From the halls of such malls as Aventura to the pedestrian-friendly streets of Coral Gables, shopping till it's time to drop is a breeze in South Florida. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at one of these local retail venues:
Aventura Mall
Aventura Mall draws more than 28 million shoppers every year to its more than 300 stores and restaurants, including the department stores Bloomingdales, Nordstrom and Macy’s. The shopping possibilities are endless, from a two-story Forever XXI to the flagship Louis Vuitton store to everything in between. Not only can people browse the clothing, home goods and gift stores, but there are also numerous restaurants and an AMC movie theater with IMAX. For travelers wanting to go in style, a luxury-car rental is available through Very Important Automobiles. Recently, Aventura Mall partnered with Bags to Go, which offers international shipping services. Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. 305.935.1110
Bal Harbour Shops
Located in the Miami Beach town of Bal Harbour, this outdoor shopping center is the pinnacle of style with only the most luxe brands. Bal Harbour Shops visitors will find renowned names such as Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fendi, Harry Winston, Miu Miu, Prada and other high-end labels. Just this year, the experimental space Fashion Project debuted at Bal Harbour Shops offering an open space for the public to explore fashion and design through exhibitions, films and more. Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. 305.866.0311
Dolphin Mall
Those staying in Miami-Dade have the advantage of being close to Dolphin Mall. The largest mall in the county, the sprawling property offers more than 240 stores, two food courts, the dinner-and-a-movie experience at Cinebistro, the hot new bowling alley Strike Miami and more. For bargains on luxury brands, visit Neiman Marcus Last Call, Off Fifth and the Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store. Also, tourists can quickly return to the airport on one of the mall’s 32 shuttle buses. Dolphin Mall, 11401 N.W. 12th St., Miami. 305.365.7446
Miami Design District
This burgeoning neighborhood has been drawing high-end stores to its streets, creating a blend of luxury and urban fare. Here you’ll find fashion and home-design stores such as Adriana Hoyos, Armani/Casa, Jonathan Adler, Céline, Dior, Hermès, Theory and Versace. But what sets the Design District apart is not just the shopping but also the art galleries as well as the bright, eye-catching street art and modern sculptures found throughout the district. Between Miami Ave. and N.E. Second St., Miami,305.722.7100. www.miamidesigndistrict.net
Miracle Mile and Downtown Coral Cables
Located just 10 minutes from Miami International Airport, this historic, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is filled with tree-lined streets and Mediterranean architecture, lending it a sophisticated, European air. It is home to more than 200 retailers offering the latest fashions, jewelry, accessories, menswear, eyewear, bridal wear, shoes, home furnishings and décor and much more. When it’s time for a break from shopping, there are more than 90 restaurants from which to choose. Valet parking is available. Miracle Mile, between Le Jeune and Douglas roads, Coral Gables. 305.569.0311
Village of Merrick Park
Enjoy the sun while shopping for your favorite luxury brands at the Village. Located in Coral Gables, the outdoor shopping plaza is surrounded by historic architecture, offers an old-Florida-style feel and is a great spot for a relaxing day of shopping. Find apparel and more for the whole family at stores like Anthropologie, Burberry, Cole Haan, Diane von Furstenberg, Jimmy Choo and more. The mall also features an Equinox gym and spa, Gymboree, valet parking (free for Lexus drivers), car wash, dry cleaning and a nursing lounge for mothers. Village of Merrick Park, 358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables. 305.529.0200