As you head East of Austin towards Houston/College Station, you discover multiple quaint Texas Hill Country towns. As Austin has expanded, these cities continue to grow with Austin commuters and Austinites looking for more land, at a more competitive price than growing Austin properties. Many towns you’ll find are known for Barbecue and wind down the beautiful Colorado River. For more information on doing a Day Trip or Staycation in any of these towns, check out our Day Trips guide.

Manor/Elgin

Elgin is also known as the Sausage Capital of Texas and the Brick Capital of the Southwest, due to the presence of three operating brickyards in the mid-20th century (two of which are open to this date). Southwest of Austin, you’ll find Elgin about a 30 minute drive, following the US-290 route. Manor is one of the fastest growing Austin suburbs, with a large majority of residents commuting to Dell’s Round Rock Headquarters, and ability to find larger plots of land at a better price. Sitting only about 12 miles Northeast of Round Rock, you won’t find much traffic to and from the two cities.

Eat: Southside Market & Barbeque, Meyer’s Elgin Smokehouse, Cafe 290, Good Luck Grill, Aviator Pizza & Brew Company, Eva Mae’s Kitchen, Chokdee Thai Cuisine, Joseph’s Steakhouse, Luigi’s Italian Restaurant, Maxine’s Gumbo House, Lucy’s Kitchen, The Taco Spot, Tamale Addiction, Chemn Cafe

Drink: Ramos Restaurant & Sports Bar, The Owl Wine Bar & Home Goods, Liberty Tree Tavern, Bob’s Blue Collar Tavern, Libation Station

Play: J Lorraine TX Ghost Town, Suncrest Farm Horseback Riding, Crowes Nest Farm, East Metropolitan Park, Elgin Memorial Park, Bit by Bit Farms & Horseback Riding, Hogeye Festival, Austin Rifle Club Gun Range, Haunted Manor by Dick Peterson

Bastrop/Webberville/Smithville

Bastrop is “the most historic small town in Texas.” Find delicious restaurants, fun festivals and things to do, and great hotels like the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines. Smithville is a city in Bastrop County, Texas, United States, near the Colorado River. Webberville is a small town in Travis County, with a population of nearly 400 back in the 2010 Census. Located halfway between Austin and Bastrop it is only about 16 miles from Downtown Austin. Comprising settlements dating back to 1827, Webber’s Prairie was formally established by retired physician John Ferdinand Webber in 1839.

Eat: Comfort Cafe, Honey’s, Zimmerhanzel’s BBQ, Your Mom’s, Pockets Grille, Back Door Cafe & Coffee Shop, Olde World Bakery & Cafe, Bistro 71, Roadhouse, Maxine’s Bastrop, Neighbor’s Kitchen & Yard, The Grace Miller Gracie’s, Southside Market & BBQ Bastrop, Bastiano’s Pizzeria & Creamery, La Cocinas, Bassano Del Grappa, Coffee Dog Roastery & Coffee House

Play: Sherwood Forest Faire Festival, Bastrop State Park, Bastrop River Company Rafting Kayaking Paddleboarding & Tubing, Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park, Pine Forest Golf Club, ColoVista Golf Club, Crosshairs Fun Ranges, Lake Bastrop, Bastrop Farmers Market, Buescher State Park, Bastrop Opera House, Webberville Park, Austin Orchards (Pick your own Farm), Cook’s Canoes Rafting & Kayaking,

Drink: Cripple Creek Wine Tasting Room, 602 on Main, Copper Shot Distillery, Iron Bridge Icehouse, Bastrop Beer Company, Colorado River Winery

Lockhart

Lockhart is a great day-trip or weekend destination from San Antonio, Austin, Houston, the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and anywhere in between. Known for its Barbeque and winding country rounds. A city in Caldwell County, Texas with a population of 12,698 according to the 2010 census.

Eat:Black’s BBQ, Smitty’s, Kreuz Market, Lockhart Chisholm Trail BBQ, Lockhart Bistro

Play: Lonestar Gun Range, Maverick Horseback Riding, Bastrop River Company Rafting Kayaking Paddleboarding & Tubing, Lockhart State Park, Caldwell County Museum, Haunted Magnolia Hotel

Drink: The Pearl Wine Bar, Load Off Fanny’s, Lilly’s Bar & Grill, Lockhart Arts & Craft (Wine & Beer Bar / Art Classes), El Rey Bar & Nightclub, Coconuts Bar & Grill

The post Towns East of Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

The North Austin suburbs are filled with the “Silicon Hills” workers of Austin. With vast land, beautiful green parks and trails, kid-friendly activities, and dense restaurant areas near the multiple highways of 183, Mopac, I-35, 45 and 130 Toll roads.

Arboretum

The Arboretum at Great Hills preceded the Domain in North Austin’s first outdoor mall and restaurant area. Full of restaurants, shopping, and lush parks, fountain gardens and playgrounds, this makes for a great neighborhood to live in.

Eat: Estancia Brazilian Steakhouse, Amy’s Ice Cream, Hanara Sushi, Cheesecake Factory, Trulucks, Brio, Roaring Fork, Chuys, Haru Sushi, Tomodachi Sushi, Thai Cuisine, Brick House Tavern + Tap

Play: Summer Movies on the Lawn, Austin Aquarium, Main Event, iFly, K1 Go Karts, Pinballz, Catch Air Indoor Playcenter, St. Edwards Park, Dart’em Up, Great Hills Park Trail, Texas Card House Casino, Rattan Creek Park, Quarry Lake

Drink: Baretto, Pour House, water Tank, Marshall’s Tavern, Mill Bar, Shenanigans Night Club, Local Outpost

For more information on this area’s business district, read here. For more info on neighboring outdoor shopping and dining area, The Domain, read here. 

Round Rock and Pflugerville

Home to the Dell Computer Corporation’s Headquarters, Round Rock has continued to grow exponentially over the years with over 70,000 Dell employees flocking to this suburb. It’s also known for its outdoor activities and historic sites. The Round Rock, a large stone in Brushy Creek, marks the site where wagons made low-water crossings in the 19th century. Nearby, Chisholm Trail Crossing Park has plaques detailing the city’s cattle-driving history. Old Settlers Park includes baseball fields, playgrounds, a disc golf course, and a fish-stocked lake.

Pflugerville has experienced a growth rate of 192% over the past 16 years, with a 2000 population of 19,484 growing to a population of 48,356 during the 2010 census and currently at a population of 56,893 (April 2016). (Reference – City of Pflugerville) Pflugerville is on Farm Road 1825 fifteen miles north of Austin in northeastern Travis County. It was named for Henry Pfluger, who brought his family to the area from Germany in 1849.

Eat: Salt Traders, Greenhouse, Salt Lick BBQ, Veracruz, URBAN Eat.Drink, Fuego Latino Gastropub, Beluga Sushi, Ajo, Slap Box Pizzeria, Fogueira Guacha Brazilian Steakhouse, The Alcove Cantina, Jack Allens, Cafe Java, Sushi Nini, Hopdoddy, Rudy’s BBQ, Y’all’s Down-Home Southern Cafe, Garbos Lobster Rolls, Thai Spoon, Bo Asian Bistro, Hoody’s Sub Shop, Palermo Pasta House, Wiseguys Cheesesteaks, FD’s Grillhouse, Broth & Basil

Play:Round Rock Express Baseball Game at the Dell Diamond Stadium, Austins Park N Pizza Go Karts Laser Tag & Bowling, Typhoon Water Park, Rock’n River Water Park, Old Settlers Park, Altitude Trampoline Park, Monster Mini Golf & Laser Tag, Painting with a Twist, Home Run Dugout Batting Cages, The Lodge Card Club Casino, The Ruby Hotel Cocktail Bar

Drink: Brass Tap, Cover 3, Third Base, Finley’s, Warpath Pizza & Pub, The Rock, Wine Sensation, Craft & Racked Wine Bar, Hanovers, Urban Rooftop, Round Rock Tavern, Big Shotz Sports Bar, Night Owl Bar, Bullpen

Georgetown, Jarrell, Florence, and Salado

Rustic wineries and charming boutique shops. A scenic lake and a vast underground cavern. Sprawling parks and historic homes. These are a few examples of the numerous attractions in Georgetown, a quaint Hill Country town situated about 30 miles north of Austin. (Reference – Tour Texas).

Just north of Georgetown you’ll find several smaller neighboring towns. North of Georgetown will get you to Jarrell, offering residents a rural feel, West of Georgetown you will find Florence, which was settled in the early 1850s and briefly called Brooksville. By 1857 it was known as Florence, when its first post office was established. Just North of Jarrell and on your way to Waco, you’ll find Salado, a town in Bell County, Texas, that was first incorporated in 1867 for the sole purpose of building a bridge across Salado Creek.

Eat: Monument Cafe, 600 Degrees Pizzeria & Draft House, El Monumento, Blue Corn Harvest Bar & Grill, Wildfire, Dos Salsas, Fish City Grill, nancy’s Sky Garden, Tony & Luigi’s Italian Mediterranean Restaurant, Gumbo’s, George’s on the Town, Wasabi Sushi, Milano Trattoria

Play: Berry Springs Park & Preserve, Blue Hole Lagoon, Georgetown Art Center, Palace Theatre, Grace Heritage Center, Inner Space Cavern, Jim Hogg Park, San Gabriel Park, Williamson Museum, Mel’s Lone Star Lanes Bowling

Drink: Georgetown Winery, Grape Creek Winery (Fredricksburg based with a Georgetown location), Doghouse Drinkery Dog Park, Roots Bistro, The Shed, Hardtails Bar & Brill, Alexanders Craft Cocktails & Kitchen Salado, Cupacabra Craft Beer & Salado Winery, Barrow Brewing Company Salado, Barton House Wine Bar Salado

Cedar Park and Leander

Cedar Park was the western suburb of Round Rock full of Dell employees looking for more land. Over time, Cedar Park has expanded into Leander, which is known for exemplary schools, and then expanding even further west into Liberty Hill for the full Texas Hill Country and large land plots experience.

Cedar Park is a vibrant community situated on the northern border of Austin just 17 miles from downtown. Named for an actual park that was a rail stop in the late 1800s and incorporated as a City in 1973. True to the namesake, Cedar Park now features 1,000 acres of City-owned parkland and 30 miles of trails. (Reference: City of Cedar Park)

Cedar Park is also home to three professional sports teams: the 2014 Calder Cup-winning AHL Hockey League Champion Texas Stars, affiliates of the NHL Dallas Stars; the 2012 and 2018 NBA G-League Champions, the Austin Spurs and affiliates of the five-time NBA World Champion San Antonio Spurs.  The Stars and Spurs play at H-E-B Center at Cedar Park, a City-owned facility is a multi-purpose venue that holds up to 8,700 guests and hosts more than 130 events per year. (Reference: City of Cedar Park)

Eat: Soto Sushi Bar, Blue Corn Harvest Bar & Grill, Kerbey Lane, Sushi Bang Bang, Midori Sushi, Foxhole Culinary Tavern, Freda’s Seafood Grille, Sushi Fever, Mouton’s Southern Bistro, CR Surf & Turf, Dahlia Cafe, Farm to Fork, KOBE Japanese Steakhouse, The Grove, Fresh Heim, Rosa’s Cafe & Tortilla Factory, Osaka Sushi, Daichi Sushi, Umiya Sushi

Play: Cedar Park Center – See a game!, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures – Leander, Shady Oaks Gun Range, Urban Air Adventure Trampoline Park, Waterloo Adventures Water Park, Cedar Rock Railroad, Splash Shack Water Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park Swimming Pool

Drink: Pluckers, Cedro restaurant Scratch Italian & Wine Bar, The League, Cover 2, The Dig Pub,

Hutto and Taylor

Hutto has been recently recognized as the “Top Place in Texas to Raise a Family” because of its low student-to-teacher ratios, low crime rate, and short commute to Austin. Located Northeast of Austin in Williamson County, Hutto is close to the tech hub of Texas’s capital city while also maintaining the safety and tranquility of rural suburbia. (Reference – Wide Open Country). Hutto was also named Hutto was also named the #1 Austin Suburb for Young Couples, with a Median household income of $72,044 and a total crimes per 100k of 881.

Taylor is about 40 miles Northwest of Austin, known for its barbecue and the ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) headquarters. With only 15,000 residents it is the perfect place for community, peace, low stress, and low traffic issues.

Eat: Louie Mueller Barbecue, Morelia Mexican Grill, Texan Cafe & Pie Shop, Snuffys Bar & Grill, Southern Hospitality, Rio Grande Tex-Mex Restaurant, Baked ‘n Sconed, El Taquito Urbano, Wens Cafe, Lucky Duck Cafe, Anthony’s Pizza, Hippo Cafe

Play: The Golf Club at Star Ranch, Sweet Eats Fruit Farm, The Howard Theatre Taylor, Wild Things Zoofari, Hutto Lake Park, Old Coupland Inn & Dancehall, Black Sparrow Music Parlor, Murphy Park Lake, Hilltop Farm Horseback Riding

Drink: Downtown Hall of Fame Bar, The Loose Screw Beer Garden, Marshall’s Tavern, Xchange Nightlife Sports Bar & Pool Hall, Pilot Knob Tasting Room

The post North Austin Suburbs appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, and Lost Creek

Home to the Barton Creek Greenbelt, some of Austin’s best schools, beautiful Lake Austin views, Sunsets over lush hills, and some of Austin’s most expensive real estate.

Eat: Hula Hut, Rudy’s, Tacodeli, Mozarts, County Line, 360 Uno, Marye’s Pizza, Blue Dahlia Cafe, Texas Honey Ham, Hat Creek Burger Company, Las Palomas, Sway

Drink: Abel’s on the Lake, The Grove Wine Bar

Play: Lake Austin, 360 Overlook, Greenbelt/Sculpture Falls, Barton Creek Mall, Lost Creek Country Club, Barton Creek Country Club, Omni Barton Creek Golf + Spa, Mount Bonnell

Lake Travis, Bee Cave, Lakeway, and Lago Vista

Lake Travis is the lake people think of when they think of Austin. Fed by the Colorado River, it holds some of the clearest lake water in central Texas. Surrounded by beautiful hilltop homes, breathtaking patio restaurants and booming school districts, this is a favorite area to locals and folks moving to the Austin area.

Eat: Steiner Ranch Steakhouse, The Oasis, Don Mario, SP Brazilian Steakhouse, Santa Catarina, Mangieris, The Grove, Cafe Lago, Sundancer Grill, The Lighthouse, Verona Ristorante Italiano, Toss Pizzeria, Tony C’s, Maudies, Cafe Blue, Buenos Aires Cafe, Schmidt Family BBQ, Rosie’s Tamale House,

Drink: Hops & Thyme, Proof & Copper, The Backyard at Bee Cave, Beachside Billys, Woody’s Tavern & Grill, Infamous Brewing Company, Hudson’s, LT Corner Pub, Emerald Point Bar & Grill, Meridian 98, The Buzz Bee Cave

Play: Lake Travis Zipline, Hike River Place Nature Trail, High 5 Laser Tag Bowling & Axe Throwing, Hippie Hollow Nude Beach, Sail Austin Boat Charter, Pace Bend Park, Waterloo Adventures Water Park, Volente Beach Water Park, Mansfield Dam Park, Bee Cave Mall

Spicewood and Marble Falls

For those wanting to be a bit further out of town, Spicewood is just beyond the Lakeway and Bee Caves areas, and on your way out to beautiful Lake LBJ, Horseshoe Bay, and Marble Falls.

Eat: Apis, J5 Steakhouse, Blue Bonnet Cafe, Doc’s Fish Camp & Grill, R Bar & Grill, Grand Central Cafe, Ginger & Spice, Julie’s Cocina, Russo’s Restaurant, Bella Sera

Drink: Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, El Gaucho Winery, Iron Wolf Ranch Distillery, Flat Creek Enoteca Winery, Perissos Vineyard & Winery, Double Horn Brewing, Tottie’s, Hiccups Sports Bar & Grill, Bear King Brewing Co., Double Horn Brewing, Fiesta Winery, Brass Hall, Boaters Bistro, Save The World Brewing

Play: Longhorn Cavern State Park, Exotic Resort Zoo & Safari Cabins, Inks Lake State Park, Sweet Berry Farm, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours, Hidden Falls Adventure Park, Lake LBJ, Lake Buchanan, Sana Vida Wellness Spa & Tea Bar, Black Rock Park

The post West Austin Neighborhoods appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

North Loop, Highland, and Airport Blvd.

North Loop is a quaint part of town filled with many modest single-family homes erected in the suburban boom following WWII. A funky, pedestrian-friendly stretch of North Loop Boulevard features colorful vintage boutiques, plus record and book stores. There are also easygoing restaurants, stylish bars and a 24/7 coffeehouse. The neighborhood is bordered by freeways and strip-mall heavy thoroughfares.

Eat – Home Slice (pizza), Titaya (Thai), Revelry on the Blvd (elevated kitchen & bar – HH all day Tuesday, Sunday brunch $3 mimosas), Vivo (modern Tex-Mex), Stiles Switch (bbq – smoked prime rib on Wednesdays), Michi Ramen (Japanese ramen – every night reverse HH), Mother’s Cafe (vegetarian & vegan cafe), Komé (home-style Japanese, sushi & ramen), East Side Pies (pizza), Daruma Ramen, Bun Belly (Vietnamese), Sala & Betty (casual new American), Tyson’s Tacos, Quality Seafood (seafood restaurant & market)

Sip – The Brewatorium, Barflys, Drinkwell, Pluckers, Kick Butt Coffee, Easy Tiger, Black Star Coop Pub & Brewery

Stay – Brentwood Guest House

Play – Austin Karaoke, Yahala Hookah Lounge, Vigilante Gastropub & Games

Shop – Tylers, Brazos Trading, The Gaming Goat, Kinokuniya Bookstore, Yarrow & Sage

Workout – Fuerte Fitness, CrossFit City Limits, Golds Gym, East Side Balance Pilates

Burnet Road/Brentwood/Crestview/Allandale

As you continue North on Lamar Blvd, the road will turn into Burnet where you’ll find strips of funky shops, one-of-a-kind restaurants, and local neighborhood bars. Turning off of Burnet will get you into some of the quaint neighborhoods of Brentwood, Crestview and Allandale.

Eat – La Mancha (Tex-Mex , HH brunch Sat. & Sun.), Lucys Fried Chicken (southern comfort food – $4 margs on Mondays), Peached Social House, DipDipDip Tatsu-Ya (Japanese hot pot), Tumble22 (Nashville hot chicken), Top Notch (burgers), Happy Chicks (fried chicken – vegan chick’n available), Haru Ramen (modern Japanese – extended HH Fri. – Sun.), Little Deli and Pizzeria, Pinthouse Pizza, Picnik (gluten + soy + peanut free kitchen & coffee house), Jewboy Burgers (burger food truck), Dawa Sushi (Japanese & Korean – specialty bubble tea smoothies), Citizen Eatery (plant-based cafe & bar), Tiny Pies (small-batch, made-from-scratch sweet & savory pies), Fonda San Miguel (traditional Mexican – Tuesday all-night HH, Sunday hacienda brunch), Barley Swine (farm-inspired bbq), Bufalina Due (artisan pizza), Taco Flats, Monkeys Nest (coffee shop & deli), Hopdoddy (burgers & bar), District Kitchen (contemporary American – all-day HH Sundays), Jack Allens (rustic American)

Sip – Stinson’s Bistro, Billys on Burnet, The Little Longhorn Saloon, Little Woodrow’s, Pour House, Growler Room, Lala’s Little Nugget, The Aristocrat, Cover 3, Night Owl, Waterloo Ice House, Slick Willie’s, Nosh & Bevvy

Play – Yard Bar, Maze Rooms Austin, Dart Bowl, DK Sushi Karaoke, Capitol Bingo, Austin Pottery Studio

Workout – Dancers Shape, F45, Crossfit

Hyde Park/Rosedale/Bryker Wood/Triangle/UT Campus

Hyde Park is a charming residential enclave with tree-lined streets and homes from the turn of the 20th century. Examples of Victorian architecture, including Queen Annes and Tudor Revivals, mix with Craftsman bungalows. The Elizabet Ney Museum, a castlelike residence and studio built in 1893 by a free-spirited sculptor & artist, showcases over 100 of her pieces. Coffeehouses and cafes round out the scene. Just south you’ll find UT Campus and the infamous “Drag” full of restaurants and bars walkable to students. Just west of Campus you’ll find streets filled with 1920’s bungalows, mixed in with new-build McMansions in the neighborhoods of Rosedale & Bryker Wood, complete with the Triangle area filled with upscale strip-mall options.

Eat – Musashino (traditional Japanese & sushi), NeWorlDeli (old-fashioned deli), Uchiko (sushi – daily Sake Social 4-6:30pm), Snooze (breakfast & brunch), Olive & June (Italian), 34th St. Cafe (American cafe & wine bar – daily HH $10 cheese plate), Steeping Room (specialty teas & clean kitchen), Spread & Co.(cheese-centric cafe), Kerbey Lane, Tiny Boxwoods (Upscale garden cafe & bar), Rosedale Kitchen (American comfort food), Kolache Factory (breakfast pastries & kolaches), Hopdoddy (burgers & bar), Mandola’s (Italian – weekday HH $5 snacks & sips), Blacks BBQ, Uncle Nicky’s (Italian – daily HH $6 spritzes), Asti (Italian), Plow Burger (vegan burgers & wings), Dirty Martin’s (burger joint)

Sip – Cain & Abel’s, Hole In The Wall, Spider House, Growler, Hopfields, Back Lot, The Parlor

Stay – Drifter Jacks Hostel, The Otis Hotel, Hotel Ella, Hancock Guest Cottages

Play – Weird Homes Tour, Texas Bike Tours, Shoal Creek Park, Arcade UFO, Haunted ATX Hearse Tours, Antonelli’s Cheese Class, Kasbah Hookah, Squarerüt Kava Bar, Draught House, Stinson’s

Shop – Peoples RX, Central Market, Antonelli’s Cheese Haus

Workout – Pure Pilates, Fight Club, Solidcore, Orange Theory, MOD Fitness

The post North Loop, Burnet Road, and Hyde Park Neighborhoods appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

The Domain is more than just an outdoor shopping mall. With the newest addition of Domain Northside and the Rock Rose area, this is truly a one stop shop location to stay, eat, drink, play, and shop. Below are some of our favorites in this lively area.

Eat – Blenders & Bowls, True food kitchen, Jinya, Sway, Mia, Turf & Surf, Salvation Pizza, Velvet Taco, Thai Kun, Second Bar & Kitchen, Flower Child, Culinary Dropout, Perry’s, Garbo’s, North

The post Where to Eat, Drink, Stay, Play, and Shop in the Domain appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Check out our Happy Hour guide to the East Side too!

East Downtown – 78702

East Riverside/Oltorf – 78741

Cherrywood, East MLK, Springdale – 78722

Mueller, Windsor Park – 78723

The post Austin’s ‘East Side’ appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Check out our 04 Happy Hour guide for more deets on specials in the area!

South Congress

South 1st

South Lamar

The post Austin’s Iconic South Austin Neighborhood With Coveted “78704” Zip Code appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Also use our Downtown Happy Hour Guide to plan where to grab drinks in this neighborhood.

2ND Street

One of our favorite places to hang is 2nd Street. In the center of downtown and at the heart of what makes Austin unique is 2ND Street District with more than 50 specialty shops, services, and dining destinations making it the perfect travel destination. Celebrate any occasion with a self care weekend, an all day shopping spree, a nice dinner + wine pairing, or a DIY crafting party—they have everything you need to make it memorable and fun!

Eat – La Condesa (Upscale Mexican), Taverna (Italian – $1 Mimosas on Saturday & Sunday), CRU (Wine Bar – 50% off Bubbles on Thursdays), 3 Forks (Steakhouse), Bar Chi (Sushi – Sunday all day HH), Lamberts (Upscale barbecue), Trace at the W (Modern American – great for Brunch and $5 Mimosa Pitchers)

Sip – Jo’s Coffee (Get the Iced Turbo), Austin Java (Austin Staple!), Starbucks (at the W)

Shop – UAL, Luxe Apothetique, Eliza Page (Jewelry), Hemline 

Pamper – DryBar (Hair), Milk & Honey (Spa), Lacquer (Nails)

Stay  – W Hotel, AMLI on 2nd, AMLI Downtown, 44 East Ave

Workout – Ride (Spin), Orange Theory (Circuit), Solidcore (Pilates Reformer)

Play – ACL Live (Music & Event Venue), Love Titos (Titos Vodka Cocktail Bar), Upstairs Circus (DIY Crafts Bar)

Pop into Royal Blue when you get in—it’s a local grocer that has a great selection of wine, beer, and prepared foods as well as refrigerated items and pantry staples.

For a map of these locations click here, and for more information on 2ND Street click here.

For more information on 2ND Street Re-opening and enhanced security guidelines, read our article here. 

West 6th

Eat – Ranch 616, Wu Chow (Chinese – Dim Dum on Sundays), Fixe (HH everyday from 3-6pm), Irene’s (classic American – $5 frosé on the weekends), Taquero Mucho (all-pink Instagrammable Mexican restaurant), Walton’s (cafe, deli + floral), Ten Ten (modern Japanese and sushi)

 

Sip – Parlor and Yard, Little Woodrows (One Taco), Unbarlievable (original location on Rainey), Kung Fu, Bufords (Via 313)

 

Stay – SEVEN, 404 Rio Grande, Fifth & West, The Bowie

 

Shop – Whole Foods flagship store/HQ, Austin Wine Merchant, Loop Running Supply, Trader Joe’s

 

Workout – Corepower, Barre3

 

Dirty 6th

Clarksville

Warehouse District

Eat – Red Ash (Italian – $8 small pasta during HH), Lonesome Dove (Western bistro), RA Sushi (reverse HH Monday – Saturday), Comdeor (modern Mexican), Italic (rustic Italian), Velvet Taco (modern street tacos), Maiko (sushi) , Sushi Junai ($5 HH rolls – reverse HH Monday – Thursday) , Tacodeli (Austin-inspired tacos), Chinatown (Karaoke Thursday – Saturday evenings)

 

Sip – Lavaca Street, Hotel Zaza – Group Therapy, Handlebar, Hangar Lounge, Dumont’s Down Low, Cedar Street Courtyard, Halcyon, Coconut Club, Punchbowl Social, Upstairs at Caroline, Peacock, La Piscina

 

Stay – JW Marriot, Hotel Zaza, A Loft, The Driskill, Austin Proper, Governors Mansion

 

Play – Belmont, Paramount Theatre

 

Workout –  Soulcycle, Solidcore, Wanderlust Yoga
 

 

Rainey Street

The post Downtown Austin Neighborhoods appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Austin has so much cool, funky history and it shows in the various neighborhoods and parts of town. For anyone that is visiting or thinking about moving here—this is your guide to figuring out just where you want to be.

Downtown

Downtown is the 78701 Zip Code and is defined by just north of Lady Bird Lake, starting at Cesar Chavez Street, and going north up to the Capitol, then from Mopac (West) to I-35 (East).

The ’04

The infamous 78704 zip code of South Austin is defined by the area just south of the Colorado River/Lady Bird Lake up until 71/Ben White, and from Mopac (West) to I-35 (East), directly south of Downtown.

East Side

The “East Side” we are defining as just east of downtown, south from Oltorf/Riverside south of the Colorado River and Holly Street just north of the River, all the way North up to Mueller, and East until 183. This includes East Oltorf, East Riverside, Pleasant Valley, Montopolis, East Cesar Chavez to East MLK, Rosewood, Cherrywood, Mueller, Winsor Park and Springdale.

Domain

The Domain is a sprawling development in North Austin just north of 183, east of Mopac, west of Burnet, and South of Parmer. Originally started as an outdoor mall, this has quickly grown to be a dense area of Mid-Rise Condos and Apartments, Swanky Hotels, High-End Restaurants, and lively activities for locals and visitors alike.

North Central

Just north of downtown, West of I-35, east of Mopac, and south of 183, lies a north central area of Austin that has some of the greatest character and history.

This includes neighborhoods like UT Campus, North and West Campus, Rosedale, Allandale, Crestview, Brentwood, Burnet Road, Hyde Park, North Loop, Highland, and Bryker Woods.

South

This area we are defining as South of 71/Ben White and includes neighborhoods like St. Elmo & East/West Congress, South Manchaca, Westgate, Sunset Valley, Garrison Park, Cherry Creek, Slaughter Lane/SouthPark Meadows, Sweetbriar, Pleasant Hill, and even Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Buda, Manchaca, and Kyle.

West

We are defining this area as west of Mopac, including West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Lost Creek, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Lake Travis, Lago Vista, and even out to Spicewood and Marble Falls.

North

North Austin is home to some major companies, including Dell, GM, Apple, and IBM. We are defining North Austin as North of 183 including Round Rock, The Arboretum, Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Hutto, and Taylor.

East of Austin

Outside of East Central Austin, there are several quaint Hill Country towns with tons of charm. This includes Bastrop, Webberville, Manor, Elgin, and Lockhart.

The post Austin Neighborhood Guide appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

While our beautiful city is filled with gorgeous hotels overseeing downtown skylines and Texas hill country sunsets, there are a few in particular that we find perfect for large groups.

Downtown

Fairmont

Fairmont Austin, a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star property, offers luxury in downtown Austin accommodations. The 37-story luxury hotel features 1,048 richly appointed guest rooms and suites, including Fairmont Gold. Guests experience personalized service, unique views, five restaurant and bar offerings, seasonally heated swimming pool on the 7th floor and an award-winning spa.

Experience resort-style amenities within a sophisticated city center hotel. Whether your travels are business-minded or purely vacation oriented, Fairmont Austin’s service professionals await the opportunity to ensure your expectations are exceeded and your time in the Texas Hill Country is unforgettable.

Between luxury sleeping accommodations of over 1,000 guest rooms, five restaurants and bars, and a seasonally heated swimming pool—it makes it the perfect location. This luxury hotel is perfectly located in all of the action, walking distance to Rainey Street, the East Side, 6th Street, and more. The Fairmont is still fairly new, and has everything you need for a one-stop-shop.

The Line

At the crossroads where Town Lake meets downtown, the LINE Austin draws influence from both the surrounding natural beauty and the creative energy that fuels the city. Once home to a jazz club that broadcast live local radio in the late 1960s, the hotel is part of Downtown Austin history, and carries with it a cultural legacy that the LINE seeks to foster and continue.

The W

Live it up in Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and stay at a hotel that is as much of a scene as it is a place to stay. W Austin stands in downtown, next to the world-famous Austin City Limits. Encounter over 250 bars, restaurants, theaters, and concert venues when you explore the area around this luxury hotel. Like you, we thrive on creativity and uniqueness. The hotel’s restaurants are distinct entities, from Trace Restaurant, offering an innovative menu with locally sourced ingredients, to the Living Room, which features four eclectic areas that provide very different and special experiences. Stay in one of the suites offering a stunning view of either Lady Bird Lake or downtown Austin. When your busy day in our city comes to an end, curl up on your own ultra-comfortable W Bed. Order in room service and watch the latest series on your flat-screen TV.

Austin Proper

Situated in Downtown’s Second Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences is the newest luxury lifestyle hotel in Austin, just steps from Lady Bird Lake, the legendary Austin City Limits music venue and nearby boutiques. With inspiring interiors by Kelly Wearstler and culinary offerings in collaboration with McGuire Moorman Hospitality, Austin Proper offers 244 rooms and suites, a dedicated spa and fitness center, and 14,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, including a rooftop pool deck offering small-batch tequilas and majestic lake views.

Hotel Van Zandt

Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt is a refined riff on Austin’s world-famous music scene and your front-row seat to all the action. A perfect base whether you crash hard or chill out. A leader among Austin hotels with signature happenings and exclusive hideouts geared for music tastemakers. And you can bet there’s a shot of creativity and a hot streak of independence roped in that only boutique hotels like Kimpton can muster. Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt is distinguished, laid back and designed from the ground up to be an all-access pass to an authentic Austin experience.

JW Marriott

Voted the #1 hotel in Texas by Condé Nast readers in 2019, JW Marriott Austin is situated in the heart of Downtown Austin and brings luxury comforts with sophisticated amenities. The urban resort features an on-site spa, room service, seven bars, three restaurants, Starbucks® and the largest guest rooms in the city with floor-to-ceiling windows. Grab a bite at the ever-popular Burger Bar, a food truck concept without the wheels, or lounge on the rooftop at Edge Rooftop + Bar, with cocktails and picturesque views of the Texas State Capitol and Lady Bird Lake. The hotel is located just steps from the best attractions and entertainment options Austin has to offer, including the Sixth Street Entertainment District, South by Southwest Festival, Austin City Limits Music Festival and The University of Texas, and features more than 120,000 square feet of flexible meeting space with a wide variety of AV equipment and easy access to the Austin Convention Center. Indulge in an upscale getaway at JW Marriott Austin.

Hotel Zaza

Located in Downtown Austin’s Warehouse District, Hotel ZaZa Austin marries big city sophistication with authentic Texas style to create the city’s preeminent luxury boutique hotel. The Hotel offers 159 guest rooms, including our trademark Magnificent Seven Suites and Concept Suites. A destination-worthy spa and fitness center with access to the 7th floor outdoor Pool and Cabana Bar allow guests to relax and enjoy the wonderful views form the rooftop pool. Two dining options are available to guests: Perfect Strangers, which offers lunch and lounge service and Group Therapy, a full service restaurant and bar.

East

East Austin Hotel

The East Austin Hotel is a locally owned, operated, and loved boutique hotel in the heart of the bustling East Austin neighborhood just five blocks from downtown, a 15-minute walk to the Austin Convention Center, one mile from the Texas Capitol, and less than two miles from The University of Texas. Lay your head to rest in one of the 75 mid-century Danish inspired rooms with luxe-to-less offerings. From efficiency cabins to poolside suites, there’s something for everyone at our hotel near downtown Austin and 6th Street.

Enjoy breakfast all day and night in global diner Sixth and Waller, sip international libations in rooftop bar The Upside, and feel transported to the tropics at Pool Bar.

Heywood

The Heywood Hotel is a luxury design hotel featuring one of the most unique boutique hotel experiences in the US. Creative, thoughtful design is the hallmark of the property and each of the 7 guest rooms. They offer award-winning architecture, free wifi, free parking, good coffee, ridiculously comfortable beds, and lots of little details to make your stay in Austin as perfect as possible. They are proudly located in East Austin, just blocks from downtown Austin, the Austin Convention Center, Sixth Street, Rainey Street, and Lady Bird Lake.

The indie hotel is surrounded by the city’s best barbecue joints, microbreweries, honky-tonks, and craft cocktail lounges. Explore Austin on foot or one of the Heywood’s free bikes! They feature local artists, makers and textile designers throughout the hotel. Their Heywood Blend coffee is locally roasted and their beers are brewed right in the neighborhood. The Heywood is also available to rent for group lodging and small events!

Native Hostel

Situated in a historic 1890s railroader hotel and adjoining mid-century warehouse in downtown Austin, Native offers a kinetic collision of music, arts, warm beds, culinary delights and spirits. All rooms feature a private shower, bathroom, and locked storage space for each guest, with free parking in our lot. Within it you’ll find Native Bar and Creature Coffee, two Austinesque Hipster spots the locals love.

Arrive Hotel

A neighborhood hotel in the heart of East Austin featuring 83 guest rooms, two unique restaurants, a coffee shop, and a rooftop gin bar (serving 90+ varieties of Gin from Austin to New Zealand). Grab a bite at Vixen’s Wedding, the Goan and Portuguese inspired restaurant, or keep it more casual at Lefty’s Brick Bar, home of the Banh Boy. The rooms are modern, comfortable, and full of natural light. Featuring beds wrapped in Brooklinen’s sheets, marble-accented bathrooms, Niven Morgan’s bath amenities, and Apple TVs. They have everything you need for an effortless night away.

South Congress

Hotel Saint Cecilia

Created in honor of the patron saint of music and poetry, the Saint Cecilia takes inspiration from the great era of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s when a revolution of rock and roll and beat poetry overran the hallowed halls of established convention. Each of the five suites, six poolside bungalows, and three studios embodies an equal love for the elegance of old-world luxury and the irreverence of their muses—The Stones, Bill Burroughs, Anne Sexton, Hunter S. Thompson among them. The secluded property and lush grounds are open only to hotel guests, thereby offering a unique sense of privacy situated steps away from the heart of South Austin.

Saint Cecilia’s crowning jewel is its 50-foot heated lap pool which is open to guests twenty-four hours a day. The Saint Cecilia also offers seated poolside dining under the arbor for breakfast and light fare. Located above the lounge, the covered terrace is perfect for an intimate meal, cocktail party or business meeting of 6 to 20 guests. This space offers a city view and overlooks The Saint Cecilia’s stunning grounds.

Hotel San Jose

Built in 1936 as an “ultramodern” motor court, the property has been transformed into a 40-room urban bungalow-style hotel tucked behind stucco walls and set amidst lush garden courtyards in 2000. The San Jose is located on South Congress Avenue, a few blocks from downtown and Lady Bird Lake in the heart of one of Austin’s favorite neighborhoods. In addition to being a unique place to sleep, the Hotel San Jose serves as a gathering place and occasional hub of community activity for locals and visitors alike.

Hotel Magdalena

Hotel Magdalena is a new hotel project from Austin’s acclaimed Bunkhouse in collaboration with renowned architecture firm Lake | Flato, opening in fall 2020 on Music Lane in the popular South Congress neighborhood of Austin. At 89 rooms, it is Bunkhouse’s largest hotel to date, and features four new, but distinct, buildings connected by exposed elevated walkways and courtyards, creating a treehouse feel inside the grounds. The property sits at varying elevations, an homage to the slopes of Barton Springs, and the lush grounds are planted with native Texas species including Bigtooth Maples, Redbuds, Meyer Lemon Trees, Yaupon Holly, and Little Gem Magnolia.

South Congress Hotel

South Congress Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Austin’s iconic South Congress shopping, dining and entertainment district. The hotel features 71 guest rooms, 10 suites, two premier suites, three restaurants, a coffee shop, rooftop pool, lobby bar, retail shops, parking garage and valet.

The Rooftop Pool at South Congress Hotel is perched over South Congress Avenue with views of the downtown Austin skyline. The pool features a full bar with poolside dining provided by Café No Sé (An All-Day Cafe featuring seasonal breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch). The other main restaurant, Central Standard, serves New American cuisine in a comfortable setting, featuring classic, hearty favorites in addition to rotating specials and raw bar offerings. The bar program features seasonal, large-format cocktails to share, and more than 100 wine labels.

Domain

Archer Hotel

Archer Hotel is north Austin’s most anticipated new hotel, bringing a luxe boutique hotel experience and sincere Southern hospitality to The Domain and Domain NORTHSIDE—the exciting final phase of this fashion, dining, and nightlife destination. Shop locally loved brands and national favorites. And experience the energetic new Rock Rose, uptown Austin’s most downtown street, with iconic Austin restaurants, bars and Viva Day Spa—all steps from Archer.

With a nod to its Texas heritage, the eight-story boutique hotel mixes Texas limestone and wildflowers with the eclectic, creative soul of Austin. Discover 171 luxe guest rooms and suites, the acclaimed Second Bar + Kitchen with celebrated chef David Bull, a coveted patio culture and a sincere staff dedicated to your service.

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