FLORIDA FEATURE ARTICLES : NAPLES
Unparalleled Shopping in Naples
In historic shopping districts and waterfront plazas, Naples visitors can find unique treasures ranging from original artwork by the masters to designer fashions. Third Street South, Naples’ business district at the turn of the century, now serves as a premier shopping and dining district. This has become a trendy shopping village of more than 100 distinctive shops, galleries, outdoor cafés and restaurants – all within walking distance to the beach. The area includes Gallery Row, a collection of distinctive art galleries. Third Street South has its own Street Concierge. The booth is staffed with friendly helpers eager to point you in the right direction for dining, shopping and more.<br>
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Just a few blocks away, Fifth Avenue South has undergone a renaissance. Famed architect and urban planner Andres Duany lead the innovative redesign effort ten years ago that has transformed Fifth Avenue South into a dynamic pedestrian-friendly scene both day and night. Art galleries, clothing and design boutiques, the Sugden Theater, hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants line Naples’ official downtown MainStreet. Entertainment and special events are scheduled regularly by the Fifth Avenue South Association, which also provides free group tours by appointment.
A short walk from Fifth Avenue South is historic Tin City. Located at a waterfront dockside boardwalk, the eclectic tin-roofed shopping and entertainment venue features nautical and nature-themed gift shops and casual seafood restaurants on the water. Across the street you’ll find Bayfront, Naples’ newest shopping, dining and entertainment center. Colorful Mediterranean architecture houses a collection of upscale shops complemented by restaurants, bars art galleries and the elegant new Bayfront Inn on Fifth, all overlooking the Gordon River.
The waterfront Village on Venetian Bay, evocative of the townhouses of Venice, is a destination for sophisticated fashion, jewelry, gourmet shops and fine dining in a picturesque environment. Nearby at the Waterside Shops at Pelican Bay, you’ll find boutiques, shops and restaurants surrounded by lush landscaping, covered walkways and sparkling waterways. Saks Fifth Avenue anchors numerous elegant specialty shops, with an impressive list of luxury shops including Tiffany & Co. and Cartier opening in 2006.
Coastland Center, the regional mall in Naples, encompasses 950,000 square feet of enclosed climate-controlled shopping, including 150 stores and small specialty shops. Prime Outlets is a haven for those with an eye for value. This treasure chest of designer outlet stores, located mid-way between Naples and Marco Island, is home to more than 40 shopping destinations, including Mikasa, Jones New York, Harry & David, Izod and Dansk.
Some of the most unique and charming gifts may be found at the area’s hotel and resort gift shops, excellent places to shop for the perfect keepsake of your visit to paradise. And, since Naples is home to many affluent winter and year-round residents, the city also has a wealth of consignment and resale shops with incredible bargains on fine furnishings and designer clothing.
Photo: Visit Florida



