Sarasota has many opportunities for avid shoppers. With high-end designer shops and mom-and-pop boutiques, the area has something for everyone. There are unique shops in Sarasota as well for those who are looking for quirky gifts or a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. In addition, for those looking for something different, here are the most unique shops in the Sarasota area.
128 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
https://www.artisansworldmarketplace.com/
The Artisans World Marketplace is a non-profit retail outlet for fair-trade goods sourced from over 70 countries, including scarves, birdhouses, hand soaps, hammocks, etc. Additionally, for the little ones, they offer hand puppets, frog kites, picture books, and musical instruments. All of the items are displayed alongside information about the communities that made them. The concept behind Artisans helps provide increased self-employment for low-income artisans worldwide and raise awareness of economic justice for the poor and impoverished parts of the world.
329 N. Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Brant’s Books is one of Florida’s oldest and largest independently owned used bookstores. Brant’s opened in 1956; the large store has an inventory of over 150,000 books – certainly enough for anyone with any kind of taste to find something they will love.
1093 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
https://www.sarasotasalvage.com/
Browsing this 10,000-square-foot warehouse (and two outside yards) is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Because their inventory is constantly updating, you never know what you may find – from beautiful old windows, antiques, oddities, chandeliers, you name it. The Sarasota Architectural Salvage is dedicated to preserving valuable and historical treasures from being destroyed. If you are interested in really unique items from the past, this is the place for you.
7 S. Blvd. of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236
https://justbecausesarasota.com/
A visit to St. Armand’s Circle wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Just Because. The shop showcases more than 70 American artists, many of who have studios in Florida, plus over 20 international artists. Some of the one-of-a-kind items include blown glass, metal sculptures, pottery, paintings, jewelry, and more. Many of the artists feature eco-friendly products with a reduced carbon footprint.
821 Apricot Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
https://www.bazaaronapricotandlime.com/
This award-winning indie indoor market is home to over 40 local creators and curators that offer art, collectibles, clothing, jewelry, home décor, food, and much more. They even have live music from noon to 3 pm. With 5,000 square feet of space, you are bound to find unique gifts for those that are hard to shop for.
550 Central Ave.
https://www.artisancheesecompany.com/
If you love cheese (and who doesn’t?), then you will find that the Artisan Cheese Company is a little bit of sliced heaven on earth. The cut-to-order shop features local, regional, and international artisan cheeses, plus a wonderful selection of American honey, jams, and preserves. They also offer natural wines.
If you are tired of cookie-cutter retail shops, these unique shopping experiences are just what the doctor ordered. There is a lot to explore with these offerings, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes because there is so much to see and even more to buy.
