9 Best Places to Go Shopping in Sarasota

Sarasota Helicopter Tours takes hundreds of tourists to view the amazing sights of downtown Sarasota from above. During every flight, we point out dozens of local landmarks to help you view everything Sarasota has to offer. Although our goal is to help you experience Sarasota from the sky, we also have lots of experience exploring Sarasota on the ground.

Looking to get some shopping in on your next trip? Downtown Sarasota has dozens of shopping centers and malls to explore. With so many shops to offer, where do you begin?

In this blog post, we’ll share nine of the best places to go shopping in Sarasota. No matter what you’re looking for, these downtown shopping locations are bound to pique your interest!

1. The Mall at University Town Center

With over 100 stores and 20 restaurants, The Mall at University Town Center has enough to offer to keep you busy all day! This mall features a great mix of budget-friendly and high-end stores, perfect for all shoppers. Sak’s Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Dillard’s make up the three anchor stores at this mall. However, you’ll also find many smaller boutique shops, such as Vineyard Vines.

In addition to a large selection of shops, there are tons of places to grab either a quick bite or a sit-down meal on your shopping day. You can’t go wrong with lunch at the Cheesecake Factory, a mall classic.

2. The Exchange

The Exchange is the perfect place to find designer treasures at amazing prices. This non-profit consignment store offers a huge selection of items, including art, household items, clothing, and more.

As an added bonus, every purchase made at this hidden spot helps support arts-related programs and scholarships within the community. You’ll feel great about the bargains you find while helping the local Sarasota community. 100% of the net proceeds from your purchase are donated!

3. Shoppes at University Center

The Shoppes at University Center is a large outdoor shopping complex with a wide variety of stores, service shops, and restaurants. Nordstrom Rack is one of the most popular spots in this center, featuring off-the-rack clearance sales on designer fashions.

Golf lovers also won’t want to miss the PGA Tour Superstore in this shopping center. Floridians love golf, as the state is home to over 1,000 different courses. At the PGA Tour Superstore, you’ll find more than just a great selection of golf equipment. The store also offers an indoor driving range and golf lessons!

4. Carlisle Gifts Sarasota

Located in a neighborhood within Sarasota city limits known as Pinecraft, Carlisle Gifts Sarasota is the perfect store to find great gifts to bring home to your friends and family. From jewelry and accessories to Amish-made foods, this gift shop has one-of-a-kind items for everyone. Be sure to schedule a visit to this gift shop on your vacation from Monday-Saturday, as the store is closed Sundays. Before visiting, check out their sales and events online, as well as their bakery menu. You won’t leave here without the perfect souvenirs to bring home!

5. St. Armand’s Circle

Structured as an outdoor shopping circle, you don’t want to miss a visit to St. Armand’s Circle while visiting Sarasota. From salons to boutiques, this shopping location offers unique selections you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’re looking for beachwear, this shopping location is for you! Several retailers, such as The Beach House and Butterfly Beach, sell beach clothing and accessories for your vacation.

While you’re shopping, stop by the Crisp Waffle for a delicious snack. All the ingredients used at this eatery are imported right from Belgium. Choose from savory waffle options such as chicken & waffles, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a berry waffle with Nutella drizzle.

6. Sarasota Square Mall

After visiting the beautiful Sarasota beaches, stop by Sarasota Square Mall. Located just minutes from the beaches, this shopping center is a great place to visit at night. Grab a bite of authentic Mexican cuisine at the newest restaurant, Reyna’s Taqueria South. You’ll find all your favorite Mexican foods here, such as classic Carne Asada.

Are you looking for a vacation date night? Visit AMC 12 Theatres with IMAX while visiting. Sarasota Square Mall is the perfect spot to dine, shop, and catch a movie all in one place.

7. Ellenton Premium Outlets

Ellenton Premium Outlets is the ultimate downtown Sarasota shopping location for deal lovers! This outlet center is home to over 130 brand name and designer outlet shops offering excellent deals and bargains. The Gap Factory Outlet and Columbia Factor Store are great places to get discounted apparel and shoes for your entire family.

In addition to clothing retailers, Ellenton Premium Outlets also features a variety of accessory specialty stores, such as the Sunglass Hut. You’ll even find specialty food stores at this outlet location, such as the Beef Jerky Experience and Zarzis Olive Oil.

8. The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime

The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime is a must-visit if you’re in search of unique downtown Sarasota shopping. This indoor market features items from over 40 local creators, including jewelry, gifts, specialty foods, and more. No matter what time of the year you visit, this location is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents and holiday gifts.

Open only on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, don’t miss a stop at this indie market if you’re nearby. In addition to great shopping, they also feature live music, which makes for an even more exciting shopping experience.

9. Sarasota Farmers Market

If you’re lucky enough to visit Sarasota on a Saturday, don’t miss the year-round Sarasota Farmers Market. Every Saturday, rain or shine, this open-air market takes place from 7 A.M to 1 P.M.

At the market, expect to find a mix of vendors selling produce, fresh baked goods, plants, and so much more. While shopping, you’ll also get to enjoy the weekly live music featuring a local or regional artist. The Farmers Market is a perfect spot for downtown Sarasota shopping, where you’ll find unique goods and support local businesses.

Get to Know the Area From a Bird’s-Eye View

Downtown Sarasota is full of activities to keep your vacation fun and exciting. From beautiful beaches to extensive shopping centers, there’s something for everyone to do while visiting Sarasota.

Are you planning a visit soon? To really get to know the area, schedule a Sarasota Helicopter Tour to experience the beauty and elegance of our town from above. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you have, both about our tours and the region of Sarasota.