As if permanently sunny skies and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches weren’t enough, Southwest Florida offers plenty of shopping options for even the most discerning shoppers. Three emblematic landmarks illustrate the attractiveness of the area.
Discerning buyers have long advertised Fifth Avenue South as the perfect combination of a historic main street and world-class shopping. Fifth Avenue originally served Naples’s earliest residents, the Calusa Indians, before becoming a street in the late 19th century. Today, the avenue encompasses 12 blocks and 50 buildings, including the eclectic venues of Tin City, Crayton Cove, and the commercial areas of the Bayfront. Sophisticated boutiques compete with colorful art galleries, outdoor cafes and upscale dining establishments. Graceful banyan trees tower over mini-parks and trails to provide shade for those seeking that one-of-a-kind treat. At night, the avenue comes alive with theatrical performances by the Naples players at the Sugden Community Theater and a year-round program of street art shows, sidewalk sales and special events. Ample free parking is provided on the street or in a nearby lot.
The newly opened Coconut Point Town Center it’s considered the crown jewel for shopping in rapidly growing Estero, located on Florida’s west coast, midway between Ft. Myers and Naples. As the center of a 500-acre master-planned community, Coconut Point is more than just a shopping mall. The property includes 90,000 square feet of office condominiums and residential units, all flanked by acres of lakes and winding boardwalks. Mediterranean architectural style complements 1.2 million square feet of open-air retail with more than 150 stores and 15 restaurants. Major tenants include Dillard’s, Barnes and Noble, Sports Authority, Tommy Bahama, and Ann Taylor, among others. Designed as a Main Street-style shopping destination, Coconut Point is the place for vacationers and residents to meet, shop, dine, work and play. A 20-screen megaplex theater lets you be the first to enjoy the latest movies in sumptuous style. Fine dining is available at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Blue Water Bistro, and Grill Room. Those with more casual tastes can enjoy a drink and appetizer at Pagatelli’s Cucina on the patio or try the bison at Ted Turner’s Montana Grill. The open-air presentation of the restaurants allows you to enjoy your dining experience comfortably in the open air. As an added convenience, transportation services are available to pick you up and drop you off at select destinations around the property.
Moving further north, Fort Myers is home to the edison mall which is recognized as the largest mall in Southwest Florida. The “L” shaped design makes it easy to find stores like Dillard’s, Macy’s, Disney Store and other perennial favorites. Strolling the entire interior of the mall is the equivalent of walking more than a mile, providing added appeal for those looking to exercise while shopping. More than 20 restaurants and 160 specialty vendors offering everything from resort wear to other Florida favorites round out the experience. New tile floors, soft seating areas, and a refreshed shimmering fountain in air-conditioned comfort provide added curb appeal. Edison Mall is located at the intersection of US 41 and Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.