Welcom to South Austin - Bouldin, Travis Heights, Zilker

The region of Austin just south of Downtown is one of its most hip, rapidly growing, and popular communities. Comprising the distinct neighborhoods of Bouldin, Travis Heights, and Zilker, many of the city’s young residents, families, and UT students have flocked to South Austin thanks to its proximity to all of the city’s major features. From sprawling, gorgeous parks that host world-renowned festivals to beloved Austin establishments that have been part of the community for decades, South Austin brings together all the thriving cultural energy of Downtown with a more laid-back, spacious, and residential atmosphere. In Travis Heights, one of Austin’s most popular affluent suburbs, you’ll find classic homes with spacious lots on tree-lined streets where the noise of the city fades away. Meanwhile, in nearby Bouldin and Zilker, you’ll find a selection of similarly gorgeous and historic homes that are situated more centrally within the vibrant and bustling urban lifestyle of South Austin.

What to Love

• Home to some of Austin’s most beloved restaurants alongside trendy new bars and coffee shops
• Just across Lake Austin from Downtown, making commutes for professionals and UT students incredibly easy
• Close to major metro parks that host some of Austin’s renowned festivals
• Great schooling options for children of all ages
• Very walkable, with tons of homes and apartment options just steps from major commercial hubs
  

People & Lifestyle

South Austin has been a popular suburb since the 1920s when affluent residents began to look for larger plots beyond Downtown’s borders. Today, it remains a popular choice for those in search of a high-end suburb as well as families, young professionals, students, and a generally diverse population of Austinites. Those who call South Austin home love being near the best spots to meet up with friends for coffee or a night of music while living on calm, safe, and quiet streets.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Some of Austin’s most popular restaurants can be found in South Austin, especially along the bustling stretch of South Congress Street that’s always a huge draw for residents and visitors alike. Make sure to try the famed Magnolia Cafe, a family-owned restaurant in operation for over 40 years that has been visited by the likes of Barack Obama and Guy Fieri. Other popular spots that tend to draw crowds include Hopdoddy Burger Bar, which serves straightforward burgers with high-quality ingredients, and Jo’s Coffee, where you’ll find creative, refreshing drinks to sip on while exploring the neighborhood or heading to work.

South Austin is just across the bridge from all of the great options Downtown Austin has to offer, including the 2nd Street District, which is home to a wide array of shopping and dining spots.

Things to Do

South Austin is home to Zilker Park, a sprawling, 350-acre park that is home to an array of exercise, recreation, and play opportunities for residents. Enjoy the McBeth Recreation Center, explore the Zilker Botanical Gardens, and spend some time learning at the Austin Nature and Science Center.

​​​​​​​One of Austin’s must-see fixtures is the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Fed by natural springs and totaling around 3 acres in size, this popular destination draws swimmers year-round. It’s especially popular in the hot summer months when sunbathers, families, and picnickers relax and unwind on the grassy knolls surrounding the water.

Schools

South Austin is part of the Austin Independent School District, which offers public and private options including:

• Becker Elementary School
• Lively Middle School
• William B. Travis High School
• San Juan Diego Catholic High School
• St. Ignatius Martyr School