One of Florida's largest population centers, the Tampa area has an assortment of malls and shopping centers. From cigars to new clothes, the traveler will always find what he or she needs while visiting the Bay area. Although Tampa and its nearby communities are dotted with all sorts of small specialty shops, only shopping centers and malls of more or less general interest have been included in this section of the guide.

TAMPA

In addition to the following, visitors looking for some good shopping might want to check out the Franklin Street Mall, the Esplanade, East Lake Square Mall, Tampa Bay Mall, and University Square Mall.

Brandon Town Center

The area's first new mall in years, featuring dozens of interesting specialty stores. This new shopping center is located in Brandon, a major suburb which sits just across I-75 (take Frank Adamo Drive and go east). 2000 block of Brandon Boulevard, Brandon. 813-661-5100.

Old Hyde Park Village

Offers a series of 50 upscale shops including Brooks Brothers, Talbot's, and Banana Republic among others. Conveniently located in one of Tampa's most historic neighborhoods, the shopping center is open Mon-Wed and on Saturday from 10am to 6pm, Thurs-Fri. 10am-9pm, and Sun. noon-5pm. 1509 W. Swann Ave, Hyde Park, Tampa. 813-251-3500.

Ybor Square

A specialty mall, occupies a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Once housing the world's largest cigar factory, its three brick buildings are now home to around three dozen shops selling everything from clothes to cigars. Open Mon-Sat. 10am-6pm and Sun. noon-5:30pm. 1901 13th St., Ybor City, Tampa. 813-247-4497.

The Shops On Harbor Island

Is a specialty retail center with stores and waterfront restaurants. Open Mon-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. noon-5pm. 601 S. Harbor Island Blvd., Tampa. 813-229-5093.

ST. PETERSBURG

The Tyrone Square Mall

Houses such establishments as Burdine's, Dilliard's, and JC Penney as well as more than 150 specialty stores. Located at the corner of Tyrone Blvd. and 22nd Ave. North, St. Petersburg

The Gas Plant Arcade

Features more than 100 antique dealers and is the largest antiques mall on Florida's west coast. Open Mon-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. noon-5pm. 1246 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg. 813-895-0368.

The Wagon Wheel Flea Market

Contains upwards of 3,000 vendors. Open Sat.-Sun. 7:30am-4pm. 7801 Park Blvd., St. Petersburg.

The Pier

A shopping center in the shape of a five-story inverted pyramid, has more than a dozen craft shops and boutiques. The Pier is located within walking distance of Beach Drive, a popular shopping street. Open 10am-9pm Mon-Sat., Sun. 11am-7pm. 2nd Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg. 813-821-6164.

Crossroad Shopping Center

22nd Ave. N. and 66th St. N, St. Petersburg.

Crosswinds Shopping Center

66th St. and 20th Ave. N., St. Petersburg.

Pinellas Square

Mall Park Blvd. and U.S. 19, St. Petersburg.

THE AREA

John's Pass Village and Boardwalk

Features more than sixty shops with wares ranging from antiques to swimsuits. It also has several art galleries. Open daily 9am-6pm or later. 12901 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach. 813-391-7373.

The Sponge Exchange

Is a Greek-flavored shopping village featuring 29 specialty shops with items from Greece and around the world. Open 7 days a week. 735 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs. 813-934-9262.

DeSoto Square Mall

303 U.S. Hwy 301 Blvd. West, Bradenton. (941)747-5868.

Sarasota Square Mall

8201 S. Tamiami Trail at Beneva Rd, Sarasota. 813-922-9600.

St. Armand's Circle

Located between the Boulevard of Presidents and John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Home to upscale shopping.

Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg Listings
More About the Tampa Bay Area Local Resources
Attractions Shopping Water and Land Sports
Adult Learning Opportunities