The Best Outlet Mall Shopping in Florida that You Probably Have Never Heard of

And it’s not in Miami or Tampa..

I live less than a mile from Miromar Outlets in Estero, FL. And I am there everyday! But I actually only shop once a year, in October. Because that’s when my husband takes me on a shopping spree for my birthday.

So, why am I constantly perusing the mall when I have no intention of buying anything? Because that’s where we walk everyday. We live 10 miles from the beach and yet we find ourselves strolling among the 140 shops that line the “boardwalk.” I call it that because the walkways remind me of a Mediterranean village right here in Southwest Florida.

Don’t get me wrong. The deals are great. I know because I constantly peer into the stores’ large picture windows so I can get an idea of what’s in style for the season.

Though, most of the time, we admire the fish swimming in various elaborate fountains that decorate the grounds.

We also enjoy hearing all the accents because tourists from all over the world come here, especially in February and March. Late Spring and early Fall are my favorite times here. The crowds are sparse and the deals are in full swing. You’ll also find you get a lot more attention from sales people. Though in my experience, they are never pushy…Just there when you need them.

People tell me the Sawgrass Mills outlet mall in Fort Lauderdale is even better. It is sprawling. A lot of the locals here travel there and back in one day. Just hop across Alligator Alley (I75) and you are there in less than two hours.

I think 140 stores is enough for me, and honestly, if I am in full shopping mode, I would rather spend the time here instead of on the highway.

When I tell people how much time I spend at the outlet mall, they always ask what my favorite store is. I love them all (I know that is cliche) but if I had to choose only one, it would be the Saks outlet. I think the prices are great, and the selection (at least when I am there) is vast. 

I just wish they had more chairs for my poor husband. He follows me around carrying my shopping bags. Hey, it’s only once a year, and I am going to milk it!

I feel thankful that we still have a Saks outlet here. They are closing some in other parts of the country. I cross my fingers and toes hoping that ours never leaves. That would be a sad day, indeed. 

Every time I peer in, I see lots of eager shoppers, so I can’t believe we would be on the chopping block.

Don’t get me wrong. I am just as concerned with the state of the beaches here as I am about the status of our outlet mall shops. But I spend so little time hitting the sand. 

We have only been to the beach a handful of times since we moved here almost six years ago. And if you asked me then, I would have told you that I am rarely going to the mall and will spend all my time at the beach.

I guess because we have to get in the car and drive to the closest beach. While the mall is only a few blocks a way. 

So, lace up the shoes and let’s go! If you see a couple power walking under the awnings on a hot summer day, make sure to say hi. And maybe we can grab a cup of iced Joe at the cute Vietnamese coffee shop near the side entrance. 

Come here and shop ’till you drop…Or not.