Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and unique culture. But beyond the music venues and food trucks, Austin also boasts a thriving shopping scene that caters to all tastes and interests. Whether you're in search of one-of-a-kind artisan crafts, vintage treasures, or the latest in fashion, Austin has a shop for you. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best shops in Austin, showcasing the diverse retail experiences that make this city a shopper's paradise.
South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
Location: South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX
South Congress Avenue, often abbreviated as SoCo, is a must-visit shopping destination in Austin. This eclectic street is lined with an array of boutiques, vintage shops, and artisan stores, making it a hub for all things unique and creative. As you stroll down SoCo, you'll encounter shops like "Feathers Boutique" for vintage fashion finds, "Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds" for costume and vintage clothing, and "Allens Boots" for an impressive selection of cowboy boots.
SoCo is not just about shopping; it's a cultural experience. You'll also find food trucks, street performers, and beautiful murals that add to the overall charm of the area.
The Domain
Location: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX
For a more modern and upscale shopping experience, head to The Domain. This open-air shopping center features a wide range of high-end boutiques, department stores, and luxury brands. Whether you're looking for designer fashion, electronics, or home decor, you'll find it here. Popular stores at The Domain include Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Apple, among many others.
Apart from shopping, The Domain offers a variety of dining options, making it a great place to spend an entire day indulging in retail therapy and culinary delights.
Uncommon Objects
Location: 1512 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX
If you have a passion for vintage and antique treasures, Uncommon Objects is a must-visit. This quirky store is a treasure trove of eclectic finds, from antique furniture and retro clothing to unusual collectibles and oddities. The store's motto is "where the ordinary becomes the extraordinary," and it certainly lives up to it. Each visit to Uncommon Objects is an adventure in itself, as you never know what hidden gem you might discover.
By George
Location: 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX
For fashionistas looking for the latest in contemporary clothing and accessories, By George is a high-end boutique that won't disappoint. The store curates a carefully selected collection of designer brands, offering everything from clothing and shoes to jewelry and handbags. With its stylish and upscale atmosphere, By George is a top destination for those seeking the perfect statement piece to add to their wardrobe.
BookPeople
Location: 603 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX
Book lovers rejoice! BookPeople is an independent bookstore that has been a beloved Austin institution since 1970. With its vast selection of books covering all genres and an inviting atmosphere, it's a paradise for avid readers. The store frequently hosts author events, book clubs, and literary discussions, making it a gathering place for the local literary community.
The Vortex
Location: 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX
The Vortex is more than just a shop; it's an art gallery, performance space, and a haven for creativity. This unique establishment features handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and art pieces created by local artisans. If you're looking for one-of-a-kind gifts or artistic inspiration, The Vortex is the place to be. It's also a great venue to catch live performances and immerse yourself in Austin's vibrant arts scene.
Waterloo Records
Location: 600A N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX
Music lovers can't miss a visit to Waterloo Records. This iconic record store is a paradise for vinyl collectors and music enthusiasts. It boasts an extensive collection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, and even cassette tapes. Additionally, Waterloo Records hosts in-store performances by local and national artists, providing an opportunity to discover new music while browsing the racks.
Parts & Labour
Location: 1704 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX
If you're searching for unique and locally made goods, Parts & Labour is the place to go. This boutique showcases a wide range of handcrafted items, including jewelry, clothing, home decor, and artwork, all created by Austin-based artisans. Shopping here allows you to support the local arts and crafts community while discovering one-of-a-kind pieces.
Kendra Scott
Location: Multiple locations in Austin
Kendra Scott is a renowned jewelry brand that originated in Austin, and it has since gained a worldwide following. While you can find Kendra Scott jewelry in various locations, visiting one of the brand's flagship stores in Austin is a special experience. Explore their colorful and stylish collections of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more. You can even create custom jewelry pieces with their Color Bar™, allowing you to choose the perfect stones and metals to suit your style.
Toy Joy
Location: 403 W 2nd St, Austin, TX
For a delightful and whimsical shopping experience, Toy Joy is a toy store like no other. It's not just for kids; adults will also find joy in the eclectic collection of toys, games, and novelties. From classic board games and action figures to quirky gifts and collectibles, Toy Joy is a place to relive your childhood and discover new treasures.
Austin, Texas, offers a shopping experience as diverse and eclectic as its culture. Whether you're in search of fashion-forward clothing, unique artisan crafts, vintage treasures, or literary gems, you'll find it in this dynamic and creative city. So, embrace your inner shopper and explore the best shops Austin has to offer. From the trendy boutiques of South Congress Avenue to the artistic havens like The Vortex, Austin's shopping scene is ready to captivate your senses and leave you with delightful discoveries.
About Christi Davidson
Christi Davidson, a native Texan with over 40 years in Austin, has 25 years of professional real estate experience and is committed to providing a 5-Star VIP customer experience with her heartfelt, family-oriented approach. Honored as Keller Williams Realty's 1998 City-wide Rookie of the Year and having served as Vice-President at Frost Bank, Christi is a consistent top performer who utilizes her extensive business acumen in negotiating, financial management, and marketing to act as a trusted advisor for her clients. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Austin, TX real estate market, contact
Christi Davidson today.