Shopping near the University of Texas
If you are looking for shopping options in the Austin area, there are lots of possibilities. There are more than 300 retailers in the Downtown Austin area alone.
To find shops in the city of Austin, check out South Congress Avenue in Austin, or "SoCo" as it is called, which contains a variety of hip and quirky stores. There are a number of art stores, including the Yard Dog Folk Art, toy stores such as Terra Toys, and both new and resale clothing shops. Make a day of it in this area and consider lunch at one of the area's cafes. You may also be interested in The 2nd Street District, a planned retail district located near the Austin City Hall, which caters towards pedestrians who wander through sidewalks lined with trees to shop at a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainments.
If you enjoy outlet or mall shopping, head outside of Austin to The Prime Outlets in San Marcos. This is popular Texas tourist destination featuring 140 designer and brand names store with merchandise available at steep discounts. The Prime Outlets are located about half an hour outside of Austin. The Highland Mall, located in Austin on Airport Blvd, is another excellent choice and contains a wide selection of unique stores along with some classic favorites and a wide selection of eateries in its food court.
Located just off the University of Texas Austin campus, the University Co-Op sells more used textbooks than any other store and is one of the most profitable independent bookstores in the country. In addition to books and school supplies, you'll find a wide selection of University of Texas gear.
If you are looking to buy groceries in a unique atmosphere, try the Wheatsville Co-Op. In addition to a grocery store, the Co-Op also boasts a deli, complete with soups, salads, sandwiches and smoothies, a coffee bar, housewares, a beer and wine selection, and a bath and body section.