Upscale Shopping with Homegrown Austin Charm

Overview

The Arboretum isn’t necessarily new, but it’s definitely a “new direction” from the funky, laid-back vibe you might find in mid-town or SoCo. Located in Northwest Austin near Loop 1 and Highway 183, it definitely has a more Dallas vibe than the rest of town. This is no surprise given that it’s one of the most popular neighborhoods for corporate relocations, and is close to “big business” in Austin. But with many top retail stores, modern apartments and condos, and great dining and nightlife, the Arboretum is an upscale community that mainly revolves around shopping and having fun.

The many apartments in the area attract young professionals in the tech industry as well as researchers and students. IBM has a large facility in the area, and the nearby University of Texas Pickle Research Center is an important hub for scientific research and cutting-edge technology.

The area takes its name from the huge, open-air shopping area, The Arboretum, at the corner of Capital of Texas Highway and 183. Though shopping and dining have expanded outward, and there are huge shopping centers as far as the eye can see, this established commercial center is still hugely popular, and during heavy shopping seasons it can be quite the adventure.

The general vibe of the Arboretum area is fresh, hip, and affluent, and despite having a more corporate flavor, it’s attracting more and more local businesses as the city grows beyond the narrow geographical region that is Central Austin.

What to do

The main Arboretum shopping area features plenty of great shopping, with mostly national chain stores. Pottery Barn, Victoria’s Secret, Banana Republic, Jos. A Banks, The Sharper Image, Barnes & Noble, Restoration Hardware and Nine West are just a few of the stores located nearby. There are also several restaurants, including Dan McKlusky’s, TGI Friday’s, and The Cheesecake Factory.

Just across the freeway at Gateway Plaza, check out other big names such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Crate and Barrel, Best Buy, and The Container Store. There’s also a Whole Foods here, as well as several other stores for healthy, active lifestyles, including REI.

Though there are countless national chains in the area, there are also some well-known Austin businesses that have recently moved in. Z-Tejas and Eddie V’s, both downtown Austin spots, have opened locations on the southern edge of the Arboretum, and Manuel’s Mexican Food, also a Downtown favorite, has a location just west on Jollyville Road. Be sure to stop for a quick treat at Amy’s Ice Cream in the heart of the shopping center as well – the Mexican Vanilla may sound simple, but it’s out-of-this-world.

For an elegant and sophisticated evening out, check out Reed’s Supper Club, operated by one of Austin’s top restaurateurs Reed Clemons. This is a great spot for a romantic date – the outstanding food, excellent wine list, cool martinis, and live jazz music are guaranteed to impress.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, check out the Great Hills Golf Club, which offers beautiful courses for members, or head south to the Bull Creek District Park on Capital of Texas Highway and just hang out. The park has biking trails, volleyball, picnic areas, and a leash-free dog park. And if boating or swimming is your thing, the Highland Lakes are all just a quick drive from this neighborhood.

Why live here?

If you enjoy great shopping, fine dining, and beautiful views, and don’t mind tech-talk overwhelming the conversation at the local bar, this is the place for you. The arboretum is great for families, people new to the Austin area, and young singles, with housing options ranging from very expensive homes on the hill to affordable apartments near the commercial areas.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$66,179

Recent Job Growth

11.91%

Median Home Value

$374,900

Median Home Age

18

Appreciation (2007)

4.05%

Percentage Renting

52.26%