Shopping in San Antonio

There’s no question that San Antonio lays claim to the best shopping in South Texas; The reason? Variety! Some will argue that this city is second only to the fashion capitals of New York City and Los Angeles. Entertainment, great food, and fabulous stores are everywhere—if you know where to find them. Take a few tips from the regulars to the San Antonio scene and don’t miss these hot spots.

Rivercenter Mall




Just around the corner from the Alamo, Rivercenter Mall is a giant mecca for fashionistas on the hunt for great upscale shopping. Over 125 shops and restaurants are sure to keep any afternoon occupied. Staple stores include Dillard’s, Foley’s, Gap, Victoria’s Secret, and Foot Locker. Or for something more original, the collection of boutiques and smaller shops offer original glamour. Once the shopping bug is scratched, other attractions include the Rivercenter comedy club, Cyber Zone video arcade, Imax theater (be sure to check out the Alamo film before you see the real site), and daily musical performances at the Rivercenter lagoon, the spectacular inlet that led some to call this the “most beautiful mall in the world.”

Locals arrive by river barge for the ultimate experience! Architectural geniuses took advantage of the Riverwalk by creating the “lagoon,” a contained segment of water that plays host to music events, tour boats, and barges to taxi shoppers to and from stops. If however you arrive by car, the first few hours in the mall parking garage are complimentary. Take note that teenagers arrive in throngs on Friday and Saturday nights.

Location:
849 E Commerce St
San Antonio, TX 78205-3910
Phone: (210) 225-0000

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 12pm-6pm

Artisans' Alley

Looking for home décor that breaks the mold? Artisans’ Aley boasts over 15 specialty stores for inside or out. Shop country chic at Plain Jane’s, admire hand painted gourds at Wilds and Wovens, pick up a tea set and Victorian goods at The English Ivy, or stop by Back Alley Antiques for a vintage piece of the past. The highlight of dining at the Alley is Apple Annie’s Tea Room and Bakery where home-style cooking is always on the menu.

Here’s an interesting tip. The buildings at the Alley have been transformed to shops from what was once a turn-of-the-century dairy farm owned by Baron George Von Tomasini. It may be especially appropriate then that Artisans’ Alley has been nominated for Best Homegrown Goods.

But it’s not just about the shopping. Other opportunities include cooking classes offered at Katie’s Kitchen, needlepoint coaching from And Sew On, and quilting for beginners at Plain Jane’s.

Location:
555 W Bitters Rd
San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: (210) 342-9538
Cross Street: Blanco and Hwy 281 N
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12pm-6pm

Frayed

San Antonians with a passion for fashion flock to Frayed. After working in Los Angeles as a fashion consultant to celebrities, designer Kimberly Ducate opened the fashion forward boutique in the heart of San Antonio. Kimberly caters to trendsetters with an eye for the latest styles while keeping her prices within reach of all customers. Her labels include Miss Sixty, LTB Denim, Parasuco, and many others most may not have even heard of.

Location:
434 N Loop 1604 W #1103
San Antonio, TX 78232
Phone: (210) 499-0799
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-7pm

Nelda's Vintage Clothing

Vintage clothing is one of the hottest trends on the street right now, making Nelda’s a great find for pre-owned designer threads. Choose from a selection of labels for dresses, pants, suites, and shirts reminiscent of the 1940’s. Then accessorize with jewelry and sunglasses to match. Everything here can be had for thrift store prices. Nelda’s is possibly the oldest and largest when it comes to vintage clothing stores in South Texas.

Location:
1621 N. Main #3
San Antonio, TX 78212
Phone: (210) 271-7111
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-6pm

Article by Lauren V.