Have you ever heard of a toy store that's open at midnight? This is not your typical toy store. Rather, Toy Joy is a wonderland for unconventional "children" of all ages. Though the inventory includes some popular kids' items like Beanie Babies and Pokemon collectibles, they specialize in the unusual. This boutique of the bizarre is filled to capacity with selections like sumo wrestler alarm clocks, cube-shaped bubble wands, over-sized lava lamps and creative sound makers. It's a great place to shop for a gift or for yourself.
Upon viewing the curious building that houses Room Service Vintage, complete with a rooftop sculpture of a large, purple easy chair, aficionados of retro chic will feel right at home. The furniture department offers the most interesting items in the store. In fact, you will often find some of them reserved as movie props for locally produced films. It also offers a fairly small collection of vintage men's and women's clothing. Whimsical knickknacks from yesteryear abound.
This member-owned cooperative grocery store is full of organic produce, natural health products, great magazines and bulk foods. They have a large beer and wine selection, including organic wines that taste wonderful with the selection of chocolate bars in the front of the store! There is also a full-service deli with sandwiches, soups, salads, tacos, smoothies and many creative specials. Everyone is welcome to shop in this great environment where you will never hear bad music or get a headache from the fluorescent lights.
This well-known store has been filling the western wear needs of Texans for many years. Both locals and visitors come here to find authentic cowboy boots and western hats, belts, shirts, and much more. This is also a fully stocked rustic superstore with all kinds of supplies like hardware, farm equipment, housewares, fishing gear, feed and seed among them. Customers can always expect old-fashioned, friendly service, which makes even the city folk feel right at home.
Cross the river from downtown and enter the wonderful South Congress Avenue District. Browse through its many shops and check out eateries that tantalize the taste buds and the pocketbooks. Check out Uncommon Objects, a wonderful import and knick knack shop, or The Armadillo Market, which carries everything Texas. For the famished shopper, there are more than enough options: Tex-Mex at Guerro's or the eclectic Magnolia Café are all favorites with the locals. After a cup of coffee or lunch, you should browse the retro resale shops along the avenue.