Looking for a gift that’s not on every store shelf – a gift that is sure to please? There’s a surefire way to score: shop museum stores. Museum stores stock unique finds that tie into their collections and exhibitions. Some finds are even created by artists themselves. And San Antonio has a fantastic array of museums, making it easy to shop their stores.
If you think museum shopping is just souvenirs, think again. Unique finds unlike anything you’ll see in regular shops await, making museums a shopper’s secret weapon. You can score museum-worthy finds at museum gift shops across San Antonio.
>>Good to know: You don’t have to pay admission to shop these stores – each museum welcomes you to drop in and shop during their operating hours. And they each offer online shopping, but keep in mind that shipping dates may not work in time for Christmas. Call to ask if you can order ahead and pick up your gifts to save time.
>>Good to do: The City of San Antonio notes that shopping local makes a big difference to our economy: $68 of every $100 spent stays here, supporting San Antonio. And even better: every museum store purchase supports these amazing institutions, so you can shop away and feel good about doing some good!
Head West without leaving San Antonio! The Briscoe’s Hendler Family Museum Store features a curated selection of jewelry, home décor, books, ornaments, children’s toys and games, pottery and more, including original artwork and prints, all tucked away in the Briscoe’s beautifully restored 1930s building. With handcrafted jewelry, fun accessories, and unique décor – there’s something for everyone.
San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA)
A fantastic stop along the River Walk Museum Reach, The Shop at SAMA mirrors the museum’s collection, with globally-inspired treasures. A wide selection of goods from unique books, cards and gifts to stunning (and affordable!) jewelry await. By the way, like all of the wonderful museums in San Antonio, you do not have to pay admission to enjoy shopping at the San Antonio Museum of Art. It’s always free to shop and of course, anything you purchase can be shipped as well. Whimsical alebrijes, wonderful purses, notecards and artful toys await.
Looking for all things dinosaur, nature and more? The Bolner Family Museum Store is a magnet for kids of all ages. Cool (and educational) science kits, dinosaur books, and an array of interactive toys always guarantee smiles. The Witte showcases Texas’ natural beauty, and the shop delights with jewelry and décor that reflect that beauty. Nature lovers will enjoy the selection of prints, coffee table books, bird feeders and windchimes. Plush birds that play each bird’s song are also a fun find for any birder. Your eyes are drawn to sparkling gem and mineral pieces, including dazzling amethysts.
Tucked right inside the museum’s entrance, the McNay’s gift shop includes fun finds for art lovers, prints, hands-on children’s books, home décor and more – even a screen printing kit. It’s always worth stopping in, especially since you can enjoy exploring the grounds year-round. (Tip: Don’t miss the real fish and perhaps a turtle or two in the pond – or the huge deer sculpture – as you roam the grounds!)
San Antonio’s museum for kids includes a gift shop featuring toys and hands-on fun that mirrors its exhibitions. From toys designed for engagement and education to books, puppets and costumes, you’ll find toys that include science and engineering, as well as toys designed to inspire creativity. It’s not hard to find the perfect gift for any age range, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to find something you haven’t seen everywhere else.
>>Tip: If the person you’re shopping for loves any of these terrific San Antonio institutions, consider gifting them a museum membership. Each of the museums offers various membership levels – including full family memberships – that allow unlimited visits throughout the year. And if you happen to be a museum member, you’ll receive a discount for shopping in the museum’s store.
If you like gifting experiences, check out our suggestions to give everyone on your list San Antonio experiences they’ll love.
