Zilker

 

 

Zilker is a laid-back neighborhood within Austin’s city limits. Lined with luscious greenery and a hip entertainment scene, this central Austin borough is a constant hub of endless evolution and activity. Throughout all the changes this neighborhood has seen over the years, it still managed to hold on to the classic southern charm Texans hold dear. Landing in the top ten neighborhoods to live in Austin, it’s clear that Zilker is a local favorite. Anyone would fall in love with Zilker’s kind of character.

 

The housing styles in Zilker range from mid-century homes and historic bungalows to modern apartment complexes and funky condominiums. Zilker is only a stone’s throw away from downtown, so you get to enjoy all the perks of an urban area at a fraction of the hustling pace. Situated on the southern part of Lady Bird Lake, lined with hardy pecan and oak trees, the neighborhood of Zilker makes a great home for anyone looking for a laid-back lifestyle in the middle of a bustling city.

 

 

• Proximity to downtown
• Laid-back vibe
• Funky entertainment options
• Tons of outdoor space
• Zilker Park
• Barton Springs

 

Through the increasing development and urbanization of the Austin metropolitan area, Zilker has always held onto its charming, authentic nature. Among the new and hip hot spots that continue to pop up, you will still catch a crooked store sign of a long-time neighborhood staple. When the busy city just seems to be getting bigger and better, Zilker acts as a well-balanced reminder of old-time Austin.

 

 

Zilker wouldn’t be a city favorite if it didn’t have a long list of notable places to eat. In true Austin fashion, many restaurants are locally owned and operated. Kerbey Lane Cafe started as a single small restaurant serving American comfort food from scratch and has expanded to nine locations across Austin, San Marcos, and Round Rock. Aptly named after the Japanese word for “house,” a refurbished bungalow in the southern Austin area transformed into the unique Japanese restaurant called Uchi. Lick Honest Ice Creams takes two of Austin’s favorite themes, all-natural and artisan, and brings them together for a refreshingly simple yet delicious list of ice creams. 

 

Zilker’s entertainment scene is just as eclectic as the rest of the neighborhood. Alamo Drafthouse takes dinner-and-a-movie to a new level by bringing you an impressive combination of the latest movie releases, food, and drinks. The Broken Spoke is your classic country dance hall that has been a venue for some of the biggest legends in the industry. It’s hosted household singers like George Strait and Willie Nelson and even made a debut in a Dolly Parton Film. Broken Spoke has been visited by celebrity guests just looking to enjoy some good old country music. “The Spoke” is a true Texas token.

 

 

If you’ve heard of Zilker, you’ve heard of Zilker Metropolitan Park, the 351 acres of land dedicated to hosting an enormous array of entertainment. Within the park is Barton Springs Pool, an all-natural swimming hole that fills three acres with refreshing spring water. This spot is arguably Austin’s most popular place to cool off in the notorious Texas summer. 

 

In the spring, Zilker Park hosts ABC Kite Fest, a day full of free fun for all ages. In the fall, the ACL Music Festival takes over the park for back-to-back weekends of non-stop live music.