Explore the vibrant heart of South Congress, often lovingly referred to as “Congress Street” by locals and visitors alike. This iconic Austin thoroughfare is a bustling hub of eclectic eateries, lively bars, unique boutiques, and stylish hotels, promising an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Dive into our guide to uncover the best of Congress Street, ensuring you don’t miss a beat of this dynamic district.
Start your day in true Austin fashion with a visit to Jo’s Coffee, a Congress Street staple known for its excellent coffee and mouthwatering breakfast tacos. It’s also the proud home of the iconic “I love you so much” mural, a must-snap photo opportunity to capture your Congress Street moment. For a delightful brunch experience, Café No Sé, nestled within the trendy South Congress Hotel, offers a chic ambiance and delectable menu. As evening approaches, consider indulging in a hearty steak dinner at Maie Day, also located in the South Congress Hotel, ensuring your culinary journey on Congress Street is rich and varied.
For burger aficionados, Hopdoddy Burger Bar on Congress Street presents a gourmet twist on the classic, with options ranging from juicy beef to flavorful chicken, fresh ahi tuna, and even inventive vegan patties. If pizza is your craving, Home Slice Pizza, a beloved neighborhood gem on Congress Street, serves up generous New York-style pies with perfectly foldable slices. For a taste of Cuba, escape to Habana SoCo and unwind in a private outdoor cabana while savoring Cuban specialties and refreshing mojitos. Alternatively, Aba, with its charming setting on Congress Street, invites you to explore the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, drawing inspiration from Israel, Lebanon, Greece, and Turkey.
Person walking away from the line with a tall stack of pizza boxes at More Home Slice
Home Slice Pizza on Congress Street: Famous for its New York-style slices and vibrant atmosphere in South Congress, Austin.
For a truly special dining occasion on Congress Street, Otoko offers an intimate omakase experience in a 12-seat setting, perfect for adventurous palates. If you prefer a more social atmosphere, Perla’s, boasting a spacious patio on Congress Street, is ideal for gathering with friends over fresh coastal oysters and celebratory champagne. Joann’s Fine Foods, conveniently located next to the Austin Motel on Congress Street, provides a unique blend of upscale diner vibes with a menu that delightfully mixes Mexican and American influences. For a unique cafe experience, The Meteor on Congress Street combines specialty coffee and approachable food with a nod to cycling culture. Before concluding your culinary exploration of Congress Street, be sure to treat yourself to classic and inventive ice cream flavors at Amy’s Ice Creams or indulge in freshly made gelato at Gelato Paradiso.
When the sun sets, Congress Street truly comes alive with its dynamic bar and nightlife scene. The Continental Club, a historic venue on Congress Street, has been a cornerstone of Austin’s live music scene for decades, hosting performances on its main stage and in the upstairs Continental Gallery. For soulful live music, head to C-Boy’s Heart & Soul, a Congress Street institution dedicated to soul and R&B. Venture upstairs to The Jade Room, a hidden gem inspired by the 1950s GI bars of Japan, offering a unique cocktail experience. For a classic Austin dive bar experience, complete with nightly karaoke, Ego’s, tucked away under a parking garage on Congress Street, is the place to be. Alternatively, soak in the Texas night air at Hotel San José‘s inviting courtyard lounge on Congress Street, perfect for enjoying cocktails and light bites under the stars.
Girl reaching for a pair of cowboy boots at Allens Boots.
Allen’s Boots on Congress Street: A vast selection of cowboy boots and western wear, a shopping highlight on South Congress in Austin.
Congress Street is also a shopper’s paradise, easily walkable and brimming with unique finds. The Music Lane area at the north end of Congress Street is home to chic boutiques offering jewelry, apparel, and stylish home goods. Further south on Congress Street, Kendra Scott beckons with its customizable jewelry and a charming counter-service cafe. Just down the street, Letterpress Play offers handcrafted paper goods, unique artwork, and thoughtful gifts. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Big Top Candy Shop on Congress Street, a wonderland packed with candies and chocolates of every kind. For quirky and fun finds, Monkey See, Monkey Do is a colorful shop on Congress Street stocked with novelty gifts, playful toys, and specialty board games.
Paper Work on Congress Street showcases tees, art, and home decor all created by talented Texas-based artists and artisans, offering a truly local shopping experience. No visit to Congress Street is complete without exploring Allens Boots, a legendary store boasting a huge selection of cowboy boots and western wear. For a personalized touch, get a custom-shaped hat at Maufrais Hats, adding a unique piece to your Congress Street souvenir collection.
At Prima Dora on Congress Street, you’ll discover fun Austin-themed magnets, mugs, and clothing designed by local artists, perfect for taking a piece of Austin home with you. For high-quality leather goods, visit the flagship Noah Marion shop on Congress Street, known for its handcrafted, vegetable-tanned leather bags, wallets, and even stylish dog collars.
View of calm Hotel San Jose pool amid lush greenery.
Hotel San Jose on Congress Street: A tranquil hotel with a minimalist design and lush courtyard pool, located in the heart of South Congress.
To fully immerse yourself in the Congress Street experience, consider staying in one of its distinctive hotels. While the Hyatt Regency, located near Lady Bird Lake, provides easy access to both Downtown Austin and Congress Street, for a truly South Congress vibe, opt for a boutique hotel right in the heart of the action. The iconic Austin Motel on Congress Street invites you to lounge by its pool and soak up its retro 70s atmosphere. Hotel San Jose on Congress Street offers minimalist bungalows and serene gardens, providing a peaceful retreat just steps away from the bustling street. For a lively and social stay, the South Congress Hotel, with its three on-site restaurants, rooftop pool, and vibrant lobby bar events, is the perfect choice. Alternatively, Colton House Hotel on Congress Street combines the comforts of home with upscale luxuries for a more relaxed and sophisticated stay.
Discover the magic of Congress Street, a must-visit destination in South Austin, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories of this iconic Austin locale.
