5 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Downtown Austin
Discover five of the best neighborhoods only a few miles away from the vibrant downtown scene.
Downtown Austin is iconic in every sense of the word, known across the globe as the home for the live-music scene for country, rock, and blues. Its natural parks and lakes also hold a special place in locals’ hearts, offering recreational activities like hiking, biking, boating, and swimming. Along with a robust economy and a number of high-paying jobs, Austin is heralded as one of the best places to live in the United States – and for good reason.
Have you set your heart on moving to this iconic city but don’t know where to look? Here are five of the best neighborhoods in downtown Austin to consider.
Clarksville
What makes Clarksville unique?
Located to the west of downtown Austin, Clarksville was established by freed slaves in the 1870s, named after the freeman James Clark after he bought two acres and developed the beginnings of a new community. Today, the pedestrian-friendly neighborhood features a variety of historic landmarks and scenic views.
What to do in Clarksville
Take a stroll through the peaceful Clarksville Park, or even enjoy a picnic with the family beneath the shade. You should also pay a visit to the Sledd Nursery, a quaint little shop for plants and other garden goods, or browse the fine art of the various galleries set up in the neighborhood.
What to eat in Clarksville
Jeffrey’s is a popular steakhouse that made a name for itself in days gone by as a frequent hotspot for celebrities and public figures, including former President George W. Bush. Josephine House and Donn’s Depot are other long-standing favorites with lots of history. Josephine House is the casual sister spot to Jeffrey’s, while Donn’s Depot is set in old railway cars and has two stories featuring multiple dance floors and live music. Newer to the area, but quickly becoming staples, are Swedish Hill and Clark’s Oyster Bar.
Real estate in Clarksville
Clarksville real estate offers luxury single-family homes and condos, all within driving distance of the downtown area. Residential homes range between $1,095,000 to $3,500,000 for larger, multi-bedroom manors. Condo units go for as little as $393,355 to as much as $1,674,599 on the higher end.
What else you should know about Clarksville
- Pedestrian-friendly
- Quiet and quaint
- Home to several art galleries, including Wally Workman and WCC
- Great restaurant scene and a couple of pocket parks
Tarrytown
What makes Tarrytown unique?
Bordering Clarksville to the west, Tarrytown is a highly prestigious, affluent neighborhood immersed in nature and with a small-town, neighborly charm. The community is primarily residential, with a few small businesses, but it’s not too far from downtown Austin. Tarrytown is also unique for its twenties-era homes and Tudor-inspired architecture, as well as its beautiful lakefront properties and modern homes.
What to do in Tarrytown
Surrounded by nature, it comes as no surprise that Tarrytown is the perfect neighborhood for people interested in an outdoor lifestyle. Cool down during a hot summer day at the Deep Eddy Municipal Pool, take a boat ride from Oyster’s Landing, enjoy a cup of coffee at waterfront coffee roasters, Mozart’s, or enjoy a peaceful hike through the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve. Art lovers can visit The Contemporary Austin at Laguna Gloria and marvel at both the galleries and the building’s gorgeous design.
What to eat in Tarrytown
For Tex-Mex with Polynesian-inspired flair, head on over to the Hula Hut, an island-themed restaurant fit with tiki torches, colored lights, and bamboo walls. You also can’t go wrong with The Beer Plant, a vegan bar serving a variety of drinks and 100% plant-based food. Meanwhile, Littlefield’s Tacos + Coffee is the perfect venue to grab a delicious coffee and taco in a beautiful setting.
Real estate in Tarrytown
Much like its neighbor Clarksville, Tarrytown real estate is full of beautiful, single-family homes and stylish condos in a variety of architectural styles. Residential homes typically vary between $935,000 and $9,950,000 in value, while condos range from $273,000 to $1,550,000 for upscale units.
What else you should know about Tarrytown
- Adjacent to Lake Austin, providing lake access
- Proximity to downtown and Loop 1 for an easy commute
Barton Hills
What makes Barton Hills unique?
Across the Colorado River, to the southwest of downtown Austin, Barton Hills and the 78704 zip code bear the honorable motto of “Keep Austin Weird,” lived to the letter by its eclectic, ever-changing lifestyle. Once a haven for homesteaders, Spanish missionaries, and Native Americans – all on separate occasions – today, Barton Hills enjoys the favor of outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do in Barton Hills
Barton Hills is brimming with recreational activities in the grand outdoors. Enthusiasts can enjoy biking and climbing at the beautiful Barton Creek Greenbelt, and swimming in the three-acre Barton Springs Municipal Pool. Enhance your knowledge of native and exotic flora at the Zilker Botanical Garden, and learn about the environment around you as you interact with it at the Austin Nature & Science Center.
What to eat in Barton Hills
Barton Hills is home to a few local favorites beloved by the community for their quirky, kitschy settings and vibrant atmospheres. For fresh, tasty seafood, come on down to the Salt Traders Coastal Cooking, and for classic Tex-Mex bites, no one does it better than Chuy’s. “Restaurant Row” is the star of Barton Hills, offering plenty of options to wine and dine.
Real estate in Barton Hills
As a true representation of its colorful, “anything goes” lifestyle, Barton Hills real estate features a variety of architectural designs, including modest one-story homes and stylish modern abodes. Trendy single-family homes currently go anywhere between $799,900 to $5,850,000, while chic condo units range from $449,000 to $1,950,000.
What else you should know about Barton Hills
- An inspiring medley of culture, art, and music
- Tourist friendly
- Quiet and great for families
- Home to Austin’s famed annual Austin City Limits Music Festival
If any of these neighborhoods sound like the perfect fit for you, get started on finding a new home by connecting with Noa Levy. A certified Austin real estate expert, Noa is devoted to her client’s success and determined to fulfill your needs and surpass your expectations. She will help you navigate the many neighborhoods in downtown Austin until you find your dream home. Contact her today!
