Lamenting for the good ole days when Old Austin was Austin?
For oldies and newbies alike, it's clear to see that Austin is one of the most rapidly-growing cities in the nation. With the loss of some of our beloved businesses & new ones cropping up, Austin has certainly seen its fair share of change over the years. Luckily, though, a few dear spots around town have kept their roots and continue operating in all their OG Austin glory. To help with your journey to the past, we created this guide on How to Experience Old Austin.
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photo credit: casa de luz facebook
1701 Toomey Rd
If you long for the days when the entire town could be called a hippie commune and no one would bat an eye, an offshoot of that golden age lives on just out of reach of everyone making their way to Zilker. engulfed in towering trees and protected by the surrounding condos, Casa De Luz stands as a reminder of Austin's more free-spirited days. Hosting wellness classes, Vegan meals, and teas, you get the full holistic experience once you pass the open gates.
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2018 W Stassney Ln
2438 W Anderson Ln
Yes, we have a sterling selection of fancy pizza around the city, but sometimes you're simply craving an old-school pizza joint. Conan's opened in 76 and it doesn't look a day older. No interior designer working to capture that wood-paneled magic can compete with the 70s authenticity found inside. There's something about the pizza too that feels nostalgic even if it's your first visit. One bite into the rich thick crust of the deep pan brings you back to a time of VHS rentals and a gold-clad chase bank tower downtown.
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photo credit: herb bar facebook
200 W Mary St
Another sanctuary to counter our growing tech status, Herb Bar acts as an agent of holistic good in the shadows of an encroaching corporate Austin. Since '86 they've gifted the city with their healing teas, essential oils, books, crystals, and immaculate vibes from back when vibes meant more than they do today. The ivy-covered facade feels like the store has been here since the days when Austin was called Waterloo and continues to keep that old Austin flame alive.
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Photo via Yelp
7525 Burnet Rd
The title of this establishment is not an exaggeration – ask any OG Austinite, and they’ll surely tell you about the classic, delicious taste of this iconic burger stand. Top Notch is filled with simple and genuine décor and nostalgia that’ll transport you right back to the 70s. Their menu is filled with the good stuff – charcoal hamburgers, french fries, fried chicken, milkshakes, and plenty of other traditional American favorites that are sure to hit the spot. Top Notch is not just known for its menu, but also for its appearance in Richard Linklater’s 1993 film, Dazed and Confused – though don’t get it twisted, these burgers are way better than alright, alright, alright.
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Photo via Cisco's Website
1511 E 6th St
This restaurant and bakery on the east side has been in the Cisneros family for over 70 years. Cisco's serves up classic breakfast favorites like Migas, biscuits, and huevos rancheros. Though the restaurant has seen a change in locations, a change in generational ownership and the threat of closing, this popular Tex-Mex restaurant in Austin is still kicking. Currently, Cisco's is even trying to gain a historic designation for the length of its operation and its relationship to Austin's history.
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Photo via Yelp
1110 E 52nd St
As Austin's premiere circus-themed bar, Carousel Lounge has cornered a piece of the market in ambiance alone. Add in its history that dates back to the 60s and you've got quite the "Keep Austin Weird" hub. A night spent at Carousel Lounge is sure to leave you unsettled in the best way possible. Sound fun? Did we mention it's BYO-liquor?
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Photo via Deep Eddy Cabaret Website
2315 Lake Austin Blvd
Nestled in a prime location on the west side by Deep Eddy Pool, this dive bar has been around since 1951 when it was founded by Raymond and Mickey Hickman. Originally, Deep Eddy Cabaret was named Deep Eddy Cafe - but when no food was served, the owners quickly realized that cabaret was more appropriate. Like the classic case of the chicken and the egg, we're not sure if the cabaret name or the cabaret atmosphere came first, but we are sure that a night spent at one of the oldest bars in Austin (and surely the oldest on the west side) is a night well spent.
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Photo via Driskill Website
604 Brazos St
Not only is this renowned Sixth Street hotel designated as a Texas historic landmark, it's also widely regarded as one of the coolest places to stay, hang out, and - um - possibly see a ghost. According to both legends and modern experiences, the Driskill is one of the most supernaturally active hotels in the state, even possibly being haunted by Colonel Driskill himself. It's never a bad time to take your butt down to the Driskill and experience the possibly-haunted history for yourself.
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Photo via Scholz Garten website
1607 San Jacinto Blvd
Dating back to 1866, Scholz Garten was opened by a Civil War veteran and German immigrant with a dream of opening a bar and cafe for the German population of Austin. In 1908, The Austin Saengerrunde purchased the property and expanded it, adding in the still-operational bowling alley (one of the oldest in the country).
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1308 E 4th St
As the oldest continuously running beer joint in Central Texas, Historic Scoot Inn has quite the clout behind its name. Originally opening its doors in 1871, the Historic Scoot Inn is now an East Austin landmark that hosts some of the best live music showcases in town. Scoot Inn has been a grocery store, a saloon, and a restaurant - but at its current form, it hosts some of the best music and social events while maintaining its Old Austin roots.
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Photo credit: Steve Coonan via Facebook
1315 S Congress Ave
The Continental Club, otherwise known as ‘the big cheese’ of Austin music venues, has been opening its doors to the good people of A-town since the 50s. The purpose of this historic venue began as a swanky supper club – sounds pretty darn 50s, we must say - and through the perfect formula of love, dedication, music, and sweat (lots of that one), the Continental Club has secured a worldwide reputation. The age of the cosmic cowboy changed the game for the Continental. Music promoters took to their doors with acts like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Double Trouble, and Joe Ely – just to name a few. The 70s also brought the Continental a new manager, Steve Wertheimer, who desired to recreate the historic feel of the 50s through the renovation of the Club’s original four murals and the addition of vintage hot rods. Today, the Club continues to promote the finest acts around Austin.
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EVEN MORE PLACES TO EXPERIENCE OLD AUSTIN GLORY:
3201 S Lamar Blvd
2538 Guadalupe St
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How do you experience Old Austin?
