Shopping in Fort Davis, Texas: A Comprehensive Guide to Local Stores and Unique Finds
Nestled in the scenic Davis Mountains, Fort Davis, Texas is a small town with a big personality. Known for its historic charm, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, it may surprise some to learn that Fort Davis also boasts a vibrant shopping scene. Whether you’re a visitor looking for a unique souvenir, a history enthusiast searching for local artifacts, or a resident in need of everyday essentials, the town’s array of shops and boutiques offers a delightful blend of local craftsmanship, antiques, outdoor gear, and more.
In this comprehensive guide to shopping in Fort Davis, we’ll explore the town’s diverse array of shops, from specialty boutiques to charming general stores. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind art pieces, stocking up on hiking gear, or searching for the perfect gift, this guide will help you uncover the best places to shop in this West Texas gem.
1. An Overview of Shopping in Fort Davis
Fort Davis may be a small town, but it’s rich in local businesses that cater to a wide variety of tastes and needs. The town’s shopping options reflect its unique character, with stores often specializing in handmade crafts, locally sourced products, and regional artwork. Here, you won’t find big-box stores or major retail chains, but what you will discover is a commitment to local craftsmanship and a sense of community that shines through every shop door.
From art galleries to gift shops, Fort Davis offers something for everyone. For tourists, there’s a strong emphasis on Southwestern culture and Texan heritage, which can be seen in the items for sale—from handcrafted pottery and jewelry to Western-themed antiques and historical memorabilia. For locals, the town offers everyday conveniences like grocery stores, hardware suppliers, and general stores that ensure residents have access to what they need without venturing far from home.
2. Fort Davis Drug Store & Hotel Gift Shop
If you’re visiting Fort Davis, the Fort Davis Drug Store & Hotel is likely to be one of your first stops. Not only does it serve up delicious meals and classic American sodas, but it also has an attached gift shop filled with an eclectic mix of souvenirs, gifts, and local goods.
Why Visit?
The gift shop is a charming collection of Texas-themed memorabilia, including locally made candles, handcrafted pottery, and a range of home decor items that reflect the town’s Western heritage. You’ll find Fort Davis souvenirs, including T-shirts, magnets, and postcards, making it the perfect place to grab a keepsake to remember your trip by. The shop also carries a selection of local artwork and handmade jewelry, so it’s an ideal stop if you’re looking for a special gift or something unique to take home.
Must-Buy Items: Locally made candles, Western-themed home decor, Texas souvenirs.
Location: 113 N. State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
3. The Stone Village Market
For those who appreciate fresh, locally sourced food and artisanal products, the Stone Village Market is a must-visit. More than just a grocery store, this shop is a hub for fresh produce, organic goods, and local specialties.
Why Visit?
Whether you’re stocking up for a hiking trip, preparing a picnic, or just browsing the shelves for unique local finds, Stone Village Market offers an impressive selection of organic groceries, fresh-baked bread, and regional products. In addition to food items, the store sells local crafts and souvenirs, making it a great stop for both residents and tourists alike.
Must-Buy Items: Fresh baked bread, local honey, handmade crafts.
Location: 509 N. State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
4. Wild Rose Gallery
For art lovers, Wild Rose Gallery is a destination not to be missed. This local art gallery showcases a wide array of regional art, from paintings and photography to sculptures and hand-crafted jewelry. If you’re looking to take home a piece of the Davis Mountains, this gallery offers a rich selection of works that capture the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Why Visit?
The Wild Rose Gallery features work by local artists, many of whom draw inspiration from the dramatic landscapes and rich history of the Davis Mountains. Whether you’re an avid art collector or just looking for a unique memento of your visit to Fort Davis, you’ll find something that speaks to you here. The gallery is also a great place to find handcrafted jewelry, making it an excellent spot for gift shopping.
Must-Buy Items: Local paintings, hand-crafted jewelry, Southwestern-themed art.
Location: 410 State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
5. Fort Davis Emporium & Gallery
A haven for antique lovers and collectors, the Fort Davis Emporium & Gallery is the perfect stop for anyone interested in unique antiques, vintage collectibles, and local art. This shop offers a mix of Western antiques and Texas-themed memorabilia, along with a range of locally made products.
Why Visit?
Stepping into the Fort Davis Emporium is like stepping back in time. The store is filled with treasures that range from rustic Western furniture to vintage cowboy gear. Along with antiques, the shop also offers local art and crafts from the region’s artisans. It’s the ideal place to pick up a statement piece for your home or a memorable gift with a touch of Old West charm.
Must-Buy Items: Western antiques, vintage cowboy gear, local art.
Location: 209 N. State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
6. The Davis Mountains Nut Company
For a truly local experience, make sure to stop by the Davis Mountains Nut Company, which offers a wide range of Texas-grown nuts, candies, and snacks. This small, family-run business focuses on delivering high-quality, locally sourced products, making it a great place to stock up on treats.
Why Visit?
The Davis Mountains Nut Company is the go-to shop for anyone with a sweet tooth or snack cravings. Their products include candied pecans, locally grown pistachios, and a variety of nut-based candies and snacks. These delicious goodies make perfect gifts or souvenirs, especially if you’re looking for something authentically Texan.
Must-Buy Items: Candied pecans, pistachios, locally made nut brittle.
Location: 2307 State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
7. Davis Mountain Broom Shop
For something truly unique and handmade, visit the Davis Mountain Broom Shop, where old-fashioned craftsmanship meets modern-day practicality. This shop offers handcrafted brooms made using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
Why Visit?
Each broom is a work of art, meticulously crafted and durable enough for daily use. Whether you’re looking for a functional household item or a decorative piece, the Davis Mountain Broom Shop is sure to impress with its selection. The brooms are made using natural materials, and their rustic charm makes them popular among locals and visitors alike.
Must-Buy Items: Handcrafted brooms, decorative brooms, broom holders.
Location: 401 N. State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
8. McDonald Observatory Gift Shop
Located at the McDonald Observatory, a short drive from Fort Davis, this gift shop offers a selection of astronomy-related souvenirs and educational items. It’s a perfect stop for visitors looking to take home a piece of their stargazing experience.
Why Visit?
If you’ve enjoyed a Star Party at the McDonald Observatory, you’ll want to remember the experience with something special from their gift shop. Here, you can find astronomy books, star charts, and telescope accessories, along with fun items like glow-in-the-dark T-shirts and space-themed toys for kids. It’s a great place to grab something that inspires an appreciation for the night sky.
Must-Buy Items: Astronomy books, star charts, space-themed souvenirs.
Location: 3640 Dark Sky Dr., Fort Davis, TX 79734
9. Old Texas Inn General Store
For a classic general store experience, visit the Old Texas Inn General Store. This store offers a bit of everything—from groceries and home goods to Western-themed decor and unique souvenirs.
Why Visit?
The Old Texas Inn General Store is the perfect place to pick up any essentials you might need during your stay in Fort Davis. In addition to groceries and household items, the store features a variety of Western-themed products, from cowboy hats and boots to rustic home decor. It’s a true one-stop shop, whether you’re in need of supplies or simply looking for a special gift to take home.
Must-Buy Items: Cowboy hats, Western home decor, general goods.
Location: 103 Memorial Square, Fort Davis, TX 79734
10. Limpia Creek Hats
If you want to truly embrace the Western spirit of Fort Davis, stop by Limpia Creek Hats, where you can find custom-made hats crafted by local artisans. This shop specializes in Western-style hats that are made with high-quality materials and built to last.
Why Visit?
At Limpia Creek Hats, each hat is custom-fitted and made to suit your individual style. Whether you’re looking for a traditional cowboy hat or something more fashion-forward, the artisans at this shop will ensure that you walk away with a perfect fit. A custom-made hat from Limpia Creek is not just a purchase; it’s an investment in timeless, quality craftsmanship.
Must-Buy Items: Custom-fitted cowboy hats, Western fashion accessories.
Location: 501 State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
11. Nature’s Own Gallery
For lovers of natural history, Nature’s Own Gallery in Fort Davis is the perfect place to explore and shop for one-of-a-kind items. The gallery offers a wide variety of natural artifacts, from fossils and minerals to handcrafted jewelry made with natural stones.
Why Visit?
Nature’s Own Gallery is a treasure trove for those interested in geology, paleontology, or natural history. You can browse an array of fossils, gemstones, and crystals, each with its own unique story. The shop also carries handmade jewelry and decorative pieces inspired by the natural world, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Must-Buy Items: Fossils, gemstones, handmade jewelry with natural stones.
Location: 305 E. State St., Fort Davis, TX 79734
12. Conclusion
Shopping in Fort Davis, Texas, offers a unique and delightful experience. From Western-themed antiques to custom-fitted cowboy hats, the town’s local shops capture the essence of West Texas charm and craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for local artwork, handcrafted goods, or simply a great souvenir to remind you of your time in the Davis Mountains, the shopping options in Fort Davis are as diverse as they are authentic.
Fort Davis’s stores are more than just places to buy things—they’re an invitation to connect with the local culture and bring a piece of the town’s unique spirit home with you. Whether you’re browsing antiques, picking up locally made snacks, or investing in a custom-made cowboy hat, Fort Davis promises a memorable shopping experience with genuine, local flavor. So next time you’re in town, take some time to explore these hidden gems, and discover all that shopping in Fort Davis has to offer.