Need a break from the city but still want to shop ‘til you drop? A weekend shopping road trip near Houston is the perfect blend of retail therapy and scenic escape. Whether you’re hunting for antiques, unique artisan goods, designer brands, or quirky treasures, these charming Texas towns and shopping hubs offer plenty of places to browse, buy, and brunch.
From small-town squares lined with vintage boutiques to sprawling outlet malls with name-brand steals, these destinations are ideal for couples, friends, or solo adventurers craving both style and relaxation. This guide features seven of the best shopping getaways within a few hours of Houston—plus recommendations on where to eat, stay, and stock up along the way.
Overview of Shopping Getaways Near Houston
Houston’s location makes it an ideal launching point for weekend retail excursions across Texas. Head east for charming antique towns, west for curated boutiques, or north and south for outlet deals and historic markets. These road trip spots offer more than just shopping—they’re full-on experiences, with great food, walkable downtowns, and cozy places to stay the night.
Many of these destinations host seasonal markets, artisan fairs, and antique festivals, making them perfect for planning a trip around unique events. Whether you’re redecorating your home, revamping your wardrobe, or simply looking for a new place to explore, these towns make shopping fun, memorable, and beautifully Texan.
Best Shopping Road Trip Destinations Near Houston
1. Round Top
Round Top is a dream destination for antique lovers and vintage treasure hunters. Though best known for its biannual Round Top Antiques Fair, the town also offers year-round shopping at places like The Compound, Henkel Square Market, and Junk Gypsy World HQ. The atmosphere is equal parts bohemian, country, and upscale Texas charm.
Address: Round Top, TX 78954
Hours: Shops open daily; Antiques Fair held spring & fall
Approx Cost: Free to explore; items vary from $5 to $5,000+
Famous For: One of the largest antique shows in the U.S. and unique vintage shopping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Avoid peak crowds by visiting mid-week or booking lodging well in advance during show season.
2. The Woodlands Market Street
The Woodlands offers a modern, upscale shopping experience just 45 minutes from downtown Houston. Market Street is a pedestrian-friendly outdoor retail hub with high-end stores like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Madewell, plus a weekend farmers market and frequent live music events.
Address: 9595 Six Pines Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: Free entry; shopping varies
Famous For: Luxury shopping in a scenic, walkable town center
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Dine al fresco at one of the plaza restaurants and catch a live show or performance in Central Park.
3. Brenham
This artsy town blends boutique shopping with Texas hospitality. Brenham’s downtown district is full of independent shops, home décor stores, and clothing boutiques. Look for antiques at Leftovers Antiques or artisan goods at Hermann Furniture, Texas’s oldest furniture store.
Address: Brenham, TX 77833
Hours: Most shops open Mon–Sat, 10 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Free to explore; items $10–$200+
Famous For: Eclectic home décor and historic downtown shopping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Don’t miss a visit to Blue Bell Creamery for a scoop between shopping stops.
4. Katy Mills Mall
If you’re craving deals and discounts, Katy Mills delivers with over 175 stores in a climate-controlled outlet mall. You’ll find brands like Nike, Michael Kors, and Coach, plus a carousel, food court, and movie theater for added entertainment.
Address: 5000 Katy Mills Cir, Katy, TX 77494
Hours: Mon–Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Sun 11 AM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: Free entry; outlet pricing on major brands
Famous For: Indoor outlet shopping near Houston with a family-friendly vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go early to avoid parking hassle and hit the biggest discounts before sizes are gone.
5. Old Town Spring
Step back in time at this charming 19th-century town north of Houston, home to over 100 shops housed in historic buildings. Expect handmade soaps, boutique fashions, antiques, and holiday-themed stores. It’s quaint, festive, and full of local flavor.
Address: 403 Main St, Spring, TX 77373
Hours: Tue–Sun, 10 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Free to explore; items $5–$100+
Famous For: Historic village shopping with seasonal charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit during spring or fall festivals when the town is lively and decorated.
6. La Grange
La Grange combines Hill Country views with an artsy vibe. Explore boutiques, jewelry shops, galleries, and unique finds downtown. Round off the day with a visit to the Texas Quilt Museum or nearby wineries for a full weekend experience.
Address: La Grange, TX 78945
Hours: Daily; hours vary by shop
Approx Cost: Free to explore; boutique pricing
Famous For: Quaint shops, creative local goods, and relaxed Hill Country charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop by Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe for gourmet kitchen finds and treats.
7. Baybrook Mall & Almeda Antique District
South of Houston, Baybrook Mall offers major brands, dining, and entertainment, while nearby Almeda boasts quirky thrift and antique stores. Make a day of browsing from fast fashion to forgotten gems.
Address: 500 Baybrook Mall Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546
Hours: Mon–Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Sun 11 AM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: Free entry; shopping varies
Famous For: Blending modern mall shopping with vintage hunting
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit Almeda early for better antique selection before it’s picked through.
Food Spots to Refuel After Retail Therapy
1. Truth BBQ – Brenham
This Central Texas-style BBQ joint is a perfect post-shopping stop. Expect thick-cut brisket, jalapeño cheese sausage, and Instagram-worthy sides.
Address: 2990 US-290, Brenham, TX 77833
Hours: Thu–Sun, 11 AM until sold out
Approx Cost: $15–$35
Famous For: Authentic Texas BBQ and house-made sides
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Get there early—meats often sell out fast.
2. The Black Walnut Café – The Woodlands
A cozy, upscale-casual spot just steps from Market Street shopping. Their diverse menu spans salads, pasta, and signature breakfast plates.
Address: 9000 New Trails Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$25
Famous For: All-day breakfast and creative sandwiches
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the lemon pancakes or brisket hash—they’re local favorites.
3. Main Street Bistro – Round Top
This intimate café offers fine coffee, fresh pastries, and small plates—perfect after a day of antiques and art shopping.
Address: 203 E Austin St, Round Top, TX 78954
Hours: Fri–Sun, 8 AM – 2 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$20
Famous For: Artisan coffee, baked goods, and seasonal brunch
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early to grab a patio seat under the oaks.
Comfortable Accommodations for a Shopping Weekend
1. Ant Street Inn – Brenham
Historic, elegant, and centrally located. This boutique inn is perfect for a quiet night after a day of exploring.
Address: 107 W Commerce St, Brenham, TX 77833
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $120–$180
Famous For: Victorian elegance with walkable access to shops
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Rooms book fast during antiques season—reserve early.
2. The Woodlands Resort – The Woodlands
A luxury resort surrounded by forest trails, pools, and golf courses—just minutes from Market Street shopping.
Address: 2301 N Millbend Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
Hours: Check-in 4 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $200–$300
Famous For: Upscale resort amenities near high-end shops
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Use the resort shuttle to explore the area without driving.
3. The Vintage Round Top – Round Top
A stylish, design-forward guest house that embodies rustic-chic luxury and thoughtful touches throughout.
Address: 1455 N Hwy 237, Round Top, TX 78954
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $250–$400
Famous For: Designer interiors and creative inspiration
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for girls’ weekends—book multiple suites for a shared retreat.
Packing Tips for a Shopping Road Trip
- Reusable shopping totes or foldable duffels
- Credit/debit cards and cash for boutique shops
- Phone charger and car charger
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for outdoor districts
- Small notebook for gift ideas or vendor info
- Collapsible cooler for perishables or wine purchases
- Water bottle and light snacks
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Packing tape or boxes for fragile finds
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
- Visit Round Top during its spring/fall antiques fair for the best finds
- Holiday markets in Old Town Spring and Brenham are magical in winter
- Weekdays often offer quieter shopping and more attentive service
- Use Yelp and Google Maps reviews to find hidden gem boutiques
- Don’t be afraid to haggle at flea markets or antique shows
- Book lodging early for festival weekends
- Check town calendars for live music, art shows, or pop-up sales
- Combine your trip with nearby wineries or food trails
- Many shops close early Sunday—plan accordingly
- Ask locals where they shop—they often know the best-kept secrets
Final Conclusion
Weekend shopping road trips from Houston offer more than just bags of new stuff—they deliver memories, inspiration, and meaningful finds. From antique barns in Round Top to upscale boutiques in The Woodlands, each destination has a unique flavor and a story to tell through its shops.
Whether you’re gathering treasures for your home, wardrobe, or holiday gift list, Texas towns welcome you with charm, character, and creativity. So grab your wallet, call a friend (or fly solo), and head out for a shopping weekend where the journey is just as delightful as the buys.
