Barton Hills

Location, Location, Location

Overview

Owing its name to William "Uncle Billy" Barton, this great Austin neighborhood was originally set up in the 19th century as a pioneer homestead near the natural springs of the Colorado river. Bordered by South Lamar to the east, Loop 1 to the west, Capital of Texas Highway to the south, and Barton Springs Road to the north.

First developed in the 1940s, this neighborhood's beautiful hills and wide, meandering streets are home to houses large and small, as well as apartments, condo conversions, and local businesses. Residents are close to everything, including Austin's beloved Zilker Park, Town Lake, Downtown, and many of Austin's major roads and freeways. With excellent neighborhood schools, this is a popular spot for young families, but the diverse population means just about anyone would feel comfortable.

What to do

This neighborhood is all about the outdoors. Zilker Park, located on Barton Springs Road, is not only a great place to play some soccer, walk the dog, or take the kids, but is also home to the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival, one of Austin's most epic events. Thousands of people flock to Austin every year to enjoy more than 100 bands from all over the world as they play on seven stages spread all across the park. This is truly a must-see event.

Just across Barton Springs Road, The Zilker Botanical Gardens are the perfect place to get away from the city and enjoy nature. And no summer day in Austin is complete without a trip to Barton Springs, the natural springs that border the park. The springs are the unofficial headquarters of Austin hippies and young people, where everyone comes to enjoy the very cold water of the springs. Admission is cheap, but you can get in for free during night swim every night from 9 until the pool closes at 10.

The major commercial area in this neighborhood lies along Barton Springs Road, between Zilker Park and Lamar Boulevard. Some of Austin's favorite casual dining is along this stretch, including Chuy's Mexican Food, one of Austin's favorite local chains, Shady Grove, one of the best places in Austin to enjoy a sunny afternoon on the patio, and Romeo's Italian, a great place for a romantic first date. There's also P-Terry's Burgers, which offers hormone-free Black Angus burgers and homemade fries, and Austin's favorite snow-cone stand, Sno-Beach.

For the health-conscious, check out Daily Juice on Barton Springs for delicious fresh-squeezed juice and smoothies, and then hail down one of Austin's pedi-cabs to get to your next destination. There's nothing like riding to dinner behind a hard-working cyclist, and don't forget to tip. Also, check out Peter Pan Mini-Golf or the infamous Pitch-and-Putt for a relaxing afternoon outside with some friends.

Why live here?

If you like things a little bit different, and want to experience life like the old-school Austinites, Barton Hills may be the perfect place for you. With pedi-cab rides, local cuisine, unbelievable outdoor spaces, and beautiful residential neighborhoods, there's plenty to do here for fun lovers of all persuasions, and the outstanding schools and desirable real estate make Barton Hills a great place to start a family.

Quick Facts

Household Income
$41,293
Recent Job Growth
2.73%
Median Home Value
$399,000
Median Home Age
34
Appreciation (2007)
1.01%
Percentage Renting
67.27%

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