By Jane Humphrey By Jane Humphrey | August 17, 2023 | Food & Drink, Lifestyle, Travel,
Needing a little getaway without the hassle of hopping on a plane? Pack your bags, roll those windows down, crank up the music and head Southbound 35…
Where To Eat
807 West 6 St. / sammiesitalian.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Une Bella Notte can be found upon entering this downtown eatery. Serving authentic fare in a festive ambiance, this Italian eatery located in a landmark building is an absolute must.
4710 East 5 St. / justines1937.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Looking for that je ne sais quoi? Look no further than this French brasserie on the east side of town. Justine's is layered with charm and offers indoor and alfresco seating. Delight in the escargots, moule frites and confit de canard, or opt for a Royale with Cheese to go with your French 75.
2330 West Loop Blvd. / fondasanmiguel.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Ay-ay-ay-mazing food awaits at this upscale Mexican eatery. This hacienda-style resto is perfect for a fun night out in a cheerful environment.
1400 South Congress Ave. / perlasaustin.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Right off the bustling streets of South Congress, Perla’s provides optimal seating for people-watching. Dive into the menu; you will find a sumptuous assortment of fish, oysters and surf ‘n’ turf. Either route you take, we promise you won’t be disappointed.
1610 San Antonio St. / olamaieaustin.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Sourcing seasonal ingredients in upscale environs, executive chef Michael Fojtasek serves up his culinary spin daily.
Where To Stay
600 West 2 St. / properhotel.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Designed by interiors queen Kelly Wearstler, the Austin Proper Hotel summons with swanky environs and over-the-top coolness. Enjoy sweeping views of Lady Bird Lake and the city’s skyline while in the rooftop pool, or opt for cocktailing in the intimate hotel lounge. In the mood for a bite? Grab a reservation at Goldie’s.
111 East Cesar Chavez St. / thelinehotel.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Retro vibes summon at this reimagined midcentury hotel perched between Town Lake and downtown. Offering free bikes for hotel guests, you can explore the bustling city. Another perk? Your four-legged friend gets to stay for free.
1316 South Congress Ave. / bunkhousehotels.com
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Settled under a canopy of verdant topiaries, the Hotel San Jose awaits. This boutique hotel offers 40 rooms, including 14 intimate suites, and is a bohemian paradise. Grab a spot on the patio and enjoy a glass of frosé.
Where To Play
2100 Barton Springs Rd. / austintexas.gov
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: One of Austin’s finest treasures, Zilker Metropolitan Park offers activities for all to enjoy. The sprawling land (spanning over 351 acres) is home to health and wellness retreats, exercise classes, concerts and more. One of our favorite spots? Dive into Barton Springs on a warm, sunny day.
700 Congress Ave.; 3809 West 35 St.. / thecontemporaryaustin.org
Why It’s Essential To The Neighborhood: Creative conversations and thought-provoking ideas come to life when visiting the Contemporary Austin. This creative epicenter touts two locations as a hub for all things arts (including art school). The Jones Center is amid the bustling part of downtown and Laguna Gloria sculpture park that offers incredibly peaceful lakeside views.
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