Do not call the Bell Tower Shops a mall. The open-air shopping center is decorated with foliage, fountains and waterfalls. There are seats for people watching and covered walkways in case of bad weather. At either end are department stores Saks Fifth Avenue and Jacobson's. Most of the stores are upscale. There is also a 20-screen movie theatre and 10 restaurants, like Bistro 41 and Manatee Max. Live musicians entertain Friday and Saturday evenings, with FridayFests on the last Friday of each month. Parking is free and spread over several big lots.
When you need to visit the 'mall', this is the one where most locals go. Located along Colonial Boulevard at the intersection of US-41, this mega-mall has Dillard's, Macy's, Sears and JCPenny as its anchors. There are plenty of other stores however, some of which include The Disney Store, The Gap and Victoria's Secret. The building is handicapped accessible and the food court features all types of different food, from Chinese to Caribbean and everything in-between.
The Franklin Shops contain a varied array of stores, some of which include jewelery, fine art, gifts, novelties, books, music and fashion. Its location downtown allows for easy access to all hotels and other attractions in the River District. In addition to the aforementioned list, the shops also include housewares, art, photography, cosmetics and much, much more.
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