Austin, TX A Vacation Insiders Guide
MEET ASHLEY DE JONG Contact Ashley: +1.512.897.6390
Introducing Ashley de Jong, owner of 2 vacation rentals in Austin. In Ashley's words, this is a city where "We love local and a little funky"! Ashley owns Casa SoCo, a 1950's remodel, with 4 bedrooms, and Zen Retreat, a 200 sq ft, garage apartment.
THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR While Austin maintains some aspects of its Texan identity—and its status as one of America’s smallcity charmers, alongside places like Portland, OR and Madison, WI—it's truly a destination all its own.
head at the end of a memorable day. (For that last option, I highly recommend Ashley's pair of adorable, authentic vacation rentals smack-dab in the walkable center of Austin.)
Few cities of any size can boast a sterling reputation for all of the "good life" essentials: music, art, food, drinks, sunshine, and, of course, friendly, welcoming people. But Austin does it!
As a native Austinite with impeccable taste, Ashley’s credibility is through the roof, and I trust her suggestions entirely.
Lifelong local Ashley de Jong’s love of Austin shines through in the following pages of this Insider Guide, in which she introduces potential visitors to the best places in Austin to eat tacos and BBQ, sip margaritas, go for a tree-shaded jog, listen to live music, treat yourself to some funky new jewelery, and lay your exhausted
E: info@vacationinsiders.com W: www.vacationinsiders.com
I imagine that, once you depart the Austin City Limits, you, too, will be singing its quirky praises for a long time to come.
ABOUT ASHLEY & THE REAL AUSTIN... Ashley is a native Austinite. She is 100% Austin—“different from the rest of Texas,” as locals are quick to tell you—but knows Texas-friendly hospitality like no one else. Ashley is also a recovering non-profit professional—the vacation rental hostess gig was meant to be part-time. As it turns out, though, she's kinda awesome at it! Ashley is President of the Keep Austin Beautiful Board of Directors, and a bit of an evangelist for keeping Austin weird and funky and kind. Casa SoCo is a dream home for Ash and her husband, Frank. Before they even saw the house in person, they knew it had a special vibe. The house said "Chill." The map said "Great Location." A no brainer. Ashley & Frank's favorite day? A run/saunter around Lady Bird Lake, brunch at Snack Bar, wandering up SoCo for people-watching and shopping, mid-day margaritas, beer, tacos and free live music at Guero's Taco's, a nap at Casa SoCo, dinner at Lenoir and an amazing show at the Continental Club or ACL Live downtown. Foodies, music lovers, those who seek all things fun, beautiful and unpretentious: Ashley will make sure you have the best time ever.
“Foodies, music lovers, those who seek all things fun, beautiful and unpretentious: Ashley will make sure you have the best time ever”
"You've got to go to Austin!" Ashley hears it (and says it) all the time. Austinites firmly believe this is the best part of Texas—unique and progressive, but with the same abundance of sunshine, BBQ, football, and friendly folks. And in a state known for its size, Austin has both quantity AND quality in its music, food, atmosphere and people. As Ashley says about this city-town, "we love local and a little funky." As the Live Music Capitol of the World, you're guaranteed to hear fabulous live musicians every night. You'll also find merry-making, margaritas, hippies and hipsters. Ashley credits these factors for Austin's laid-back attitude: "we pratice lots of yoga, consider Zilker Park sacred, care about our people, cherish uniqueness, and welcome everyone in jeans and flipflops." Laid-back as it is, Austin is bold in the food department, leading the Foodie Revolution with a dizzying number of farm-to-table restaurants and an affinity for spice of all kinds. (It used to be Mexico, after all!) You could eat a different delicious taco at every meal, all week long. It's also home to Paul Qui of Uchiko, Germans who know how to bake bread, make sausage and brew beer, and truly the best festival food ever (say "yes" to chicken karrage, "no" to turkey legs). And it's hard NOT to go for a run downtown, around Lady Bird Lake, enjoying trees and color at the center of the urban action—Austinites take their green space very seriously!
5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MISS...
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South Congress a.k.a SoCo...
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Live Music Capitol of the World...
3
Zilker Park & Barton Springs...
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Lady Bird Lake and Butler Trail...
5
Sunset at 360...
Hands down, you must visit this wonderfully eclectic avenue filled with local shops and restaurants. Take your time and spend all day and night here. Mingle with locals and celebs at Jo’s coffee, find a perfectly quirky piece for your home in Uncommon Objects, enjoy free live music and margaritas at Guero’s Taco Bar [Tip: There's a secret daily paid parking lot a few blocks off SoCo on the corner of Academy & Ravine, close to the Continental Club and Amy's Ice Cream]. Head left for SoCo shops.
Austin = live music! You'll find 25+ shows to choose from every day. Check out The Continental Club on SoCo for great acoustics and variety. The ACL Live on 2nd street brings larger acts to an intimate setting and the outdoor stage at Stubb's is often rockin'. Try the Saxon Pub on Mondays to see blues legends and our homegrown favorite, Bob Schneider. If you have no fixed plans don't worry, most places have musicians playing for tips every single night. [Photo: Vintage Trouble]
Home of the Austin City Limits Festival and more, Zilker Park has 351 acres, including volleyball pits, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces. Hillside Theatre has great rocks to climb for the kid and the kid-at-heart. Bike over with a picnic for a perfect day and an amazing view of the city skyline. On Wednesdays in summer, enjoy Free Blues on the Green. When it's hot, dive into Barton Springs, a beautiful, natural spring-fed pool with 68F water year round. Cold! Park in the lot off Robert E. Lee.
Some of the best days begin or end here. Austin has a fantastic trail downtown that circles around Lady Bird Lake. You can walk/run for miles while getting an amazing tour of downtown, the lake (actually a river), parks and more. Try this before your big night out and you’ll feel much better the next day. Park under the Mopac Bridge at the edge of Zilker Park and you can walk to stand up paddle, canoeing and rowing rental spots.
Austin will deliver so many memorable photo opportunities. It's a little off the beaten path but you’ll never forget your sunset over the Pennybacker “360” Bridge. Pack a few snacks, a bottle of wine and a blanket. Then take a short 20 minute drive to Loop 360. Park on the side of the highway, north of the bridge and hike up the limestone cliffs. You’ll find a perfect perch after a 5 minute walk. Sit back, relax and enjoy the fantastic view!
SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP... Love to shop? Good! Whether you're looking for a new dress for a big night out, or some budget-friendly pieces to wear around town, Austin is the shopping destination for you. With its high-end boutiques, trendy vintage shops, and contemporary couture Austin has travelers of all ages, styles, and budgets scrambling to make room in their luggage for one-of-a-kind finds. Here are some of Ashley's favorites. By George SoCo caters to a younger clientele and offers contemporary clothing to impress. The merchandise runs at a higher price point compared to other Austin boutiques, but you’ll find knockout dresses and your favorite designers here. Price: $$$ Not your style? No problem! The Impeccable Pig is a great boutique with cute dresses, tops and chunky jewelry at a very reasonable price. It’s hard to walk out of the store without finding something you love. In need of a great ‘throw on’ summer dress (Austin's uniform)? The Impeccable Pig is where you should head. Price: $-$$ If you're looking for your next favorite accessory, Kendra Scott's boutique is a must. With an LA reputation bolstered by celebs like Sofia Vergara, this Austin native specializes in super-trendy, fun jewelry—from funky studs to giant turqoise or black onyx dangles, bangles and necklaces. The Color Bar inside lets you customize any pair of earrings from a large palette of colors. Prices start around $55.
On the flip side, if you're looking for chic and simple, pop over to Limbo for beautiful pieces. Price: $45 - $110. For the eclectic shopper, Leighelena is the perfect mix of modern and thrift. This is a great place to pick up a gift for a friend, find vintage clothes, or even slip your feet into some heavenly, broken-in cowboy boots. You'll find trendy pieces here, as well, alongside the vintage finds. Price range: $-$$ Maya Star one of Ashley's favorite places to shop in Austin. The merchandise is trendy and the service is flawless. Case in point: after shopping there, Ashley received a "Thank You for Shopping with Me" handwritten letter from one of the sales associates. Truly a great local business that values customer service, with amazing products, to boot! Price: $ - $$ Maybe it's best to just bring an extra suitcase! With so many trendy options, it's almost impossible to leave Austin empty-handed. If you're still looking for inspiration please have a look through Ashley's SoCo shopping guide!
5 RESTAURANTS WE LOVE..
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El Tacorrido...
T: (512) 912-1939| Reviews
It may not be fine dining, but the drive thru at El Tacorrido nails it every time with fresh, hot, made-to-order tacos. It’s not fast, but it comes right to your car. You will never forgive yourself if you don’t try their Tacos de Pescado (fish) and Tacos Al Pastor (roasted pork) with fresh pineapple and cilantro. The queso and handmade chips are delish, too.
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Enoteca & Vespaio...
T: (512) 441-7672 | Reviews
Visit one of the first spots to bring South Congress to life, seving pasta, risotto, salads and pizza. Vespaio is a larger, upscale Italian restaurant, and its little sister next door, Enoteca, is smaller and more casual, with a great patio. Both use ingredients from their own garden. The name Vespaio was inspired by a wasp nest found after demolition. Always buzzing and excellent!
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Lenoir...
T: (512) 215-9778 | Reviews
Enjoy inventive farm to table dining at Lenoir, the loveliest place in town, and sample small plates from their multi-course menu in a chic, sexy, comfortable setting. No reservation? Still stop in to the wine garden to chill under softly lit oaks and maybe take in a French film. Tip: Ashley & Frank are members of Lenoir's CSR—they can get you VIP treatment!
Snack Bar...
5
T: (512) 445-2626 | Reviews
Love this local, casual, clever place featuring another locally sourced menu. Wonderful breakfasts/brunch. The Veggie Hash with sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, corn, bacon and a poached egg is to die for. Open for lunch and dinner, with a perfect covered patio just off SoCo. It’s obvious the owners love what they do.
Sway...
T: (512) 326-1999 | Reviews
Further down S. 1st, you’ll remember your meal at Sway, a swanky Thai restaurant. Sit with friends or strangers around a square table and swoon over different tangy, spicy, fresh flavors that dance in your mouth. Look for a pink/purple lotus flower on a modern slate grey building.
Ashley's Restaurant Guide... Looking for more options to eat and live like a local? Please refer to Ashley's full restaurant guide, aptly titled the "Live Like a Local Guide"! You'll find a full list of restaurants, as well as some good grocery and take away options. And, if you still want for inspiration, please let her know!
ASHLEY'S TIPS ON WHERE TO STAY... Austin has a number of options depending on your needs. Below are the 2 rentals owned by Ashley - Casa SoCo and Zen Retreat - along with an interesting boutique hotel. If these are booked out, or you require a different size and style of accommodation, please let us know and we'll try to help out!
Casa SoCo... This is Ashley & Frank's own vacation rental, located in the heart of the South Congress & South First neighborhoods of Austin, Texas. Rockstar treatment plus peace and privacy in a 4 bedroom/2 bath 1950's remodel with modern amenities. Luxurious linens, private bedrooms and spectacular places to chill with your favorite people. Walk or bike to tons of local shops and restaurants. For more information please refer to the property website...
San Jose Hotel... This boutique hotel brought that special something to South Congress. Originally built in 1936 as a motor court, it has 40 rooms, including a few suites. The hotel patio is truly zen and a wonderful place for a drink - whether you are a guest or not. The rooms are spartan but chic. Draws a particularly hip crowd. Some great TripAdvisor reviews. For more information please refer to the property website...
Zen Retreat... Traveling solo or just 2 of you? Enjoy Ashley & Frank's hospitality at the Zen Retreat, a detached, 200 sq ft. garage apartment with a pool, spa and gardens. Completely remodeled and modern, this is a great option! It's located in the West Lake neighborhood, just 2 miles from Zilker Park and 4 miles from downtown. For more information please refer to the property website...
ASHLEY'S Practical Information Nightlife...
Getting Around...
10 Reasons Casa SoCo Isn't You...
You have options and they are all close to Casa SoCo. The 2nd St District has posh restaurants and entertainment. E 6th St is filled with incredible old buildings and drunk college kids. W 6th St is a bit more grown up with plenty of bars and outdoor patios. Rainey St has a fantastic strip of funky bars and food trucks. And the East Side has both tried and true dives and most of the new talent in the food and drink category.
All recommendations are an easy walk, bike or cab ride away. Casa SoCo includes 7 beach cruiser bikes for exploring. A quick Uber or cab to nightlife is $5-10 fare. A frequent bus travels down South Congress Ave to downtown.
Ashley has written this fun blog, featuring the top 10 reasons why staying at Casa SoCo is not for you. Want to be a cowboy? Looking for mediocre service? Don't like strangers that smile at you? Ashley & Frank think Casa SoCo is downright awesome so they don’t sugar coat the details! If this IS the place for you, then head on over to their rates and booking page - Ashley & Frank would love to see you!
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