Austin is a city with distinct neighborhoods and districts, each with their own personality and charm. The South Congress district, also known as SoCo, has long been one of Austin’s favorites, with lots of things to see, do, and experience. This lively neighborhood offers a blend of unique shops, original dining options, and bustling live music venues that display a distinctly Austin vibe. When looking for fun places to go in Austin, be sure to spend some time exploring SoCo!
Checking Out SoCo
The SoCo district in Austin is home to many of the city’s top attractions. As the Live Music Capital of the World, it is no surprise that Austin offers a plethora of music venues. Begin your experience at the Continental Club, the site of many musicians’ careers who first called Austin home. Local and national rock, country, jazz, and blues acts can often be heard drifting out onto the streets from this mainstay Austin club. Another Austin hot spot located in SoCo is located at the South Congress bridge and may come as a bit of a surprise. This is where millions of Mexican free-tailed bats make their home, and people come in droves at dusk to watch the bats emerge in a seemingly coordinated mass. If your trip to Austin falls at the beginning of the month, be sure to check out SoCo for First Thursdays. This block party brings live music and vendors into the streets, creating a lively vibe!
Shopping in SoCo
Leave the box stores behind and shop the unique boutiques of SoCo. The shops here are an eclectic mix of vintage offerings and locally crafted wares. Embrace the Texan cowboy style by grabbing boots and a hat at Allens Boots, find fantastic costumes at Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds, and find something the kids will love at Monkey See Monkey Do.
Dining in SoCo
Some of the best Austin restaurants can be found in SoCo, from quick eats to formal dinners celebratory style. Get your morning caffeine fix at Jo’s Coffee, being sure to snap a photo afterwards in front of their famed “I love you so much” mural. Linger on the patio over fresh oysters at Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, or bite into some of the best burgers in town at Hopdoddy’s.
SoCo is an Austin neighborhood you will quickly fall in love with! Stay a little longer in one of these Austin condos offered by us at Austin Vacation Rentals.
