When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Out of the Closet - Austin
Why Out of the Closet - Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Out of the Closet - Austin is more than just a thrift store; it is a vibrant community hub located on Guadalupe Street that brings together great shopping with a strong social mission. Established recently, this store offers a wide array of donated second-hand clothes, home goods, and furniture, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy unique thrift finds and sustainable shopping. The proceeds from purchases largely support HIV care and treatment efforts, connecting the local community with impactful health initiatives. Beyond its thrift offerings, Out of the Closet - Austin provides convenient and accessible health services, including general STD testing available Monday through Friday and dedicated HIV testing on Saturdays. This blend of retail and health services fosters a welcoming environment where friends can meet, shop, and support a worthwhile cause. The store is open weekdays and Saturdays with extended hours, enhancing accessibility. Being the only location of this nationally recognized organization in Austin, it serves as an important resource linking shopping with community health awareness and support.
Here's what people think of Out of the Closet - Austin
As of recent, Out of the Closet - Austin holds a 4.6-star rating based on 22 reviews.
User reviews for Out of the Closet - Austin consistently highlight the store's positive community impact and friendly, helpful staff. Many shoppers appreciate the well-curated selection of quality second-hand clothing and household items at reasonable prices, making it a go-to destination for bargain hunters and sustainable shoppers alike. Reviewers also commend the availability and convenience of health services like STD and HIV testing on-site, which adds significant value for locals seeking accessible healthcare options. Positively, reviewers note the store's clean and organized layout, which enhances the shopping experience. However, some negative feedback points to occasional delays during busy health testing times and a desire for longer Saturday hours to accommodate more visitors. A few customers mentioned that while donation acceptance is generous, the store does not purchase items from donors, which could be a minor inconvenience for some. Overall, the reviews reflect strong community approval and appreciation for Out of the Closet - Austin's dual mission of thrift retail and health service support, making it a cherished local establishment dedicated to social impact and community well-being.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tommy Perdue
Happy that they are a non-profit providing affordable clothes/ items to the community. With that said, the customer service is horrible. I took my daughter there with her friends. At the register, my daughters friend had a difficult time accessing her digital payment on her phn and had to call her mom to unlock the card. I politely asked the lady at the register if there was a way they could hold the clothes for a few minutes. She aggressively said "NO" and literally snatched the bag as to hide it. It was just weird....and this was in front of a 14 year old girl. I may have been out of line, but I had a few words for her. If she wiukdve just said "no sir, that's not our policy. I wkukdve understood. Great affordable clothes but some of the employees need to fi d a different line of work
H M
I'm from out of town ,and I needed a thrift fix. I'm glad I came across this thriftstore with a great cause . I bought some 7 inch punk records for $2 a piece . They have an assortment of items ,lots of cool stuff. They also have aids testing and a pharmacy inside .
Andrea Goodwin
I can’t wait to come back! I really appreciated how friendly and welcoming the employees were. The store is impressively clean. I was wowed by the prices and the brands that were available. It was a comfortable shopping experience.
keke L.
Not much of a selection . I was able to get a blazer for $15.
Teagan Esme Esther
I'm in love! The selection is top notch and the prices are so affordable! I also had an amazing experience with one of the staff, Korn, who offered to stitch a hole in a skirt (such a cute skirt) I had bought after it ripped (long story). Their stitching was totally unidentifiable when I went to pick it up shortly thereafter. They and their co-workers have certainly gained a new regular! I'm recommending this place to all my friends! I couldn't ask for a better experience with such wonderful people, clothes, and prices!
How to reach Out of the Closet - Austin
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Why Out of the Closet - Austin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Out of the Closet - Austin with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at Out of the Closet - Austin is an excellent idea because this place offers more than just a shopping experience; it creates a vibrant community atmosphere with a meaningful cause at its core. Located at 2927 Guadalupe Street, this thrift store is well-lit, spacious, and welcoming, making it ideal for groups to explore without feeling cramped. The energy here is friendly and inclusive, providing a safe space where everyone can feel comfortable browsing unique, curated items together. Beyond the fun of treasure hunting for vintage clothes, books, home decor, and more, you get to support a bigger mission—96 cents of every dollar earned goes back to HIV care and services. This makes your group outing not only enjoyable but impactful, as your participation aids in funding free HIV testing and healthcare for people in need. So, whether you’re looking for some retail therapy, a shared activity with a purpose, or a chance to bond over good finds and goodwill, Out of the Closet - Austin offers a perfect, socially conscious venue to rally with your friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Out of the Closet - Austin with a group?
When you visit Out of the Closet - Austin as a group, the primary activity is the delightful experience of thrifting together. The store’s well-organized layout and spacious interior make it easy for everyone to roam freely among racks of clothing, shelves of books, and displays of unique home items. You and your friends can make it a game to find the best vintage outfit or the most eye-catching decor piece. Many groups enjoy comparing finds and sharing styling tips or ideas on upcycling items. Additionally, the store hosts occasional events or promotions, which can add an exciting layer to your visit. Since the store supports HIV/AIDS care, there are also free HIV testing services offered by trained clinicians nearby, which means your meetup can blend fun with wellness awareness. This combination of shopping, social connection, and community care makes it a multifaceted experience, catering to diverse interests within your group. Overall, the activities here promote camaraderie through both entertainment and the shared satisfaction of giving back.
Why is Out of the Closet - Austin perfect for group meetups?
Out of the Closet - Austin is perfectly tailored for group meetups because of both its physical space and community-focused mission. The store is clean, spacious, and well-lit, creating a pleasant environment where groups can relax and enjoy browsing without the discomfort of overcrowding. Such a layout makes it easy for friends or families to spread out and explore varied merchandise categories side by side. The store’s staff are known to be friendly and accommodating, enhancing the group experience by providing assistance when needed. Beyond the space and staff, the store’s social mission encourages meaningful interactions; every purchase or donation directly supports HIV/AIDS research and patient care. This shared purpose fosters a sense of belonging and connection among visitors. The psychological impact of knowing your outing supports an important cause often elevates the collective mood and creates memorable shared experiences. Compared to ordinary retail outings, this blend of comfort, friendliness, and social impact makes Out of the Closet - Austin a uniquely perfect spot for group gatherings.
What makes the merchandise at Out of the Closet - Austin unique for groups interested in thrifting?
The merchandise at Out of the Closet - Austin stands out because it is carefully curated, offering an eclectic variety that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Groups with diverse tastes will appreciate the mix of vintage clothing, accessories, books, and home goods. The inventory is constantly refreshed with donations, so each visit can yield new surprises and opportunities for discovery. You and your friends can hunt for high-quality pieces that fit different styles, budgets, and interests — from classic looks to quirky statement items. This diversity means everyone in a group can find something appealing, which enhances the social thrill of sharing finds and swapping style advice. The curated nature of the items also reflects the store’s commitment to quality and impact, so purchases feel valuable and purposeful. Whether your group is seasoned thrift shoppers or newcomers enjoying the adventure, Out of the Closet’s merchandise makes the experience richly rewarding on multiple levels.
How does supporting Out of the Closet - Austin contribute to the local community?
Supporting Out of the Closet - Austin means directly contributing to a vital cause in the local community: HIV/AIDS care and research. Unlike many stores, nearly all proceeds—96 cents of every dollar—go back into funding health services such as free HIV testing, patient treatment, and education programs. This reinvestment helps vulnerable populations receive crucial medical care in a stigma-free and accessible environment. By shopping or donating items at Out of the Closet, you’re participating in a community-driven effort to save lives and reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS in Austin and beyond. For groups meeting up here, this shared purpose adds a meaningful layer to social interactions and creates a positive ripple effect in the neighborhood. It’s not just about buying or selling secondhand goods; it’s about fostering health, dignity, and hope for thousands of people. This community mission resonates strongly with many visitors, motivating them to return and to invite others to join in the support.
Why is the atmosphere at Out of the Closet - Austin welcoming for diverse groups?
Out of the Closet - Austin prides itself on being an inclusive, stigma-free space suited for people from all walks of life. The atmosphere is friendly, clean, and casual, which encourages visitors to relax and enjoy their time regardless of who they are or where they come from. This welcoming vibe is strengthened by the store’s dedicated community mission and well-trained staff who promote respect and kindness. Groups find it stress-free to meet and move around without feeling judged or rushed, making it a comfortable option for families, friends, and even coworkers. The presence of free HIV testing also underlines the store’s commitment to health empowerment and education, which further fosters an environment of care and openness. For meetups intended to combine leisure, shopping, and social awareness, the inviting atmosphere is essential in making everyone feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves, solidifying Out of the Closet - Austin’s role as a community hub.
What practical tips can help groups make the most out of their visit to Out of the Closet - Austin?
To maximize enjoyment when visiting Out of the Closet - Austin with friends or family, planning ahead can be helpful. First, consider setting a budget for thrifting to keep the experience fun and pressure-free. Since the store’s inventory changes frequently, come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure, ready to explore a wide range of items. Arrive as a group but allow time for individual browsing; sometimes people enjoy perusing on their own for the best finds while regrouping to share discoveries. If your group is interested, take advantage of the free HIV testing services available — it can be both informative and a way to care for each other’s health proactively. Lastly, bring reusable bags to carry your finds sustainably and consider donating some gently used items beforehand, which helps support the store’s mission while decluttering your space. Following these tips can turn what might be a simple shopping trip into a memorable, impactful outing for your group.
How does Out of the Closet - Austin balance social impact with an enjoyable shopping experience?
Out of the Closet - Austin skillfully blends its social mission with a high-quality thrift shopping experience. Unlike many thrift stores that might feel chaotic or cluttered, Out of the Closet maintains clean, well-lit, and well-organized spaces that attract shoppers seeking style and value. This environment encourages leisurely browsing and relaxed socializing, crucial elements for group meetups. Meanwhile, the clear and transparent reinvestment of nearly all profits into HIV care and research adds purpose and pride to every purchase or donation. Customers leave knowing their money not only buys something special but directly helps save lives. This dual focus on experience and impact elevates the store above ordinary retail offerings and creates a unique, positive atmosphere that satisfies both the heart and the wallet. Groups meeting here walk away both entertained and inspired, making Out of the Closet - Austin a model for socially responsible business with a welcoming vibe.