The Laredo downtown district has stood as the cornerstone of the area's economy for decades and promises to play an increasingly vital role in the city's future developments plans. With its rich history and many cultural jewels, the downtown Laredo business district enchants shoppers as well as tourists year-round from throughout Texas and beyond.

Laredo's famous San Bernardo Avenue is a 40-plus block collection of countless Mexican import vendors dedicated to promoting Laredo as the shopping attraction for everything uniquely Mexican. Up and down San Bernardo Avenue shoppers can find distinctive products handmade in Mexico from the master craftsmen still practicing a timeless art form unique to their individual regions. Shoppers visiting Laredo have the convenience of exploring Mexico's wealth of crafts and artistry along the San Bernardo Avenue without having to travel and search in the heart of Mexico.

Located just off Interstate 35 between Mann Road and Hillside Road in the center of the city, Mall del Norte is the premier shopping destination for South Texas and Northern Mexico. This upscale center showcases over 150 stores amongst an expanded and renovated Food Court - offering great fast food fare as well as several great dining options such as Logan's Roadhouse, Luby's, Olive Garden, Red Lobster and Tony Romas. Stores include Bealls, Dillard's, Macy's, JCPenney, Joe Brand, Mervyn's, Sears, bebe, Guess?, Hollister.