Nine Shopping Spots in Austin That San Franciscans Will Love

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Now that Virgin America offers direct flights to Austin, Texas, it's easier (and more pleasant) than ever to hop on a plane for a day of shopping in this perennially weird city. So Virgin may have had trips to SXSW from SFO more in mind than shopping when they launched this particular nonstop. And you may not think of Austin as a shopping destination, but you totally should. From the vintage amazingness at Feathers to the overwhelming vintage home design enormosity of Uncommon Objects, there is some to-die-for shopping to be done in this Texas gem of a town.

We start you off on South Congress, where we really just scratch the surface of what's to be found on this street full of locally-owned boutiques, as well as several mobile boutiques and yummy eats (we recommend the fish tacos at Gueros). Then we take you across the Colorado River to the 2nd Street district, and onward to 12th Street, all of which will impress with their commercial offerings. You could pack it all into one day, but we recommend taking at least two to peruse all the shopping Austin has to offer. And don't forget to bring an extra suitcase.