Shopping
Introduction to Tampa’s Shopping Scene
Tampa’s shopping scene is as diverse as its cultural heritage. From sprawling luxury malls to quirky local boutiques and bustling markets, the city presents a variety of options for shoppers. Tampa’s retail landscape is heavily influenced by its rich history, vibrant art scene, and multicultural population, making shopping here a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re hunting for high fashion, artisanal crafts, or fresh local produce, Tampa’s shopping destinations have something for everyone.
Overview of the Shopping Scene
Diversity of Options
Tampa’s shopping options range from upscale malls like International Plaza to charming local markets like the Ybor City Saturday Market. You’ll find everything from luxury brands and designer boutiques to vintage stores and local crafts. The city’s blend of cultures is reflected in its retail offerings, with stores selling everything from Cuban cigars to handcrafted jewelry and artisanal foods.
Cultural Significance
The cultural richness of Tampa is deeply embedded in its shopping experience. Historic Ybor City, for instance, is renowned for its Cuban heritage and is home to several shops selling authentic cigars and other traditional goods. The city’s diverse population has also led to a flourishing market for ethnic foods, artisanal crafts, and unique fashion, making shopping in Tampa a culturally immersive experience.
Key Shopping Districts
International Plaza and Bay Street
Address: 2223 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607
History: Opened in 2001, International Plaza is Tampa’s premier shopping destination, offering a mix of luxury and mid-range stores.
Ambiance: A high-end shopping mall with an open-air dining area, Bay Street, that adds a lively atmosphere with restaurants and entertainment.
What to Buy: High fashion from brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Nordstrom, along with unique finds in boutique stores.
Unique Aspects: The combination of upscale shopping with a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
Hyde Park Village
Address: 1602 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
History: Established in the 1980s, Hyde Park Village is a chic, open-air shopping district nestled in one of Tampa’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
Ambiance: A charming mix of modern boutiques, historic architecture, and tree-lined streets.
What to Buy: Designer clothing, artisan goods, and home décor from boutiques like Lululemon, Anthropologie, and West Elm.
Unique Aspects: The European-inspired setting with regular events like farmers markets and art festivals.
Ybor City
Address: Ybor City, Tampa, FL 33605
History: Founded in the 1880s by cigar manufacturers, Ybor City is Tampa’s historic Latin quarter, rich in culture and unique shopping experiences.
Ambiance: Cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, home to unique shops and vibrant nightlife.
What to Buy: Authentic Cuban cigars, vintage clothing, and local art.
Unique Aspects: The strong cultural influence, with a focus on Cuban heritage and local artisans.
Tampa Premium Outlets
Address: 2300 Grand Cypress Dr, Lutz, FL 33559
History: Opened in 2015, Tampa Premium Outlets offers discounted prices on designer and brand-name merchandise.
Ambiance: A modern, open-air shopping complex featuring over 110 stores.
What to Buy: Discounted fashion from brands like Nike, Michael Kors, and Coach.
Unique Aspects: The significant savings on high-end brands in a convenient, well-designed setting.
WestShore Plaza
Address: 250 WestShore Plaza, Tampa, FL 33609
History: Established in 1967, WestShore Plaza is one of Tampa’s oldest malls, offering a blend of traditional and modern shopping.
Ambiance: A family-friendly mall with a mix of department stores, fashion boutiques, and dining options.
What to Buy: Everything from fashion to electronics, with stores like Macy’s, H&M, and The Apple Store.
Unique Aspects: Its longevity and ability to stay relevant with new store offerings and renovations.
SoHo District
Address: South Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606
History: SoHo (South Howard) District has evolved into one of Tampa’s trendiest areas, known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic shops.
Ambiance: A vibrant, walkable neighborhood with a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
What to Buy: Trendy fashion, unique home décor, and local art.
Unique Aspects: The energetic vibe, with a focus on local businesses and a thriving nightlife.
The Mall at University Town Center
Address: 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
History: Though technically outside of Tampa, this mall is a popular destination for Tampa residents, offering luxury shopping in a beautiful setting.
Ambiance: A sleek, modern shopping center with high-end stores and gourmet dining options.
What to Buy: Luxury fashion, jewelry, and electronics.
Unique Aspects: Its upscale offerings and proximity to the beautiful Sarasota area.
Channelside Bay Plaza
Address: 615 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
History: Channelside Bay Plaza has undergone significant redevelopment to become a vibrant entertainment and shopping district.
Ambiance: A lively waterfront destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
What to Buy: Souvenirs, gifts, and unique Tampa-themed items.
Unique Aspects: The waterfront location and proximity to attractions like the Florida Aquarium and Amalie Arena.
Tampa’s Downtown
Address: Downtown Tampa, Tampa, FL 33602
History: Downtown Tampa is the city’s business and cultural hub, with a growing number of shops, galleries, and markets.
Ambiance: A mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings with a focus on urban, stylish retail.
What to Buy: Office wear, local art, and trendy home goods.
Unique Aspects: The integration of shopping with Tampa’s cultural and business district.
Armature Works
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
History: Housed in a former streetcar warehouse, Armature Works is now a popular mixed-use space featuring a food hall, shops, and event spaces.
Ambiance: Industrial chic with a mix of artisanal shops and eateries.
What to Buy: Local crafts, gourmet foods, and specialty items.
Unique Aspects: The combination of dining, shopping, and cultural events in a historic setting.
The Heights Public Market
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
History: Located within Armature Works, this market offers a variety of local food vendors and artisanal products.
Ambiance: A bustling market atmosphere with a focus on local and sustainable products.
What to Buy: Fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.
Unique Aspects: The emphasis on supporting local vendors and sustainable practices.
The Shops at Wiregrass
Address: 28211 Paseo Dr, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
History: Opened in 2008, The Shops at Wiregrass is a large outdoor shopping complex serving the northern Tampa area.
Ambiance: A beautifully landscaped, open-air mall with a mix of national retailers and local boutiques.
What to Buy: Fashion, beauty products, and home goods.
Unique Aspects: The seasonal events and community-focused atmosphere.
Seminole Heights
Address: Seminole Heights, Tampa, FL 33604
History: Seminole Heights is an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its vintage shops and artisanal markets.
Ambiance: Eclectic and artsy, with a mix of vintage stores, coffee shops, and craft breweries.
What to Buy: Vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and unique home décor.
Unique Aspects: The neighborhood’s artistic vibe and focus on independent, local businesses.
South Tampa
Address: South Tampa, Tampa, FL 33629
History: South Tampa is an affluent area known for its upscale shopping and dining options.
Ambiance: Elegant and sophisticated, with a variety of boutiques and high-end stores.
What to Buy: Designer fashion, luxury home décor, and gourmet foods.
Unique Aspects: The refined atmosphere and focus on luxury brands.
Old Hyde Park Village
Address: 1602 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
History: Part of the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, this shopping area has been a favorite for decades.
Ambiance: Upscale, open-air shopping with a mix of national brands and local boutiques.
What to Buy: Fashion, home décor, and gifts.
Unique Aspects: The beautiful surroundings and regular community events.
The Fresh Market
Address: 3722 Henderson Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609
History: Part of a national chain, The Fresh Market in Tampa offers gourmet food items and fresh produce in an upscale setting.
Ambiance: A gourmet grocery store with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients and unique products.
What to Buy: Gourmet groceries, specialty items, and fresh flowers.
Unique Aspect: The Fresh Market’s curated selection of goods makes it a favorite for foodies and home chefs.
South Tampa
Address: S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
History: South Tampa is known for its trendy shops and restaurants, particularly along S Howard Ave, or SoHo.
Ambiance: A chic, urban area with a mix of high-end boutiques, cafes, and nightlife.
What to Buy: Fashion, accessories, and gourmet food items.
Unique Aspect: The vibrant atmosphere and stylish shops make South Tampa a go-to destination for fashion-forward shoppers.
Sunshine Thrift Store
Address: 4304 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33611
History: A local favorite since 1982, Sunshine Thrift Store offers affordable, second-hand items for budget-conscious shoppers.
Ambiance: A bustling thrift store where you can find everything from vintage clothing to household items.
What to Buy: Thrifted fashion, home goods, and books.
Unique Aspect: The store’s wide selection and low prices make it a treasure trove for thrifty shoppers.
The Heights Public Market
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
History: Part of the Armature Works complex, The Heights Public Market opened in 2018 and has quickly become a favorite destination for foodies and shoppers alike.
Ambiance: A vibrant food hall with a variety of vendors selling everything from gourmet food to artisanal goods.
What to Buy: Gourmet snacks, local crafts, and specialty foods.
Unique Aspect: The market’s focus on local vendors and high-quality products makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Tampa’s culinary and shopping scenes.
The Green Boutique
Address: 1032 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico, FL 33596
History: Located in nearby Valrico, The Green Boutique has been offering a unique selection of gifts, home décor, and fashion since 1978.
Ambiance: A charming boutique with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
What to Buy: Home décor, fashion accessories, and gifts.
Unique Aspect: The boutique’s carefully curated selection and friendly service make it a favorite among locals.
The Mall at University Town Center
Address: 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
History: Although technically in Sarasota, this mall is a popular shopping destination for Tampa residents, offering a range of luxury brands and dining options.
Ambiance: A modern, upscale shopping center with a focus on fashion and luxury.
What to Buy: High-end fashion, jewelry, and accessories.
Unique Aspect: The mall’s contemporary design and exclusive stores make it a premier shopping destination in the region.
Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Address: 2909 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
History: This family-owned market in nearby St. Petersburg has been serving authentic Italian goods since 1993.
Ambiance: A bustling Italian market with a wide selection of imported goods, fresh pasta, and baked goods.
What to Buy: Italian delicacies, wine, and fresh pasta.
Unique Aspect: Mazzaro’s is a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine, offering a true taste of Italy in the heart of Florida.
Vintage Roost
Address: 2326 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
History: Located in Ybor City, Vintage Roost is a treasure trove of vintage and antique finds, offering a curated selection of unique items.
Ambiance: A charming, rustic shop filled with one-of-a-kind vintage pieces.
What to Buy: Vintage furniture, home décor, and collectibles.
Unique Aspect: The shop’s eclectic mix of vintage and antique items makes it a paradise for collectors and decorators.
La France
Address: 1612 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
History: A staple of Ybor City since 1974, La France is known for its extensive collection of vintage clothing and accessories.
Ambiance: A quirky, colorful shop that feels like a time capsule of fashion from past decades.
What to Buy: Vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
Unique Aspect: La France’s vast and varied selection makes it a go-to destination for anyone looking to add some vintage flair to their wardrobe.
Local Delicacies and Specialty Products
Local Products
Tampa’s markets and specialty shops are brimming with local delicacies and artisanal products. Some must-try items include:
- Hand-Rolled Cigars: Available in Ybor City, these cigars are a nod to Tampa’s rich Cuban heritage.
- Cuban Coffee: Found in local cafés and markets, Cuban coffee is a strong, sweet espresso that’s a staple in Tampa’s Cuban community.
- Local Honey: Tampa’s warm climate is ideal for honey production, and local markets often feature a variety of raw, organic honey.
- Handmade Jewelry: Local artisans craft unique pieces inspired by Tampa’s natural beauty, often featuring shells, stones, and other natural materials.
Where to Find Them
- Ybor City: For cigars and Cuban coffee, Ybor City is the place to be. The Saturday Market is also a great spot for local honey and handmade jewelry.
- Oxford Exchange: This stylish venue offers a selection of books, gifts, and home goods, including locally made products.
- Mazzaro’s Italian Market: For gourmet food items, including Italian delicacies and local products, Mazzaro’s is a must-visit.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Malls and Boutiques: Typically open from 10 AM to 9 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays.
- Markets: Most open early, around 8 AM, and close by 2 PM or 3 PM.
- Specialty Shops: Hours vary, but most are open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Price Range
- Budget Shopping: Thrift stores and markets offer great deals, with prices often under $20.
- Mid-Range: Expect to spend $30-$100 in boutiques and specialty stores.
- High-End: Luxury shopping can range from $100 to several thousand dollars, especially in upscale malls like International Plaza.
Payment Options
Most shops accept major credit cards, and many also accept mobile payments. Smaller markets and some vintage shops may prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to have some on hand.
Sustainable and Ethical Shopping
Sustainable Practices
Tampa is home to several shops and markets that prioritize sustainable and ethical practices. From supporting local artisans to using eco-friendly materials, these businesses are committed to making a positive impact.
Supporting Local Communities
Shopping at local markets, boutiques, and artisan shops is a great way to support Tampa’s economy and its creative community. Many of these businesses offer products that are handmade, locally sourced, and environmentally friendly.
Navigational Tips
Getting Around
Tampa’s shopping areas are spread across the city, so it’s helpful to have a plan. The TECO Line Streetcar is a fun and convenient way to travel between downtown and Ybor City, while driving is the best option for reaching more distant destinations like The Shops at Wiregrass.
Safety Tips
- Parking: Most malls and shopping centers offer ample parking, but it’s wise to park in well-lit areas and keep valuables out of sight.
- Crowds: Popular shopping districts like Hyde Park Village and International Plaza can get crowded, especially on weekends. Visit early in the day to avoid the rush.
Final Thoughts
Tampa’s shopping scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the historic streets of Ybor City to the modern malls and chic boutiques, there’s something for every shopper to discover. Whether you’re searching for luxury brands, local crafts, or vintage treasures, Tampa invites you to explore and indulge in its unique shopping delights. So grab your shopping bags and prepare for a retail adventure in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast!
