South Congress Avenue Shopping

South Congress was a haven for retro clothing before it became SoCo. Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds and Electric Ladyland (that's the store's complete name) is where Bob Dylan is rumored to have shopped for retro outfits. New Bohemia is another retro spot for clothes and home furnishings, plus there are boutiques including Blackmail, for all things black, and Vivid, for all things... well vivid. The avenue is lined with funky, unique to Austin stores and restaurants with an Austin friendly feel. All you need to fill your Austin shopping desires is located along The Street of SoCo. Need that funky new item for the house, stop by Uncommon Objects. Need a new fabulous pair of shoes, drop in to Goodie Two Shoes. What about that crazy costume you've been wanting to strut, you will definitely snag it at Lucy's In Disguise.

First Thursday on South Congress
First Thursday is not just a day on the monthly calendar in SoCo, but marks a local tradition when South Congress shops stay open late, playing host to an array of events and activities. A unique to Austin event for shopping, eating, and listening to local Austin music. SoCo is home to many fantastic food venues also. Including Guero's, Zen, Joe's Coffee Shop, and, of course, you can't go without Amy's Ice Cream. See everyone on First Thursday down at SoCo!

Cool Places to Eat on South Congress

South Congress Cafe

One of the relatively old school additions to the South Congress District, South Congress Cafe is located in the heart of the area and maintains the Keep Austin Weird vibe. Located on the Northwest corner of Congress and Monroe, South Congress Cafe offers a modern take on the word cafe with upscale dining options, a snazzy interior, and a great outdoor dining area and patio. Located in a former drug store, it maintains some design elements from the 40s. The menu offers a variety of options that are moderately priced considering the quality of the cuisine. Check them out on Diamond Tables here for 25% off the check during dinner hours here.

Vinaigrette off South Congress Avenue

Newcomer to the Austin dining scene in 2016, Vinaigrette offers a refreshing style of dining focusing on well crafted salads. Originating from New Mexico with locations in Albuquerque and Sante Fe, Vinaigrette owner Erin Wade strives to source all vegetables and meats from local organic farms and the Texas gulf. Salad dressings are mixed into the salad at just the perfect amount to pack each salad with unique and distinct flavor. A modern, clean interior adds a refreshing touch for indoor dining and the outdoor patio beneath the "tree of life" shown in the picture is one of Austin’s best patio dining. Learn more about Vinaigrette off South Congress here.

Explore Top 25 Things to Do in Austin

While You're in Town, Check Out Our Friends at Haunted ATX!

If you're looking for something fun to do in Austin, make sure you check out our friends at Haunted ATX. They offer two of the most unique tours in town. Their main tour, features a visit to several Haunted sites. You climb into a classic Cadillac hearse that has been converted into a spooky limousine and visit several historic Austin landmarks that are reportedly haunted or have experienced paranormal activity, including the Tavern, Clay Pit, Littlefield House, Driskill Hotel, and more. You get out of the hearse at each location and go inside or walk around, but walking is minimal. The Haunted tours are fun, educational and a little scary at times.  There's also a True Crime Tour that is currently featured on Tuesdays and Thursdays and targets an older audience due to the gruesome nature of the tour as it covers several historic murders and attrocities.  Plus, if you're interested, there's a VIP upgrade option to get a private tour and custom pickup at your hotel or home. Learn more about Haunted ATX Hearse Limo Tours.