Of course you love the beach, the arts, the boating and the lifestyle of Sarasota…. but let’s face it, you still have to SHOP! When it comes to places to partake in life’s finest pleasure, there’s no shortage of places to venture. Whether you favor outdoor palm-tree lined shopping centers, bargain hunting at outlet malls or unique boutique window-shopping, they are all within easy reach of The Islands private waterfront community on the Manatee River.
Mall at University Town Center – Brand New!
Located at I-75 and University Parkway, this world-class fashion and dining destination was recently featured in the New York Times. The gorgeous open-air design features Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Dillard's and more than 100 stores and restaurants. The mall offers a diverse mix of fashion and lifestyle retailers, popular favorites, sit-down restaurants and a children's play area.
Lakewood Ranch
There's something for everyone on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. Stylish shops offer everything from fashion to fine jewelry and restaurants range from family-friendly to gourmet. The town Center is home to over 200 businesses and retailers and includes a wide variety of specialty shops, major anchor stores, restaurants, hospitality services, and high-end offices. Don’t miss the Farmer’s Market, it’s a local favorite!
Ellenton Premium Outlets
If you love a good bargain then you will love the Premium Outlets. Over 125 shops we love and adore offer up their goods at discount pricing- brands like Saks Off Fifth, Motherhood Maternity, Kate Spade, BCBG Max Azria, Juicy Couture and Calvin Klein. You may get caught up in the sales so plan to spend some time here.
International Plaza
Residents of The Islands wanting to explore Tampa can stop at the International Plaza. It consists of three fashionable department stores, over 200 specialty shops and Bay Street at the Plaza, an open-air village of fine restaurants and small boutiques. You will find Tampa’s rich and famous sipping martinis at the Capital Grille or loading up on packages at Neiman Marcus.
St. Armand’s Circle
St. Armand’s Circle is Sarasota’s infamous shopping centerpiece. No trip to the circle is complete until you treat yourself to ice cream from Big Olafs or Kilwin’s and stroll down to the beaches at Lido Key. It’s the perfect place to spend the day walking from shop to shop while taking in Sarasota’s charm. St. Armand’s is on the GOTTA GO list, featuring extensive dining choices and unique shops like, Little Bo-Tique, Foxy Lady, and Addison Craig along with brands such as White House Black Market, Soma and Lilly Pulitzer.
After a day of shopping, there’s no better place to return home to than The Islands on the Manatee River. This gated community is nestled into the moss-draped oaks overlooking the picturesque Manatee River. It’s a rare find in Florida, where nearly every home has a boat dock in the backyard. For shoppers, it’s a bargain hunter’s dream featuring ½ acre homesites. Packages are starting from the $900s, with home and homesites on the river starting at $1.2 million..
One look at the master site plan, and you’ll discover why your best shopping starts at The Islands.
