8 Things to Do in Your First Week in East Austin

One of Texas's largest and most culturally diverse cities, Austin is fast becoming one of the nation’s foremost destinations. One of Austin’s most popular neighborhoods is East Austin, which locals love for its delicious local restaurants and its eclectic shopping boutiques. If you’re new to the area, you may still be learning about the best things to do in East Austin. Use the list below to plan your first week after arriving in town. 

Named after scientist and inventor George Washington Carver, this local museum is dedicated to promoting understanding and spreading awareness about African-American history and culture. As you walk through the various exhibits, you’ll observe many artifacts and displays that focus on the accomplishments of African-Americans. 

The museum originated in a small 1,900-square-foot building that was the site of Austin’s original library before moving to a larger facility in 1979. Later the museum expanded again, and it now resides inside a 36,000-square-foot facility that includes a dance studio, conference room, and a 134-seat theater. The museum is closed on Sundays, but they open at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday. 

Austin is the world's live music capital, and The White Horse is a choice place to experience live music in East Austin. The local honky-tonk is open seven days a week from 3 p.m. until 2 a.m., and they are known for their country music and the delicious tacos you can purchase from the Bomb Tacos Food Truck outside. They also serve several burgers and sandwiches if you aren’t in the mood for tacos. The White Horse offers dance classes on an ongoing basis, with specialized programs available to help you learn how to two-step or swing dance. 

Hoover’s serves delicious chicken fried steak, pork ribs, and more in their Southern-style dining room. They recently celebrated their 20th anniversary. Hoover Alexander, the restaurant’s owner and head cook, is a fifth-generation East Austinite passionate about creating dishes inspired by the state. He maintains relationships with local farmers and prides himself on serving farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients. Hoover’s restaurant is open six days a week for dine-in and take-out.

Charm School Vintage sells specially-selected clothing for both men and women. They specialize in apparel inspired by the unique styles and tastes of the 1930s and the 1970s. Charm School Vintage also prioritizes pieces that are handmade and one-of-a-kind. You’ll notice many of the styles they offer correlate to Texas's unique history and culture. In addition to clothing, they also carry handmade apothecary products and independently-made designer jewelry. Their shop is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. 

Kitty Cohen’s is a retro bar in East Austin. Various publications, such as the Austin Chronicle and Austin Monthly, have recognized Kitty Cohen’s as one of the top bars in the area. Their drink menu includes classics such as the frozen espresso martini and the Dreamsicle with vodka, Cintron, and vanilla syrup. Come by from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays to enjoy their Happy Hour specials on Lone Star beers, margaritas, and Aperol spritzes. Regular guests will want to sign up for Kitty Cohen’s Room 101 club to be among the first to hear about special events and members-only perks such as exclusive parties and movie screenings. 

Blue Starlite is a local drive-in movie theater that hopes to revolutionize the drive-in movie experience for the next generation of movie lovers. They first came onto the scene 11 years ago, and it hasn’t taken long for their boutique drive-in theater to surge in local popularity. They limit the number of cars each night to give each guest attention and care. They show childhood favorites, drive-in classics, and pop culture favorites that anyone from Generation X and Y will love. Blue Starlite has three locations in Austin and has received multiple awards and accolades in recent years. 

Nina Gordon dreamed of owning a shop when she was a child. She knew she was taking a risk when she decided to pursue her dream in East Austin. Nina realized her dreams by founding take heart on E. 11th St. 

Her boutique reflects her love of thoughtfully-designed goods for people and their homes. Their selection of internationally-designed products focuses on Japanese styles and influences. They value the opportunity to support small businesses and artists and love forming relationships with local providers. Their East Austin storefront is open seven days a week.

“Tejas” is a variation of the word “Taysha,” a Caddo word meaning “friend” or “ally,” and that concept was the inspiration for Friends and Allies Brewing in East Austin. They work hard to honor their state's heritage with the beers they create. The brewery’s logo, which depicts a Grizzly bear and a Mexican Red Wolf, is also a nod to the legacy of the state of Texas. Their taproom is open seven days a week, and you’ll often find live music playing inside when you come to try their newest offerings. 

If you’re interested in shopping for East Austin real estate, contact Lawrence Pritchet. Lawrence has a natural desire to serve others, and he takes pride in helping each of his clients feel comfortable and confident when working alongside him. He is happy to answer any questions you have about the East Austin real estate market, and he will work tirelessly to help you find a home you love in the area. See how Lawrence can help you today.