I used to think shopping with kids was like bringing a blender full of marbles into a library—loud, chaotic, and probably a bad idea. But then I learned that some malls in Orlando are secretly (or not so secretly) designed for families like ours—where you can sip your coffee in peace for at least five minutes while your children climb on something that’s not your furniture.
Let’s start with The Florida Mall—basically the Disneyland of malls, minus the mouse ears and plus a massive Crayola Experience. The first time I brought William and Jeremy there, I thought we’d be in and out. Ha! Four hours later, we were knee-deep in melted wax, rainbow art projects, and two kids who looked like they’d been living off glitter fumes. Jared tried to sneak away to the Apple Store, but no luck—I bribed him into helping with the “Melt & Mold” station. He still claims his wax dinosaur was superior to mine (it wasn’t).
Then there’s Disney Springs, which is kind of cheating because it’s technically not a “mall,” but it counts in mom math. It’s got stores, snacks, and that LEGO Store—aka the place where my wallet cries. The boys can spend an hour building an epic LEGO tower while I sneak a latte from Joffrey’s. Last time, William proudly presented me with a LEGO dragon “that breathes fire and burps snacks.” I mean, relatable.
If you want something a little calmer (is that even possible with kids?), Winter Park Village is my go-to. It’s smaller, open-air, and has this cozy neighborhood vibe. You can grab ice cream, walk around, and pretend for ten whole minutes that life is peaceful and organized. There’s a movie theater too, which is a lifesaver when someone—looking at you, Jeremy—starts melting down mid-shopping trip.
And then, Mall at Millenia. Fancy? Yes. But surprisingly kid-friendly if you know the trick: the fountains. Jeremy could watch those for hours, completely mesmerized. Plus, the food court has enough mac and cheese options to keep everyone happy. It’s like luxury parenting—you can admire a Louis Vuitton window while your child eats French fries off the stroller tray. Balance.
Shopping with kids is never easy, but in Orlando, at least it can be bearable. Sometimes even fun. And if all else fails, bribe them with Auntie Anne’s pretzels. Works every single time.
By the end of the day, I may not have bought what I came for (do I ever?), but I’ve collected sticky hands, tired giggles, and that sweet silence in the car ride home—the kind that means they’re both asleep before we hit I-4. Honestly, that’s worth more than any sale.