SHOPPING Want the skinny on the coolest, kitschiest shops in Kissimmee? These stores are not only chock full of unusual gi s and memorabilia—they make for great photo ops. By Amy Nance Roadside architecture fans and shopaholics, take note: U.S. 192 is the main drag for ʻ70s-era gi shops sporting jaw-dropping, in-your-face shapes. The exteriors leave no doubt as to what lies within. Florida Orange World , for example, is a store in the shape of the top half of a gigantic orange—made of fiberglass. Inside, youʼll find bushels of locally produced Indian River citrus, from honeybell tangelos to grapefruit. Take home a dwarf fruit tree or the ever-popular honey blossom perfume. On the same strip, youʼll find Mermaid Gi Shop and the Magic Castle Gi Kingdom. No need to read the signs—you can’t miss the gigantic mermaid swimming across the exterior of the former. Inside, youʼll find two stories of Central Florida souvenirs (gators, swimwear, T-shirts, bumper stickers and more), as well as Walt Disney World® Resort and The Kitschy Universal Orlando Resort™ memorabilia. The Magic Castle façade features an enormous wizard. A trove of Central Florida knicknacks and staples like beach towels, tees and sun block stock the aisles. Old Townʼs Black Market Minerals carries intriguing stones and gi s, from slim-cut agate to malachite boxes and wrapped mineral pendants. Pick up some petrified wood bowls, salt lamps or wind chimes. Nearby Wound Nʼ Around is a dream for lovers of vintage wares—land on Elvis snow globes, hoop skirts and Betty Boop mugs. St. Cloudʼs Chime & Time has a charming, old-timey storefront. Inside, youʼll find antiques, clocks and collectibles in mint condition. At House of Envy Boutique , itʼs straight-up cowgirl fabulousness. Sort through the glam horsebit belts and leather tassel clutches, and be sure to take home some Bertossa Honey Farm honey. Florida Orange World Mermaid Gi Shop THE FUN, THE COOL & Magic Castle Gi Kingdom OLD-SCHOOL Shopping 54 Kissimmee Destination Magazine Experience the thrill of the hunt at Lanierʼs Historic Downtown Marketplace . Family-run Lanierʼs is a downtown institution (visitors are treated to advice about the area and fresh co ee), set in historic Kissimmee. This antique mallʼs sizeable footprint—all 18,000 square feet of it—gives shoppers the chance to scout for treasures of all ilks. Among the cast-iron pieces, depression glass and aged oak furniture youʼll find quirky collectibles like Elvis lamps, as well as Buddha heads and coveted Fiesta® ware. But Lanier’s sources both nationally and regionally, so expect traditional antiquing with a local flavor: Florida souvenirs and cra s, and vintage Disney items also line the shelves here.
Experience Kissimmee Experience Kissimmee 2017: Page 54
