If there's a bargain to be had, a style to be worn or a market to be shopped, you'll find it here in Anna Maria Island, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

Bargains at the outlet mall
Florida loves outlet malls. We have several dozen around the state, including one right here near Bradenton. Ellenton Premium Outlets boasts 130 shops with such familiar names as Coach, Michael Kors, Movado, Calvin Klein, Fossil, Lucky and Banana Republic. This mall attracts international visitors as well as locals for the amazing deals to be found in every store – we're talking savings of 25-65% off designer brands.

The mall has a food court, playground and stroller rental on site. It’s conveniently located right off I-75 at exit 224.

Farmers' markets
For deals of another sort, you'll love our local farmers' markets. On Sundays from November to April, the Bridge Street Market on Anna Maria Island offers local and handcrafted goods, from produce to jewelry.

October to May, Bradenton's Downtown Farmers' Market has local growers, health products, seafood, cheeses and other market fare.

Main Street at Lakewood Ranch also runs a farmers' market from November to April with a variety of fresh offerings.

Unique gifts and décor
When it's something truly local you're looking for, there's only one place to go: Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island. Over the years, Bridge Street has undergone a fantastic revitalization, resulting in a collection of locally owned shops, boutiques, galleries and eateries.

Whether you need Florida-style gifts and souvenirs from Bridge Street Bazaar or a quirky piece of art at Art Attack or The Back Alley, you'll find that special, offbeat something on Bridge Street. Stay for lunch or dinner at one of the casual restaurants and bars. You can even stay the night at BridgeWalk, A Landmark Resort.

Strip mall heaven
The area around University Parkway at I-75 is quickly becoming a shopper's delight. Just west of the interstate are several large shopping centers with a variety of affordable stores and restaurants. Familiar names include Old Navy, SuperTarget, Marshall's, Stein Mart, Best Buy and Pier 1 Imports.

Dining options are varied. You can take a date to classy-but-casual Bonefish Grill, Carrabba's Italian Grill or Stonewood Grill. Or bring the family for award-winning burgers and fries at Five Guys, a soup and salad buffet at Sweet Tomatoes, or south-of-the-border fare at Moe's or Chipotle. Smaller, non-chain eateries can be found throughout the shopping centers as well. There are even a few pubs and bars you can hit up for a nightcap.