Downtown Austin is growing much like other downtowns across the US. In 2000, there were 4000 residents in Downtown Austin. That number is estimated at 5500 and growing. Approximately, 67,000 people work in the downtown area which supports shopping, restaurants, and the entertainment districts. Not only is it a great place to live, it’s a great place to visit and do business. Downtown Austin is home to the beautiful State Capitol Building and the Governor’s Mansion. Families visit the capitol, play on the lawn, and photograph it’s beauty. In the evening, you can catch a show at the Paramount Theater, see live music on 6th Street, or eat at one of
the many restaurants.
With the support of the city of Austin, many condo projects have been approved and are on the rise. One of the newer high end residences is the 5 Fifty Five in the top floors of the Hilton Hotel on 5th Street and Red River. Residences start in the high $400k range and go into the millions. The next high end projects will be complete in 2010 and 2011 and include The Austonian, Block 21 Residences in the W Hotel, and the Four Seasons Residences. Each will feature spectacular views of downtown, Lady Bird Lake, and the Texas hill country. Residents can expect every need to be met in these luxury condo buildings.
For budgets in the $200k to $800k range, let us show you some of the existing buildings. The Milago and The Shore are located steps from the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail on the East side of Downtown. In the middle of it all is the 360 Condos with restaurants and shopping on the ground floor. A little bit west of downtown are The Austin City Lofts and The Spring. Both are close to Whole Foods, night
life, and Lady Bird Lake.
So, what is Lady Bird Lake? The Colorado River cuts through downtown Austin dividing the city into North Austin and South Austin. The river is dammed in several places creating The Highland Lakes, Lake Travis, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake which divides the city. Lady Bird Johnson was instrumental in developing the 10 miles of hike and bike trails that exist today. We love to walk on sunny weekend mornings or rent a kayak to paddle up to Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed oasis.
Looking for something to eat downtown? These are some of our favorites. Sushi is always our first choice for dinner check out Kenichi. A great place to see and be seen! Texas is beef country and Austin is no different. Looking for a great steak? III Forks, Perry’s Steakhouse, or Austin’s Original Austin Land and Cattle. For a combo of steaks and seafood, and one of the hottest spots in downtown for happy hour, head to Eddie V’s . Ask for Geoff at the front and tell him that Austin’s Go to Team sent you. He will take great care of you! Here are a few secrets for a more casual experience. Every time our family comes in town we take them to Frank and Angie’s Pizzeria. You can get a bottle of wine a pizza, salad or pasta without breaking the bank. The atmosphere is very casual with Rat Pack posters on the wall. If a burger is what you are craving be sure to visit Hut’s next door. If you are a little more adventurous, make a stop at Casino El Camino . This 6th street bar is dark, noisy and a little bit ominous. They also have the best hamburger that we have ever had. Order a burger in the back and wait for at least 30 minutes, but you will be rewarded with a 3/4 lb piece of heaven. It can be a little bit intimidating for rookies (the staff is a little bit gruff), but you will come back again and again.
Be sure to email if you find a new spot that you like!
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