As if perpetually sunny skies and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches weren’t enough, Southwest Florida offers a wealth of shopping options for even the most discerning shopper. Three iconic landmarks illustrate the appeal 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’ first residents, the Calusa Indians, before becoming a street in the late 19th century. Today, the avenue spans 12 blocks and 50 buildings, including the eclectic spots of Tin City, Crayton Cove, and the Bayfront shopping areas. Sophisticated boutiques compete with colorful art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and world-class 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 stage performances by the Naples players at the Sugden Community Theater and a year-round program of street art performances, 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 is considered the jewel in the crown for shopping in rapidly growing Estero, located on the west coast of Florida, halfway between Ft. Myers and Naples. As the center of a 500-acre master-planned community, Coconut Point is more than just a shopping center. The property includes 90,000 square feet of office condominiums and residential units, all flanked by acres of lakes and meandering boardwalks. The Mediterranean architectural style complements the 1.2 million square feet of outdoor 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 cinema lets you be the first to catch 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 layout makes it easy to find stores like Dillard’s, Macy’s, the Disney Store and other perennial favorites. Strolling around the entire interior of the mall is the equivalent of walking over a mile, providing an added appeal for those looking to exercise while they shop. More than 20 restaurants and 160 specialty vendors offering everything from resort wear to other Florida favorites complete the experience. New tile floors, soft seating areas, and a sparkling updated fountain in air-conditioned comfort add to the appeal. Edison Mall is located at the intersection of US 41 and Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.