Back-to-School Shopping? Visit Howard County Helped Me Find the Best Local Spots
So, you’re checking back-to-school shopping off the list… But you’re still looking for more end-of-summer fun? Check out my summer bucket-list blog. I share more Visit Howard County events happening in August and September!
Looking for the best places to shop local during Maryland Tax-Free Week?
I chatted with Visit Howard County to uncover the ultimate go-to spots for back-to-school shopping and seasonal deals in Columbia, Ellicott City, Savage, and beyond.
Whether you’re grabbing last-minute school supplies, refreshing your wardrobe, or just love a good shopping day with the family, this is your guide to making the most of Tax-Free Week while supporting local, Howard County businesses.
When is Maryland Tax-Free Week?
This year, Maryland Tax-Free Week runs from Sunday, August 10 through Saturday, August 16, 2025.
What Qualifies as Tax-Free?
Maryland’s Tax-Free Week is the perfect time to save on back-to-school essentials, but here’s what you need to know: only certain items qualify.
Clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less per item are sales tax exempt during this week. ✅
For backpacks and bookbags, the first $40 of the purchase price is also tax-free. ✅
Accessories and other non-clothing items do not qualify. ❌
This is a great opportunity to stock up on the essentials… Just be sure to check those price tags before you head to checkout!
Where to Shop During Tax-Free Week in Howard County
I connected with Visit Howard County to discover where locals love to shop for school, work, gifts, and more. Whether you're all about boutique finds or one-stop shops, these are their top recommended retail spots:
The Mall in Columbia
A classic go-to with national brands and retailers all in one place.
Address: 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD
Sweet Elizabeth Jane (Historic Ellicott City)
Known for its mix of stylish clothing, bags, and accessories.
Address: 8289 Main St, Ellicott City, MD
Stone House Collective (Historic Ellicott City)
Trendy boutique offering curated apparel, décor, and unique accessories.
Address: 8129 Main St, Ellicott City, MD
Urban Story Clothing Boutique (Ellicott City)
Modern fashion with a focus on high-quality pieces imported from Korea.
Address: 9051 Baltimore National Pike #2A, Ellicott City, MD
Savage Mill (Savage)
Historic mill turned shopping destination with artisan shops and galleries.
Address: 8600 Foundry St, Savage, MD
Success in Style / Charity’s Closet (Savage)
Affordable, second-hand fashion that supports workforce readiness programs.
Address: 8600 Foundry St, Suite 203, Savage, MD
Alumia Design Studio (Savage)
Creative studio offering jewelry, accessories, and customizable gifts.
Address: 8600 Foundry St, Suite 203, Savage, MD
DoodleHATCH (Columbia)
Interactive art and retail space, perfect for back-to-school creativity and fun finds.
Address: 8775 Cloudleap Ct, Unit 1, Columbia, MD
Why Shop Local During Tax-Free Week?
Besides the savings, shopping local during Tax-Free Week helps:
Support small businesses and local artisans.
Discover unique items not found in big box stores.
Keep dollars in the Howard County community.
Whether you're shopping for your kids, yourself, or gifts for the new school year, these Howard County spots have something for everyone.
Bonus: Shop for Teachers, Unique Gifts, and More in Howard County
Looking for more ways to support local businesses beyond back-to-school shopping? Visit Howard County has you covered with two more great guides worth checking out:
Last-Minute Teacher Gifts
From sweet treats to thoughtful finds, here’s where to shop for meaningful gifts your child’s teacher will actually love.
HoCo’s Coolest Shopping Spots
Whether you're browsing for yourself or hunting for that perfect gift, these local shops and boutiques are some of the best around.
Shopping local isn’t just about school supplies… It’s about supporting the community year-round. And with Visit Howard County’s help, you’ve got plenty of options.
Start Planning Your Howard County Shopping Trip
To learn more about these retailers, browse upcoming local events, or explore restaurant recommendations while you're out, check out Visit Howard County for all of their shopping picks.
Happy Tax-Free Week and back-to-school shopping!
