When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek
Why Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek is located at 13776 Research Blvd in Austin, Texas, serving as a vital community resource for shoppers and donors alike. This Goodwill outlet provides a welcoming space where friends can meet up and explore an extensive range of affordable, gently used goods including clothing, household items, and electronics. Its convenient location near landmarks like The Domain and major medical centers makes it easily accessible. The store operates from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday and from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, making it a flexible destination for visits throughout the week. Amenities such as onsite restrooms, ample parking, air conditioning, wheelchair accessibility, and credit card acceptance enhance the shopping experience. The store features a friendly environment suitable for casual meetups combined with thrift shopping, which promotes community engagement and supports Goodwill's mission to fund local job training and employment services. Its drive-thru service adds convenience for donors. For those interested in sustainable shopping and community support, Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek offers both a social and practical outlet in Austin.
Here's what people think of Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek
As of recent, Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek holds a 3.8-star rating based on 310 reviews.
User reviews of Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek reflect a mixed experience with an overall rating of 3.8 stars based on 310 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the variety of items available at affordable prices and the convenience of the location, including easy parking and wheelchair accessibility. Customers appreciate the store's long hours and the helpfulness of some staff members, making it a practical spot for thrift shopping and community engagement. On the other hand, several negative reviews mention an uneven shopping experience influenced by customer service challenges and occasional understaffing. Some reviewers describe the environment as somewhat stressful due to management issues and inconsistent communication among employees, which has reportedly impacted the overall atmosphere. Despite these challenges, many recommend the store for its affordability and charitable mission, emphasizing that it remains a good option for shoppers and donors supporting local programs. In conclusion, while some operational concerns exist, Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek remains an accessible and community-oriented thrift store that many visitors find worthwhile.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
TheBlackHippie CHANNEL
I’m extremely disappointed with how my issue was handled at this Goodwill location. After being mistakenly charged for two items when I only purchased one, I immediately called the store and spoke with a very polite and helpful associate who confirmed the mistake and told me to come back during his shift to get it resolved. I appreciated his professionalism and willingness to help. However, when I returned to the store, the situation took a frustrating turn. The general manager (Lisa, if I’m not mistaken) was standing by the counter the entire time, yet completely avoided addressing me for over 15 minutes. Walking around the store Instead of handling the issue directly — which involved just a $4.99 overcharge — she sent someone from corporate or loss prevention (Angel) to speak with us, treating a simple refund request like a theft investigation. There is a 30-day return policy, and I had proof of the overcharge. The manager could have easily verified my claim and resolved it on the spot, but instead chose a confrontational and dismissive approach. Her energy from the beginning was negative, and it made me feel like my time and honesty didn’t matter. It’s incredibly disappointing that a general manager couldn’t handle a basic customer service issue without escalating it unnecessarily. This was not about the money it was about principle, accountability, and respect. I hope this review serves as feedback for better training and professionalism in the future.
Loni Albanesi
I shop here often but I’m not sure I’ll return. Today my daughter found about 8 of the same sports bra in different colors for cheer they were the same brand and looked the same other then color. All of them different prices ranging from $4-9 dollars. I asked why they were all different if they are the same item. I wasn’t at all trying to argue. My thought was if it was a mistake maybe they could all be priced somewhere in the middle and we would take them all. The lady who I believe said she was the assistant manager (I was told her name is Lee not sure of her spelling) snatched them all out of my hand! She said she’d take them to the back and have them priced. I was shocked. If my daughter didn’t want them so bad I would have left right then. I was noting but nice. She raised them all to the highest price and gave them back to me stating NOW they are all that price. If she had just said the prices can’t be changed we would have just picked a few and left. Instead she had a horrible attitude even before I spoke to her. she seemed annoyed just being there. The cashier is the one who sent me to speak with her because they seemed too scared to ask her themselves. Looking at the reviews it sounds like others have had issues with a lady there I’m wondering if it’s the same one. I don’t know how someone who can treat people this bad can be in a management position.
Tiffany LeAnne
3/8/25 - 2 pm. I thrift all around Austin and other cities and have never encountered such a rude worker. I wasn’t able to get her name but it was an older lady with brown hair. We were going into the dressing room and she rudely walked over and snapped at us. She told us the limit was 4 and if there was a line we would have to rotate with the line with every 4 items. Rules are not a problem however we were the only people told this and she was very rude about it. Then she stood there and watched me sitting by the door as if I was a child. We were over there for about 10 minutes and no other person was told in that manner nor the same thing. In fact, she told another customer to just “hang her extras on the door outside and grab them”. It completely ruined my shopping and thrifting experience and we ended up putting almost all of our clothes back without even trying on. There was also a child that was disabled and was screaming. A male worker walked by and said “welcome to goodwill, the daycare”. I will never be back to this location. Very disappointed in your employees. This isn’t a Louis Vuitton store, get a grip.
Ernesto Enmanuel
Terrible store we know is used close but wowww prices to high 😞
R.S.
One of the deadbeat employees - older lady with glasses said I was trying to steal. My bf and I were there to buy some picture frames for our dogs. Take your business to Savers where the employees are polite and actually helpful.
TheBlackHippie CHANNEL
I’m extremely disappointed with how my issue was handled at this Goodwill location. After being mistakenly charged for two items when I only purchased one, I immediately called the store and spoke with a very polite and helpful associate who confirmed the mistake and told me to come back during his shift to get it resolved. I appreciated his professionalism and willingness to help. However, when I returned to the store, the situation took a frustrating turn. The general manager (Lisa, if I’m not mistaken) was standing by the counter the entire time, yet completely avoided addressing me for over 15 minutes. Walking around the store Instead of handling the issue directly — which involved just a $4.99 overcharge — she sent someone from corporate or loss prevention (Angel) to speak with us, treating a simple refund request like a theft investigation. There is a 30-day return policy, and I had proof of the overcharge. The manager could have easily verified my claim and resolved it on the spot, but instead chose a confrontational and dismissive approach. Her energy from the beginning was negative, and it made me feel like my time and honesty didn’t matter. It’s incredibly disappointing that a general manager couldn’t handle a basic customer service issue without escalating it unnecessarily. This was not about the money it was about principle, accountability, and respect. I hope this review serves as feedback for better training and professionalism in the future.
Loni Albanesi
I shop here often but I’m not sure I’ll return. Today my daughter found about 8 of the same sports bra in different colors for cheer they were the same brand and looked the same other then color. All of them different prices ranging from $4-9 dollars. I asked why they were all different if they are the same item. I wasn’t at all trying to argue. My thought was if it was a mistake maybe they could all be priced somewhere in the middle and we would take them all. The lady who I believe said she was the assistant manager (I was told her name is Lee not sure of her spelling) snatched them all out of my hand! She said she’d take them to the back and have them priced. I was shocked. If my daughter didn’t want them so bad I would have left right then. I was noting but nice. She raised them all to the highest price and gave them back to me stating NOW they are all that price. If she had just said the prices can’t be changed we would have just picked a few and left. Instead she had a horrible attitude even before I spoke to her. she seemed annoyed just being there. The cashier is the one who sent me to speak with her because they seemed too scared to ask her themselves. Looking at the reviews it sounds like others have had issues with a lady there I’m wondering if it’s the same one. I don’t know how someone who can treat people this bad can be in a management position.
Tiffany LeAnne
3/8/25 - 2 pm. I thrift all around Austin and other cities and have never encountered such a rude worker. I wasn’t able to get her name but it was an older lady with brown hair. We were going into the dressing room and she rudely walked over and snapped at us. She told us the limit was 4 and if there was a line we would have to rotate with the line with every 4 items. Rules are not a problem however we were the only people told this and she was very rude about it. Then she stood there and watched me sitting by the door as if I was a child. We were over there for about 10 minutes and no other person was told in that manner nor the same thing. In fact, she told another customer to just “hang her extras on the door outside and grab them”. It completely ruined my shopping and thrifting experience and we ended up putting almost all of our clothes back without even trying on. There was also a child that was disabled and was screaming. A male worker walked by and said “welcome to goodwill, the daycare”. I will never be back to this location. Very disappointed in your employees. This isn’t a Louis Vuitton store, get a grip.
Ernesto Enmanuel
Terrible store we know is used close but wowww prices to high 😞
R.S.
One of the deadbeat employees - older lady with glasses said I was trying to steal. My bf and I were there to buy some picture frames for our dogs. Take your business to Savers where the employees are polite and actually helpful.
How to reach Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek
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Why Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek offers a unique and meaningful way to connect, explore, and contribute to the community all at once. Unlike typical social spots, this large thrift store located in Austin provides an engaging experience where you can hunt for treasures among a wide variety of secondhand goods, from clothing and accessories to household items and collectibles. The thrill of discovering valuable or nostalgic items together creates a shared sense of adventure and excitement. Moreover, your visit supports Goodwill’s vital mission of empowering individuals facing barriers to employment, making your outing socially impactful as well as enjoyable. With consistent operating hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day, it’s easy to plan a flexible meetup that fits everyone’s schedule. Beyond the shopping aspect, Goodwill’s Lake Creek location is spacious and welcoming, offering a relaxed environment where groups can leisurely browse, chat, and spend quality time. This combination of fun, purpose, and accessibility makes Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek an ideal rallying point for friends or family looking for more than just an ordinary outing.
What types of activities can you enjoy with your group at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek?
Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek is much more than a thrift store — it’s a treasure trove of activities for groups who share an interest in savvy shopping, sustainability, and community support. First and foremost, the main activity is thrift shopping, where groups can embark on a mission to find deeply discounted and unique items. Whether your group loves vintage clothing, quirky home décor, books, or electronics, the store’s extensive inventory has something for everyone. Beyond regular shopping, groups can turn it into a friendly competition — see who can find the best deal or the most unusual item. The huge store layout, described by visitors as “yuuuuge,” encourages exploration and discovery that can turn an ordinary shopping trip into a mini adventure. Additionally, many people enjoy browsing through seasonal and holiday collections, which rotate frequently, providing fresh surprises on repeat visits. For groups interested in sustainable living, the store offers an educational opportunity to discuss upcycling and environmental impact, making the visit both fun and enlightening. Finally, since proceeds directly support local workforce development and career training programs, meeting here fosters meaningful conversations around community support and social responsibility.
Why is Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek perfect for a group meetup?
Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek is an excellent venue for group meetups for several reasons. The store’s ample space ensures that groups can move around comfortably without feeling cramped, allowing everyone to browse at their own pace or regroup easily. The operating hours—open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.—provide flexibility for scheduling your gathering in a way that suits everyone’s availability, including weekends. The location itself is convenient, situated on a major highway (US-183), which is accessible for attendees coming from different parts of Austin or nearby areas. Another key advantage is the affordability of the items, which makes it easy for groups to find treasures regardless of budget, keeping the outing inclusive and enjoyable for all participants. The atmosphere at Goodwill encourages casual conversation and bonding over shared discoveries, helping strengthen social connections. Moreover, since many people appreciate shopping with a purpose, meeting at Goodwill gives your group a chance to make a positive community impact by supporting Goodwill’s initiatives for job training and employment, enhancing the overall satisfaction of the meetup.
What makes the shopping experience special at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek?
Shopping at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek stands out for its mix of excitement, variety, and community spirit. Unlike conventional retail stores, Goodwill’s inventory is constantly changing because it depends on donated goods, which means every visit can yield new surprises and hidden gems. This dynamic environment encourages repeat visits with friends, as no two trips are ever the same. The store offers a blend of practical goods like clothing and household essentials, alongside eclectic finds that can spark conversations and inspire creativity among your group. The thrill of bargain hunting brings a playful element to shopping—snagging a high-quality item at a fraction of its normal price is rewarding and shareable among peers. In addition to product variety, Goodwill staff are typically friendly and helpful, enhancing the experience by providing assistance or information about certain items or the organization’s mission. The welcoming environment promotes a stress-free shopping experience that is perfect for socializing and leisurely exploring in a group setting.
How does visiting Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek benefit the community?
Choosing Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek as your meetup venue not only offers fun and camaraderie but also directly supports a powerful social impact. Goodwill Central Texas has a long-standing tradition dating back to 1958 of helping individuals overcome employment barriers such as disabilities, limited education, criminal backgrounds, and housing instability. By shopping here, your group helps fund critical education, training, and job placement programs that serve over 9,000 individuals annually in the Central Texas region. This support aids people in achieving self-sufficiency and long-term success, creating a stronger, healthier community. Additionally, the practice of buying secondhand supports environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting reuse, which resonates with those passionate about eco-friendly living. By rallying here, your group embraces responsible consumerism and community solidarity, transforming a simple outing into a shared mission that enriches lives beyond your immediate circle.
What amenities and services does Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek offer for visitors?
Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek, located at 13776 US-183 in Austin, is open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing extensive access for visitors’ convenience. Besides the main thrift store, the location functions as a donation center, allowing groups to bring items for donation to support the cause if they wish. This dual-purpose setup means your meetup can include activities like decluttering together and donating, adding a rewarding dimension to your gathering. The large store layout makes it comfortable for groups to navigate and spend ample time browsing without feeling rushed. While Goodwill does not typically provide food or drink services onsite, the surrounding Austin area offers numerous dining options nearby, so your group can easily combine shopping with meals or coffee breaks to extend the social experience. Staff are knowledgeable about the organization’s mission and can provide insights into how donations and purchases help the community, enriching your visit with meaningful context.
How can you make the most of your meetup at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek?
To maximize your group's fun and impact at Goodwill Central Texas - Lake Creek, consider planning a structured yet flexible itinerary. Start by setting a collective goal, such as finding items for a theme (e.g., retro fashion, holiday décor, or sustainable home goods) or establishing a friendly competition for best finds. Bring reusable bags to encourage a green shopping experience and, if interested, allocate time for donating gently used goods together before browsing. Encourage group members to share stories behind items they discover or plan how to repurpose purchased goods, fostering creativity and connection. After shopping, head to a nearby café or park to showcase finds, share tips, and deepen the social aspect of the meetup. Highlighting the mission behind Goodwill can inspire reflective conversation about community support, elevating the gathering beyond a casual outing. By combining entertainment, purpose, and socializing, your meetup will be memorable, fulfilling, and beneficial for all involved.