Answer to “What are the best shops on South Congress?”

South Congress, or SoCo as the locals call it, is a vibrant street located in the hip 78704 district of Austin, Texas. Located just north of Barton Springs Road, it is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and music venues. SoCo is one of the most iconic streets in Texas and some of the best shopping in the entire city can be found along its stretch. With so many businesses popping up all the time, it can be difficult to keep track of which ones are actually worth a visit. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best shops on South Congress and present tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Upper Outpost

First up on our list is Upper Outpost. This shop is known for its high-quality collection of vintage apparel and accessories, along with both local and national brands. Upper Outpost specifically curates its selection based on comfort and quality, and offers a wide range of designer menswear and women’s wear. They have so many fashionable pieces to choose from and they’ve been featured in a number of magazines and blogs. Upper Outpost also has a brick-and-mortar store at 1720 South Congress Ave.

Room Service Vintage

Another great shop on South Congress is Room Service Vintage. The shop specializes in designer vintage apparel, accessories, and jewelry. It’s run by a husband-and-wife team and many of their items are authenticated by the experts at 1stdibs. Room Service always has new items in stock, so there’s something for everyone here. The shop also features special vintage collections from around the world.

Parts & Labour

For something a little different, check out Parts & Labour. This shop is all about handmade home goods, accessories and furniture made primarily from reclaimed materials. Parts & Labour sources most of its materials from friends, family and local suppliers who share their commitment to originality and quality construction. If you’re looking for something unique, this is the place to go. Parts & Labour is located at 1700 South Congress Ave.

ByGeorge

ByGeorge is one of the most well-known shops on South Congress. This upscale boutique carries several top designer labels, including Marc Jacobs, Mary Katrantzou, Azzedine Alaïa and Robert Geller. ByGeorge also stocks pieces from top local designers like Magnolia Pearl and Olivia Divine. It’s one of the best spots in Austin to find designer fashion items and they also carry men’s and children’s clothing, along with accessories and homeware. You can find ByGeorge at 1412 South Congress Ave.

South Congress Books

Rounding out our list is South Congress Books. This is a small shop that specializes in rare books; many of which are difficult to impossible to find anywhere else in Austin. South Congress Books also offers a great selection of antiques, curiosities, comic books and other collectibles. The shop is located at 1511 South Congress Ave.

Overall, there are many great shops on South Congress in Austin. From vintage apparel to rare books, there is something for everyone here. With new shops popping up all the time and old favorites staying around for years, South Congress is truly one of the most iconic shopping locations in the city. Plan ahead and make sure to check out these top spots listed above—you won’t be disappointed!

Austin Visitor Center has a great directory of South Congress shops which you might find helpful when planning your trip.

The Insider’s Guide to the Best Shops on South Congress in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is a unique blend of Southern hospitality, live music, and trendy shops and eateries. South Congress, known as SoCo by locals, is a prime destination for visitors looking to experience the eclectic and vibrant culture of Austin. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best shops on South Congress, along with some local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for an unforgettable visit.

Local Attractions

South Congress boasts several local attractions for tourists to enjoy. The most popular attraction is the iconic Austin Motel. This retro motel has hosted many famous musicians and continues to be a favorite location for photo opportunities. Another attraction is the South Congress Bat Bridge, where visitors can watch the largest urban bat colony in North America emerge from beneath the bridge at dusk.

For those seeking a walk-through Texas history, The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum is an excellent option. It showcases the state’s rich history and culture. There’s also the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a gorgeous botanical garden with over 900 species of native Texas plants.

Dining Spots

Austin is famous for its unique and diverse dining options. South Congress has a range of restaurants that cater to every taste bud. For a classic Texan breakfast, head to Magnolia Cafe, a 24-hour diner-style restaurant serving breakfast favorites like migas and pancakes.

South Congress also has unique eateries like Güero’s Taco Bar, specializing in tacos and margaritas. You will also find Home Slice Pizza, serving up the perfect New York-style pizza, and Hopdoddy Burger Bar, where you can indulge in decadent burgers and milkshakes.

Cultural Experiences

The cultural experiences that South Congress offers are like nowhere else. One of the most iconic cultural experiences is catching a live music show at the Continental Club. This legendary music venue has been bringing in some of the best local and national bands for over 60 years.

Another cultural experience is visiting the Mexic-Arte Museum, which showcases Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during March, you can’t miss South by Southwest, also known as SXSW, a music, film, and interactive festival that transforms the city into a party.

Local History

South Congress has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. The avenue was once a popular shopping destination in the mid-20th century but fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, efforts from locals helped in the revitalization of the South Congress district, leading to today’s trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Among the historic buildings that still stand is the iconic Jo’s Coffee, which is home to the famous “I love you so much” mural. Another historical spot is the South Congress Books, which has been serving the community since 1978.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking for something less traditional, venture off the main street to explore the lesser-known spots of South Congress. Big Top Candy is an old-fashioned candy store that brings back memories of childhood with quirky displays and unusual sweets.

A few blocks from South Congress Avenue is the South First Street neighborhood, also known as SoFi, which is filled with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and vintage stores. Another hidden gem is the South Austin Trailer Park and Eatery, where you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks while soaking in the cool, laid-back atmosphere.

In conclusion, South Congress has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or trendy shops and eateries, this avenue has got you covered. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure during your visit to Austin, Texas.