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Downtown

Overview

Downtown is where Austin goes to have fun. Sixth Street, the Warehouse District, the Convention Center, the Second Street District, and countless hotels and restaurants ensure that the party doesn't stop until the wee hours of the morning. But Downtown is more than just a place to party – it's the epicenter for dining, culture, and life in Austin, TX.

The entertainment districts are their own entity, separated from the nearby residential areas to the extent necessary to keep the noise down for those who prefer the other side of Downtown. There are actually plenty of places Downtown to lay low, and galleries, shops, and lounges offer an alternative to the rowdy party scene. Earlier in the evening, you'll find friends out to a nice dinner or couples taking a walk, and as the morning draws closer, the party begins.

With the recent explosion in Downtown real estate development, it seems like a new construction site can be found at every corner. Towering condominium buildings such as the 360 Condominiums are almost completed, while others such as the Austonian won't be ready for at least another year. A drive around town reveals the magnitude of the changes to the skyline, and other noteworthy buildings such as the Frost Bank Tower will begin to shrink in comparison to the newcomers over the next few years.

Downtown, you can find health-conscious rowers and runners, businesspeople racing about during lunch hour, and casual shoppers enjoying a relaxing afternoon outside. But no matter what brings you downtown, its just a quick hike to South Congress, Bouldin Creek, Barton Hills, and more.

What to do

Enjoy some migas and breakfast tacos at Las Manitas Avenue Café on Congress Avenue – this Austin landmark never disappoints. For lunch and dinner, downtown is full of options for everybody, but is best known for sophisticated (but still casual) dining and drinks. Check out the Cedar Door on Brazos for great drink specials and tasty American fare, La Traviata for delicious Italian with an unbelievable wine list, or Katz's Deli for 24/7 pastrami on rye. Other noteworthy spots include the venerable sushi destination Kenichi, Manuel's homemade Mexican food, The Roaring Fork (awarding-winning Southwestern cuisine), and Imperia, where the Imperia Dragon Rib will leave you speechless.

For a sophisticated drinking experience, check out the trendy West Sixth Street bars like Molotov or the Belmont, or venture over to the Ginger Man on Fourth Street for a huge selection of draught beer. For wine drinkers, Cru wine bar on Second Street is a must, with an excellent selection of wines from all over the world. And if you're into the late-night party scene, Sixth Street is the place to be, with countless bars offering live music, shot specials and beer every night of the week.

Austin is known as the live music capital of the world, and Downtown is where most of the great venues can be found. It's all here, from indie and punk rock at Emo's on Red River, to underground jazz at the Elephant Room, to trendy touring acts at Stubb's BBQ. Also check out the Mohawk, one of Austin's hippest all-age venues, and the Parish Room on Sixth, with one of Austin's best sound systems.

Downtown is also a great place to shop. The trendy Second Street district offers high-end boutique shopping and is very pedestrian friendly. Also, countless galleries and shops offer something for the art lovers. There's really something for everyone downtown: check out Keeper's for men's designer fashions, venture over to Motive 807 for specialty sneakers and street-wear, or hit Sana boutique for unique women's fashions. The Austin Museum of Art and Arthouse are a must, and check out the beautiful and historic Paramount Theater for screenings, live music, and more.

Why live here?

Downtown Austin is a bit of an enigma. During the day, it's a place of business, but by night, everything changes. If you like to be immersed in activity, Downtown is the place to be, with its vibrant nightlife, countless cultural opportunities, and weird Austin vibe. As Downtown undergoes such dramatic changes, don't you want to be around to see them?

Quick Facts

Household Income

$44,800

Recent Job Growth

2.73%

Median Home Value

$445,700

Median Home Age

34

Appreciation (2007)

4.05%

Percentage Renting

57.02%

Contact

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