The Loop is my favorite place to shop. Located on John Young Parkway, it is neither low-class nor upscale. Like most of us shoppers, it is in the middle. The c0mplex has been open for three years now and is really fulfilling a need. It's where real people shop.
The bakery-cafe Panera is hopping every weekend. It's hard to find a table, in part because there are so many people entering, and in part because no one seems to leave. It's relaxing to sip coffee from a cup as big as your head, as you sit in a comfy leather chair. However, this isn't a coffee shop. Truly, it is a bakery. Samples are usually out in the morning and soon gone, but stop by and try some. My favorite is the Spinach and Artichock Quiche. Sure, you could pig out at a breakfast buffet for less, but you would miss out on really sumptious flavors mingling in your mouth. There are four other Panera locations around Orlando.
Check out the large animals sitting outside of Panera, if your kids need some crazy climbing time. There's a frog and a lizard for them to maul.
Looking for some cheap entertainment at the Loop? Go to Petco. It's a freebie zoo. See ferrets, bunnies, mice, hamsters, lizards, snakes, fish and the dogs who come in for grooming. Sure, you could go to the movie theatre, but I'd rather spend my time at Petco (without spending any of my money).
There's Micheal's Crafts, Kohl's, Ross (Dress for Less), Pier One, Sports Authority, and Bed, Bath and Beyond, among others.
After all that, are you still looking for more? Across the road is a new section still under development with a JC Penney's. Really, it's too far to walk with bags, so you have to drive on over.
Honestly, at The Loop, you will enjoy your time shopping, be comfortable with the money you spent and the happy with the food you ate.
If you see me at there, be sure to wave!
The Loop Map
Panera Map
