A day at The Arboretum at Great Hills is a fashionista’s dream come true. While the fashion forward, chic styles displayed in the storefront windows are the main reason most people come here to shop, it’s always a joy to bask in the natural beauty of this unique outdoor shopping destination.
Whimsical, Cute and Contemporary Selections for Home and Family
Developed by the Trammell Crow Company in 1985, the name “Arboretum” is based on the Latin word “arbor,” meaning tree. Towering trees provide luxurious cool shade during the summer months and a wonderfully tranquil ambience all year round. For fun, the grounds are decorated with cow statues created by famous sculptor Harold F. Clayton as a whimsical reminder shoppers are in cattle country. With open park spaces, several fountains flowing with crystal clear water, and a large playground, shopping here is always an indoor and outdoor adventure.
Home to 40 upscale shops and restaurants situated on more than 200,000 square feet of retail space, there’s plenty of selection for everyone in the family. From head to toe, shoppers discover what they are looking for, whether a sophisticated outfit, a funky fashion find, amazing accessories, cute kid’s clothing, beachwear, haute heels, divine designs for the home, and even fine, contemporary furniture.
A Day of Fashion, Food and Fun at The Arboretum
A typical day at the Arboretum might start in the morning with being pampered at AZIZ Salon and Day Spa. Refreshed and rejuvenated, you leisurely browse the hottest seasonal styles at Chico’s and then walk over to Barnes and Noble for a look at the latest magazines and to buy a copy of the new bestseller you’ve been dying to read.
Now hungry, it’s time to get together with friends. Hungry shoppers have plenty of convenient choices, from a good old American burger with fries and a shake at Five Guy’s Burgers and Fries or a sandwich, pizza, soup or salad at Blue Baker. Maybe you’re in the mood for something a bit more adventurous from the Mediterranean-inspired and southern-influenced dishes of Zoe’s Kitchen, or the Cheesecake Factory’s seemingly endless menu of delectable dishes. Looking for something more international? Try Drunk Fish Japanese Teriyaki or the lively northern Italian cuisine at Brio Tuscan Grille. And for dessert, who can say no to an irresistibly sweet treat from Amy’s Ice Cream?
Let’s Go Shopping!
After lunch, it’s anybody’s guess as to where your shopping list will take you. Some of the other popular stores at the Arboretum include Z Gallerie, The Gap, Gap Kids, Everything But Water, Francesca’s Collection, Game Stop, Coldwater Creek, Gymboree, Heroes & Legacies, Restoration Hardware, Sunglass Hut, Savory Spice Shop, C. Kirk Root Designs, Orvis, and the Pottery Barn, to name a few.
Just across the street on Great Hills Trail, easy access to the Arboretum Market creates an even greater selection to your shopping journey. With over 105,000 square feet of retail shopping, the open-air, market center includes stores by Ann Taylor, Talbots, Williams-Sonoma, Sephora, J. Jill and Marmi Shoes, among others.
Overnight Accommodations and a Weekly Farmers’ Market
The Arboretum has plentiful parking within easy walking distance of the shops, stores and restaurants. Also on the property, the Renaissance Hotel has gorgeous, clean rooms for overnight stays as well as impressive accommodations for meetings and events.
In addition, a weekly farmers’ market offers the freshest produce in town, and local artists and artisans sell their unique creations in certain sections of the park. Throughout the year, seasonal festivities are held at The Arboretum. Hours of operation are from 10 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday and 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday. This is a shopping expedition that Austinites adore for all the right reasons; it’s retail therapy at its finest among nature’s beauty.