If you’re a Houston local, your weekends might start to blend together because you’re stuck doing the same old thing (and visiting the same places over and over again).
If you’re a tourist here for a quick visit, you may want to squeeze some shopping into your travel itinerary.
If you recently moved to Houston, you may not know how to spend your first days—or weeks—in the Space City (or what some call the “Bayou City” or “H-Town”).
Houston is a big area, so there’s no shortage of activities. Shopping is usually a good option for a Saturday of family fun, but you want to know: Is there a shopping complex that offers all the stores my family likes – all in one central place?
Luckily, with a few suggestions, you can find the perfect shopping district for everyone you’re with!
1. CityCentre: The Most Family-Friendly Shopping District
CityCentre is a massive shopping center located in the Memorial City District that combines retail shops, plenty of dining options, and entertainment for the whole family in one location. There’s even free parking available at all three of their parking garages.
This mixed-use retail space is a good option for any price range. Here, you’ll find a mix of local businesses and boutiques, along with some well-known favorites like Sephora and Urban Outfitters.
If you’re a big foodie like I am, CityCentre has over 20 places to enjoy a meal, sweet treat, or drink. There’s something for even the pickiest of eaters!
Stop by Grimaldi’s Pizzeria for a couple of brick-oven pizzas, grab a burrito at Chipotle, or if you’re looking for something more upscale, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood has some delicious fish options. If you’re craving something sweet afterward, I highly recommend stopping at Sweet for a slice of cake or some macaroons.
Entertainment is a big part of the CityCentre experience, with movies at Star Cinema Grill, bowling at Bowl & Barrel, and escape rooms at The Escape Game. You can also find the following:
- Nail spa and regular spa
- Rejuvenation center
- Fitness classes
- A clay studio
At CityCentre, you’re bound to find something for the kids and adults in your group!
2. Houston Premium Outlets: Best for Bargain Shopping
The Houston Premium Outlets are a bargain hunter’s dream that features a mix of over 140 designer and brand-name stores. Located in northwest Houston, this shopping center offers significant savings on a variety of products. Sometimes you’ll find deals up to 80% off!
From luxury labels like Burberry and Versace to familiar brands like Forever 21 and Bath & Body Works, there’s something for everyone. Near the outlets, you’ll also find plenty of sit-down restaurants like Longhorn Steakhouse, fast food like Charley’s Grilled Subs, and places for refreshing drinks like Tea Bear Teahouse.
Families will also appreciate the Texas-themed children’s play area, which offers a much-needed playtime break for parents and kids alike!
3. River Oaks District: Most Designer Labels
If you’re on the hunt for more designer stores than big box clothing stores, the River Oaks District is for you!
Nestled in west Houston, this shopping center is a haven for luxury shoppers. Its selection includes over 60 high-end brands, including iconic names like Dior and Cartier. You’ll even find Bella Rinova Salon with a rich menu of hair, nail, and skin services, along with an Equinox location. With a membership, you can take a fitness class or book a spa treatment, perfect for those shoppers treating themselves to a day of self-care.
River Oaks District is where elegance meets style and this applies to both the stores and dining options. Beyond shopping, this shopping district offers more than 10 delicious eateries, including a gelato place for those with a sweet tooth like me.
From mouth-watering steaks and seafood at Steak 48 to the Vietnamese flavors at Le Colonial, River Oaks offers a variety of fine dining experiences. This beautiful district is all about indulging in the more luxurious things in life.
4. The Galleria
The Galleria is worth checking out, as it has over 400 stores! Whether you’re in the mood to window shop or indulge in a full-blown retail therapy session, The Galleria has a broad spectrum of stores ranging from favorites like Gap to high-end options like Chanel.
Here at The Galleria, it’s not just about the quantity but the quality of the shopping options. Whether you’re shopping for a high-fashion look or some new home decor, this shopping district will check your boxes.
Shopping is just one part of the experience. There are more than 40 dining options, including fast food like Burger King and Subway, as well as sit-down restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory (one of my favorites) and White Oak Kitchen + Drinks.
There are even more high-end options like 51fifteen Cuisine & Cocktails, which offers delicious seafood and meat options, or Musaafer, which serves up authentic Indian food.
If you’re looking for entertainment in addition to shopping, The Galleria sets itself apart from other shopping districts with ice skating, escape rooms, and The Museum of Illusions. With a mix of delicious food, shopping, and fun activities, everyone (including the kids) is sure to enjoy a visit to The Galleria.
5. Highland Village
Highland Village has been a part of the Houston community since 1957, and it continues to attract tourists with its dining options and blend of both upscale and well-known stores.
Situated in western Houston, Highland Village is home to popular stores like Lush to Pottery Barn, providing a mix of fashion, home decor, self-care, and more. Here, you’ll also have a selection of four restaurants, a cafe, a Starbucks, a cupcake bakery, and a hair salon (if you’re looking for a new style).
A highlight of Highland Village is its annual holiday lighting event. During the holiday season, this shopping village transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland and attracts visitors from all over the city. I highly recommend checking it out!
6. Rice Village
Rice Village offers the perfect mix of boutique shops and dining options and is conveniently located right next to Rice University. Here, visitors can find high-end furniture at West Elm, athleisure wear at Athleta, and beauty essentials at the Clique Salon.
When it comes to dining, Rice Village offers a couple of different options. Whether you’re craving Israeli food at Hamsa, seafood at Navy Blue, or a big sandwich from Mendocino Farms, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for more than shopping, Rice Village also hosts farmers markets on the first and third Sundays of every month. I try to visit these markets every chance I get, as everything is unbelievably fresh.
7. Montrose Collective
Houston’s Montrose Collective is a haven of one-of-a-kind boutique stores.
This shopping district will also keep you well-fed. Grab some handmade pasta at Marmo or talk with friends over cocktails and appetizers at Sophie Cocktail & Terrace Bar. Whichever food route you take, you’re sure to be wowed.
If you’re in for more than just a day of shopping, check out Montrose Colelctive’s
- Salon
- Fitness classes
- Multiple skin spas
- Cosmetic medicine clinic
8. Historic 19th Street in The Heights
Historic 19th Street in The Heights features a unique mix of boutiques, gift stores, and antique shops. It’s home to a variety of local businesses and a rich history, dating all the way back to 1890!
Shop for a new wardrobe at Emerson Rose, home decor at Eclectic Home, get a haircut at the vibrant Venus Hair salon, or visit the Heights Theater for some live music!
Food options range from traditional American options like burgers and sandwiches at Shandy’s to modern twisted tacos at Torchy’s Tacos. And don’t forget about dessert! Be sure to enjoy some ice cream at the Fat Cat Creamery or a coffee and pastry at Boomtown Coffee.
If you’re visiting on the first weekend of the month, I recommend checking out the arts market! From September through May, 19th Street hosts a local art market on the first Saturday of the month. Over 30 artists gather here to showcase and sell their artwork, ranging from handmade jewelry to paintings.
Keep in mind that the designated parking lot for this street can fill up easily but there are other parking options like street parking and various other nearby lots.
9. Uptown Park
Uptown Park, known for its picturesque European ambiance, features a variety of upscale boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, making it a go-to spot for window shopping or patio brunch. This open-air luxury shopper and foodie paradise also features multiple spas and salons where you can get treatments like facials, blow-outs, and even tanning sessions.
As far as restaurant options go, treat yourself to some authentic Italian food at Lombardi Cucina Italiano. For a more laid-back (and quicker) lunch option, stop in for a salad or bowl at Sweetgreen.
But even if you aren’t looking for a meal or some retail therapy, this shopping district is extremely pedestrian-friendly, making it a beautiful place to just stroll around and chat.
Final Thoughts
With Houston covering 665 square miles, you’ll need to choose your shopping districts wisely, as there are well over 100 to choose from.
After you’re done shopping, you may need somewhere to put your older belongings that you can’t part with just yet. If you’re new to the area (or thinking about relocating permanently), Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, can help you find affordable self-storage options right in your Houston neighborhood. Prices are up to 50% cheaper than traditional storage options, and you’ll find choices in all 50 states!
Frequently Asked Question
What Is Houston’s Biggest Mall?
The Galleria is Houston’s biggest mall and is actually the biggest mall in the state of Texas! Without over 400 stores, you’ll be able to shop for hours!
