Pre-babies I was the epitome of a mall rat (a super chic one though of course). I loved to take a leisurely stroll as a way to kill an afternoon. Visit the beautiful things, have lunch, get steps in…so relaxing. Now with kids, the mall is the worst. We visit very strategically, overthink our parking and exit strategy before we even arrive, and we rarely eat meals there. Kids, they really change things you know?
It’s worth pointing out that the mall was still great when I had little tiny babies that sat in the stroller. In fact, for that stage the mall became even more beloved because I could get out of the house and walk around in the a/c. Now, with a five year old and a toddler in tow the game has changed. I’m probably closer to the days of my daughter being a mall rat than I am of my own revival.
Here are my thoughts and suggestions on how to enjoy an afternoon at one of our many malls in Orlando. And as a note, these have almost nothing to do with shopping.
Altamonte Mall 451 E Altamonte Dr, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
At this point the best part of this mall is the indoor playground. It gets crowded of course but you can find quite a few pockets of time throughout the week to enjoy it in relative quiet. I always take the kiddos for a little Orange Julius treat because it reminds me of when I was a kid.
Disney Springs 1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
After its big makeover we totally count this as a mall. It’s outdoors so you’ll want to plan your trip accordingly. But there are great shops of all sorts and food options at different price points as well. Your kids will love walking around and there are often magical Disney touches and special occasions set up for them to experience. When my kids were young enough I could trick them into thinking this was Disney. But they’re on to me now and I’ll be shelling out the big bucks to take us all one of these days.
The Florida Mall 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809
If you are looking for something fun and indoors the Crayola Experience is a great option. It also has a play yard out in the main mall area for the kids to enjoy. Directly across from Crayola is Bucca Di Beppo which is a great lunch option without fully venturing into the mall. Please, if you go, make sure you take on our family’s tradition of sing-yelling ‘Buccccccccaaaaaaa Di Beppoooooooo’ which gusto. It’s a game for the whole family to enjoy really. You must be careful how you navigate this mall. Not because of the slow walking patrons or enticing kiosks…beware: there is an American Girl Store in this mall. Take caution lest your child see the store and demand you drop a mortgage payment in there. Just kidding of course, we are all raising such well behaved grateful children that this is of no concern.
The Mall at Millenia 4200 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839
This gorgeous mall is the spot to be for a long stroll. It’s beautiful, has a great food court and selection of restaurants, and has so many great stores. It’s great for mall walking with a baby in a stroller. And may I suggest using the Neiman Marcus bathrooms when you need to nurse or change diapers. They are so luxurious and very clean. You might forget you’re in a mall bathroom and think you’re at the spa!
Oviedo Mall 1700 Oviedo Mall Boulevard, Oviedo, FL 32765
Really, I’d be surprised to hear many people are here that don’t have kids. The Arcadia Kid’s Museum is great and District Eat and Play is a great option for families to have some fun. Fun fact, Momlando worked in the food court at this mall many moons ago when she was a UCF student.
Tell us where you love to shop, and walk, and eat….where are you mall hangin’?
