Be Kind, Rewind
Picture it: Vinyl records spinning. Roller rinks and drive-in movies. Scrunchies everywhere.
These images may feel like a blast from the past, but this summer in Florida, what’s old is new. From roller skates to crop tops, the retro revival is here—and it’s totally rad.
Thrift It Like It’s Hot
This season, locals are strutting around in high-waisted shorts, crochet bikini tops, bold floral prints, and yes—bucket hats are back. Thrift hunters are hitting up places like The Flip Side in Fort Lauderdale and the Vintage Post Marketplace in Tampa to find the perfect Y2K or ‘90s look. Over in Winter Park, Orlando Vintage Clothing & Costume is a goldmine for those iconic retro fits (think Saved by the Bell meets beach day).
Even nail salons are getting the memo with Y2K glitter nails, smiley-face designs, and pops of pastel on every mani. And yes, scrunchies are still thriving—especially the ones that match your swimsuit. Iconic.
Skate, Sip, Repeat
Want to feel like you’re in a summer movie montage? Cruise on over to The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach—aka the “Pink Palace”—where the vibes are straight out of a 1960s beach postcard.
When night falls, head to Gramps in Wynwood, where themed dance parties and throwback karaoke keep the nostalgia flowing. Fort Lauderdale’s Retro Rooftop at Moxie’s is also buzzing with ‘80s nights, funky cocktails, and skyline views made for Insta.
And if you’re craving a true blast from the past, lace up at Skate Factory in Vero Beach or Astro Skate in Pinellas Park for classic roller rink magic—complete with disco lights and a soundtrack that’ll make you miss your Walkman.
Press Play on the Past
If your summer isn’t complete without a little movie magic, head to Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland for a double feature under the stars. Or catch a cult classic at the Naples Cinematheque, where vintage cinema meets indie cool.
Gamers and nostalgia lovers should make a pit stop at Arcade Monsters in Oviedo, Sarasota, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Melbourne. With walls lined with ‘80s arcade machines, retro neon lighting, and a wild snack bar, it’s the ultimate Gen X-meets-Gen Z hangout.
Why We Love It
What’s drawing everyone to retro this summer isn’t just the nostalgia—it’s the vibe. In a world that moves fast, these throwback moments give us permission to slow down, get a little weird, and have fun without overthinking it.
Whether you’re skating under neon lights, dancing to vinyl tracks, scoring the perfect thrifted tee, or hitting up the old school drive-ins, it’s about reconnecting with joy—in all its quirky, colorful forms. So throw on your crop top, cue the disco playlist, and meet us at the roller rink. Find Florida’s best retro spots in our Directory:
www.guidetoflorida.com/furniture-consignment-stores, www.guidetoflorida.com/clothing-shoe-stores-consignment-shops, and www.guidetoflorida.com/arts-entertainment!
