Previously in our lake vacation destinations series, we detailed the best lakes for relaxation and for outdoor enthusiasts. Now you know which lakes to visit if you want to kick your feet up and soak in the scenery or if you would rather get them moving on a lakeside hiking trail. But what if neither of those categories appeals to you, and you’re looking for a lake vacation with an urban flair? Check out these five lake towns for shopaholics that will fill your calendar with fun and your closet with style!
Austin, TX
If you’re interested in shopping in the Live Music Capital of the World, vacationing at Lake Travis or Lake Austin is a must. With its motto of “Keep Austin Weird,” this urban Texas city exhibits a unique mix of oddity shops, trendy boutiques, and high-end chain stores. South Congress Avenue is an iconic Austin shopping hub that showcases many local shops and restaurants. So it’s your best bet if you want to get a feel for the eccentric Austin culture. But if high-end chains are more of your style, make sure to check out The Domain, which features stores like Macy’s, Tiffany & Co., and Louis Vuitton.
Burlington, VT
Voted the #1 Best Public Square in America by USA Today, Church Street Market Place is a Burlington shopping hotspot. Bordering the stunning Lake Champlain, Church Street’s four pedestrian blocks feature over 100 shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Here, history marries modernity. You can shop for your favorite clothing brands from 100-200-year-old buildings constructed in Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate styles. So if you love browsing for books, antiques, clothes, and artisan goods, Lake Champlain is your shopaholic vacation.
Atlanta, GA
A trip to Lake Lanier, just 51 miles northeast of Atlanta, grants you endless shopping endeavors. After enjoying all your favorite watersports on the lake, you can start your Atlanta day trip at Atlantic Station. This collection of over 30 retailers includes the Southeast’s flagship H&M store. Atlantic Station also hosts concerts, outdoor movies, and ice skating throughout the year. Next, if high-end shopping is on your radar, you can peruse over 250 specialty stores and brands like Pandora and Nieman Marcus at Lenox Square. To end the day, you can grab a bite from the gourmet food stalls at Ponce City Market and stroll through the eccentric shops.
Traverse City, MI
Settled on the shores of the incredible Lake Michigan, Traverse City boasts an assortment of historic and modern shopping districts. In downtown Traverse City, vacationers will find quaint 19th-century Victorian storefronts, making up the area’s 150 shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. The Mercato also is a popular historic shopping center. Its 19th-century shops have a European feel to them and showcase jewelry, art galleries, wine, artisan goods, and more. However, if you like more of an urban touch, be sure to visit the Warehouse District sports diverse artisan shops and eateries. It also is just steps away from the beaches on West Bay.
Seattle, WA
Situated between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle has a shopping district for everyone. If you’re tapping into your inner fashionista, you’ll find the Nordstrom flagship store, Tiffany & Co., Macy’s, and other designer brands downtown. But, if you’re more into bargains, make sure to check out the plethora of Seattle outlets, such as Centralia, Seattle Premium, The Outlet Collection, and North Bend. Or, if you like trendy looks and quirky home decor, check out the Indie shops along Ballard Avenue NW. Finally, to end your full day of shopping, you can dine in one of the outstanding Chinatown-International District restaurants.
Now, you know the top five lake towns for shopaholics. So what are you waiting for? Pack your swimsuit, grab your shopping shoes, and let the fun begin!
