Mathews Elementary School
Public · Grades PK–6
Austin,
TX
Downtown Austin
Austin,
TX
Neighborhoods
Downtown Austin
The neighborhood at the center of Austin’s soundtrack
About the Neighborhood
Living in Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin is the vibrant and eclectic heart of Austin, located along the northern shore of Lady Bird Lake. The neighborhood is known for its nightlife along Congress Avenue, home to long-standing venues like the Paramount Theatre and Shiner’s Saloon, and nearby spots like the Moody Theater at ACL Live, Antone’s Nightclub, and Mohawk Austin. Downtown Austin is also known for its food scene with popular eateries like Iron Works Barbecue, Moonshine Grill, Fixe Southern House, and Ranch 616. The neighborhood has a variety of museums and landmarks including the Texas Capitol, the Old Bakery and Emporium, the Museum of the Weird, and the Austin Central Library. There are plenty of waterfront parks like Town Lake Metropolitan Park, home to Shoal Beach, Waller Beach, and the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, and Waterloo Park, featuring the Moody Amphitheater and restored walking paths along Waller Creek. If you’re looking to live in the midst of Austin’s nightlife, dining, and historic past, Downtown Austin has it all.
Live Music
Texas Capitol
Lady Bird Lake
Real Estate
Market Overview
RENTALS
Apartment & Rentals
Expert Guidance
Your Local Agents
Livability
Walk, Bike & Transit
89
Walk Score
Very Walkable
93
Bike Score
Biker's Paradise
68
Transit Score
Excellent Transit
Education
Schools
The University of Texas at Austin International High School
Public · Grades 9–12
Kealing Middle School
Public · Grades 6–8
Blackshear Elementary School
Public · Grades PK–5
Sanchez Elementary School
Public · Grades PK–6
Getting Around
Public Transit
Woodrow/Lamar (Route 5)
Bus
Burnet/Manchaca (Route 3)
Bus
Woodrow/Lamar (Route 5)
Bus
North Lamar/South Congress (Route 1)
Bus
Woodrow/East 12th (Route 5)
Bus
Rosewood/Cesar Chavez (Route 2)
Bus
Burnet/South Lamar (Route 803)
Bus
Questions
Frequently Asked
Where is Downtown Austin located in Austin?
Downtown Austin is located along the northern bank of Lady Bird Lake with I-35 to the east and Lamar Boulevard to the west.
Is Downtown Austin a good neighborhood to live in Austin?
Downtown Austin is a dynamic neighborhood that combines high-rise buildings, central businesses, Austin music and political history, and a beloved dining and nightlife scene. Residents also enjoy the area’s walkability to popular spots like Lady Bird Lake, concert venues and museums, and local businesses along 2nd Street. Downtown has plenty of transit options, including the CapMetro MetroRail Downtown Station, dozens of bus lines, and dedicated bike channels. It’s important to note the neighborhood is often busy and noisy because of its popularity, concert venues, and clubs.
What is Downtown Austin, Austin known for?
Downtown Austin is famous for its state government history as the home of the Texas State Capitol, legendary live music heritage, and waterfront setting along Lady Bird Lake. Today, the area has an evolving skyline of modern towers and corporate headquarters mixed with vibrant cultural venues, historic museums, and buildings dating back to the 1800s.
What neighborhoods are located near Downtown Austin?
Downtown Austin forms the city’s central urban core and is near neighborhoods like Old West Austin, Central Austin, and East Cesar Chavez.
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