Shopping in Houston: 10 Spots You Shouldn't Miss

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at sschlichter@smartertravel.com.

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There’s no shortage of great shopping in Houston, from the largest mall in Texas to local boutiques and art galleries. The following Houston shopping guide will help you make the most of your visit.

The Galleria

You haven’t truly experienced the Houston shopping scene without a stop at The Galleria, which is visited by more than 30 million people each year. It’s the state’s biggest mall with hundreds of stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue, GAP, Gucci, and Lucky Brand Jeans. In addition to shopping and dining, there’s also an indoor ice skating rink (open year-round), plus two swimming pools, multiple beauty salons, and a children’s play area. It’s all too easy to spend your whole day here.

Uptown Park

Near the Galleria at the European-style Uptown Park, find exclusive retailers such as Ann Taylor LOFT, Bill Walker Clothier, Elizabeth Anthony, and the Longoria Collection. There are also several restaurants here.

Memorial City Mall

Another popular Houston shopping center is Memorial City Mall, located a few miles west of the city. The city’s only American Girl store is a big draw, but there are dozens of other shops including TUMI, Old Navy, Macy’s, and the Disney Store.

River Oaks District

For some of the most upscale shopping in Houston, head to the River Oaks District. You can find designer clothes and shoes, fine jewelry, and high-end specialty items such as crystal and cigars.

River Oaks Shopping Center

Not to be confused with the River Oaks District (it’s about three miles away), the River Oaks Shopping Center dates back to the 1930s, and is one of the oldest shopping centers in the country. It’s home to an art deco movie theater as well as dozens of shops such as J. Jill, GAP, Barnes & Noble, and Chico’s.

Rice Village

Just a couple of blocks from the Rice University campus, Rice Village has more than 300 stores for browsing. The mix of national chains (like Chico’s and Urban Outfitters) and local boutiques makes this a fun and eclectic place to hunt for clothing, housewares, jewelry, and gifts.

Sawyer Yards

If paintings, pottery, or other unique works of art are on your must-buy list, head to Sawyer Yards. This creative hub houses hundreds of local artists who open their studios to visitors during special events year-round, such as Second Saturday each month and biannual art shows in the spring and fall.

Lucchese

There’s no Texas souvenir like a pair of cowboy boots, and the best place to find them is the flagship store of Lucchese Bootmaker, located near the River Oaks District. Alongside boots the store sells apparel, accessories, and Texas-themed home goods.

Katy Mills

Bargain hunters should head out of town to the outlets of Katy Mills, about 25 miles west of Houston. Retailers here include Calvin Klein, Banana Republic, Adidas, and many more.

Houston Premium Outlets

Can’t get enough outlet shopping? Houston Premium Outlets is another shopping center that’s worth the trip (it’s located in Cypress, about 30 minutes northwest of Houston). Fill your shopping bags with discounted offerings from brands like Hugo Boss, Armani, DKNY, and J.Crew.

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Sarah Schlichter was hosted by Marriott and Visit Houston. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. June Naylor contributed to this story.

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