Last Minute Christmas Ideas

There are many great local spots to get a last minute surprise gift for loved ones before Christmas. Some are local shops and others are amazingly fun experiences. I’m hoping you’ll be able to find some ideas with this short list.

1. Austin Paddle Shack

This fun little paddleboard and kayak rental location is located next to the follow up item on this list and is home to tours and an amazing crew. They offer tours, hourly rentals, and daily rentals. They have by far the most stable boats on the lake meaning that they are super newbie friendly. Additionally, they offer tours year round so if you get a gift card with them not to worry they operate year round.

2. Austin Cidercade

Located in conjunction with the Austin Paddle Shack this little business is the newest arcade and bar to join the Austin area. Similar to Pinballs, but different in a very key way, they offer a large variety of arcade games that is currently limited by Covid-19 restrictions. Additionally, they offer a unique service in a 15 dollar monthly membership program. It’s the perfect gift for all your fans of retro gaming or if you just want to hide the fact it’s difficult to find a next generation console.

3. Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Believe it or not this famous vodka brand is actually a local Austin business that has done a lot in 2020. Besides providing you with a fine liquor to sip upon during the 2020 low points they also transformed several of their breweries into hand sanitization production units. So why not support this hometown favorite by  gifting a liquor consoir with a bottle of the good stuff this Christmas.

4. Austin Pets Alive! Thrift

Do you like animals? Are you maybe shopping on a budget? Then this is the perfect location for you! This quaint thrift shop takes all of its proceeds and donates them to APA, a local no kill shelter that looks after pets that many would consider less desirable. They offer a nice selection of fun gag gifts to neat fashion fines and is an all in all pleasant shopping experience from start to finish.

5. Lammes Candies

Need a little sugar to go with the holiday spirit? Then look no further! This fun candy shop has been around since 1885 and takes custom orders for even your most picky eaters. It’s an Austin staple that has long produced delicious chocolate, fudge, and taffy. The only warning though is that you may become hooked after your first bite and their candy tends to run slightly more expensive than average grocery store brands.