[2023 GUIDE] The Best Places for Shopping in Tampa

Shopping in Tampa offers a unique retail experience in Florida. From open-air retail complexes to specialty stores, you can find international brands, entertainment, and dining options in Tampa’s shopping malls. 

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, Tampa has several flea markets, farmers’ markets, and vintage shops. These establishments are great for treasure hunters looking for a bargain. You will find it in Tampa no matter what you’re looking for.

The Best Places for Shopping in Tampa

1. Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village is an outdoor lifestyle shopping destination located in the heart of the historic district of Tampa. It provides an open-air layout with various restaurants and local and name-brand retailers. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a pleasant garden and fountain area, and events are often held here.

In addition to the stores, Hyde Park Village also offers an upscale cinema, a full-service salon, and other services to enhance the shopping experience. It is situated at the corner of Swann and Dakota Avenues and is easily accessible from the surrounding area.

2. UNIVERSITY MALL

University Mall, fondly called “U-Mall,” is a conveniently located neighborhood shopping center near Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, USF, and the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). In 2008, the complex underwent an $11 million renovation and added popular amenities such as a play area and Wi-Fi lounge. It is anchored by Sears, Grands, Dillard’s, and Burlington Coat Factory and offers 140 shops featuring men’s and women’s apparel, jewelry, sports equipment, and much more.

If you get hungry while shopping, University Mall has a large food court with various dining choices. This makes it a great recommendation for Shopping Malls and Centers.

3. International Plaza & Bay Street

If you’re looking for the hottest fashions in Tampa, International Plaza, and Bay Street is the place to go. Situated conveniently next to Tampa International Airport, this indoor mall offers a wide selection of brand-name stores and high-end designer brands. With over 200 shops, there’s something for everyone. Vera Bradley, Burberry, and the Disney Store® are just a few of the stores you can find. 

For food, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich, steak, martini, or gelato, International Plaza and Bay Street has you covered. No matter your style or appetite, this plaza has it all.

4. WESTSHORE PLAZA

Westshore Plaza, conveniently located close to the airport in Tampa, is a great place to shop and dine. The mall has many upscale shops, including Macy’s, JCPenney, and Sears, and popular retailers such as The Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and White House Black Market. In addition, a 14-screen movie theater provides entertainment.

The dining options at Westshore Plaza are almost as impressive as the shopping selection. Maggiano’s Little Italy, PF Chang’s China Bistro, and Seasons 52 are just a few of the popular restaurants. There is also a convenient food court for grabbing a quick bite.

For those looking for an upscale shopping experience close to the airport, Westshore Plaza is an ideal option. With its great mix of trendy shopping and dining options, it is recommended for shopping malls and centers.

5. Tampa Premium Outlets

Tampa Premium Outlets is located conveniently off Interstate 75 and State Road 56 on Grand Cypress Drive in Tampa. It is a large mall with over 110 stores, selling items from international brands like Calvin Klein, Coach, Michael Kors, and Nike at discounted prices. To keep the kids entertained, coin-operated toy machines are scattered throughout the mall.

For food, several restaurants and a food court offer a variety of cuisines. The atmosphere of the mall is enhanced by its open-concept design, with palm trees, courtyards, and breezy walkways. After shopping, visitors can take a break and relax on the benches throughout the mall, soaking up the Florida sunshine.

6. The Shops at Wiregrass

The Shops at Wiregrass is an upscale lifestyle and entertainment retail complex in Northern Tampa. It offers visitors an inviting environment with tree-lined streets and over 100 stores, restaurants, and entertainment spots. This eclectic mix of fashion, home decor, health, beauty, and dining options makes it an ideal destination for the whole family. 

Visitors can easily spend a day exploring the shops, sampling the various cuisines, or stopping for a snack. The pocket parks and benches scattered throughout the mall provide a cozy atmosphere, allowing visitors to take a break and relax. The mall takes on a small-town charm during the holiday season with lights, decorations, and live performances.

7. Fun-Lan Flea Market

Fun-Lan Flea Market is a Tampa landmark known for its loyal shopper base. It’s a great place for a family day out, as it functions like a large community garage sale. An array of merchandise is available, from clothing to appliances to toys. The condition of items varies from vendor to vendor, and prices are negotiable.

In addition, there is a fresh market area where you can purchase fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. After shopping, you can stick around for a movie at the drive-in theatre at night. Bring your folding chairs or snuggle up in your car if you’re driving. It’s a great way to make a fun day out of your visit to Fun-Lan Flea Market.

8. Oldsmar Flea Market

The Oldsmar Flea Market is located on a 28-acre piece of land and is home to hundreds of vendors. You can find various items here, from furniture and gourmet food to clothing and electronics. You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift.

In the middle of the market is a fresh market, where you can purchase local vegetables and fish. If you get hungry, plenty of baked goods and hot food vendors are also available.

It’s best to visit the Oldsmar Flea Market early, as it can get hot in the summer. This way, you can beat the heat and get the first pick of the goods.

9. Plant City Farm & Flea Market

Plant City Farm & Flea Market is an excellent destination for those looking for great bargains in Tampa. This large market has over 100 friendly vendors selling everything from household items to fresh produce straight from the farm. Locals love coming to the market to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and nuts in bulk at great prices for their restaurants and dinner parties. Tourists are also drawn to this market as they experience a unique local market experience.

The farmer’s market is open daily, but Tuesdays and Thursdays are the best days to go if you are looking for the freshest produce. Wednesdays are the days when the flea market is open, so it is recommended to come early in the morning for the best deals. In addition to all the great bargains, visitors can enjoy various food trucks, live music, and other activities.

10. Ybor City Saturday Market

The Ybor City Saturday Market is an iconic part of Tampa’s Bay Area. Located in the historic district, it has been a fixture in the community for 20 years. It’s a great place to find unique handcrafted items and reasonably priced fruits and vegetables. 

You can find everything from trinkets and handmade soaps to homemade jams and honey from a local beekeeper. There are also booths selling freshly baked goods and delicious lemonade. 

During the high season, which runs from October to May, the market is bustling with shoppers and vendors with an even wider range of goods. You may find fewer vendors in the summer, but the market is still a great place to find unique items.

11. Westfield Citrus Park

If you’re visiting Tampa with kids, Westfield Citrus Park is the perfect place to shop. Several play areas, a carousel, and a train run through the mall to keep the children entertained. The mall is anchored by Macy’s, Dillard’s, Penneys, and plenty of smaller stores.

If you need a break, the mall has a movie theatre, restaurants, and a food court. Seating areas with phone-charging outlets are also available so you can rest while the kids play. Security is high, so you can ensure your children are safe.

12. Sanwa Farmer’s Market

Sanwa Farmer’s Market is in Tampa and offers a unique shopping experience. It carries the biggest selection of goods in town, ranging from grains and rice to canned food and kitchenware. The fresh produce section contains farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. The fish is even descaled, gutted, and nicely packed. 

The market is perfect for those who prefer to buy in bulk but also sells in small portions. Customers can find products they won’t find in conventional supermarkets, which makes it a great place to pick up some unique snacks for friends and family.