Black Friday is one of the most anticipated events of the year. With hundreds of stores and sales in major shopping cities, discipline and strategy are essential to navigating unfamiliar territory. To guide travelers on the biggest shopping day of the year, we prepared a road map for those seeking to maximize their time and embark on a scavenger hunt for the best deals! But first, keep in mind these tips:

Pro tip #1: Black Friday starts on Thursday

While Black Friday traditionally lands on the Friday after Thanksgiving, many stores open their doors Thursday evening. Therefore, it’s important to prepare yourself for the long, but exciting journey ahead!

Pro tip #2: Rent a car

There are many popular shopping malls scattered throughout Florida. Renting a car will help shoppers travel faster and more comfortably, maximize their time, and carry more shopping bags along the way. With locations across Florida, Alamo Rent A Car offers excellent deals on car rentals during the holiday season.

While most Americans spend Thanksgiving at home with family and friends, some have already switched to shopping mode. A popular destination is Dolphin Mall, where many stores begin their sales as early as Thursday at 5 p.m.

Arrive in Miami and drive to the Dolphin Mall: 11401 NW 12th St, Miami, FL 33172

After a stop at Dolphin Mall, the time has come to shop for one of the most sought-after products: Electronics! Best Buy opens its doors on Friday between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. but consider arriving earlier to beat the line.

Best Buy: 10760 NW 17th St, Miami, FL 33172

Next, drive to the nearest Walmart and Target. While there are many along the way, search for one that is most convenient for you. Once you’ve located the ideal store, go prepared with a shopping list to organize the items that are a priority. Tip: Most department stores only allow a certain number of customers in at a time, therefore, arriving a couple hours before opening may guarantee a quicker entrance.

Walmart: 8651 NW 13th Terrace, Doral, FL 33126

Target: 10101 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33174

With half of your shopping trip done, it’s time to refuel! Head to Lincoln Road, a premier outdoor shopping destination which offers multiple parking lots and garages, stylish shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Not only will you discover delicious bites, but you’ll also cross this popular destination of your Miami bucket-list!

Lincoln Road: Miami Beach, FL 33139

If your destination is Orlando, there are many shopping malls to check out along the way! Continue the retail journey in Sawgrass Mills, one of the largest outlet shopping destinations in the United States.

Sawgrass Mills: 12801 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise, FL 33323

After experiencing the luxury outlets of Sawgrass Mills, drive north to Florida Mall. Sales begin Friday at 1 a.m. and continue through Saturday, ending at 5 a.m. Tip: The first products sold in stores usually have the largest discounts.

Florida Mall: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809

Because outlet stores already offer discounted prices, the sales may not be as impressive, but still worth checking out. Among them is Orlando International Premium Outlets, Florida’s largest outlet shopping destination with more than 180 designer and name-brand outlet stores. Located in the heart of Orlando, this destination is the ideal end to Black Friday. After the shopping marathon, head back to your hotel and get some rest. Tip: The Black Friday experience is easier with a car, but always remember to lock it!

Orlando International Premium Outlets: 4951 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

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More Outlets!

Florida Mall

Sawgrass Mills

Lincoln Road

Walmart and Target

Best Buy

Dolphin Mall