7 Best Places to Shop in Downtown Sarasota

July 30, 2023

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7 Best Places to Shop in Downtown Sarasota

Downtown Sarasota, located on Florida's scenic Gulf Coast, offers a lovely combination of natural beaches, cultural activities, and a thriving shopping scene. There are plenty of things to do in Downtown Sarasota.  With its lively streets lined with local boutiques to premium shopping destinations, Downtown Sarasota is a haven for retail therapy. Whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe or simply want to peruse the racks and see what calls to you, Downtown Sarasota has a number of top-rated shopping destinations to suit your needs. We’ve put together a list of the nine best places to shop in Downtown Sarasota.

1. Westfield Sarasota Square

Begin your Downtown Sarasota shopping spree by visiting Westfield Sarasota Square. This large retail mall has a wide variety of businesses, making it a one-stop shop for all of your shopping requirements. When you enter, you'll be welcomed by a vibrant space filled with shoppers eager to peruse the locale’s numerous boutiques, national retailers, and specialty stores. Besides your favorite retail spaces, Westfield Sarasota Square also boasts a range of specialized shops, boutiques, and dining options. The shopping center’s shops feature fashion-forward labels, high-end footwear, accessories, and unique products that perfectly complement your style.

2. St. Armands Circle

Located on the captivating Lido Key, St. Armands Circle draws buyers in with its stunning combination of upmarket stores, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. This classic retail area is known for its lovely ambiance and offers a high-end shopping experience that draws people from all over the world. Immerse yourself in the world of haute couture, revel in amazing fabrics, and find the ideal statement item to complement your outfit at this immersive retail destination.

Art lovers will also enjoy the various art galleries along St. Armands Circle. These galleries exhibit a wide spectrum of artwork, such as paintings, sculptures, and photography.
 
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3. Saks Fifth Avenue

Renowned for its impeccable selection of high-end apparel, accessories, cosmetics, and home goods, Saks Fifth Avenue provides a superior shopping experience that caters to the most discerning tastes. Fashionistas will be captivated by the large selection of designer labels displayed throughout the store, which features a stunning assortment of women's and men's apparel, footwear, and accessories. Their beauty department is a cosmetics lover's paradise. Whether you're looking for a distinctive fragrance, an innovative skincare treatment, or professional-grade cosmetics, the beauty specialists at Saks Fifth Avenue are here to help.

4. Main Street

Main Street, Sarasota's dynamic center, appeals to consumers with its eclectic mix of stores, boutiques, galleries, and delicious dining options. Main Street is also a culinary heaven, with a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste. There's something for every taste bud, from contemporary cafés and bistros to fine dining venues and foreign cuisine. Indulge in gourmet cuisines, eat fresh seafood, or relax with a leisurely brunch while taking in the vibrant ambiance. Throughout the year, Main Street also holds a variety of events, such as art walks, festivals, and live music performances. These events flood the street with an infectious energy, attracting both locals and visitors to experience Downtown Sarasota's lively cultural scene.

5. The Mall at University Town Center

Situated in a contemporary and stylish setting, The Mall at University Town Center welcomes shoppers with its modern architecture and pleasant ambiance. When you enter, you'll find a lively environment loaded with the newest fashion trends, cutting-edge technology, and a plethora of beauty items.

When you need a break from shopping, The Mall at University Town Center has a range of culinary options that will satisfy your appetite. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you'll discover a smorgasbord of restaurants and eateries serving a wide range of cuisines, providing an exceptional dining experience.

6. Southside Village

As you stroll into Southside Village, you'll discover a welcoming atmosphere with a sense of warmth and community. The area’s tree-lined streets are filled with a variety of local stores selling an eclectic mix of apparel, accessories, and home furnishings. Be sure to explore the carefully picked selections, as each boutique has its own particular style and flair. Southside Village's shops cater to a wide range of interests and preferences, from boho chic to classic elegance, allowing you to uncover hidden jewels and fashion finds that match your particular style.

Southside Village also has an excellent collection of specialty stores. Explore charming bookshops with shelves brimming with literary treasures, allowing you to immerse yourself in thrilling stories and discoveries, or discover boutiques specializing in handmade crafts, customized jewelry, or handpicked antique items, adding a touch of individuality to your shopping experience.
 
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7. Burns Court

Burns Court offers a mix of specialty shops, antique stores, booksellers, and one-of-a-kind boutiques. This charming area, infused with nostalgia and character, invites guests on a journey of self-discovery off the beaten path. As soon as you enter Burns Court, you'll be captivated by its charming and gorgeous surroundings. The cobblestone lanes, which are dotted with old houses and beautiful flora, transport you to another period. This dynamic area has a timeless feel, providing a reprieve from modern life's hustle and bustle.

Book enthusiasts will appreciate the little bookstores tucked away throughout the court. These cozy venues are brimming with shelves upon shelves of literary pleasures, calling you to browse and immerse yourself in new worlds. Discover new releases as well as rare treasures, literary classics as well as modern gems, as well as books on a variety of themes and genres at Burns Court.

No matter where you shop in Downtown Sarasota, you'll discover a plethora of selections to suit a variety of tastes, budgets, and interests. This dynamic city has something for every consumer, from extravagant malls and bustling shopping centers to quaint boutiques and unique specialty shops. If you’re eager to take advantage of these shopping areas and want to explore Downtown Sarasota real estate, contact Judy Kepecz-Hays, an expert real estate professional who helps clients purchase and sell properties in Longboat Key.




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Dive into luxury with the Kepecz-Hays Team, renowned realtors for Florida's Central West Coast, emphasizing Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Sarasota. With an impressive $2.4 billion in career sales, our team combines an expansive international network with expert marketing strategies. For buyers, we offer a select range of premier properties and private viewings. Experience the best of Sarasota County — its pristine beaches, arts, paddle sports, and shopping. From insightful neighborhood guides to tips for seamless buying and selling, we're your key to Florida's elite real estate. Choose Kepecz-Hays Team for unparalleled excellence.