Neighborhood Guide: Sweetbriar, Austin

Sweetbriar, Austin offers urban living in the middle of Austin. It’s a laid-back, down-to-earth working-class neighborhood with apartment complexes and single-family homes with nearby amenities. You’re close to the nightlife on Sixth Street and area parks to find the lifestyle you’re looking for.

Sweetbriar is home to its share of popular restaurants and watering holes, but you’re also not far from Downtown if you want to open up your opportunities for everything Austin offers.

Types of Homes and Apartments to Rent in Sweetbriar, Austin

The majority of Sweetbriar residents rent their homes and apartments. Homes are built in historic styles with modern twists, including recessed porches and gable roofs. Modern, multi-level apartment buildings with updated amenities, pools and on-site gyms are also available. You’ll find most apartments located near major roads and commercial strips.

While Sweetbriar welcomes families, less than half of the residents have kids. Sweetbriar, Austin's single-family homes and duplexes. Apartment complexes are also available for rent.

Sweetbriar, Austin Landscape

While it’s one of the best neighborhoods in Austin, you won't find much green space in Sweetbriar. However, the single-family homes in Sweetbriar boast yards that are larger than many surrounding neighborhoods. Beyond the lawns, you'll find tree-lined streets and places to stroll and bike. Spots like Zilker Park and McKinney Falls State Park are less than 6-miles away.

Must-See Attractions

Sweetbriar, Austin is close to some of the most popular attractions in Austin. Explore the all-night parties on Sixth Street, tour the Capitol Building, or get outdoors at nearby Zilker Park. There's always something to do, and you're a short trek to Downtown if you need more nightlife options and entertainment.

Living in Sweetbriar, Austin

Sweetbriar offers quick access to Downtown and other trendy Austin neighborhoods. Residents are close to the bustling Sixth Street with pub crawls and music venues. Nature spots like Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake are also nearby for a reprieve from urban living. You can get around on foot fairly quickly, with a reasonable walk score of 55 and bike score of 51.

Things to Keep in Mind

Sweetwater is located 8.2 miles from Downtown Austin and takes about 13-minutes to drive into the city's core. Austin's traffic holds an unfortunate reputation of being among the worst in the nation. You'll need a car to get around and plan for extra time during rush hour. Public transportation options are also available. If you live and work in the neighborhood, you can bike or walk to get around.

Things to Do in Sweetbriar, Austin

Living in Sweetbriar puts you within reach of some of Austin's best attractions. Here's where to start.

Check out Sixth Street

Austin's Sixth Street District is world-famous for its happy hours, quirky boutiques, barbecue spots, dining, and pubs. Stops like Firehouse Lounge & Hostel, Driskill Hotel and Bar, and Maggie Mae's rooftop are packed with locals, tourists, and bar hoppers. Many people liken the area to the infamous Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Go For a Hike at Zilker Park

The 351-acre metropolitan Zilker Park is considered Austin's most-loved park. The park features picnic sites, shelters, playscapes, disc golf, volleyball, and a natural spring-fed pool. Visitors also explore the Zilker Botanical Gardens, including the Taniguchi Oriental Garden.

Take the Haunted Austin Walking Tour

Hear what makes Austin weird and haunted on a tour of the neighborhood and city. Tour guides take visitors through supernatural stops, including a stop at the Driskill Hotel. The hotel was the spot of a namesake Civil War Colonel who lived on the property for years. Guests says he can still be seen checking his pocket watch in the hallways before vanishing.

Visit the Texas State Capitol Building

As the state's capital, Austin is home to the Texas State Capitol Building. It houses offices and chambers of the state legislature and Governor. Guests take a tour of the castle-like building for a self-guided tour.

Relax by Lady Bird Lake

Ladybird Lake is an idyllic spot for urban hiking, biking, walking, and wildlife watching. Take a hike or bike ride on a trail circling the lower part of Lady Bird Lake. There's also shoreline access located along Red Bud Isle in the upper area of the reservoir.

Head to McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is located 5.4 miles from Sweetbriar. Despite being located in Austin's backyard, you can camp, hike, mountain bike, or go bouldering. Fishing and swimming are also available in Onion Creek.

Where to Eat and Drink in Sweetbriar, Austin

After a day of fun around Sweetbriar, stop by some of the neighborhood's best places to eat and drink.

DK Sushi

DK Sushi is the oldest sushi bar in Austin and features Korean dishes. Specialty rolls include cowboy rolls with tuna and salmon and the “Lady Gaga,” yellowtail with black tobiko.

Taco Cabana

The colorful Taco Cabana prepares fresh salsa and tortillas and has specialties like shrimp Tampico and tres leches cake. Beyond meat options, breakfast burritos and creative takes on the classic margarita are also available.

Jalisco's

Jalisco blends creativity and authenticity for dishes like scrambled eggs with cactus and chorizo omelet. They also offer classic desserts like churros and sopapillas.

Meanwhile Brewing

Meanwhile Brewing offers more than a place to drink, as you can also play some soccer, enjoy live music on the outdoor stage, or rent it out for a private event. Some of their community events include the Austin Flea Market, Barre in the Park, and Yoga in the Park.

Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse

Aviator Pizza & Drfthouse features classic and build-your-own specialty toppings with options like sriracha and honey Brussel sprouts. They also offer vegan cheese options.

Trudy's South Star

Trudy's is a hot spot for drinks like the Cuban Monitor and Titos drinks. Specialty menu items include chicken and cheese stuffed fried avocado and brisket quesadillas.

In a Nutshell

Sweetbriar, Austin offers urban living close to nature stops like Lady Bird Lake. The neighborhood welcomes all walks of life who value music, entertainment, and great beer. You can party on Sixth Street or spend a Saturday hiking nearby state parks for a balance of city living and nature.

Final Thoughts

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