Old-Austin Feel in Downtown’s Backyard

Overview

Clarksville is unquestionably one of Austin’s hottest and hippest neighborhoods. Bounded by MoPac on the west and Lamar Boulevard on the east, it retains a remarkable historic charm despite its amazing proximity to Downtown. Because of its historical significance, the city has protected Clarksville from growth, but the adjacent West End area (and the Central Design District at Lamar and Sixth) means Clarksville residents can have it all: hip, urban lifestyles with quaint, old-Austin feel.

Clarksville’s long history begins with former Texas Gov. Elisha Pease, who divided a portion of his plantation and sold it to slaves to build their homes. Charles Clark, a freed slave, started the community ten years later, and the neighborhood still bears his name. As Austin continued to grow into the 20th century, the area developed and became part of the city. Now, residents include young families, quiet professional types, and anyone who wants to live close to downtown but prefers old-style Austin to modern urban living.

What to do

For Clarksville residents, the little village of West Lynn (between 10th and 13th) is the place to be. You can start at Nau’s Enfield Drug, a local drug store and grocery with a twist: stepping into their dining area in the back is like stepping into a time warp! Enjoy a classic milkshake, cheeseburger, or, if you’re feeling decadent, one of their famous chocolate sodas. Just across the street is one of Austin’s most famous restaurants, Jeffery’s, a favorite spot of First Ladies, celebrities, and anyone who enjoys fantastic local food. For native Texan game and creative cocktails, Jeffery’s can’t be beat.

For a more casual dining experience, check out the duo of Galaxy Café and Zocalo Mexican food, both fantastic spots owned by Austin locals. Or, stop by Cipollina for some fresh Italian. If you venture a bit farther east, Z-Tejas (excellent fresh Mexican), Castle Hill (understated fine dining), or Café Josie are all located on West Sixth. But no matter where you decide to eat, finishing things off with an amazing coffee at Café Medici, Austin’s premier coffee shop, is a no-brainer. The espresso is perfect and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Or for a different sort of after-dinner drink, check out the Mean Eyed Cat, the esteemed Johnny Cash-themed bar where locals go to enjoy a cold beer.

Clarksville is also home to a Fresh Plus grocery store, and just east at Sixth and Lamar is the flagship Whole Foods Store, the unofficial headquarters of Austin foodies. For booze, check out Wiggy’s Liquors on Sixth, who offers a wide selection of beer and wine, as well as cigars. There are also a growing number of galleries in Clarksville, and one of Austin’s best import stores, El Interior, specializes in Latin-American art and home décor.

Why live here?

If you’re looking to see and be seen, but the Downtown loft life isn’t for you, Clarksville is the place to be. It’s got it all, from aging hipsters and families to students and young professionals, but they all come for the same reason: access. Everything is at your fingertips in this Austin ‘hood, and if your ideal Sunday starts with brunch and mimosas, but your average Monday starts with a trip Downtown, make Clarksville your new home.

Quick Facts

Household Income

$69,837

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$699,000

Median Home Age

51

Appreciation (2007)

51

Percentage Renting

43.52%