First Timer's Guide To Austin's South Congress

Written By Habiba Abdou

Are you planning to visit Austin, Texas, but find yourself unsure of where to go first? One place you definitely don't want to pass up is the South Congress district (So Co Austin). Not only is it home to some of the city's famous landmarks, but it also boasts fantastic food, excellent shopping, and live music. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect when visiting Austin's South Congress district and how to make the most of your time there. When you visit, try to take in the first Thursday of the month. First Thursday Austin is a free celebration of businesses along South Congress Avenue, which band together to highlight the essence of Austin — a celebration of local music, art, and art stores near me, as well as culture.

Best of Austin's South Congress Dining

Austin is well-known for its vibrant culinary scene, and South Congress is at the forefront of that reputation. The vibrant neighborhood is home to a stunning array of dining options - from the best brunch South Congress Austin to upscale eateries; there’s something for everyone. Whether you're a local or visiting town, it can be tough to decide which of the many restaurants along South Congress is worth your time.

Poké-Poké

We'll start our culinary journey with a spot that's perfect for healthy eats. Poké-Poké offers fresh, flavorful poke bowls that are loaded with protein and veggies. The restaurant prides itself on using only sustainably sourced fish and seafood, so you can indulge knowing that it's ethically sourced. Don't miss out on the ahi tuna bowl with Sriracha aioli, pineapple, and edamame - it's a true delicacy!

Poké-Poké
3100 S Congress Ave ste a
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-814-1032

Lambert's Downtown BBQ

No trip to Austin is complete without indulging in their famous BBQ. Lambert's Downtown BBQ offers a twist on traditional Texas 'cue, with delicious takes on beef, pork, and chicken. The brisket is a standout on the menu - it's marinated in coffee and served with jalapeno cornbread. The ambiance at Lambert's is also not to be missed - the rustic decor and live music only add to the dining experience!

Lambert's Downtown BBQ
401 W 2nd St
Austin, TX 78701
United States

Phone: +1 512-494-1500

Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar

As the name suggests, Perla's is all about fresh, sustainable seafood and oysters. The restaurant's interior is bright and airy, and the adjacent patio is perfect for enjoying warm Austin evenings. The seafood tower is one of the most popular dishes on the menu - it's a breathtaking display piled high with lobster, crab, shrimp, and oysters. If you're a lover of seafood, this is the place to be!

Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar
1400 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-291-7300

Home Slice Pizza

Pizza is a classic comfort food, and Home Slice Pizza is the spot to get your fix. The restaurant serves up New York-style pies, with crispy thin crusts and toppings that range from classic to creative. For something a little more unique, try the White Pie with roasted garlic, ricotta, and spinach. If you're in a rush or want to enjoy your pizza on-the-go, grab a slice from the window counter.

Home Slice Pizza
501 E 53rd St
Austin, TX 78751
United States

Phone: +1 512-707-7437

South Congress Cafe

*Permanently closed

For a refined dining experience that's perfect for a special occasion, check out South Congress Cafe. The upscale eatery and coffee shop has been a staple of the neighborhood for years and is known for its inventive dishes and excellent cocktail program. The restaurant also features a charming patio, complete with twinkling lights and a cozy fireplace.

South Congress offers a range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. From fresh poke bowls to succulent BBQ and everything in between, there's really something for everyone. The best part about it is that you can easily explore all the different restaurants in a single day. So, why not plan a food crawl and indulge in the best of South Congress dining? You won't regret it!

South Congress Cafe
1600 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Discovering Austin's South Congress Nightlife

Part of experiencing the best of the Austin scene is to explore the nightlife on South Congress Avenue, which has grown into one of the most happening places to be at night. South Congress, or SoCo, as it's commonly referred to, is a vibrant neighborhood located south of Lady Bird Lake, and is full of bars, clubs, music venues, and restaurants that cater to a range of crowds. So, let's take a journey to discover Austin's South Congress Nightlife!

Live Music Venues

South Congress Avenue is known for the live music acts that perform practically every night of the week. This neighborhood has a sizeable number of live music venues that feature different types of music genres, from Texas honky-tonk to indie rock to soulful blues. Elephant Room on Congress Avenue has live jazz music every night, and C Boys on South Congress has live music seven nights a week, featuring emerging and established acts. Continental Club is a legendary music venue that hosts live music shows and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a night of entertainment. These are just a few of the many popular live music venues that South Congress offers.

Craft Cocktails and Beer

If you want to treat yourself to unique craft cocktails in a cool setting, there are plenty of bars on South Congress that would give you an amazing experience. SoCo is home to some of Austin's best craft cocktail bars, such as the highly-rated drink.well and the elegant Continental Gallery bar. Meanwhile, the Ginger Man is the best place to be if you love beer. They have a vast selection of beers from local breweries and all over the world.

Clubs and Late Night Spots

For those looking for a more high-energy experience, SoCo also has some of the best nightclubs. If dancing is your thing, then The ABGB is one of the best places to be, as it is usually packed with locals and tourists alike, with drinks flowing freely. The Continental Gallery offers a late-night club setting that attracts some of the best DJs. Meanwhile, Nightcap Lounge is a laid back spot where you can enjoy a game of pool, a drink, and great music.

The nightlife scene of SoCo can be described as lively, diverse, and inclusive, catering to the interests and preferences of various ages and lifestyles. Whether you want to experience Austin's live music, have a delectable dinner, or dance at some of the best clubs, South Congress has it all. So, next time you're in Austin, be sure to explore the nightlife scene in South Congress Avenue, and you won't be disappointed.

Best of Austin's South Congress Shopping

One of its major attractions is the South Congress Avenue, also known as SoCo. It's the perfect place to shop local boutiques and soak up the Texan vibes. And why not try Congress Street Market every Fri from 11.30-1.30 PM? Popular food trucks, local artisans and retailers, musicians, and street performers. Here are some of the best stores that will make your shopping experience memorable:

Allens Boots

Start your shopping journey with Allens Boots – a cowboy boot mecca that has become a staple of South Congress. The store offers an impressive selection of cowboy boots, from traditional boots to modern designs for both men and women. In addition to boots, they also have an array of Western attire to choose from, including hats, belts, buckles, and more. You can also see the expert bootmakers in action at the in-store workshop.

Allens Boots
1522 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-447-1413

Lucy In Disguise With Diamonds

*Permanently closed

This vintage costume store is an Austin landmark. If you are looking for unique costumes or want to rent a classic tuxedo, Lucy in Disguise is the place for you. They have a vast collection of costumes ranging from the 1920s to the 80s, including Disney and Marvel characters. The store is a paradise for cosplay enthusiasts and a treasure trove of distinctive clothing you won't find anywhere else.

Lucy In Disguise With Diamonds
1506 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-444-2002

Uncommon Objects

This antique store offers a quirky experience for all vintage lovers. As the name suggests, you'll find unique and rare objects of all kinds. From taxidermy to antique cameras, vinyl records to old-fashioned radios, Uncommon Objects has it all. You can quickly lose track of time exploring all the nooks and crannies of this store. If you want to add some character to your home decor, this store should be on your must-visit list.

Uncommon Objects
1602 Fort View Rd
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-442-4000

ByGeorge

This high-end boutique offers stylish clothing, accessories, jewelry, and home decor items. ByGeorge is known for their men's and women's clothing collections from top designers such as Celine, Givenchy, and Valentino. The store is a perfect destination for fashion enthusiasts looking for distinct designer pieces. The gift selection is also noteworthy, with a beautiful range of home decor items, artisanal candles, and jewelry collections.

ByGeorge
1400 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-441-8600

Kendra Scott

This jewelry store, founded by an Austinite, offers beautiful and affordable jewelry for women. The pieces are fashionable, mixing semi-precious stones such as turquoise, abalone shell, and mother-of-pearl. Kendra Scott's signature style is customizable, allowing you to select the color of the stone or metal that suits you. Their earring collections are a must-see, and you can also find beautiful jewelry gifts for your loved ones.

Austin's SoCo shopping is a fantastic destination to discover unique local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking for antiques, boots, or designer clothing, there's something for every taste.

Kendra Scott
1701 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-792-4581

Choosing Your Perfect Place to Stay

One of the keys to a great trip is ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Here we will explore some of the options available for accommodations in South Congress, to help you choose the perfect place to stay for your visit.

Boutique Hotels

Several boutique hotels in the South Congress area offer a unique experience. One of the most well-known options is the Hotel San Jose. This stylish, minimalist hotel complements the trendy vibe of the neighborhood and offers a beautiful outdoor space and lounges for guests. The South Congress Hotel is another popular choice and offers luxury, spacious accommodations with access to some of the best dining in the area. Both of these hotels feature easy access to the trendy shops, cafes, and bars that make South Congress such an exciting place to explore.

Vacation Rentals

If you're traveling with a group or prefer a homier feel, booking a vacation rental in South Congress is an excellent option. There is a vast range of rentals available that cater to different group sizes and preferences. Whether you're looking for an apartment-style rental or a standalone house, there is something for everyone in South Congress. Rentals also give you the flexibility to prepare meals at home, which can be a real money-saver.

Hostels and Inns

South Congress is home to several budget-friendly options, including hostels and inns. These options are usually smaller, with fewer amenities than the larger hotels in the area, but they provide an affordable option for travelers who don't require many extras. One excellent example is the Firehouse Hostel, located in a restored 19th-century firehouse. Here, you can get private or shared accommodations that are comfortable and unique, with a relaxed, communal vibe.

Airbnb

If you're looking for a unique experience or want to stay in a local home, Airbnb is an excellent option. South Congress offers a plethora of options for travelers who prefer a more personal touch. You'll find everything from a cozy bungalow to a designer studio apartment in this fun and vibrant neighborhood. Hosts often have insider tips or recommendations for places to eat and things to do.

South Congress offers a wealth of options for visitors to Austin. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a vacation rental, or something more budget-friendly, there is no shortage of accommodations in the area. Choosing your perfect place to stay depends on your priorities, travel style, and budget. Whatever your choice, staying in South Congress provides the ideal home base to enjoy all Austin offers. Check out The Lawn South Congress - food trucks and retail in a relaxing area.

Conclusion

Whether you are just visiting or living in SoCo Austin, the South Congress district is a fun and lively neighborhood, and with our guide, you can quickly figure out ideal South Congress things to do nearby. From good food to live music, shopping, and sightseeing, the South Congress district has something for everyone. As you plan your trip to Austin, make sure South Congress is on your itinerary for South Austin activities so that you have authentic Texan experiences.

Searching for Tex Mex Congress:

El Borrego De Oro - Low-key restaurant but with authentic dishes

 

More Things to Discover in Austin, Texas:

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Habiba Abdou
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