other mall locations.

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Washed in light, this glass-filled mall invites shoppers to browse among palm trees, sculpture and water features. Open since 1995, the TownCenter is one of the area's most popular venues. It's anchored by four department stores; Macy's, Dillards, JCPenney, and Sears. Included in 120 additional specialty stores are a mix of retailers that includes premium options such as bebe, Swarovski, Lush, and Coach. There is also a great mix of popular dining options waiting for the shopping-weary including the Cheesecake Factory and Bahama Breeze. Families are welcome here and the mall sponsors a variety of fun events and activities throughout the year.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: Westfield Mall Brandon is a large, pleasant mall with great shopping and dining located just south of Tampa on I75.

Skye's expert tip: This is a popular mall and gets really busy on weekends which can lead to traffic backups in the area.

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Photo courtesy of WestShore Plaza

Convenient to the airport, Westshore Plaza is a slightly less intimidating shopping mecca than the exclusive International Plaza but it maintains a great selection of upscale shopping and trendy dining options. The mall is anchored by Macy's, JCPenney, and Sears. Complimenting the department stores is a 14-screen movie theater and popular retailers such as The Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy and White House Black Market just to name a few. Almost as impressive are their dining options that include Maggiano's Little Italy, PF Chang's China Bistro and Seasons 52 among others. There is also a food court for an easy place to pick up a quick bite.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: Westshore Plaza is an upscale shopping center close to Tampa's airport with a great mix of trendy shopping and dining options.

Skye's expert tip: This is the closest full-service mall to downtown Tampa.

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Photo courtesy of Westfield Citrus Park

The goal in the design of Citrus Park was to lend an outdoor feel to an indoor mall, with wide boulevards, lots of windows, and burbling fountains. Amidst this delightful "Main Street" decor, a variety of 150-plus stores, including Dillard's, Gap, Macy's, Abercrombie & Fitch and the area's largest Pottery Barn, enable visitors to shop 'til they drop into a plush movie theater seat to catch a flick. If you need a break, the food court is one of the best in town and there are also 5 sit-down restaurants including BJ's Brewery and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: Located about 20 minutes northwest of downtown Tampa, Westfield Citrus Park features over 150 retail stores.

Skye's expert tip: There is a large play area for children, but the star of the show is the two-story carousel.

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Photo courtesy of Tampa Premium Outlets

Located just 20 minutes from downtown, Tampa Premium Outlets offers shoppers 25% - 65% savings every day at more than over 100 designer and brand name retailers. Anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, the mall features other big names including Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, and Tommy Hilfiger. In addition to fashion and sportswear, there are a good selection of shoe, jewelry, accessory, and leather goods stores. Shoppers will enjoy the Key West ambiance at this open-air mall that also features ample lounge and seating spaces when you need to take a break. Very family-friendly, there is a play area for the kids, nursing lounges, and stroller rentals. Food options include several counter options as well as the 50s-inspired Johnny Rockets if you're looking for table service.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: Premium Outlets is Tampa's only outlet mall and features great deals on a wide variety of designer brands.

Skye's expert tip: Join their online VIP Club for extra savings and promotions - it's free!

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Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers

This 800,000-square-foot open-air lifestyle village is one of the most picturesque malls in the Tampa area. Wiregrass strikes the perfect balance between a hub of local activity and a shopping destination. As shoppers stroll the wide, immaculate streets, outdoor music and waterfalls create a welcoming environment while rocking chairs and pocket parks offer restful respites. Over 100 stores and restaurants line the sidewalks, so visitors can indulge in tasty treats while happily collecting armfuls of shopping bags. Wiregrass is located near the junction of I-75 with I-275 and is definitely worth the stop if you're in north Tampa.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: The Shops at Wiregrass, located in northeast Tampa, is an open-air, village-style mall with over 100 stores to choose from.

Skye's expert tip: The mall also hosts popular, family-friendly events, including a bimonthly fresh market.

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Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers

The Ybor City historic district, named after a 19th-century cigar maker, lies northeast of downtown Tampa, and is pronounced "Ee-bore" City. Notable for its history as a center of handmade cigar production, Latin culture and Spanish-influenced architecture, Ybor is one of only two urban National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida, In addition to its rich history, this is also a vibrant, entertainment district with eclectic boutiques, nightclubs and restaurants lining the streets. One of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city, Ybor is a pedestrian-friendly, people-watching haven for explorers, strollers and club-goers. A wonderful place to buy cigars, listen to jazz, and get a feel for the heartbeat of Tampa.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: The quaint and charming streets of Tampa's historic district, Ybor City, are lined with unique and eclectic shops and boutiques.

Skye's expert tip: If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts with a Tampa flair, this is the place to shop.

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Photo courtesy of International Plaza and Bay Street

Tampa's International Plaza and Bay Street is the city's premier shopping mall featuring three upscale department stores and over 200 high-end specialty shops as well as more affordable stores. If you need a Burberry, Tiffany, or Louis Vuitton fix while in town, head to International Plaza. Tired of shopping? International Plaza also hosts over 30 eateries and bars both within the mall or on Bay Street, the adjacent open-air village of fine restaurants and small boutiques. Located next to Tampa's international airport, you can make International Plaza your first stop or your last stop out of town.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: International Plaza is Tampa's flagship shopping mall featuring over 200 high-end specialty shops.

Skye's expert tip: Featuring mostly upscale shopping, this is a great place to find luxury items and designer names.

Photo courtesy of Hyde Park Village

In the heart of one of Tampa's most historic and affluent neighborhoods is one of the city's most upscale shopping destinations. Hyde Park Village is an on-street shopping district that is centered around a village square and covers six blocks of retail, dining and entertainment. Successfully blending the historic and the modern, the open-air environment offers a park-like atmosphere with a central fountain, pathways and casual seating areas for resting between shops. Speaking of shops, Hyde Park Village features 60 local, regional and national brands including Zimmermann, rag & bone, Anthropologie, bartaco, Warby Parker, lululemon, and Sephora, just to name a few. As more than just a shopping district, Hyde Park Village also hosts many community events including a monthly Fresh Market.

Recommended for Shopping Malls and Centers because: Hyde Park Village is a charming and fashionable neighborhood shopping district with unique boutiques, trendy shops and popular dining spots.

Skye's expert tip: The movie theater, Cinebistro, is also a fine dining establishment that serves your meal while you watch a film.

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