5 Best Places to Shop in Austin, Texas
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.
Bicycle Sport Shop
Rogue Running
Austin runners frequent this shop as much for its selection of everything from Asics to Adidas shoes as for the expert advice on which pair to pick. Starting out as a training program back in 2004, Rogue opened a storefront after rousing success and today has two other Austin training centers and another in Cedar Park. Runners can join clubs to train for anything from a 5K to a full marathon, or just join a free community-run with other local runners. The store has a full fuel bar serving smoothies and even beer and wine, along with the hydration and energy snacks you’ll need to hit the happy trails.
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Trek Bicycle Lamar
With ample trails and roads with generous bike lanes, Austin is home to many serious bicyclists, and this homegrown shop has been outfitting them for more than three decades. Seasoned athletes use Trek as a resource. Not only is the store stocked with clothing and accessories from brands like Pearl, Bontranger, and Endura, it also hosts mountain, road, cyclo-cross, and triathlon clubs so that bicyclists can ride with others in the community. Newer riders will find a helpful staff of bike pros, who are ready and willing to answer questions about their wide selection of bicycles.
Whole Earth Provision Co.
Get yourself outfitted for your sun- and fun-filled Austin adventures, whether its paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake or running the greenbelt trails, at this beloved local sporting goods, clothing, shoes, and overall outdoor preparedness store. The local branch of a Texas chain, it carries a lot of the same things you'd find at any REI—backpacks, sun hats, running shoes, rugged clothing—but it's much more entertaining. Jazz is on the speakers, the front space is filled with kids' toys (and a few for adults), and there's a good variety of books, gifts, and gadgets for all ages. The staff is laid-back, friendly, and ever-willing to help.
