When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Dillard's

Why Dillard's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dillard's is a leading American department store chain renowned for its extensive range of fashion apparel, cosmetics, and home furnishings. With close to 300 store locations primarily across the South, Southwest, West, and Midwest regions, Dillard's offers a versatile shopping experience that caters to a diverse customer base. The stores are often important retail anchors in suburban malls and shopping centers, blending traditional department store convenience with the evolving demands of modern consumerism. Customers can explore stylish collections for women, men, and children, including exclusive and national brand products across categories such as clothing, accessories, handbags, shoes, and cosmetics. Beyond fashion, Dillard's also presents distinctive home furnishing items, creating a one-stop shop for diverse lifestyle needs. The chain is known for delivering a balance of mid-range to upscale products complemented by attentive customer service. Their flagship stores, including large locations in Dallas and Scottsdale, are destinations in their own right, offering an immersive shopping experience. The company's foundation dates back to 1914, reflecting a rich heritage of retail evolution and commitment to quality, making Dillard's a popular meet-up spot for friends who enjoy fashion-forward selections and a comfortable shopping environment.
Here's what people think of Dillard's
As of recent, Dillard's holds a 4.1-star rating based on 1083 reviews.
Customer reviews of Dillard's reveal a mixed but generally positive impression, with an overall rating of 4.1 from over a thousand reviewers. Many customers appreciate the broad selection of merchandise, highlighting quality apparel and home goods as standout offerings. Positive comments often focus on the helpfulness and professionalism of store associates, the range of in-store products including exclusive brands, and the enjoyable shopping atmosphere in their well-sized flagship locations. The ability to shop across categories from clothing to home furnishings in one place is frequently mentioned as a convenience plus. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional frustrations with the returns process, shipping and delivery timing, and some issues with customer service responsiveness especially on online orders. Some customers hoped for improvements in return policies and faster resolution of order inquiries. Despite these occasional setbacks, many reviewers conclude that Dillard's remains a reliable and valued shopping destination providing good value and a quality experience overall. The company’s long history and commitment to service continue to foster customer loyalty even amid competitive retail challenges.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chicago Bulls
Dillard's offers a slightly more upscale shopping experience compared to other department stores. The store is always clean, well-organized, and has a polished, classic feel. I’ve found their clothing selection—especially for formalwear and business attire—to be high quality and stylish, with brands you don’t always find elsewhere. Customer service is usually attentive, particularly in the cosmetics and shoe departments, though occasionally it can take a while to get assistance when it’s busy. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality typically matches—and their sales and clearance sections can be a goldmine if you’re patient. The home goods and fragrance sections are also worth checking out if you're shopping for gifts or looking to treat yourself. Overall, Dillard’s is a dependable place to find well-made items in a more refined setting. Would definitely return for both special occasions and everyday shopping!
Chelsea Jackson
My experience today was 10000/10. This was truly such a helpful and amazing experience. I came with the AC was out and it was super hot and I still got amazing customer service. I went to get sized for a bra today and with such an intimate moment the ladies who helped me made me feel very welcome. I got to ask my questions and understand the best bra for me. I walked out with two new bras that I loved. Thank you to the ladies is the bra department and specifically Priscilla for being beyond amazing. I will come back here every single time. Absolutely wonderful!!
Israa Sameen
Great store with amazing customer service. You always find nice and elegant items there. Steve at customer service/gift wrap does his job amazingly and wraps the presents perfectly with so much care. Highly recommend.
Sandy Alexander
Dillard's was an awesome store. It was clean, and every department was eye-catching and desirable. The clerks were so helpful and wanted to help us beyond the ordinary. What a great place to shop for anything you want and need.
Tatyana Bailey
My mom visited Dillards today in search of brown coach slides. She managed to try on the black pair in her size, which fit perfectly. However, it seemed that they didn’t have her size in the brown pair. The salesperson informed her that she could try on the men’s slides, but they were too big. She inquired if there was any way he could order them for her and have them delivered to the store, but he refused and suggested she try a different location. The service was appalling, and she decided not to return. Determined to find the right pair, my mom headed to the actual Coach store and ended up getting the last pair.
How to reach Dillard's
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Website: None

Why Dillard's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dillard’s with your friends?
When considering a venue to gather with friends or family, Dillard's stands out as an exceptional choice. This well-established department store is not just a shopping destination; it offers a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere that caters to groups looking for a blend of retail therapy, social interaction, and shared experiences. With a solid rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on over a thousand reviews, Dillard’s reputation reflects customer satisfaction, quality service, and a pleasant environment. Walking into Dillard’s, you find yourself immersed in a space designed for exploration, with a wide variety of brands and products that appeal to diverse tastes, making it easy for groups to find something enjoyable regardless of individual preferences. The thoughtful layout and friendly staff facilitate an inviting place where customers feel relaxed and welcome. Beyond shopping, the ambiance encourages leisurely browsing and spontaneous interactions, making it ideal for a fun day out together. Whether your group is interested in fashion, beauty products, home goods, or simply wants to experience a refreshing outing, Dillard’s combines convenience, variety, and a welcoming atmosphere conducive to memorable meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at Dillard’s?
Dillard’s offers an array of activities that make it perfect for group meetups. First and foremost, shopping at Dillard’s is an experience that caters to nearly every style and budget. From trendy apparel and accessories to cosmetics and home furnishings, the store features a diverse selection of merchandise from national and exclusive brands. This variety means your group can enjoy browsing for the latest fashion, testing new beauty products, or discovering unique home décor pieces together, sparking fun conversations and shared opinions. Many locations also include clearance centers and seasonal sales events, which add an element of excitement and teamwork as friends hunt for the best deals.
Additionally, Dillard’s locations often include services such as personal shopping assistance and beauty consultations, which can turn a simple shopping trip into a more interactive and personalized group experience. These services provide expert advice and styling tips, encouraging group members to try new looks and celebrate each other’s style discoveries. The spacious store layout allows groups to browse comfortably without feeling crowded, and some larger stores feature eateries or café spots nearby, perfect for taking breaks to chat and relax.
Why is Dillard’s ideal for group meetups?
Dillard’s is especially well-suited for hosting meetups with friends or family for several reasons. The store’s size and design accommodate groups easily, providing multiple areas to explore simultaneously without overwhelming each other. This flexibility means attendees can split up to pursue individual interests and regroup to share their finds and experiences. The mid-range to upscale product offerings appeal to a wide demographic, allowing groups with varying tastes and shopping preferences to have a rewarding visit.
Furthermore, the staff at Dillard’s are known for their attentive and helpful service, which enhances the overall group experience by providing assistance when needed and creating a welcoming environment. Because many Dillard’s stores serve as key anchors within shopping malls, the surrounding amenities such as restaurants, entertainment venues, and other retail outlets make it easy to extend the meetup beyond Dillard’s itself. This makes it a natural hub for multi-activity outings where your group can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one location.
What makes Dillard’s unique compared to other department stores?
Dillard’s unique blend of history, customer service, and curated merchandise sets it apart from many other department stores. Founded in 1938 by William T. Dillard, the company has grown thoughtfully while maintaining a commitment to quality and customer care. This longstanding legacy informs its reputation as a trusted retailer with deep regional roots, particularly across the South, Southwest, and Midwest. Unlike some larger chains overly focused on mass market, Dillard’s balances fashionable trends with classic styles, providing products that resonate with a broad range of shoppers.
The company’s approach to blending national brands with exclusive offerings allows groups to discover items they won’t find elsewhere, adding an element of exclusivity and excitement to visits. Its continual evolution to meet modern retail demands means Dillard’s stores offer up-to-date technology and services alongside traditional in-store experiences. For groups, this combination means convenient shopping enhanced by expert knowledge and attentive care, all within a cheerful and well-organized retail space.
How can Dillard’s enrich the social experience of a group outing?
Visiting Dillard’s with friends or family is more than just shopping — it’s a shared social event filled with opportunities to connect and create memories. The variety of departments encourages interaction, as people try on outfits, discuss home décor choices, and exchange beauty tips. This shared exploration fosters bonding and lively discussions, making the outing engaging for everyone involved. Because of the store’s welcoming atmosphere, groups can linger comfortably and enjoy the experience at their own pace rather than rushing.
Moreover, the staff’s friendliness invites group members to engage with in-store events or consultations together, adding a layer of personalized fun. For example, a group could schedule a beauty session or personal shopping appointment, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Beyond the retail floor, the surrounding mall environment provides spaces to dine or relax, enabling the group to continue socializing seamlessly throughout the visit. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion, Dillard’s supports an enjoyable group dynamic through its inviting setting and diverse offerings.
What amenities and services does Dillard’s provide for a comfortable visit?
Dillard’s prioritizes customer comfort and convenience, which benefits group meetups significantly. Most stores feature spacious aisles, well-designed displays, and clear signage, all facilitating easy navigation for groups moving about together. Many locations have fitting rooms that are well-maintained and staffed to ensure quick assistance, helping groups that want to try on apparel together. The presence of knowledgeable sales associates ensures that help is readily available, whether it’s locating sizes, recommending products, or explaining promotions.
Additionally, some Dillard’s stores offer beauty counters with professional stylists and cosmetic consultants, acting as mini beauty salons where groups can enjoy treatments or makeup trials. The availability of gift wrapping and easy return policies also adds to the seamlessness of the shopping experience, reducing potential stress for group members purchasing gifts or multiple items. In larger Dillard’s locations within malls, amenities such as convenient parking, nearby cafes, and rest areas round out a comfortable, accessible setting for any group visit.
How does Dillard’s history and reputation enhance its appeal?
Dillard’s long-standing history since 1938 contributes to its appeal as a trusted and respected shopping venue. Founded by William T. Dillard with a modest $8,000 loan, the company grew steadily through strategic expansions, acquisitions, and steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction. The brand’s evolution over decades reflects both resilience and adaptability, offering shoppers confidence in its stability and quality. This legacy imparts a sense of authenticity and reliability, appealing to groups who value heritage in their shopping destinations.
With more than 300 stores across 29 states, Dillard’s has become a retail staple especially in the South and Midwest, reinforcing its community ties and regional identity. Such a reputation makes it a natural gathering place for locals and visitors alike, serving not only as a department store but as a social hub. This trustworthiness combined with contemporary retail practices ensures that groups visiting Dillard’s feel assured of a quality experience, encouraging repeat meetups and continued patronage.
What merchandise categories make Dillard’s appealing to diverse groups?
Dillard’s wide range of merchandise categories makes it suitable for groups of all interests and styles. Apparel selections include men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing spanning casual wear, formal attire, outerwear, and seasonal fashion. This extensive clothing variety ensures that every group member finds items matching their unique tastes and needs. Accessories like jewelry, handbags, and shoes complement the apparel collections, allowing shoppers to complete looks and enjoy mixing and matching.
In addition to fashion, Dillard’s features beauty products including cosmetics, skincare, and fragrances from popular brands, which can transform shopping into a pampering experience for groups. Home furnishings and décor sections provide an inspiring array of items such as bedding, kitchenware, and decorative accents, appealing to those interested in interior design or gift shopping. This broad product offering creates a versatile environment where every group member can discover something special, making Dillard’s a one-stop destination for group outings.
How accessible and convenient is Dillard’s for group gatherings?
Dillard’s locations are strategically placed primarily in shopping malls and retail centers that offer ample parking and easy accessibility. This makes meeting up convenient by car or public transit, especially important for groups traveling from different directions. Many stores are equipped with modern facilities such as wheelchair accessibility and elevators, ensuring that everyone in the group can move about comfortably.
The collaboration of Dillard’s with surrounding businesses within malls means that group outings can extend beyond the store, incorporating meals, entertainment, or additional shopping without inconvenience. Flexible store layouts accommodate large groups without feeling crowded, and the availability of seating areas allows for periodic rest and regrouping. Combined with efficient checkout counters and occasional promotional events, Dillard’s provides a smooth, enjoyable, and hassle-free environment for group activities.
How can planning a meetup at Dillard’s add value to your group’s social calendar?
Planning a meetup at Dillard’s adds value to a group's social calendar by offering a purposeful and versatile venue that combines leisure, shopping, and social interaction. Unlike ordinary gatherings at restaurants or parks, meeting at Dillard’s encourages shared experiences that stimulate conversation and mutual discovery. The variety of departments ensures that group members engage actively, whether through trying on clothes, exploring new beauty products, or browsing home items, creating a dynamic and memorable outing.
Events like seasonal sales, product launches, or beauty workshops held periodically at Dillard’s stores add excitement and a communal feel to visits. Scheduling meetups around these occasions can transform a routine shopping trip into a special event. The location’s comfort and amenities support longer visits, allowing groups to make the most of their time together. In essence, Dillard’s serves as more than a store — it becomes an interactive social space that enriches friendships and family bonds through shared enjoyment.