When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Treasure City Thrift
Why Treasure City Thrift is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Treasure City Thrift stands out as Austin's most affordable thrift store, deeply embedded within the local community as a hub for sustainability and mutual aid. Located at 2142 E. 7th Street until the end of August 2025, it serves as a low-cost resource particularly for low-income and unsheltered individuals. What makes Treasure City Thrift a great place to meet up with friends is not just its extensive collection of thrifted goods but its vibrant community-oriented events and ethos. Beyond shopping, it hosts monthly "Really, Really Free Markets," where anyone can freely take surplus clothing and goods, fostering a culture of sharing and reuse. The store also organizes workshops, movie nights, shows, and benefit events that engage and bring people together around zero-waste and consensus-based economic experiments. Pricing at Treasure City is very thrifty, with a color-tag discount system ensuring items older than two months reduce by 50%, alongside monthly 25-cent sales for remaining stock. Donations are welcomed regularly, and proceeds fuel their mission to provide material support to other community groups through a mutual aid network. The inclusive atmosphere, affordability, and active community involvement make Treasure City Thrift a special gathering place for friends and neighbors seeking meaningful and environmentally conscious shopping and social experiences.
Here's what people think of Treasure City Thrift
As of recent, Treasure City Thrift holds a 4.3-star rating based on 210 reviews.
User reviews, totaling 210 and averaging a rating of 4.3, reflect a broadly positive reception to Treasure City Thrift. Positive reviews commonly highlight the store's affordability, strong community focus, and the welcoming atmosphere. Shoppers appreciate the extensive range of thrifted goods priced to be accessible to everyone, particularly emphasizing its importance for low-income patrons. The monthly free market events and other community activities earn praise for fostering goodwill and environmental stewardship through reuse. Reviewers also commend the friendly, collective management style and the store's dedication to zero waste, which aligns with the values of many regular visitors. On the critical side, some reviewers mention challenges related to the store’s impending move from its longtime location at 2142 E. 7th Street, which has created uncertainty and may affect accessibility for some customers. A few note that the store looks crowded or disorganized at times, likely reflecting the volume and variety of donated goods. Additionally, as a community-run space, service can occasionally feel less polished compared to commercial thrift stores. In conclusion, Treasure City Thrift is valued by its patrons for its mission-driven, affordable shopping and vibrant community events, with minor critiques mainly focused on operational growing pains and the transition to a new location.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maria
amazing thrift store!!! prices are super low and they seem to always have sales going on. you can find items as low as 25¢!! welcoming energy and full of treasures if you spend some time looking 10/10 I would come back again!!
vish yeah
This is a wonderful store with great people that really helps and impacts both the community they serve and the organizations they partner with. Also having a FREE MARKET once a month is a great/unique service. Give them a try and donate for their move!
Alyssa, waywardblog
Treasure City Thrift is the kind of thrift store I wish I had in my home city of Charlotte! Prices are so reasonable, and the selection is great if a little small (although it's nice to not feel overwhelmed by a massive selection). Masks are required, and they're provided up by the counter (it took us a long time of standing in the doorway trying to find them to figure that out - now you know!).
Tiffany Marie
1. Horrible service to the disabled Pulled up, a man in a wheelchair was waiting in the hot sun for an employee to open the door. No one came. There was someone at the register, register is straight ahead of entrance door where he could be clearly seen from. Still no one came to the door, I had to be the one to open it for him. 2. Overpriced clothes: pictures attached. $10 for a pair of basketball shorts that are torn in the private area. Do not recommend.
Melissa Alexander
I was visited Treasure City Thrift yesterday and met Neon! Such a cool name for a kind person. I also bought this book of Chinese cross stitch. All of their profits go to places that help people. Please shop her to support your community 💙 ✨
How to reach Treasure City Thrift
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Website: None
Why rally at Treasure City Thrift with your friends?
Gathering at Treasure City Thrift in Austin, Texas, offers a unique combination of affordability, community spirit, and discovery that makes it an ideal spot for meeting up with friends and family. Unlike typical retail spaces, this thrift store prides itself on being the most affordable in Austin, making shopping accessible for everyone in your group, regardless of budget. When you rally here, you’re not just hunting for bargains but participating in a larger movement of sustainability and social solidarity, since every purchase supports community causes. The vibrant, eclectic inventory, ranging from vintage clothes to household items, invites exploration and sparks conversations as you compare finds and share style tips. The welcoming environment, often described as warm and friendly by its customers, encourages lingering and bonding. Moreover, Treasure City Thrift hosts community-driven events such as the Really Really Free Market and back-to-school shopping nights, which transform the shopping experience into social gatherings. This mix of affordability, social impact, and cultural vibrancy creates a dynamic space where friends can reconnect, have fun discovering treasures, and support a worthy cause together.
What activities can you do together at Treasure City Thrift?
Treasure City Thrift offers various engaging activities suitable for groups looking to spend quality time together while exploring affordable shopping options. First and foremost, thrift shopping here is an activity itself, where the thrill lies in hunting for vintage clothing, unique accessories, and household essentials. Groups can split up or browse together, then come back to share their best discoveries, turning shopping into a friendly challenge or collaborative adventure. Additionally, the store frequently hosts special events like the Really Really Free Market, held the last Sunday of each month—an event where community members can browse bins of free clothing, which is perfect for groups looking for a low-pressure, fun outing with a philanthropic twist. The store also organizes back-to-school thrift nights, which not only offer new deals but also support local nonprofit causes, allowing your group to give back through shopping. Donations are another group-friendly activity: many visitors bring items together to donate on specific days, making it a collective way to declutter while contributing to the store’s mission. Plus, Treasure City Thrift encourages social interaction and education by communicating their commitment to zero waste and recycling, turning visits into opportunities for meaningful conversations about sustainability.
Why is Treasure City Thrift perfect for a group meetup?
Treasure City Thrift’s environment strikes a balance between casual and community-centered, making it a perfect venue for group meetups. Unlike standard malls or coffee shops, it offers a shared purpose—thrifting—where every person can actively participate and enjoy the experience rather than just sit or stand around. The store’s wide range of affordable items ensures that all members of the group find something interesting, regardless of taste or needs, fostering inclusivity. The layout is spacious enough to accommodate groups wandering together or breaking off into smaller teams without crowding. Beyond shopping, the regular events hosted at the store promote social mingling, making it easy to socialize with each other and other community members. Its operating hours from late morning to evening provide flexibility for group plans, whether a casual Sunday stroll or an evening outing. Plus, the welcoming mission that the store operates on—solidarity instead of charity—creates a positive, inspiring ambiance where groups feel connected not only to each other but to a broader social cause. This unique combination makes Treasure City Thrift an ideal, meaningful destination for groups looking to do something fun, affordable, and impactful.
What makes the shopping experience at Treasure City Thrift unique?
Shopping at Treasure City Thrift is more than just a transaction; it’s an engaging experience deeply embedded in community values. One of the unique aspects is the store’s commitment to affordability, making it the most budget-friendly thrift store in Austin, which invites frequent visits and happy hunting. The inventory is a curated mix of donated items that range widely in style, era, and category, offering something unexpected around every corner. This creates an ever-changing “treasure hunt” feeling, where shoppers can discover vintage wear, rare finds, or practical products, all in one location. Additionally, the store channels 100% of its proceeds toward supporting community programs and nonprofit organizations, giving shoppers a significant social purpose behind their purchase. Their solid waste diversion program, which ensures that about 95% of donated goods are either reused or recycled, adds to this appeal by giving shoppers a chance to participate in eco-friendly consumption. The staff and volunteers are known for their friendly, helpful attitude, cultivating a neighborhood atmosphere combined with the excitement of thrifting. These features collectively create a shopping environment that’s inviting, purposeful, and distinct from conventional retail experiences.
How does Treasure City Thrift support community involvement and sustainability?
Treasure City Thrift functions not just as a thrift store but also as a hub for community solidarity and environmental mindfulness. A significant part of its business model revolves around supporting local nonprofits; 100% of the purchase price goes toward grassroots groups, which is a rare and admirable commitment. This means every group outing here is also a contribution to positive change in Austin’s community. The store also emphasizes environmental sustainability through its landfill diversion program, where they estimate that 80% of donated goods are reused, 15% recycled, and only about 5% end up as waste. This approach encourages visitors to rethink consumption and waste, promoting circular economy principles by extending the life of products. Their donation guidelines ensure only quality, clean, and reusable items enter circulation, reducing contamination and maximizing resource efficiency. Beyond donations, community events like clothing swaps and the Really Really Free Market encourage sharing and reuse, fostering a strong culture of giving and mutual aid. Together, these initiatives make Treasure City Thrift not only a shopping destination but a place where people actively engage in making a social and environmental difference, strengthening community ties and inspiring responsible living.
What practical amenities and services does Treasure City Thrift offer for groups?
Treasure City Thrift is well-equipped with practical features that enhance group visits. The store’s operating hours are broad, from 11 AM to 7 PM on most days, accommodating diverse schedules and making it convenient to plan meetups at almost any time of the day or week. They also accept donations on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays between 1 PM and 7 PM, allowing groups to coordinate drop-offs together, which can double as group activities focused on giving back. For gift-givers or those who want to share the thrift experience remotely, the store offers e-gift cards that can be purchased in any amount and sent digitally—ideal for group members who want to support each other’s shopping endeavors or give a token of community spirit. The location at 2142 E. 7th Street in Austin is accessible and recognizable, often hosting community-driven events, which makes planning a day around visiting Treasure City Thrift straightforward and rewarding. Their communication channels, including an active Instagram and a well-maintained website, keep shoppers updated on store news and events, helping groups stay informed and involved. These amenities make Treasure City Thrift a thoughtful, user-friendly destination for social gatherings.
Why is Treasure City Thrift a valuable destination for family and friends looking to connect?
Treasure City Thrift offers a multifaceted experience that appeals across generations, making it a valuable destination for family and friends to connect. The store’s varied inventory spans items attractive to all ages—from vintage fashion that resonates with older generations to quirky finds and practical goods for younger visitors—creating a shared space where everyone can find something meaningful. The act of thrifting together encourages dialogue and interaction, whether it’s reminiscing over retro items or hunting together for decorating inspirations. The communal events like the Really Really Free Market provide opportunities for hands-on involvement and fun, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Moreover, the affordability of the store means that families and friend groups can enjoy shopping without pressure, creating a comfortable, inclusive environment for all participants. Treasure City Thrift’s mission of solidarity over charity promotes values that are ideal for bonding over shared ideals of sustainability, social justice, and community support. For groups seeking more than just a casual hangout, it offers meaningful moments of connection combined with fun and discovery.