Bryker Woods
Bryker Woods saw most of its development throughout the 1930s. This peaceful community belongs to the Old West Austin Historic District, and it features historic homes throughout. Most properties were built around 50 years ago and are small builds with high-quality craftsmanship.
This central enclave is conveniently located and features many trees, a park, greenbelt access, well-built homes, and a tight-knit community. Many families of varying ages reside here, enjoying the high walkability and proximity to excellent eateries, parks, and coffee shops. The lush natural environment and mature tree-lined streets add to Bryker Woods’ timeless appeal.
Top Attractions in Bryker Woods
- Kerbey Lane Cafe once served Austin out of a small 1930s bungalow on Kerbey Lane. Today, the cafe continues to nourish the Bryker Woods community with its scratch-made, thoughtfully sourced fares.
- Bailey Park is a charming community park featuring a flagstone-covered pavilion built in 1936, picnic benches, a softball field, a wading pool, outdoor lighted tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, and plenty of beautiful oaks and green open space for flying kites and passive recreation.
- Neighborhood bridges span Shoal Creek and connect Bryker Woods to the University of Texas campus.
Clarksville
Clarksville is a unique district named after Charles Clark, who founded the town in 1871. Due to its historic nature, the neighborhood has been protected from drastic development happening in other Austin communities. Clarksville possesses the best of both worlds, offering a quiet, charming residential area with various home types, diverse residents, and proximity to Downtown Austin.
Homes tend to be modest, many of which are carriage homes with some multi-family properties. Cozy homes attract young families, condos mostly house professionals, and eccentric apartments are popular with students. This hip area has certainly changed throughout the years, but it still possesses an enduring quality.
Many European immigrants settled in Clarksville during the early 1900s, building a community that is still felt today. Anthony Colanette opened Anthony’s Laundry & Cleaners in 1950, and he also built a drugstore he leased to his friend Hylton Nau. Both stores are still operating today, adding to the charm and allure of this close-knit community.
Top Attractions in Clarksville
- Stop by the iconic Waterloo Records to purchase a broad range of records or watch a free show.
- BookPeople is a beloved local bookstore established in 1970.
- Donn's Depot is a must-visit piano bar set in old rail cars and a former depot. The bar features live music, two dance floors, and a fun, diverse customer base.
- Jefferys is a long-time Austin favorite for fabulous upscale dining.
- Cippolina has wonderful Italian food and takeout. Across the street is the well-known Josephine House. They have a very popular brunch!
Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin is known as the city’s beating heart, featuring a complex history and a flourishing entertainment scene. Downtown is home to many historic buildings and remains the center of government and commerce for the region. The three tallest condominium buildings west of the Mississippi are located here: The Independent, The Austonian, and the 360 Condominiums, W Residences, Austin Proper, and Four Seasons Residences.
There is quite a variety of housing options in Downtown Austin. Many classical revival and craftsman-style homes were built in the West Line Historic District from the 1910s to the 1930s. The district continues to grow immensely, with many condos and towers currently in development. Stately mansions with stunning details were built near North Lamar Boulevard in the late 19th century and early 20th century, some of which have been updated while others keep their classic look.
Top Attractions in Downtown Austin
- The Texas Capitol building is one of the nation’s most distinguished state capitols. Visit to enjoy a free guided tour of this designated National Historic Landmark.
- The Boardwalk was formed in the 1970s as part of a lakefront beautification project. It boasts picturesque views of Downtown Austin and is frequented by bikers, joggers, and dog walkers.
- The Paramount Theatre is a live performance/movie venue built in 1915. This theater featured many iconic films and performers, including Harry Houdini, Katherine Hepburn, and Miles Davis.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is Austin’s oldest suburb, dating back to 1891. This charming, quaint town was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, and it boasts many turn-of-the-20th-century homes. Properties display classic Victorian-style architecture, including Tudor revivals, Queen Annes, and bungalows. Modern-day Hyde Park is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Austin, featuring wide streets lined with mature trees. This community retains much of its original feel and charm.
Residents adore the many new eateries, cafes, and coffee shops in the area. These features attract many graduate students, adventurers, and working professionals to Hyde Park. Its prime location and proximity to Downtown Austin are additional perks that draw people in, making Hyde Park a highly sought-after neighborhood.
Top Attractions in Hyde Park
- Peer into the 1893 castle-like residence and studio of the free-spirited sculptor and artist Elisabet Ney at the Elisabet Ney Museum. Over 100 of her pieces and her legacy are open to public viewing.
- Hyde Park Theatre is an essential community pillar, developing local writers, designers, directors, and actors.
- Shipe Park is a neighborhood treasure, providing various amenities for kids, families, and neighbors, including a pool, tennis courts, a playground, a basketball court, and a historic log cabin.
North University
North University is also known as North Campus due to its location just north of the University of Texas. It became a very desirable place to live when many homes were built in the 1860s. Many properties are Arts and Crafts-style, though there are also various mansions and apartments. This area is desirable because of its convenience to the UT campus and Downtown Austin area.
In addition to stunning historic homes, there are older subdivisions and student housing complexes to accommodate UT students. Some older properties have been updated with modern finishes, sprucing up the neighborhood while maintaining its charisma.
Top Attractions at North University
- The Blanton Museum of Art is a vital community resource, carrying an eclectic mixture of art from different periods, ranging from ancient Greek pottery to Abstract Expressionist works.
- The UT Tower is a 307-foot campus tower. This crucial city landmark boasts various lighting configurations to show pride in different accomplishments and an observation deck offering panoramic views.
- Catch a Texas Longhorns football game at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
Old Enfield
Old Enfield features many Colonial-style homes, many of which were built in the early 1900s. This historic town was once home to esteemed Austinites, including Texas governors, mayors, other local and state lawmakers, civic leaders, and UT faculty. Originally part of the Pease family’s estate, the neighborhood was subdivided in 1910 by the Enfield Realty and Home Building Company. Although many small bungalows were built in the 30s and 40s, there are many different properties to choose from today.
Old Enfield acquired a slogan in the early 1900s: “Enfield – The Place You Will Eventually Live…Better Babies, Better Homes, Better Move to Enfield.” Residents loved their neighborhood so dearly that they established a voluntary association of homeowners in 1983, dedicated to protecting, preserving, improving, and monitoring the community for the benefit of its inhabitants. In 2001, the 501-(c)3 organization, the Old Enfield Improvement and Preservation Fund, was established to collect funds and manage beautification projects, city renovations, etc. This treasured community became part of the Old West Austin Historic District in 2003. Old Enfield is one of the most expensive and sought-after neighborhoods in all of Austin.
Top Attractions in Old Enfield
- Pease Park was Austin’s first public park, offering 84 acres of public green space. This civil landmark features beautiful trails shaded by trees, sports courts, picnic areas, and hosts community events.
- The Austin Recreation Center hosts year-round events, activities, and classes for people of all ages. Some adult programs held here include American Karate, Yoga, Jazzercise, and Volleyball.
Pemberton Heights
Located just north of Old Enfield, Pemberton Heights gained popularity in the early 1900s. This is one of Austin’s wealthiest and most historic neighborhoods. Set on the 19th-century plantation of Governor Elisha Pease, this west Austin enclave is home to some of Austin’s most majestic homes, including the iconic castle built in 1927.
A broad range of architectural styles is displayed in its homes, providing residents with extravagant and modest options. You can easily find a traditional home next to a craftsman, across from a Tudor, adjacent next to a bungalow. The eclectic mix of architectural styles retains the neighborhood’s charm and offers buyers many housing options.
Top Attractions in Pemberton Heights
- The Pemberton Castle was a cylindrical water tower in the 1890s that was converted to a small, majestic castle in the mid-1920s.
- Woodlawn, AKA the Pease Mansion, is a pre-Civil War mansion featuring Greek-Revival style architecture.
Explore Austin’s timeless communities with guidance from the best in Austin. Contact the real estate professionals of Kathryn Scarborough Group to assist in your quest for Austin real estate. When only the best will do!
