photos by Visit Corpus Christi unless otherwise noted
Draped in mature, sprawling oak trees and Texas mesquite, at the corner of Alameda and Doddridge streets, one of Corpus Christi's most beloved shopping havens sits, deep in the heart of the tony neighborhood that bears its name. Lamar Park exudes the low-slung mid-century modern vibe of the year it was built, 1955, and shakes it up with a contemporary twist.
Generations of locals and Coastal Bend regulars consider Lamar Park their go-to fashion destination. Just a whisper of the names of the shopping center's popular anchors, Ann Taylor, Chico's, Talbots or Texas style-powerhouse Julian Gold sends some folks into a fashion frenzy. While the big names lure shoppers in, the unique local retail shops keep them coming back.
South Texas Chic
The delicate embroidery so iconic to South American, Central American and Mexican/Texas culture that is making such a huge comeback on the runways, has never gone out of style at Pilar Eclectic Lifestyle, a charming import shop that's been around for four decades. Bright colors explode in woven flower patterns, like those found on traditional huipiles (tunics) or sarapes found in Oaxaca or Coahuila Mexico. While the main flavor here is decidedly Latin, Pilar carries imports from over 30 countries and features an extensive array of gift items and home accents.
Chicks Rule the Roost
The first place on your list to cherchez la femme (look for the woman) is this lovely lady shop for all ages: Yes! You can make generations from your little princess to your abuela's mama so, so happy at Four Chicks in the Park. Timeless, classic style in wished-for brands like Kickie Pants, Brighton, Arthur Court, Kensie for her, as well as gifts and accessories for the man in your life. The shop is wrapped in windows with one side looking out onto an easy-breezy atrium, enhancing this relaxing shopping atmosphere.
For the Wee Ones
Adorable kid’s shop Little Paper Crowns shows off the gamut of children's fashion. What do you mean, you didn't know there was a gamut of children's fashion? There are grandmaw-maw pleasing sundresses and tiny seersucker suit separates, as well as funky fun T-shirts with mermaids and old-school cassettes emblazoned on them – and Little Paper Crowns stocks them all. Seriously, if there is a PANK in your family (Professional Auntie, No Kids), bring her here to splurge!
You Deserve a Break
Even the most devout shopping maven should take the occasional breather, and where better to stop for a bite than Lamar Park's Hester's Cafe or The Post? Hester's offers so many custom blends of coffee, you may get the jitters trying them all. Calm down with some fresh-baked goodness or a Corpusbord omelette featuring roasted chicken, chiles, avocado and more.
Named for the U.S. Post Office that formerly resided there, The Post kicks the gastro-pub concept up a few rungs with pre-Prohibition style cocktails and menu items like lobster truffle mac & cheese, the hipster of jalapeño poppers: Brussel Sprouts drizzled in honey Sriracha and the Heisenburger and Hot Mess sandwiches. No wonder The Post’s creative cuisine grabbed the attention of Texas Monthly in the "50 Greatest Burgers in Texas" round-up!
Come to the Park
From the rosy brick walls and dutifully trimmed hedges, to the appealing mix of local, regional and national flair, Lamar Park is a relief from big box sameness. It makes shopping a relaxing breeze with specialty services like Gray Photography and Francisco's Salon, jewelry havens Goldsmith Jewelers and Peter Barr Designs, plus more fashion forward finds like Goosefeathers, Joseph A. Bank, and MARKET.
Come to Lamar Park, and transform yourself with a new style that reflects our casual Texas coastal charm. Get ready to spend some time in the changing rooms and make time to pick out cool mementos for those special someones back home. See you in Corpus Christi!