The Extraordinary Shopping at International Plaza
By Jennifer Kennedy
Greater Tampa Bay boasts plenty of fantastic retail but a popular Westshore District destination is one of the most notable on Florida’s West Coast. International Plaza and Bay Street offers something for everyone with their wide selection of specialty stores, bars and restaurants. The upscale shopping center adjacent to Tampa International Airport has over 200 impressive retail and dining options, as well as standout special events.
Community Connection
International Plaza provides one-of-a-kind experiences for the community. From children’s fun to adult activities, special happenings cater to every age group.
Flower and plant shop Flor and Palma hosted a Galentine’s Day Flower Arranging Workshop. Female guests enjoyed a complimentary glass of wine and charcuterie boards while learning from floral experts. During the holiday season, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union employees help visitors navigate the busy time by offering assistance and surprising shoppers with gift cards.
In addition to the traditional Easter Bunny and Santa Claus visits, a sensory-friendly night is available to support children with special needs. A popular Santa Paws event provides complimentary holidays bows and treats to pets that want to get their picture taken with their favorite humans.
New and Notable
Unique choices set International Plaza apart from other venues. Take advantage of the valet parking option at the Bay Street entrance. Enjoy outdoor casual or fine dining at one of 16 vibrant sit-down restaurants with covered patios. Visit one of the largest Restoration Hardware stores in the country. Online retailer Alo Yoga offers Greater Tampa Bay shoppers a chance to view their products in person with the only brick and mortar store on Florida’s West Coast.
Distinctive new stores are constantly joining the lineup, with several exciting additions this year. Visitors can now shop for luxury watches at Omega, near Neiman Marcus. Chanel Fragrance & Beauty boutique brings their products to a new store near the Grand Court. Popular J. Crew and Swatch recently opened near Dillard’s on the upper level. Shoppers can browse high-quality, classic furniture and décor in person at Birch Lane’s brand-new location near Nordstrom.
All Things Shopping
While many are choosing online shopping over traditional malls these days, International Plaza is thriving, celebrating its highest sales last year. From affordable fashion to high-end luxury brands, there are choices for each style and budget. Marketing and Sponsorship Director Julia Wyman cites price points for every category as the reason so many flock to the world-class retail center.
“We are all things shopping in Tampa Bay.” Wyman said, “No other place offers luxury combined with high end restaurants and events for the community.”
New Additions
Versace – Spring 2024
International Plaza is known for an impressive list of high-end luxury brand stores. One of the leading international fashion design houses chose the premiere shopping destination for their exclusive Tampa location. Visitors can browse the Italian luxury designer’s fashion and lifestyle products including haute couture, prêt-à-porter, accessories, jewelry, watches, eyewear, fragrances and home furnishings.
Paradise Grills – Spring 2024
Beautiful Florida weather means grilling is a year-round activity in Greater Tampa Bay. Visit Paradise Grills’ new store in International Plaza to design the perfect outdoor kitchen for a backyard oasis. An impressive list of options can be customized to fit every personal style, patio space and entertainment need. Choose between various grill islands and bar systems to create a fully functional, sophisticated outdoor living experience.
Dick’s Sporting Goods House of Sport – Fall 2024
Tampa is home to Florida’s first Dick’s Sporting Goods House of Sport, which is much more than the retail giant’s typical store. At just a handful of locations around the country, the popular retailer offers the best in athletic gear, plus one-of–a-kind interactive experiences. In addition to finding top-notch equipment, athletes can practice skills on the rock wall or baseball field. Demo the latest sports gear by testing the multi-sport HitTrax cage from baseball, softball and lacrosse, to field hockey, soccer and hockey. Customize golf clubs or bikes and take advantage of certified experts to repair, upgrade and maintain your equipment.
Special Events
Burn on Bay Street
Athletic wear stores Lululemon, Fabletics or Athleta host fitness classes on select Saturdays. Choices include Stroller Strides, a special class designed for new moms, Zumba, Yoga or Pilates. Participants can win a gift card to their favorite brand.
Santa Flight Academy & Signing with Santa
Join Santa and one of his elves for this magical interactive holiday encounter that offers much more than a photo. All are invited to experience this in American Sign Language. Professional interpreters are available to enhance the enjoyment for deaf and hard-of-hearing children.
