If you’ve ever watched Confessions of a Shopaholic, you’ll understand why Tax-Free Weekend feels like a holiday of its own. Whether you’ve never seen it or can quote the best parts, there’s something undeniably fun about planning the perfect shopping getaway. This year’s Tax-Free Weekend takes place August 7–9, making it the perfect time to plan a shopping escape to Allen. With restaurants between every stop and hotels just minutes from the biggest retail destinations in North Texas, it’s easy to turn back-to-school shopping (or just treating yourself 😉) into a weekend you’ll enjoy. And with over five million square feet of shopping to be explored, Allen is the obvious choice.
Grab your bags. We’ve put together five “shopaholic-approved” steps for making the most of your Tax-Free Weekend in Allen.
Shopaholic Step #1: Rise and Shine.
Your perfect morning routine is an essential step in crafting the perfect weekend, and it’s waiting for you here in Allen. Grab a coffee and breakfast sandwich from Armor Coffee before you head out, or ease into the day with a latte and crepe from Frogg Coffee Bar & Creperie, plus a treehouse play area for the kids. Want to kick things off with a fun workout? Meet the girls for a class at Pure Barre. However you fuel up, Allen has your dream wake-up call before your shopping adventure begins.
Shopaholic Step #2: Cue the Shopping Montage.
Whether your shopping style is browsing boutiques, hunting for designer deals, or checking every item off the back-to-school list, Allen makes it easy to find your perfect fit.
If beautiful surroundings are just as important as beautiful finds, start at Watters Creek Village. Browse boutiques like Kendra Scott, Anthropologie, lululemon, DSW, and White House Black Market, then take a break with creekside views before heading to your next stop. Want to turn your shopping trip into a weekend getaway? Hilton Garden Inn is within walking distance.
For designer deals, Allen Premium Outlets is home to 100+ name-brand outlets. From Polo Ralph Lauren and Coach, to Levi’s and Gap Kids, it’s easy to spend the afternoon crossing everything off your shopping list. Make it even easier and stay at Hampton Inn & Suites just steps away.
Shopping with the whole family? The Village at Allen makes it easy to turn your shopping trip into a full day out. Browse stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Nordstrom Rack, Target, and Michaels, then stop by The Grove for The Market at The Village at Allen, where you’ll find local farmers, artisan food vendors, makers, and small businesses Saturdays starting Tax-Free Weekend through October 10. Stay nearby at La Quinta Inn & Suites and enjoy even more time exploring.
For a shopper’s paradise plus the perfect place to slow down and bring home something unexpected, visit a local favorite: Lone Star Mercantile. With everything from artisan goods to antiques, to boutique clothing and one-of-a-kind treasures from hundreds of local vendors, this spot is family-owned and full of unique finds waiting to be discovered.
The best part of a weekend trip paired with the ease of Allen—you can do it all.
Shopaholic Step #3: Take a Break.
A successful shopping day deserves a great meal, and Allen has plenty of places to refuel before heading back out.
Keep it light with a fresh lunch from Original ChopShop, or celebrate your latest finds with happy hour at TwoRows Classic Grill. As the day winds down, settle in for dinner on one of Allen’s inviting patios. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or your four-legged travel companion, pet-friendly favorites like Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q make it easy to end the day with great food and even better company.
Shopaholic Step #4: Have Fun.
Shopping may be the reason for your trip, but it’s only the beginning. Between great finds, take some time to experience everything else Allen has to offer.
Keep the fun going with a friendly competition at Topgolf or chill out and hit the ice at Allen Community Ice Rink. Looking for something a little more relaxed? Create your own masterpiece at Color Me Mine or build the perfect frozen yogurt treat at Yumilicious before heading back out for one last shopping stop.
Shopaholic Step #5: Make the Most of Your Shopping Trip.
Spend less time driving and more time exploring by booking a stay at one of Allen’s welcoming hotels. With shopping, dining, and attractions just minutes apart, it’s easy to turn Tax-Free Weekend into a weekend getaway you’ll actually enjoy.
We’ve already planned your itinerary—all that’s left to do is pack your bags (save room for your finds, of course). If you start hearing your favorite stores calling your name, don’t say we didn’t warn you. Happy shopping, and we’ll see you in Allen this Tax-Free Weekend!
