South Austin

Known as the epicenter of all that is "weird" in Austin, South Austin stakes this claim as home to some of the most eclectic, artists, musicians, other Austinites, shops and businesses.  The slogan "Keep Austin Weird" most likely has its roots in South Austin.  SoCo or South Congress, is the main area for shopping and dining and claims many of the funky shops, bars and restaurants.  Want to get more in touch with your own inner "weirdness'?  Check out all that is "weird" at Keep Austin Weird. 

 Once a month, the merchants of the SOCO district hold a street fair. called First Thursday  The sidewalks outside the restaurants and shops on the first Thursday of the month. are filled with people shopping and just enjoying the live music and the stores with their wares displayed on the sidewalk, along with street vendors, who show up in full force.

South Austin Museum of Popular Culture  presents, exhibits, documents and interprets Austin art and culture of the past 50 years. The programs follow the evolution of Austin’s culture from the early 1960s through the present.  Make sure to stop by the Congress Street bridge at dusk and watch the colony of bats emerge from under the bridge to go forage for food.  The best time of year to witness this well known event is August, when the evenings are hot and dry, although Bat Season runs from March through November.

Some of the great neighborhoods that make up South Austin include Barton Hills, Travis Heights and Bouldin Creek.  And of course the ever so funky and hippie SoCo.  So, visit or live in South Austin, and join the ranks of those who are committed to "Keep Austin Weird"!