YBOR CITY. Although it's technically considered an entertainment center, Centro Ybor functions much like a mall. Located in a two-level complex, it houses shops, restaurants, a movie theater and entertainment attractions. You'll also find a comedy club, a museum, a visitors center and regularly-scheduled concerts. Among its tenants are Victoria's Secret, Urban Outfitters, Pacific Sunwear and Game Works. Shopping here is fun, but the whole experience of Ybor City is even more of a rush. Make sure you don't miss it.

AIRPORT AREA. Adjacent to Tampa International Airport, "IP" has emerged as one of the area's top destinations for young, style-conscious shoppers. This is thanks in part to its attractive, wide-open design. No doubt the more telling reason for the mall's popularity is that it boasts everything from Hollister Co. and J. Jill to Neiman Marcus and Dillard's. If it's food and drink you seek, Bay Street is an open-air plaza that features dozens of restaurants and bars.

NORTH TAMPA. This mall's claim to fame is that it's the largest shopping center in Tampa. With Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, USF and the Museum of Science and Industry nearby, it certainly needs to be. Fondly referred to as "U-Mall," the complex offers Sears, Steve & Barry's, Macy's, Dillard's and Burlington Coat Factory as its anchor stores. Aside from them, it has 145 more shops, along with a food court and movie theater.

BRANDON. Washed in light, this beautiful mall invites shoppers to browse among palm trees, sculpture and water features. Open since 1995, the TownCenter is one of the area's most popular venues. It's anchored by four department stores (Macy's, Dillard's, JCPenney, and Sears). Two restaurants, a food court and 120 specialty stores round out the offerings, and plenty of seating takes care of weary tag-alongs.