I’ve found a not so hidden gem right in the heart of Orlando. It’s called the Artegon Marketplace located on the north east end of International Drive.
I say hidden gem because knowing the previous history of the mall that used to be there, Artegon offers so many surprises around each and every corner in contrast to its predecessor.
*UPDATE 9/2/2019: Artegon Marketplace closed its doors in January of 2017. I wrote this post during the peak of its existence. Although it is no longer open, it will also have a special place in my heart.
NikkyJ
Why I Love Artegon Marketplace in Orlando
Its anti-mall theme along with its laid back, Hipster vibe can be felt throughout the place.
Artegon replaced Festival Bay Mall (originally opened in 2002) and gave locals and tourists a re-branding and reopening celebration that took place on November 20, 2014.
This new take on shopping was to inspire patrons of the historical great markets around America such as Pike Place and Chelsea Market.
The purpose and mission of Artegon is to provide the perfect blend of rustic charm, eclectic Orlando shopping and dining experiences, and entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.
They also aim to show Orlando’s more than just theme parks and to show tourists how to experience shopping like a local.
What to Expect at Artegon Marketplace
You get a vibe of their mission as you approach the colorful building. My arrival to Artegon was purely by accident.
I was looking for a sweet treat to have and the closest suggestion on YELP was a Belgium Waffle spot located in the Marketplace.
My goal was to get my waffle and leave quickly for one of the nearby outlets. Needless to say, I never made it to the outlets.
I don’t know if it was the sweet seduction of the waffle, but all of a sudden I as sucked down the rabbit hole of discovery.
The local artisans and small business owners definitely make this establishment one of a kind and extremely remarkable.
…And OMG, the sushi!!!
Speechless in every way!
I tried to explore every nook and cranny of this place; however, due to the many quirky and whimsical details of Artegon, I fell short of my goal.
The Artegon Marketplace experience goes far beyond shops, restaurants and entertainment.
Artegon offers many extremely fun activities that can make any adventurer drool at the mouth.
Activities such as:
- Monday Motivation
- Tournament Tuesdays
- Food Truck Fridays
- Kids Club
- Beer & Wine Strolls
- Book Release Parties
- Fashion Shows
They also have life size classic games and inspiring interaction play throughout the Market to enhance each person’s creative side.
Games such as Ping Pong, Scrabble, Chess, Checkers, Foosball, and Jenga can be found there!
So when I say this place is Anti-Mall, it’s THE anti-mall in the most fabulous way! Plus I have a feeling this will be a new hangout spot for me.
Go Ahead and Choose Your Artegon Adventure…
ACCESSORIES
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- Aliss
- Baby Me
- Blue Coast Eyewear
- Hunza Crafts
- Stay Fly Skate Shop
ART
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- Alipaza Arts
- Carver Dan’s Shop
- Fusion Art Group
- Genkigoth Studios
- Gods & Monsters
- Hyder Gallery
- International Hot Glass
- Moroccan Bazaar
- Pinturas
- Radafe Art
- Stars, Bars, Baskets
- The Co-op Pop-Up Shop
CLOTHING
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- Aliss
- Baby Me
- Bass Pro Shops
- Boot Barn
- Brooklyn Street Threads
- Dechoes Resale
- Elle Mari Couture
- Enviroclectic Designs
- Ethnic Threads
- FernEllie Creations
- Florida Style (Mi Casa Bonita)
- Hunza Crafts
- Kick Bright Shop & Buttons
- Made in Colombia with Love
- Moroccan Bazaar
- Pina Colada Beachwear
- Pletora
- Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Stay Fly Skate Shop
ENTERTAINMENT
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- Animal Riders
- Bass Pro Shops
- Cinemark at Artegon Marketplace
- Gods & Monsters
- International Hot Glass
- OTOWN INK TATTOO
- Putting Edge
- Sky Trail
- Sky Zone Trampoline Park
- Studio One
- Y.E.S. Your Entertainment Spot
FOOD AND DRINK
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- Elemental Bonsai & Tea Gardens
- Fuddruckers
- Happy Bee Honey
- Paleteria
- Pizza@ Artegon
- Simply Savory
- Subway
- Sugar Daddy Bakery
- The Beef Jerky Outlet
- The Belgian Waffles
- The Nutty Bavarian
- Tiki Station
- U Roll Sushi
- Wild Florida Honey
- Yogen Fruz
HEALTH, BATH, AND BODY
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- Bowes Signature Candles
- Florida Soap Company
- Henna Designs by Niki
- Pure Choice Organics
HOME DECOR
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- 3MB Décor
- Alipaza Arts
- Aroma of Light
- Bass Pro Shops
- Big Ben Mania
- Bleu Beach
- Boot Barn
- Carver Dan’s Shop
- Digs & Flats
- Elemental Bonsai & Tea Gardens
- Ethnic Threads
- Genkigoth Studios
- Gods & Monsters
- Himalya Crafts
- Hunza Crafts
- International Hot Glass
- Kick Bright Shop & Buttons
- Marianna Crafts & Jewelry
- Moroccan Bazaar
- Only Cosas Lindas, Inc.
- Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Stars, Bars, Baskets
- Swings N’ Things: The Hammock Experts
- Vagabond Traveler
- Via Francesca
JEWELRY
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- Arie Jewelry
- Florida Style (Mi Casa Bonita)
- Hunza Crafts
- Jewelry Noveau
- Jortra Boutique
- Made in Colombia with Love
- Marianna Crafts & Jewelry
- OTOWN INK TATTOO
- Pletora
- Via Francesca
MUSIC
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- R ‘n R Record Shop
PHOTOGRAPHY
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- Studio One
RETAIL STORES
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- Bass Pro Shops
- Book Warehouse
- Boot Barn
- Ron Jon Surf Shop
TATTOOS & PIERCINGS
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- OTOWN INK TATTOO
TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT
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- Big J’s Toys
- Gods & Monsters
- Silly Rabbit Crafts
- The Boomerang Shop
Welcome to the Anti-Mall.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!