What was once the nation’s best shopping center has slipped a little in the rankings, but this San Antonio hotspot is still on the podium.
USA Today’s 10Best reader poll is out, and San Antonio’s Shops at La Cantera notched the No. 3 spot among the country’s best shopping centers. It marks a slight dip from last year’s ranking, which it topped at No. 1.
According to the 2026 ranking, “the Shops at La Cantera offers a serene, open-air shopping experience in San Antonio, with over 150 stores, garden courtyards, and water features. Anchored by Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, the center mixes high-end retailers with everyday favorites. Shaded walkways and a strong dining scene, from quick bites to upscale spots, make this a go-to luxury shopping destination for locals and visitors alike.”
It’s unclear what changed to make its position in the ranking less favorable, but La Cantera has certainly seen some shake-ups since last year’s list was released, which could account for it.
Changes shake up the Shops at La Cantera, nation’s No. 3 shopping center
Locals were shocked to learn in January that Urban Outfitters would be closing its doors at the popular San Antonio mall after 18 years. That portion of the mall saw a few closures, as Forever 21 shut down after filing for bankruptcy in early 2025, and the neighboring Soft Surroundings store closed its doors. Across the way, Kona Grill also wrapped up operations. As these apparel retailers shut down, they were replaced with furniture and home decor showrooms, and wine bar Sixty Vines moved into the old Kona Grill space.
However, other stores are opening, keeping the lineup fresh for shoppers. Coach recently set up shop near MAC Cosmetics, and SKIMS is preparing to open across from yoga and activewear outfitter ALO. Additionally, Brilliant Earth is soon to arrive for those in the market for fine jewelry and engagement rings, and Italian luxury retailer Dolce & Gabbana is making its way over this year. A Jeni’s Ice Creams kiosk is also nearing its debut for shoppers looking to beat the heat, and La La Land Kind Cafe has been drawing long lines of caffeine-seeking San Antonians since it opened in December 2025.
The introduction of 250 paid parking spots near Yard House, The Cheesecake Factory and Palenque Grill ruffled feathers in December 2025. Some locals called the decision greedy, but a spokesperson for Brookfield Properties, which operates the shopping center, told MySA it was meant to ease parking congestion and that restaurant guests were “embracing it.” Nearly 6,000 parking spots remained free of charge.
Despite the changes, one aspect of last year’s list remained consistent — the Shops at La Cantera was the only Texas shopping center to make it onto the ranking. So while it may have slipped nationally, it’s safe to say San Antonio still has the best shopping center in the Lone Star State.
MySA reached out to the Shops at La Cantera for comment but had not heard back at the time of publication.
Find it: 15900 La Cantera Pkwy., Suite 6698, San Antonio, TX 78256