SHOPPING The Kitschy Roadside architecture fans and shopaholics, take note: U.S. 192 is the main drag for ʻ70s-era gift 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 Gift Shop and the Magic Castle Gift 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 some Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando Resort™ memorabilia. The Magic Castle facade features an enormous wizard. A trove of Central Florida knicknacks and staples like beach towels, tees, and sun block stock the aisles. Old Town Kissimmeeʼs Black Market Minerals carries intriguing stones and gift 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 ‘N 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. The New York Artist Shop off ers classes, art supplies, custom framing, and hand-designed home decor, as well as antiques and collectibles. THE FUN, THE COOL & Florida Orange World Mermaid Gift Shop Magic Castle Gift Kingdom OLD-SCHOOL SHOPPING Lanier’s Historic Downtown Marketplace is a family-run business (visitors are treated to advice about the area and fresh coff 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 craft s, and vintage Disney items also line the shelves here. 58 Kissimmee Destination Magazine 2018
Experience Kissimmee 2018 Kissimmee Destination Guide: Page 58
