What are the nearest attractions to South Congress Avenue (SoCo)?

Attractions near South Congress Avenue (SoCo): Lady Bird Lake Congress Avenue Bridge (South Congress Bridge) 2nd Street District

What else should I know about attractions in Austin?

As well as visiting the South Congress Avenue (SoCo), check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: Local Experiences in Austin Where to Hear Live Music in Austin 8 Must-See Austin Neighborhoods and How to Visit

South Congress Avenue (SoCo), Austin - What To Know BEFORE You Go

The Basics

There’s a whole lot of Austin culture and character packed into this little drag. Let your appetite guide you to a meal, snack, coffee, beer, or cocktail on the patio while you explore this eclectic enclave. Lucky Robot, Amy’s Ice Cream, Home Slice Pizza, and Hopdoddy Burger Bar are among local faves. Grab a unique souvenir from Heritage Boot or Allens Boots, or browse for something special at Tesoros Trading Company.

Things to Know Before You Go

South Congress is a must for every first-time visitor to Austin, and is ideal for couples and shoppers; younger kids may not find it very exciting.
Restaurant patios here and throughout Austin tend to be very dog-friendly.
The boutique hotels here, such as Hotel San José and Hotel Saint Cecilia, offer unique accommodations within a short walk of restaurants and shops.
Lots of SoCo establishments offer WiFi.

How to Get There

Southern Congress is bordered by Oltorf Street to the south and Lady Bird Lake to the north. Street parking is generally available, except during particularly busy times. Pedicabs and city bike rentals are available throughout town, and CapMetro runs buses that stop regularly in the district.

8 Must-See Austin Neighborhoods and How to Visit

From cowboy gear to history to coffee shops, explore all of Austin’s unique and quirky spaces.

When to Get There

Most SoCo shops open 10am or 11am. Visiting close to or after sunset is a great time to see the neon lights (and the bats; see below). Spring and fall typically bring great weather, but be aware of oppressive crowds during popular festivals such as South by Southwest (March) and Austin City Limits (October).

Bat City

The Congress Avenue Bridge, at the northern border of SoCo, is home to the largest urban colony of Mexican free-tailed bats in the world. At sunset most nights from March to November, people gather above and below the bridge, as well as on the water, eager for a peek at the swarms of bats emerging for their evening meal.

South Congress Avenue (SoCo)

The Basics

Things to Know Before You Go

How to Get There

Trip ideas

8 Must-See Austin Neighborhoods and How to Visit

Where to Hear Live Music in Austin

Local Experiences in Austin

When to Get There

Bat City

More Tours in Austin

Things to do near Austin

More attractions near Austin

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