Congress Avenue, Austin (must see)

Congress Avenue is a major thoroughfare in Austin. It consists of six lanes lined with trees and stretches from southern outskirts of the city, extending over Lady Bird Lake and ultimately leading to the heart of Downtown, where the Texas State Capitol is situated. Edwin Waller, the inaugural mayor of Austin, played a pivotal role in the avenue's design.

During its early history, Congress Avenue featured a variety of structures, including government buildings, hotels, saloons, retail shops, and restaurants. By the late 1840s, it had evolved into a thriving business hub. In the mid-1870s, advancements such as gaslight illumination and mule-drawn streetcars were introduced, alongside the construction of a new courthouse for Travis County at Eleventh Street. The present-day Texas Capitol, located at the northern end of Congress Avenue, was constructed in 1888, and the original dirt road was paved with bricks in 1910. Streetcar operations continued on the avenue until 1940.

Before the completion of Interstate 35 in the 1960s, Congress Avenue played a crucial role as the main route to access Austin from the south. Notable landmarks like the Austin Motel underscored its significance as a major route for travelers throughout the mid-20th century.

South of Lady Bird Lake, Congress Avenue is known as South Congress, often abbreviated as SoCo, and has gained popularity as a bustling shopping and rental district. It traverses the historic Travis Heights neighborhood, passes by the Texas School for the Deaf, and leads to Saint Edward's University as it extends southward out of the city.

Recognizing its architectural and historical importance, Congress Avenue from Cesar Chavez Street (formerly First Street) to the Capitol was designated as a National Historic Place in 1979. The Texas Capitol at the northern end of Congress creates a visually striking focal point, and this view is safeguarded by state and local regulations known as the Capitol View Corridors, enacted in 1983, which prohibit the obstruction of the view by tall buildings.

Why You Should Visit:
A must-stroll for visitors and a popular hangout for locals. South Congress oozes homespun character and boasts the story of Austin’s yesteryear in its boutiques, eateries, galleries and music venues.