Shopping in Houston, Texas

Houston shopping sprees might be hard to avoid once you realize just how incredible the opportunities are. From Houston shopping malls to specialty boutiques to nationally recognized department stores, shopping in Houston is world class. A flood of independent shops and stores means that its easy to pick up unique and rare items, too, which can be very appealing to the discerning shopper.

Though the city’s shopping malls can be a convenient avenue to some hardcore retail therapy, don’t forget to explore the historic districts and downtown Houston for the more curious antiques, artwork, trinkets, and souvenirs. Rice Village is just the place to find those one-of-a-kind items. Situated beside the Museum District, where the best city museums are located, Rice Village features some of the best stores in Houston. It is a treasured historic area and an exceptionally popular shopping spot. Rice Village is home to nonpareil boutiques as well as anchor stores such as Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, and the Gap. It also features great nightlife and an array of dining choices, all near downtown Houston.

A Houston shopping trip to the Galleria means hitting up the largest mall in the city. No other Houston shopping malls compare in scope and size to the Galleria. Upscale shopping is available at heavy hitters including Christian Dior, Gucci, Fendi, Versace, and Armani, set against a backdrop including a huge selection of dining, an ice rink, and two major Galleria hotels. Stores—some of the best stores in Houston—include Nordstrom, Macy’s, Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, and Kenneth Cole. The Houston shopping experience at the Galleria is topped off with sunlit atrium, literally brightening up the entire affair.

Aside from the outstanding Galleria, there are many more Houston shopping malls to choose between. River Oaks Mall in the exclusive River Oaks neighborhood offers shops like Talbots and Chico’s, resale outlets, and art depots where visitors can paint pottery onsite and take it home. River Oaks is also laden with restaurants, making it easy to take a break and have a meal while enjoying a pleasant Houston shopping trip.

Houston Highland Village is the place to go when looking for retail giants like Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrell, and Restoration Hardware. The area fits the dual purpose of dining and shopping. There are salons and day spas, clothing stores, furniture shops, and jewelry stores. Lined by towering palm trees and otherwise beautiful, Highland Village provides many things to do.

Katy Mills is another prime Houston shopping center roughly twenty miles west of the city. It is worth the trip, offering some of the best stores in Houston along with other attractions, Katy Mills is an all-day affair. Visitors will find top shops including Anne Klein, Bass Pro Shops, Neiman Marcus, and Frederick’s of Hollywood, completing the list of more than 200 stores. There are also low-price retailers, specialty shops, and plenty of special theme restaurants. The modern and massive movie theater featuring twenty screens, along with other family entertainment options makes Katy Mills better than many Houston shopping malls.

Whether you’re seeking the best stores in Houston or simply want to have fun browsing and exploring, there are plenty of areas close to hotels, both airports, and Baytown that each offer their own unique appeal. Add in the Conroe Outlet Center, Downtown Houston Tunnels, and the Centre at Post Oak, and you’ve got a mix for one of the most ideal shopping tours ever.