Content Produced in Partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
In a city that’s known to be the encapsulation of hip and trendy, it doesn’t get much cooler than East Austin. Considered one of the fastest growing (and ever changing neighborhoods) in the city, it’s a part of the Austin that is positively bursting with history, culture and possibility. Trust us when we say: No Central Texas adventure is complete without a visit to one of the funkiest neighborhoods in the country.
East Austin Eats
There are so many great food options on the east side of town, particularly BBQ and tacos. Franklin’s BBQ, La Barbecue and Micklethwaite are perhaps the most well-known places for some brisket and sausage. All are known for long lines of eager eaters waiting to dig into the bold, smoky flavors, but La Barbecue offers a unique option: You can order food online three days in advance. If you only have a few days in Austin, this is a great option, because you can show up, eat, then continue exploring. If you want that genuine Austin experience though, come early — and bring a good book.
Bar Hop
Just like restaurants, there are too many great bars to name every single one, but we have a few to get you started. East 6th Street has oddball gems like Shangri-La, a dive and tiki bar with a great back patio and tasty cocktails. If you want to see a historic music hall rocking on a Friday or Saturday night (every night, if we’re being honest) try the Scoot Inn with a diverse group of bands and plenty of room to dance. If you’re looking for a cocktail, Craftsman and Weather Up (a NYC offshoot) both offer high-quality drinks at a reasonable price with a great atmosphere.
Explore
East Austin is also one of the most historic parts of the city. There’s the Texas State Cemetery on 7th Street, where governors, senators and other lawmakers are buried alongside soldiers and other Texans who helped shape the state into what it is today. The grounds are covered by shade trees and plant life, and there are paved walkways for easy access. You can also take a moment to visit the George Washington Carver Library, Museum, & Cultural Center. Austin’s first library pays tribute to African-American history and culture. Meanwhile, for a little exercise, walk down the Tejano Walking Trail, which is a 5-mile loop from Rainey Street all the way to Music Garden at the Cepeda Library.
Where to Stay
For easy access to East Austin and all it has to offer, the Fairmont Austin hotel on Red River is east side adjacent. A mere two-block walk down Cesar Chavez will put you in the heart of one of Austin’s most special neighborhoods. The best part? After a long day of discovering all the wonder of East Austin, come back to a hotel where you can cool off in the 7th floor pool with city views, refuel at the 4 restaurants and bars (Garrison, Revue, Fulton and Rules & Regs) with Texas-sized flavors, local products and a uniquely Austin experience.