Houston: Shopping

Highland Village Like a small version of Houston’s larger “Galleria” shops, Highland Village is defined by trendy fashion boutiques, spas, and upscale restaurants. Downtown; 4055 Westheimer Rd.; 713-850-3100
trendy | antiques | upscale

Katy Mills Outlet Mall Its worth the drive to this huge outlet mall 25 miles outside Houston for its 1.3-million-square-feet of bargains on boldfaced brands like Neiman Marcus, Saks 5th Avenue, and Cole Haan. Katy; 5000 Katy Mills Circle; 281-644-5050; www.katymills.com
family | moderate | outlet

Rice Village Houston’s oldest shopping district benefits from its proximity to Rice University and the Museum District – trendy shops sell items like high-end clothing, home décor, and one-of-a-kind jewelry. University, Rice Village; corner of University & Kirby Sts.; www.ricevillageonline.com
moderate | trendy

The Galleria Galleria's ultra-modern architecture and high-end stores were ahead of their time when this shopping mall opened in 1970, and it's still going strong with 375+ restaurants and shops (Gucci, Nordstrom), an ice rink, and two hotels. Uptown, Galleria; 5085 Westheimer Rd.; 713-622-0663; www.simon.com
family | smart splurge | expensive

Uptown Park European-style Uptown Park raised the bar when it opened in 1999. It houses trendy boutiques like BB1 Classic and Todd’s Place, plus restaurants like Café Express and Uptown Sushi. Uptown; Post Oak Blvd. at Loop 610; 713-850-1400; www.uptownparkhouston.com
family | new | moderate | boutique