2 Best Places to Shop in Austin, Texas

Background Illustration for Shopping

The city's true shopping experience dwells in its plethora of independently owned, unique boutiques. To get a real feel for the city, browse the funky stores along South Congress, the record shops on South First, or the vintage boutiques around North Loop. For something more upscale, visit the hip downtown storefronts of 2nd Street District and explore the high-end galleries, antiques, and home-furnishings emporia of the West 6th. Out in Northwest Austin and Round Rock, upscale shopping malls and outlet stores are plentiful.

BookPeople

Downtown Fodor's Choice

Established in 1970, Texas's largest independent bookstore is a homegrown alternative to Amazon and corporate chains. The quirky bookshop, staffed with a passionate team of dedicated booksellers, has been voted Austin's best bookstore for more than 20 years, stocking bestsellers along with books on topics from celebrity memoirs to alternative home-building texts; there's also an incredible children's section. Browse magazines; shop for literary-inspired tchotchkes and Austin- and Texas-centric gifts; and catch readings and signings by local and touring authors. Heavy-hitting literati luminaries, including former presidents, make stops here while on book tours.

Waterloo Records

West Austin Fodor's Choice

This large independent records shop has been an integral part of the local music scene since 1982. With an outstanding selection of vinyl, CD, DVD, and cassette offerings, superb customer service, funky Austin-inspired gifts, and a packed calendar of free in-store concerts (including some pretty impressive names during SXSW), it may be the only Austin record store you'll ever need to visit.