Congress Ave South, St. Edwards

On the first Thursday of each month, the shops stay open late on South Congress. In the open lots people set up artisan markets and sell their wares. There is music, dancing and performances all over and the area has a festival atmosphere. We usually start on the southbound side and walk down to Magnolia Cafe and then cross the street and head up the north side. This allows us to finish the evening with a treat from Amy's Ice Cream.

Every weekend, South Congress sees swarms of visitors checking out the plethora of local shops and restaurants. Food options are varied and generally of quality, meaning plenty of good places to stop for food when you're tired of shopping. Stores of all kinds abound, with artisan markets selling locally made goods filling in space between shops. People interested in antiques, clothes, salons, and houseware should be able to find something to satisfy.

South Congress, or SoCo to the locals, is a great place to shop for local handmade products. Stores like Parts and Labour showcase items made only by Austinites, from cute jewelry and wry T-shirts to fun baby clothes and fashionable purses. Restaurants such as El Sol Y La Luna let you sample the local Tex-Mex fare. This is the street I take family and friend visitors to for some good walking and people watching.