Live, work, and play in the epicenter of the capital city
Within the heart of one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, Downtown Austin is a walkers’ paradise steps away from shopping, dining, live entertainment, and more. With dozens of condo buildings having been completed in recent years and many more on the way, downtown residents can experience the “live, work, play” lifestyle the way it was meant to be. Several of the biggest names in tech have set up downtown office locations, brand-new high rises have been constructed for modern tastes, but the authentic, friendly vibes the city has always been known for have remained.
Originally founded as the city of Waterloo, Austin was then renamed after Stephen F. Austin, the father of Texas. Pioneers began to settle around the Colorado River in the 1830s, with the capital being relocated from Houston to its current site in 1839. Today, the original 14-block plan is still in place, but these city streets are now home to some of the biggest companies in the world, and like-minded individuals hoping to make a name for themselves in Texas’ silicon hills.
Downtown residents with nearby offices can skip the daily commute and traffic which may come with it. With companies like Google, Facebook, TikTok, and many others setting up shop downtown, 78701 locals are walking distance from their desks. Second Street boasts an eclectic collection of boutiques and other businesses, While nearby Sixth Street is home to one of the most famous bar and nightlife scenes in the world. Dozens of highly-rated restaurants serving everything from barbecue to sushi and steaks also call downtown home. Frequently, locals can be found working off their dinner or happy hour treats on the 10-mile trail looping around both sides of the lake.
One of the most vibrant culinary scenes in the nation can be found in Austin with downtown serving as the epicenter of it all. With colorful decor, frozen margaritas, and southern hospitality abound, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the live music capital of the world.
Upscale barbecue classics are served within a historic, carefully restored general store at Lambert’s BBQ in the Second Street District. Old-fashioned favorites like brisket, ribs, sausage and all the fixin’s have been given high-end makeovers and are enjoyed with ice-cold beer and live music performances many nights of the week. Their southern-style homemade desserts act as the cherry on top of an already-perfect night out.
Nearby, authentic Italian delights are found at Red Ash. Frutti di mare, octopus, homemade pasta, and other fragrant specialties go well with their impressive drink selection. An open kitchen provides a show with dinner, perfect for any special night out on the town.
Swift’s Attic is one of Austin’s more stylish spots, located one floor up from iconic Congress Avenue. Featured on Bravo’s Best New Restaurant, Swift’s Attic is an inventive eatery with a solid reputation among Austinites for mouthwatering creations like Korean barbecue flank steak, braised goat shoulder, local quail, and their popular weekend brunch.
South by Southwest, popularly known as SXSW, is the biggest event in Austin and one of the largest events of its kind in the nation. Taking place over nearly two weeks throughout March, SXSW attracts over 280,000 attendees each year as the eyes of the world shift to ATX to see the next big thing in film, music, and tech. Live tapings of Austin City Limits, the longest-running music show in television history, take place at The Moody Theater frequently and are a must on any Austinite’s bucket list. Nearby, concerts and other live performances are enjoyed at The Long Center. The Long Center’s front lawn is arguably the best place in Austin to enjoy fireworks over Lady Bird Lake on the Fourth of July. More quiet weekends can be spent exploring the State Capitol at the head of Congress Avenue. Standing taller than the United States Capitol, this historic haunt is the home of several important government offices, chambers for the Senate and House of Representatives, and notable portraits.
Downtown Austin is home to powerhouse educational institutions such as:
Contact Laurie to chat with her about your real estate goals for buying, selling, or leasing in Texas and beyond.