Christmas is in four days, y’all. If you want to live dangerously – you can try doing your last minute shopping online and cross your fingers that it gets shipped to you in time OR you can go to the mall and get something completely lackluster, but why risk it?
You can pick up unique gifts right here in downtown without biting your nails about when it will arrive. One of the many benefits of shopping local.
But, you say, I don’t have the time to visit a lot of unfamiliar stores, look through all their wares, and make a decision. Never you fear – DAB is here! I’ve done a little of the heavy lifting for you, and below provided you a curated list of some cool shops and some cool stuff they’ve got so you can run in, get a special gift, and run out.
REMEMBER – Check the websites for the store hours! If you are unsure about something, probably also a good idea to call ahead!
My list, of course, is not exhaustive – if you know of a cool downtown / downtown-adjacent shop – feel free to tell us in the comments below!
Rocket Electrics – 1608 East Riverside
If you are looking for a very special gift on the larger side of the gift giving spectrum, I would HIGHLY recommend looking through Rocket Electrics’ large inventory of electric bikes. Electric bikes are GREAT for folks who live in or around downtown, too.
They just started carrying a line called Easy Motion – super light, and very even weight distribution. Prices for these bikes range from ~$2700 to ~$4000.
Rocket Electrics also does tours and rentals, and has gift cards, if you are looking for something a little smaller. Just visit the store or give ’em a call at 512-442-2453.
Hiatus Spa – 1611 W. 5th St.
I love the pedicures at Hiatus Spa – and I bet your lady-friend will, too. You can pop in to the spa, buy a gift card from one of the friendly staff, and know that you’ve just given a slice of heaven to your special someone. Hiatus also has a retail component; they carry Aveda products and other natural product lines – perfect for stocking stuffers.
Milk & Honey at 100 Guadalupe is also an excellent spa, offering great services and product lines, as well.
Austin Rocks – 301 W. 2nd St.
Located just across the street from ACL, Austin Rocks is a great place to get some very cool, very unique music fashion items – apparel and gifts for all ages. They have clothing, they have jewelry, they have home decor / housewares – all with a music spin.
Take a look inside to get a feel for the type of stuff they offer, courtesy of Google (these images may not reflect current inventory).
Austin Rocks also has a sister store on E. 6th, Wild About Music.
Luxe Apothetique – 201 W. 2nd St.
All manner of gifts here – mostly for the ladies. Prices are fairly reasonable, as well.
Tears of Joy – 618 E. 6th St.
Buy some of the most original stocking stuffers you can imagine here. They’ve got a large assortment of hot sauces of all heat levels, but they also have salsas, BBQ sauces, marinades, and many, many more culinary delights!
Take a look inside this little piece of culinary heaven.
Tekgnar Skate Shop – 305 MLK
Do you have a teenage boy or girl on your to-buy-for list? If they are at all into the skate scene, this is a great downtown Austin shop to check out.
Kruger’s Diamond Jewelers – 722 Congress Ave.
Jewelry is a timeless gift. Jude bought my wedding ring here, and I can honestly say the service and knowledge of the staff is exceptional. If you are looking for a gemstone or maybe a nice watch – be sure to visit Kruger’s.
Consuela – 910 Congress Ave.
Fun, funky, cool. For the fashionista in your family looking for something that not everyone else is wearing.
The Story of Texas Museum Store – 1800 Congress Ave.
Shopping for a history buff? Or maybe for the person who seems to have everything? You will find items here that aren’t your everyday gifts. Sure to be special, and every gift comes with a story.
