As March makes its entrance and the weather warms up, students are eager with excitement, their sights set on one particular event: spring break.  

Lucky for us, Destin is a year-round spot for sunshine and vacation vibes – and when it comes to kicking the excitement up a notch, Destin Commons knows how to elevate the occasion.  

Whether you’re looking to refresh your closet with some of spring’s hottest trends, indulge in delicious food and cocktails, enjoy events and entertainment, or commemorate spring break with plenty of photos, we’ve got you covered. 

Here’s how to make the most of spring break at Destin Commons:  

Shop Spring Trends 

Maybe you’re shopping for swimwear, or perhaps you’re looking to fill your closet with new pieces after spring cleaning your wardrobe. Either way, Destin Commons’ unique boutiques and popular national retailers offer an extensive variety of apparel – from clothing and footwear to accessories, jewelry, health, and beauty products, and more – to suit all ages and style preferences.  

Now is the time to shop the season’s hottest trends, from ballet flats, shorts, and boardroom-inspired “corporate-core” sets to sheer pieces, breezy knitwear and linen, and everything ice blue.  

Don’t forget our specialty stores! Bass Pro Shops welcomes guests to shop for kayaks, tents, and more outdoor-friendly items that can elevate your spring break activities. 

Pro Tip: Fur babies are welcome (on a leash) at Destin Commons! Bring yours to the newly opened Salty Paws Pet Boutique & Bakery for their own shopping spree. 

Savor a World of Flavors 

You may be in Destin this spring break (lucky you!), but you can also enjoy cuisines from around the world at our restaurants and City Food Hall. Savor the vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors of El Jalisco’s tacos (best paired with a Michelada!) and enjoy a taste of la dolce vita at Redbrick Pizza, where Italian-inspired dishes are best paired with wine and gelato.   

Another idea: gather your crew and embark on an epic food crawl at City Food Hall! Kick things off with a cocktail at City Food Hall Bar, then treat your taste buds to a fusion of globally inspired flavors as you make your way to Likkle jamdung, PB&J Bakery & Café, Tuk Tuk Thai, Zaitoun and Crispy Chick.  

The list doesn’t end there! We have plenty of other restaurants and eateries if you’re looking for a quick bite, sweet treat, or something to kick start your day. Check out Another Broken Egg Café, Formula Fresh, Gulf Coast Burgers Co (amazing milkshakes!), Smashburger, Starbucks Coffee, Snowbiz by Ray, Kilwins, and Destination Little Donuts. 

Enjoy Engaging Entertainment  

Catch a Flick at AMC 14 

Enjoy a matinee or movie night at AMC 14, where state-of-the-art screens and sound systems, plush seats, buttery popcorn, and all your favorite theatre concessions create the perfect, cinephile-approved ambience.  

Bowl at Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill  

Shake it up and opt for a nostalgic activity (and some friendly competition) in the form of bowling! With its kitschy Florida theme, Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is sure to create laughter and lifelong memories for visitors of all ages. 

Luckey Climber 

Destin Commons kids are pretty fortunate (or, should we say, “lucky”) to have Northwest Florida’s first Luckey Climber – an immersive playground that’s part jungle gym, part art installation, and 100% imaginative. Sweet new spring break friendships may very well be forged here! 

The Lawn @Destin Commons 

Everyone will love our new green space here at Destin Commons. Enjoy a game of cornhole, take a turn on the Twisty-Turvy chairs or simply relax under the Florida sunshine.  

Attend Events for a Cause  

Touch A Truck Benefitting Junior League of the Emerald Coast 

Spring break is for the little ones and their families, too! On April 13th, Destin Commons will host Touch A Truck, an event that brings massive trucks – and other vehicles used by workers and public servants – together for a special event that will inspire and engage children in our community. The event, which benefits the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, will also hold a horn-free hour from 1 to 2 p.m.  

6^th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival Benefitting Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast 

Is there anything more comforting and crowd-pleasing than mac & cheese? We didn’t think so! Join us at noon on March 10^th to indulge in gourmet, chef-inspired twists at the 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival! Presented by Cox & Publix Charities, the event will feature several local restaurants battling it out for the title of the best mac in town. Purchase tickets here to sample, savor, and cast your vote for the ultimate cheesy champion. All proceeds from this mouthwatering event support the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.  

Immersive Yourself in Instagram-Worthy Art & Installations   

The Destin Commons Collection 

Capture all the joy of spring break by embarking on an interactive, photo-worthy art crawl! The Collection features nine vibrant murals that invite you to engage your creativity and have some fun. Send a virtual Destin postcard, flock like a flamingo in front of “Tropical Vibes,” play with the optical illusion of our “Gone Fishing” piece, and more. Pro Tip: Download our “Coloring the Commons” pages, which allow you to bring each mural to life using your unique creative touch! 

Umbrella Sky

There’s a new photo opp on the horizon: launching this March, Umbrella Sky will bring a dazzling floating umbrella installation to Destin Commons, offering a sun-speckled yet shaded backdrop that’s perfect for your spring break Instagram posts.  

See you soon, spring breakers!  

For more information about Destin Commons retailers, restaurants, art and more, visit DestinCommons.com 

Calling all couples and “Galentine’s” girlies: Valentine’s Day is right around the corner… a proper celebration is in order! Whether you and your S.O. want to relish in the romance of the holiday or you’re seeking a fun outing with the friend you hold near and dear to your heart, we’ve got you covered. From romantic meals, decadent treats, and timeless gifts to a crowd-pleasing food crawl, movie theatre, and more, Destin Commons is chock-full of ways to celebrate with–and spoil–the ones you love.

TABLE FOR TWO

There’s a reason why they say food is the way to a person’s heart…so why not reignite your spark over a delicious meal? Are tequila and tacos your love language? El Jalisco Mexican Grill is a great option for vibrant flavors that pack some heat(pro tip: try the Michelada for a Mexican twist on the BloodyMary). Or, share a “pizza” your heart at Redbrick Pizza–best paired with wine and locally made gelato. That’s Amore!

PROGRESSIVE DINNER

Source: Tuk Tuk Thai via Instagram

Calling all foodies! If having to decide on just one cuisine is enough to break your heart, a progressive dinner is a crowd-pleasing way to embark on a culinary adventure. Grab your friends, head over to City Food Hall, and challenge every member of your group to order something different from each eatery. Gather around a table and treat your taste buds to a fusion of globally inspired flavors. Pro Tip: Want a mix of menu options in a restaurant atmosphere? Party Fowl and World of offer an energetic ambiance and extensive menus with dishes to please everyone at your party.

TREAT YOUR SWEETHEART

Dessert is great after a meal … but, in our opinion, it’s worthy of standing on its own! The decent treats at Destin Commons are sure to sweeten things up. Indulge your inner child with a towering #Cat5Shake from Gulf Coast Burgers Co.–worthy of being shared on your Instagram. And, of course, you can’t go wrong at the iconic Kilwins. Order an ice cream to enjoy as you stroll, and take some chocolate-covered strawberries, homemade fudge, candied apples, and more for the road.

TIMELESS GIFTS FOR AN ENDLESS LOVE

Commemorate this Valentine’s Day with a sparkling symbol of your love. A stunning piece of jewelry or an elegant watch is a great way to spoil your soulmate–and give them a daily reminder that they’re your other half. Destin Commons retailers such as Brighton, Kay Jewelers, Pandora, and Reeds offer everything from fine jewelry, customized pieces, and collectibles to signature charms and timepieces.

Pro Tips:

• Brighton is currently offering its Deeplyi n Love handbags in bright pink and bold red–a perfectly fitting gift for Valentine’s Day.
• Enhance a flower or chocolate delivery with the rose-scented Red Roses Teddy Bear from the Build-A-Bear workshop, available through February 14!

A MATCH MADE FOR THE MOVIES

Our favorite tried-and-trueouting? A cozy movie night at the theatre(AMC 14, that is!)Whether you’re all about rom-coms, thrillers, or action-adventure, nothing is like watching a film on the big screen alongside your love and theatre full of fellow cinephiles. A bucket of buttery popcorn paired with classic theatre candy is optional but highly encouraged.

A STRIKE THROUGH THE HEART

Embarking on a group date night? Consider some friendly and flirty competition in the form of bowling. Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is sure to add some laughter to your night (pro tip: it’s also a fun option if you’re stuck without a sitter and need to bring the kids along!)

MURAL MOMENTS

The Friend Ship by DABSMYLA

You’re the main characters in your love story–or friendship–so treat yourselves as such with a fun photoshoot at each of our Destin Commons murals! From KraveArt’s fancy Blue Crab to our iconic Destin Postcard, we’ve got nine vibrant murals that guarantee a flawless backdrop for capturing your memorable outing. Celebrating Valentine’s Day at Destin Commons? Snap a photo with your sweetheart or your Galentine’s Day crew and tag @DestinCommons for a chance to be featured on our social channels. Xoxo!

For more information on our restaurants and eateries, retailers, and more, visit DestinCommons.com.

‘Tis the season for gathering, gifting, dining, and celebrating – what’s not to love?! The holidays are our favorite times of the year at Destin Commons, and this December, we’re kicking the magic up a notch with more retailers, restaurants, family-friendly entertainment, and holiday activities than ever before.

Whether you’re seeking unique gift ideas, local holiday lights and decorations, Christmas carolers, tasty desserts, or restaurants open on Christmas Day, we’ve got you covered – in tinsel and bows! Experience the joy of the holidays while surrounded by reindeer topiary, live musical performances, and, of course, our beloved 50-foot Destin Commons Christmas tree, which serves as the ultimate holiday backdrop.

Ready to feel merry and bright? Here’s our list of the top 12 things to do this holiday season in Destin:

Shop Holiday Gifts for Everyone on Your List (and Treat Yourself to Holiday Party Looks!)

With over 70 retailers encompassing fashion, beauty and wellness, accessories, jewelry, footwear, electronics, home décor, outdoor living, and more, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to shopping for every age range and personality type on your holiday list–or seeking the perfect outfit for any kind of holiday party. Boutiques, specialty stores, and top national brands make Destin Commons the Emerald Coast’s premier, one-stop shop during the holidays and all year round. Pro tip: check out our 2023 holiday gift guide on the blog for some gift-giving inspiration!

Savor the Season with a Mouthwatering Meal

Whether you’re looking to gather with loved ones and enjoy a multi-course, sit-down holiday meal or embark on a food crawl with a variety of dishes in a fast-casual environment, our array of globally inspired restaurants and eateries serve up flavorful menu items that are sure to satisfy all taste buds. From City Food Hall to Redbrick Pizza, Party Fowl, El Jalisco, and more, visitors are welcome to feast at their local tried and true – and try something new!

Discover Unique Gifts at The Destin Commons Market: Holiday Edition

The Destin Commons Market is a beloved Destin farmers market offering handmade gifts and homemade delicacies while supporting local artisans and vendors. On December 15, the market gets its annual “Holiday Edition” makeover from 5 to 9 p.m. at Center Plaza, inviting visitors to shop one-of-a-kind products, fresh produce, handmade accessories, art, flowers, home décor, clothing, baked goods, and much more – just in time for the gifting season! Stop by to say hello to some of Destin’s most talented creators while you peruse unique gifts for everyone on your list. 

Sleigh Your Holiday Photo Game with our Christmas Tree and Holiday Decorations

Perhaps we’re biased, but when it comes to Destin, there’s no better place for taking holiday photos than right here at Destin Commons. Stand in front of our towering 50-foot Christmas tree, sit on Santa’s gleaming sleigh and the charming reindeer bench, and pose by the playful oversized topiary reindeer adorned with bows, lights, and poinsettias. The variety of festive photo spots and holiday décor at Destin Commons will dazzle guests of all ages. Smile and snap those heartwarming photos for your holiday cards (and Instagram, of course!)

Capture the Joy with Santa at Bass Pro Shops

Jolly Old St. Nick has made his warm Florida return to Bass Pro Shops in Destin Commons! Commemorate the magic of Christmas with a free Santa photo reservation – then visit the Christmas Toy Shop and invite your little ones to mail their letters to the North Pole via Santa’s Wonderland Mailbox. 

Enjoy Immersive Art and Instagrammable Walls 

Whether you simply appreciate viewing art as you stroll or love to give your social media feed an artsy aesthetic, the namely Florida-esque mural collection at Destin Commons is truly a local gem that will have your out-of-town friends wishing they “were here.” Better yet, these interactive pieces inspire you to use your imagination and get social! Send a virtual Destin Fla. postcard, create a video and go viral for flocking like a flamingo in front of our “Tropical Vibes” mural, come up with a ‘punny’ social media caption for “The Friend Ship” wall, and play with the optical illusion of our “Gone Fishing” masterpiece. (Pro Tip: You can also transform into an artist via our complimentary downloadable “Coloring the Commons” coloring pages, which allow guests to bring each mural to life!)

Sing Along to Live Holiday Music at Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee

Now through December 24, enjoy live musical performances and Christmas caroling as part of the Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee. This stellar lineup features artists and groups including Joe Occhipinti, the Cincinnati Christmas Carolers, Emerald Coast Chorus, 4 for 4 Quartet, Emerald Coast Theatre Company, and Niceville High School Jazz Band. View the full schedule of performances at DestinCommons.com/HolidayHours. 

Create Memories (and Fluffy Friends) at Build-A-Bear

Take the little ones from your “Nice” list to Build-A-Bear for an interactive gift that keeps on giving. From the moment they step foot into this sweet store, they’ll be excited to select their new stuffed friend and follow along as they’re brought to life. Bonus points for a festive holiday character or outfit! 

Indulge in Seasonal Treats 

Savory dishes aren’t all you can treat your palate to at Destin Commons. Satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent treats from our City Food Hall vendors, restaurants (pro tip: Gulf Coast Burgers Co. has incredible shakes), and Kilwins, where the scent of homemade ice cream, peppermint bark, and rich fudge entice visitors into the confectionary on a constant basis. Craving some more? It’Sugar is ideal for a Christmas or Hanukkah candy haul, while Destination Donuts and Starbucks Coffee kickstart the day with seasonal beverages and festive mini treats. 

Ride the Cubby Caboose

The holiday season isn’t complete without a train ride! Kids can enjoy a tour of Destin Commons on our very own version of the Polar Express – the Cubby Caboose! Our mini train has officially been lit for the holiday season and is guaranteed to draw smiles from Destin’s youngest crowds.  

Catch New Movies and Holiday Films on the Big Screen

The holiday season is a peak time for new movie premieres and festive film events. Perfect for “wrapping” up a day of shopping and dining or as a fun afternoon activity, AMC Destin Commons 14 invites guests from around the Emerald Coast to cozy up in plush chairs, snack on buttery popcorn, and catch the newest flicks – as well as $5 featured holiday classics like Elf and The Polar Express – on the big cinema screen. AMC 14 is the area’s only digital theater offering REAL D–The Premier Digital 3D Experience, as well as true stadium seating, IMAX, innovative digital sound systems, and tons of legroom between each row. Secure the best seats ahead of time with reserved seating, skip the lines with mobile ordering for food and drinks, and grab a cocktail from MacGuffins Bar. Great for a family outing, date night, and everything in between! 

Engage in Some Fun, Family-Friendly Competition 

Maybe you’re a football-loving family who wants to catch the game at a restaurant, or perhaps you’d rather engage in some competition yourself. Either way, if sports are a part of your crew’s holiday plans and traditions, Destin Commons welcomes you to play! Party Fowl features wall-to-wall large screen TVs for cheering on your favorite teams, while Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill offers a fun, Florida-esque environment for some old-school bowling. 

Ready to infuse some major holiday magic into your life? Shop, dine and celebrate with us this holiday season at Destin Commons!

For more information on our holiday happenings, retailers and restaurants, as well as our holiday hours, visit DestinCommons.com.