Austin’s South Congress (SoCo) District is one of the first places that comes to mind when visitors ask me where they should go. That’s because, for me, it’s a good microcosm of what makes Austin Austin.

Not only is it flanked by the Travis Heights and Bouldin Creek neighborhoods, which are popular areas full of interesting homes, SoCo District is home to an eclectic mix of local businesses. (When the chain American Apparel joined the street, there was a real concern that chains might take over the street but I don’t think Austinites will let that happen.)

Eating indoors and out is a big activity in the SoCo District. Guero’s is known for its warehouse building, traditional margaritas and extensive menu. They also have a lovely oak-covered beer garden. You can live it up a bit for Sunday brunch at the more chic S. Congress Cafe or enjoy Italian delicacies at Vespaio’s (I’ll let you in on a little secret – the locals prefer eating at the bar counter). There’s also pizza at Home Slice, breakfast tacos at Nueva Onda, wine at Cissi’s Market and so on. There’s now a trailer food court in an empty making even more edibles accessible. I haven’t even talked about the funky hang out scene at Jo’s Coffee yet and I could go on and on.

Retail shopping along S. Congress is  engaging as well. Even people that don’t care for old stuff get caught up studying the different booths in Uncommon Objects, which is one of the many collectibles / antique stores in the area. Another favorite of mine is Off the Wall. For folk art enthusiasts, there’s Yard Dogs and for candy lovers, an old time candy store. Wonderful clothes can also be found in some of the shops. Lucy in Disguise is a costume and costume jewelry store. The lines before a Halloween party weekend never cease to amaze me.

The Continental Club is an anchor for some great music venues and South by Southwest bands play up and down the street during the yearly event. Other activities along the street include a hot rod car show and First Thursdays. Jo’s Coffee is great at organizing their own fun like their Easter Pet Parade. A hen carried in like an exotic queen on a litter was the winner my first year in attendance.

There’s even a nice array of SoCo hotels in the area. Hotel San Jose has a local favorite hangout for their bar out by their pool as well as the aforementioned Jo’s Coffee that sits on the corner of their lot and has all sorts of activities throughout the year. The Austin Motel is  more of an old school option for Austinites.

But it’s not all about food or shopping or entertainment, there’s a thriving neighborhood vibe here as people run into people and make new friends. It all wraps together to make for a nice, eclectic slice of Austin. Which, in my book, is what makes Austin Austin.