4 Best Shopping in Downtown/Theater District, Houston and Galveston

A one-stop culture shop, this arts complex features the top-tier Barbara Davis, Joan Wich, Wade Wilson, and Anya Tish galleries, as well as the smart Peel Gallery Shop and the intimate and tasty T'art Café.

This massive four-block shopping, entertainment, and office complex spans Main St. to Caroline St. between Dallas and Polk. Stores include House of Blues, Lucky Strike Bowling Lanes, McCormick and Schmick's, Marble Slab (ice cream, similar to Cold Stone Creamery), and more.

Just west of Rice University, this pedestrian-friendly shopping district is a pleasant, laid-back place to stroll, with an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and galleries. This is where you'll find a jam-packed five-and-ten store around the corner from yet another Urban Outfitters, plus mainstream national retailers like The Gap, Express, and of course, Starbucks (there are two here). College students abound (you'll bump into quite a few Rice Owls at Two Rows Restaurant and Brewery and Jason's Deli).

A few blocks away, are a collection of downtown stores; many are junky, but there are a few good ones—plus a completely re-done food court.