Welcome to Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its eclectic culture, live music, and a burgeoning community of expats and digital nomads. Whether you’re looking for fresh local produce, unique handcrafted goods, or a taste of the city’s diverse culinary offerings, Austin’s markets are a treasure trove of delights. Here’s a curated list of the best markets in Austin that offer a little something for everyone, from the foodie to the fashionista, and the art aficionado to the vintage collector.
Austin Farmers’ Market
Location: 422 Guadalupe St, Austin 78701
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM
The Austin Farmers’ Market, located in the heart of downtown, is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with local farmers and artisans. This bustling market features a wide array of seasonal produce, freshly baked goods, and handcrafted items. It’s a great place to enjoy a sunny Saturday morning, meet the community, and support sustainable agriculture.
We Recommend: Don’t miss out on the locally-made goat cheese, which is a creamy delight that pairs wonderfully with the market’s selection of artisanal bread.
South Congress Market
Location: 1600 S Congress Ave, Austin 78704
Type of Market: Mixed Market (Art, Crafts, Vintage Clothing)
Open: Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM
South Congress Market is a vibrant hub of creativity and style, showcasing the best of Austin’s indie designers and vintage collectors. Nestled in the trendy SoCo district, this market is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind clothing, jewelry, and home decor. It’s also a great spot to soak up the local culture and enjoy some people-watching.
We Recommend: Look for the handcrafted silver jewelry, which often incorporates local motifs and materials, making for a unique and memorable Austin keepsake.
Hope Farmers Market
Location: 412 Comal St, Austin 78702
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Sundays, 11 AM – 3 PM
HOPE Farmers Market is a lively community gathering space that promotes healthy living and sustainability. Located in East Austin, this market offers a diverse selection of organic produce, artisanal foods, and live music. It’s a great place to unwind on a Sunday, grab a bite, and support local agriculture and artists.
We Recommend: Be sure to try the homemade kombucha, which comes in a variety of unique and refreshing flavors, perfect for beating the Texas heat.
The Arboretum Artisans’ Market
Location: 10000 Research Blvd, Austin 78759
Type of Market: Art and Craft Market
Open: Second Saturday of each month, 10 AM – 4 PM
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Arboretum shopping center, the Arboretum Artisans’ Market is a haven for art lovers and collectors. This monthly market features local artists and craftspeople showcasing their latest creations, from paintings and sculptures to handmade pottery and textiles.
We Recommend: Don’t leave without checking out the hand-blown glass pieces, which are not only stunning but also make for a great conversation starter back home.
Mueller Farmers’ Market
Location: 4209 Airport Blvd, Austin 78722
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Sundays, 10 AM – 2 PM
Located in the Mueller neighborhood, this farmers’ market is a family-friendly destination that offers a wide range of local produce, meats, cheeses, and more. With its picturesque setting by the lake and the Browning Hangar, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday stroll and grocery shopping.
We Recommend: Sample the artisanal sausages, which come in a variety of flavors and are made using locally-sourced ingredients.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Location: 6100 Airport Blvd, Austin 78752
Type of Market: Art Market
Open: Seasonal (Typically November and December), Daily, 10 AM – 10 PM
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is an annual holiday shopping experience that features works from over 200 regional and local artists. This market is an excellent place for finding unique gifts, from handmade jewelry and ceramics to fine art and upcycled goods. It’s a festive atmosphere that captures the creative spirit of Austin.
We Recommend: Keep an eye out for the whimsical sculptures and prints by local Austin artists, which are always a hit with art enthusiasts.
Barton Creek Farmers Market
Location: 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin 78746
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM
Set in the parking lot of the Barton Creek Square Mall, this farmers’ market is a popular weekend destination for organic produce, grass-fed meats, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to connect with local farmers, enjoy live music, and partake in the occasional cooking demonstration.
We Recommend: Try the freshly baked pastries, which are a perfect treat to enjoy as you wander through the stalls or to take home for a weekend brunch.
East Austin Handmade Arts Market
Location: 507 Calles St, Austin 78702
Type of Market: Art and Craft Market
Open: Select dates, typically weekends, check their schedule for details
The East Austin Handmade Arts Market is a celebration of local craftsmanship and creativity. This market is a fantastic place to discover handcrafted goods, from jewelry and clothing to home decor and beauty products. It’s also a great opportunity to meet the makers and learn about their processes and inspirations.
We Recommend: Look for the natural skincare products, which are made with locally-sourced ingredients and are a treat for the skin.
