Your Guide to San Antonio Shopping

San Antonio shopping is world-class, with top retailers and coveted brands stretching from The Shops at La Cantera, to North Star Mall, Pearl and The Shops at Rivercenter.

In this guide, however, we’re focusing on shopping local for the holidays and finding those unique, hand-crafted gifts you can’t get anywhere else.

November 30 is Small Business Saturday. Support our local community by checking out these amazing local shopping spots.

La Villita Historic Arts Village

For the art lover on your shopping list, head to La Villita Historic Arts Village. This little village is San Antonio’s oldest neighborhood.

Today, local artists have taken up residence to showcase paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more in quaint and charming galleries.

Take Yolix Luna Fine Art for example, where you can find one-of-a-kind art pieces by Mexican artist Yolix Luna herself. You can also create your own scented paradise at Scentchips.

Also located at La Villita, pay a visit to Capistrano Soap Company. This local apothecary crafts handmade soaps, skincare, and grooming products right here in San Antonio using heirloom recipes.

Painted Tree Boutiques

Painted Tree Boutiques is home to hundreds of local shops! Discover an eclectic mix of fashion, home décor, gifts, and specialty items—all crafted by small businesses with one-of-a-kind products.

Garcia Art Glass

Ready to turn up the heat on your holiday shopping? Garcia Art Glass is San Antonio’s first hot glass studio.

Here, you can browse a gallery of hand-blown glass sculptures, watch a demonstration in action, and even commission your own custom piece for a one-of-a-kind gift.

Historic Market Square

If you’re looking for a gift that screams “puro,” look no further than Historic Market Square. Here, you will find the largest Mexican market in the United States.

The “El Mercado” and the “Farmer’s Market Plaza” boast over 100 locally owned shops and stalls that import pottery, curios, and art directly from Mexico.

Here are just a few of the shops waiting for you at Historic Market Square:

• Plaza Taxco
• House of Mexico Imports
• La Morenita Imports
• Little Mexico Imports
• Lorenza’s
• Old Mexico Imports
• Unlimited Handicrafts

Canela Vintage

Have a teen that’s “too cool for school” and just too impossible to buy for? Canela Vintage has you covered.

Recognized as one of the city's best thrift stores, this is the perfect spot to find chic items for the trendsetters in your life. Explore a curated collection of vintage tees, denim jackets, bags, and more.

Shopping for the holidays just feels more festive and fun. That’s probably because the holiday markets are full of hot cocoa, caroling, and even a few reindeer games! Check out these holiday favorites.

35th Annual International Peace Market (Mercado de Paz)

November 29 - December 1, 2024

Celebrate the spirit of shopping small at the 35th Annual International Peace Market (Mercado de Paz), at the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center. This beloved San Antonio tradition combines art, culture, and social consciousness, featuring nearly 80 artisans offering handcrafted gifts that celebrate peace, justice, diversity, and environmental preservation. Enjoy live music from local performers, delicious food, and the chance to win artisan-made treasures in hourly raffles. Admission is free!

Holiday Art Market at The Tobin Center

November 30, 2024

This year, the Holiday Art Market at The Tobin Center is celebrating its 10th anniversary. So, you know it’s going to be bigger than ever! Explore the wares of over 100 artisan vendors while enjoying pop-up performances, food & drink, photos with Santa, and yes, even reindeer games!

Holiday Market and Family Fun at SAMA

November 30, 2024

The San Antonio Museum of Art is hosting its annual Holiday Market and Family Fun Day. Shop for gifts from more than fifty local artists and makers while enjoying live music, storytelling, and hands-on art-making activities.

Hecho a Mano Holiday Artisan Market

December 8, 2024

Did you know "hecho a mano" translates to handmade in English? Head to the Guadalupe Latino Bookstore for the Hecho a Mano Holiday Artisan Market, where you'll find unique, handcrafted treasures - perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts and stocking stuffers!

River Walk Holiday Artisan Show

December 13 - 15, 2024

Head to the River Walk Extension for the most festive River Walk Artisan Show of the year! Artisans gather to showcase crafts, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork, and more. You’re bound to find that perfect gift!

Holidays on Houston Street Market

December 13 - 15, 2024

The Holidays on Houston Street Market stretches from Jefferson Street all the way to the Alamo. As you stroll under the holiday lights, you’ll find spirited local vendors selling curated artisan crafts, delectable treats, candles, and clothing. Shopping in this market feels more like entering a winter wonderland!