Stepping into The Downtown Exchange for the first time is like opening a door to Clermont’s most colorful, flavorful, and welcoming world. With so many unique vendors and hidden gems, it’s easy to get swept up in the moment. But if you want to make the most of your visit, there are a few experiences that simply can’t be missed.
Whether you’re just dropping in or planning to spend the day, here’s your bucket list of must-do experiences for first-time visitors at The Downtown Exchange.
✅ 1. Sip Something New at Gürch Coffee
Start your visit right with a handcrafted drink from Gürch Coffee. Known for its quality beans and flavor-forward creations, this isn’t your average cup of joe.
☕ Must-try:
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Honey Lavender Latte
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Coconut Mocha
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Seasonal cold brew
Pair it with a window seat and let the vibe set the tone for the day.
✅ 2. Grab the Most Talked-About Cookie in Clermont
Head over to Cookie Queen Factory, where every cookie is a work of edible art. These thick, chewy creations are baked with love—and a whole lot of flavor.
???? Fan favorites:
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Classic Queen (chocolate chip)
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Queen Velvet (red velvet + Oreo)
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Kinder Bueno
Pro tip: Buy a few for the road. You’ll wish you had.
✅ 3. Explore the Scent Bar at Wanderlust Scents Co.
This isn’t just candle shopping—it’s a scent journey. Discover candles inspired by travel, memory, and nature, each hand-poured and deeply personal.
????️ Bucket list move:
Ask for the seasonal scents and try one that fits your mood. It’s the perfect keepsake to bring a piece of the Exchange home.
✅ 4. Build Your Own Mini Donut Box at Clermont Mini Bar
Mini in size but massive in flavor, the donuts at Clermont Mini Bar are a must. They’re made fresh, topped to order, and dangerously good.
???? Your move:
Pick at least three flavors and mix sweet with savory. Add a mimosa flight or craft drink for the full experience.
✅ 5. Shop the Unexpected at Triangle Vinyl
Even if you don’t collect records, Triangle Vinyl is a vibe. Flip through bins of classic albums, discover music from every era, and maybe pick one that reminds you of your visit.
???? Bonus: The covers make great wall art, too.
✅ 6. Discover a Boutique Bargain or Bold Fashion Find
Whether you lean toward streetwear, trend pieces, or budget-friendly surprises, Yodibrodi, COSA NOSTRA, and Always A Bargain are packed with cool, unexpected finds.
???? Try this:
Customize a hat, score a statement tee, or grab a last-minute gift for someone back home.
✅ 7. Taste Something You’ve Never Tried Before
The food vendors here are a global passport on a plate. From Venezuelan arepas at K’Arepazo to Brazilian flavors at Minas Gourmet, it’s all real, made with care, and seriously delicious.
????️ Bucket list bite:
Let the vendor pick for you. Say “surprise me” and trust the process.
✅ 8. Pick Up a Local Wellness Treasure
Stop by One Utopia for plant-based self-care items like herbal teas, CBD oils, and bath products. It’s the kind of gift you get for someone else and end up keeping.
???? Top pick:
A calming tea blend and a bath bomb combo—perfect after a long day out.
✅ 9. Stay for the Vibe
This isn’t a grab-and-go space. It’s a stay-awhile place. Sit, snack, talk to a vendor, watch the crowd. Enjoy live music if it’s playing. Let the experience unfold slowly.
???? First-time advice:
Talk to at least one vendor. Ask their story. That’s how you connect with the heart of the Exchange.
✅ 10. Leave with Something That Has a Story
Whether it’s a cookie, a candle, a vinyl record, or a handmade gift—you’ll leave with more than a purchase. You’ll leave with a memory.
???? Find it all at 639 8th St, Clermont, FL
???? Plan your visit and see what’s new at thedowntownexchange.com
