Austin

Old West Austin, Austin Neighborhood

Old West Austin offers a diverse mix of housing options, including single detached homes, apartments, and duplexes, with a variety of sizes suitable for many preferences. The neighborhood features extensive cycling infrastructure, making biking accessible and convenient. A range of schools, both public and private, is located nearby, adding to the area's educational convenience. Numerous businesses, specialty grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes serve daily needs within easy reach. Residents benefit from abundant green spaces, such as Pease District Park and Shoal Creek Greenbelt, enhancing outdoor experiences. The area maintains a quiet atmosphere with tree-lined streets, creating a tranquil and inviting environment overall.

Old West Austin is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the feel of this neighborhood. Even though the atmosphere is not the liveliest in this area with the bars in nearby neighborhoods, it is very easy to find a place to grab a drink because they are generally located around the corner. The noise levels in Old West Austin are reasonably low, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor, although there are still several noisier sections, especially near the railway line. This part of the city also features a fair amount of greenery; there are approximately 10 green spaces nearby for residents to explore, such as Pease District Park and Town Lake Metropolitan Park, which makes it very easy to get to them. Residents will also find that the tree canopy coverage for the majority of streets is good.

Highlights of Old West Austin

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 West Austin Park

Nestled along Nau Avenue, West Austin Park is a beloved green space featuring shaded walking trails, a dog park, tennis courts, and a community pool, making it a favorite for both families and pet owners in the heart of Old West Austin.

🏫 Mathews Elementary School

Located on West Lynn Street, Mathews Elementary is a historic neighborhood school renowned for its inclusive culture, excellent education, and active parent participation, serving as a cornerstone for families in Old West Austin.

🍽️ Clark’s Oyster Bar Strip

This stretch along West 6th Street is famous for Clark’s Oyster Bar and its cluster of local eateries, offering residents stylish patios, seafood, and specialty coffee, establishing a true local foodie hub within walking distance.

🛒 Fresh Plus Grocery

An independent neighborhood grocery store on West Lynn Street, Fresh Plus is cherished by locals for its curated goods, personable service, and convenience, embodying the small-town feel within Old West Austin.

🚴 Johnson Creek Trail

Running from Deep Eddy Park northward into Old West Austin, the scenic Johnson Creek Trail offers a leafy, quiet escape ideal for cyclists, joggers, and walkers seeking access to Lady Bird Lake or the wider trail network.

Old West Austin

This September in Old West Austin

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

September 5, 2026

20th Anniversary Bat Fest

Congress Avenue Bridge • 3:00 PM–11:00 PM

This long‑running, family‑friendly festival celebrates the nightly flight of Austin’s iconic bat colony beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge with live music, children’s activities, and food—perfect for Old West Austin residents seeking a quirky, outdoorsy local tradition.

September 12, 2026

¡VIVA México! at Mexican American Cultural Center

Oswaldo Cantu Pan Am Recreation Center

A vibrant showcase of Mexican visual art, dance, and music traditions—an engaging cultural event conveniently accessible for families in Old West Austin wanting to celebrate heritage and creativity.

September 15, 2026

El Grito 2026 at Republic Square

Republic Square • 6:00 PM–9:00 PM

A festive, free, family‑oriented celebration of Mexican Independence Day with live music, food vendors, art exhibits and a poster contest—ideal for community‑minded neighbors looking for cultural connection close by.

September 26–27, 2026

Art City Austin’s Fiesta

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center • September 26: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM; September 27: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Austin’s longest‑running arts festival offers an open‑air artist market, live music across genres, local food, and interactive family activities—great for residents wanting to support local arts within a short drive.

September 19, 2026

Teresa Lozano Long Community Day

Long Center • 12:00 PM–4:00 PM

A free community block‑party at the Long Center with performances and activities, offering Old West Austin neighbors an engaging mix of arts and civic celebration in a scenic riverside venue.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Old West Austin

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Old West Austin

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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