Let’s be honest. Nobody has ever said, “My favorite holiday memory is fighting for a parking spot at the mall.”
This year, we have a better idea. Grab a friend, a cup of something warm (or something sparkly), and spend a morning in Ivanhoe Village, one of Orlando’s most charming neighborhoods. Tucked along Lake Ivanhoe just north of downtown, it’s packed with indie shops, locally owned restaurants and the kind of gifts you won’t find on a big box store shelf.
Here’s our local’s guide to checking off your list the Orlando way.
For the friend who has everything: Maffrey’s
Maffrey’s is a gift shop full of thoughtful, unexpected finds from about 18 local makers. Think candles, local art, stationery, stickers and magnets featuring Orlando artists, sweet treats and so much more. It’s the place to go when you want a gift that says “I actually thought about you” instead of “I panicked at the checkout line.” There’s truly something for everyone here, with plenty of stocking stuffers and fun little extras too.
For lovers of small, delightful things: Yay! Tiny Shop
The name says it all. Yay! Tiny Shop is small in size and big on personality, with fun, giftable pieces that are perfect for coworkers, teachers, neighbors and anyone on your list who deserves a little joy.
For the one who loves a little magic: Rare Earth
Rare Earth calls itself Orlando’s favorite crystal shop, and one step inside shows why. Browse crystals and one-of-a-kind minerals, jewelry, candles, bath bombs and soaps, loose leaf teas, journals, handmade greeting cards and zodiac gifts for every sign. It’s a treasure trove for the friend who’s into wellness, the one who loves pretty things for their home, or anyone who needs a little calm this time of year.
For the home cook: Aniko Balkan Market
If someone on your list loves to cook (or loves to eat, which is everyone), Aniko Balkan Market is a treasure. Browse imported specialty foods, snacks and pantry items, then build a one-of-a-kind gift basket they’ll actually use.
For the coffee lover: Aguila
Fuel up before you shop at Aguila, a neighborhood coffee spot just two doors down from Yay! Tiny Shop. Their popular Piloncillo coffee is sweetened with a special in-house brown sugar, and their horchata is a must-try. Prefer it iced? They make a great cold brew too. Supporting a local coffee shop never tasted so good.
For the foodie: a gift card to a local favorite
Some of the best gifts can’t be wrapped. A gift card to a neighborhood favorite like Santiago’s Bodega, The Pinery or Ziggie’s Pizza gives someone a night out and supports a local business at the same time. Win, win.
For the sweet tooth: Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream and Equilibre
Yes, ice cream counts as holiday shopping. Kelly’s makes small-batch ice cream right here in Orlando, and a shopping break with a scoop in hand is a Florida holiday tradition we fully endorse. You’re shopping in shorts in December. Lean into it. Craving something different? Equilibre is known for its Brazilian carrot cake and thick, gooey brownies, plus acai bowls and smoothies for a lighter pick-me-up.
Mark your calendar: Small Business Saturday, November 28
The Saturday after Thanksgiving is Small Business Saturday, a day set aside to celebrate the independent shops and restaurants that give a neighborhood its heart. Ivanhoe Village is the perfect place to spend it. Every dollar you spend locally helps keep these places open, and keeps Orlando feeling like Orlando.
Want to shop it with us? Holiday Sip & Shop is back
Good news, gift givers. Our Holiday Sip & Shop tour returns to Ivanhoe Village this season, on four Saturday mornings: November 14, November 21, December 12 and December 19. Tours start at 10 AM and are $60 per person.
Think of it as holiday shopping, upgraded. You’ll stroll the neighborhood with a local guide, pop into some of our favorite locally owned shops, and enjoy festive sips and bites along the way. It’s part shopping trip, part food tour and all holiday cheer. It makes a great girls’ day out, a fun outing with family in town, or a gift in itself.
Spots are limited, and we’d love to save you one.
Prefer to give the experience? Wandering Palm gift cards are good for any tour or class, and they never need wrapping paper.
Happy shopping, and happy eating!
Tracy Wandering Palm Food Tours
Discover Orlando One Bite at a Time