South Congress (SoCo) is the heart of Austin's "Keep Austin Weird" culture. This walkable strip south of downtown is lined with eclectic shops, live music venues, food trucks, and restaurants that define Austin's unique character.
📍 Where is South Congress?
Main strip: Congress Ave from Riverside Dr to Oltorf St (and beyond)
Getting there: Walk from downtown (10 min), rideshare, or city bus
Parking: Street parking, some lots. Busy on weekends.
Best time: Weekends for people-watching, weekday evenings for less crowds.
SoCo Institutions
Home Slice Pizza
Austin's best NY-style pizza. The line is worth it. Get a slice and beer at the More Home Slice bar next door.
Perla's
Coastal seafood with a great patio. Perfect for day drinking and oysters in the Texas heat.
Güero's Taco Bar
SoCo landmark with live music, great margaritas, and solid Tex-Mex. Austin essential.
June's All Day
From the McGuire Moorman team. Great wine bar and beautiful space. All-day cool.
Food Trucks & Casual
Austin's food truck culture thrives on SoCo.
Torchy's Tacos
Austin's famous taco chain started here. The Trailer Park and Dirty Sanchez are classics.
Hey Cupcake!
Iconic pink Airstream serving cupcakes. Red Velvet is the move.
Jo's Coffee
Local coffee spot with the famous "I love you so much" mural. Great people-watching patio.
Hotel & Upscale
South Congress Hotel Lobby
The place to see and be seen. Multiple restaurants and bars in one boutique hotel.
Loro
Aaron Franklin meets Tyson Cole. Texas BBQ meets Asian flavors. Excellent.
SoCo Tips
- Walk it: Park once and walk. SoCo is best experienced on foot.
- Bat bridge: Walk to Congress Ave Bridge at sunset for bat emergence (spring-fall).
- First Thursday: Monthly shopping and art event brings extra energy.
- Queso everywhere: This is Austin. Get queso at least once.
- Heat matters: Summer afternoons are brutal. Embrace patios with misters.