Even when it’s hot out, there’s nothing better than enjoying a leisurely stroll through Austin. These five charming streets are easily walkable, and they’re full of fantastic restaurants, boutiques, and hidden gems. Lace up your tennis shoes and explore these Austin streets. You’ll absolutely love walking through these charming spots.
- SoCo
Justin Jensen/Flickr
Robert Young/Flickr While South Congress Avenue continues throughout the city, the little stretch between Mary St and Barton Springs Road is often referred to as “SoCo.” Full of western wear boutiques, coffee shops and music venues, this charming street attracts both locals and tourists. You could easily spend an entire afternoon browsing the shops on SoCo.
- North Lamar
Dave Wilson/Flickr
Counse/Flickr Use the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge to cross over the glistening waters of Lady Bird Lake. Just north of the kayakers and paddle boarders sits a lovely district full of unique shops and scrumptious restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Whole Foods Headquarters before browsing the selection at BookPeople and Waterloo Records. You’ll have a relaxing day along North Lamar.
- The 2nd Street District
2ND Street District/Facebook
Wally Gobetz/Flickr The 2nd Street District makes a three-block square surrounding 3rd street and Cesar Chavez between Colorado and San Antonio streets. This area is full of upscale boutiques and tasty eateries. Check out Toy Joy, a massive toy store that’s perfect for kids and adults. Browse through Austin Rocks for that perfect souvenir. This district is also home to ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Just keep a lookout for the Willie Nelson statue. Once you find Willie, you’ll be in the right spot for some amazing music.
- East 11th Street
Nathaniel F/Flickr
Wally Gobetz/Flickr You’ll know you’ve reached East 11th Street when you see the line of people curling around Franklin Barbecue, but this iconic eatery isn’t the only thing E. 11th has going for it. You’ll also see the gorgeous Rhapsody mosaic, a stunning piece located on the Dr. Charles E. Urdy Plaza. Check out Charm School Vintage and grab a bite at Blue Dahlia Bistro. There’s plenty to see and do on E. 11th.
- East 5th Street
Daderot/Wikimedia Commons
Michael Femia/Flickr West of I-35 on East 5th Street sits a lovely little stretch of Austin history. Explore the Susanna Dickinson Museum and learn about the fiercest pioneer woman in Texas’ history. Right next door sits the O. Henry Museum where guests can learn about the life of this prolific writer. Continue down this street and stop in at Russian House for a swig of vodka and a bowl of borscht.
Where’s your favorite place to take a stroll?
Justin Jensen/Flickr
Robert Young/Flickr
While South Congress Avenue continues throughout the city, the little stretch between Mary St and Barton Springs Road is often referred to as “SoCo.” Full of western wear boutiques, coffee shops and music venues, this charming street attracts both locals and tourists. You could easily spend an entire afternoon browsing the shops on SoCo.
Dave Wilson/Flickr
Counse/Flickr
Use the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge to cross over the glistening waters of Lady Bird Lake. Just north of the kayakers and paddle boarders sits a lovely district full of unique shops and scrumptious restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Whole Foods Headquarters before browsing the selection at BookPeople and Waterloo Records. You’ll have a relaxing day along North Lamar.
2ND Street District/Facebook
Wally Gobetz/Flickr
The 2nd Street District makes a three-block square surrounding 3rd street and Cesar Chavez between Colorado and San Antonio streets. This area is full of upscale boutiques and tasty eateries. Check out Toy Joy, a massive toy store that’s perfect for kids and adults. Browse through Austin Rocks for that perfect souvenir. This district is also home to ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Just keep a lookout for the Willie Nelson statue. Once you find Willie, you’ll be in the right spot for some amazing music.
Nathaniel F/Flickr
You’ll know you’ve reached East 11th Street when you see the line of people curling around Franklin Barbecue, but this iconic eatery isn’t the only thing E. 11th has going for it. You’ll also see the gorgeous Rhapsody mosaic, a stunning piece located on the Dr. Charles E. Urdy Plaza. Check out Charm School Vintage and grab a bite at Blue Dahlia Bistro. There’s plenty to see and do on E. 11th.
Daderot/Wikimedia Commons
Michael Femia/Flickr
West of I-35 on East 5th Street sits a lovely little stretch of Austin history. Explore the Susanna Dickinson Museum and learn about the fiercest pioneer woman in Texas’ history. Right next door sits the O. Henry Museum where guests can learn about the life of this prolific writer. Continue down this street and stop in at Russian House for a swig of vodka and a bowl of borscht.
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