HomeCity Real Estate | Neighborhood Series: East Austin, TX | Austin Relocation

East Austin started as working-class neighborhood, but through Austin’s massive growth spurt it’s proximity to downtown and eclectic attitude have made it one of the more sought after areas in town. The neighborhood just east of Interstate 35 downtown has become home to the cities fashionable arts district with restaurants, studios, galleries, bars and music venues popping up everywhere. Amongst these you’ll find traditional taquerias, barbeque joints, party supply stores, and churches that are reminiscent of old East Austin. Newly constructed condos, remodeled homes or completely rebuilt homes brush up against much older, smaller houses still owned by their original owners. It is an eclectic (synonym) neighborhood, and the people who live there love it dearly.

East Austin’s entertainment scene is young, hip, and full of life. Many music venues, cocktail bars, and hip dive bars have sprung up within the last few years, and it’s become a popular place for locals and visitors alike.

There are tons of art galleries open to visit in East Austin, including Blue Genie Art Industries on Springdale Road, BiRDHOUSE Gallery on Cesar Chavez, UP Collective Artist Studios and Gallery, and SPRAtx Street Art Collective. The hip, young atmosphere of the East Side makes for some of the most eclectic choices in art, crossing several mediums. There are also a wide variety of boutiques and vintage shops in the area including Maga La Boheme on East 6th, Solid Gold Boutique on East 5th, and Charm School Vintage and Mana Culture on East 11th Street. Most boutiques cater to the bohemian, vintage lovers style that is so in fashion right now.

Walking down east 6th street, one will pass graffiti-style murals, flashing LED signs, and food trailer parks. There are so many entertainment options to choose from depending on your mood. If you want to experience some fine dining in a bistro atmosphere, check out places like Mettle on East 7th, Blue Dahlia Bistro on East 11th, Eastside Café on Manor Road, or Justine’s Brasserie on Cesar Chavez. These places are known for their delicious menu options, locally sourced ingredients, and hip crowds. Yummy eastside favorites that are a bit more laid back include Gourmands Pub near East 7th, Eastside Kings food trailer, Yellow Jacket Social Club on East 5th, and Counter Culture Café. The east side is also home to some of the best Mexican and Tex-Mex food in Austin, with the famed Juan in a Million, Joe’s Bakery and Mexican Food, and Las Cazuelas Mexican Restaurant all calling East Cesar Chavez home.

There are several places in East Austin one can go to hear good live music almost any day of the week. One of which is the White Horse, which offers a traditional honky-tonk style setting and two stepping nights a couple times a week. Another favorite is the Gypsy Lounge, with live music every night and an eclectic mix of artists on the roster. The King Bee Lounge, East Side Show Room, Stay Gold, and Sahara Lounge are also East Side favorites with consistently great live music. For a crafty, upscale experience cocktail bars like Weather Up, Zilker Brewing Company, and Whistler’s will have you feeling fancy in a laid back atmosphere.

While East Austin isn’t as known for it’s outdoor activities as it’s South and Central cousins, there are still plenty of amazing outdoor activities within a stones throw of the East Side. Since the Colorado River runs through much of the area, there are several access points in the East. One of the best of these is the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park, which is basically a giant dog-friendly park with water access and even a little beach. There are also disk golf courses, a golf course, and open fields to play in throughout the park. There are hike and bike trails, playgrounds, and tons of places to exercise here as well.

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the city you can find McKinney Falls State Park, which is located on the South East side on McKinney Falls Parkway. There is a small fee to enter, but it’s worth it for it’s hiking trails and beautiful swimming pool… complete with water fall! There are camping areas (and cabins) for those that are coming in from out of town, or just feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a night.

Lady Bird Lakes hike and bike trail also continues onto the East Side now, offering hike and bike options, lots of boardwalk, and stunning views of downtown Austin.

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