Explore Austin's South Congress Avenue



Posted: Saturday, January 02, 2010

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Austin real estate

South Congress, known as "SoCo" by the locals, gives you a good glimpse into life as an Austinite. The neighborhood is nestled between Travis Heights and Bouldin Creek in Austin's popular zip code of 78704. It starts at the South Congress bridge and stretches south to Oltorf Street, boasting vintage stores, unique coffee shops, a trailer park eatery, and more along the way. As you look north, you'll catch a gorgeous view of the downtown skyline and state capitol building. At the start, you're just minutes from the Town Lake hike and bike trail and the popular Congress Avenue Bridge, or "bat bridge." From March until November, nearly 1.5 million bats make their home here, making it the largest bat colony on the continent. Visitors will flock here at dusk to see the bats fly into the sky in search for food. As you move toward the south and west edges, you'll find Mexican grocery stores, a couple dance clubs, and family restaurants that reflect South Austin's Hispanic influence.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, you've come to the right place. It's filled with eclectic restaurants and cafes that offer every type of cuisine imaginable. Magnolia Caf, open 24 hours a day, offers an affordable menu and unique dcor it's a true Austin landmark. Other popular spots are the South Congress Caf, Austin-based Amy's Ice Cream, and newly opened Snack Bar that serves organic, local fare. There's even a trailer park eatery a summer hot spot that sells cupcakes, tacos, Sno Cones, and more.

As you visit the wide array of eclectic stores, you're sure to find something you love. South Congress boasts a great selection of shops where you can browse through vintage clothing and home accessories, stylish boutiques, and even a costume shop. Uncommon Objects, which sells antiques, is another hot spot where you can get lost for hours.

On the first Thursday of each month, South Congress stores open their doors until 10 p.m. for shoppers in an event called "First Thursday." The district becomes a gathering place for family and friends, with live music, local artists, door prizes and drinks.

Whether you're visiting the city for the first time, or an Austin resident looking for something new to do, spend a sunny Texas afternoon exploring the beautiful South Congress Avenue.

This article was written on behalf of Brian Talley of Regent Property Group LLC, a top Austin REALTOR providing Austin real estate services and providing buyers with a tool to conduct an Austin home search.
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