Austin built its reputation on live music, tacos, and a stubborn love of independent business. The “Keep Austin Weird” slogan was originally a call to support local shops, and that spirit is still alive across Central Texas.
Austin’s neighborhoods
South Congress, East Austin, South Lamar, and the Domain area each offer different flavors. You will find vintage stores, record shops, food trucks, breweries, and boutique studios, many run by their original founders.
Food trucks and breakfast tacos
Austin’s food truck culture gives first-time restaurateurs a way to start small and grow. Breakfast tacos are practically a local religion, and every neighborhood has a favorite.
Beyond Austin
Round Rock, San Marcos, Georgetown, and Waco each have their own downtown energy. Georgetown’s historic square and Waco’s growing downtown are good examples of small cities rebuilding around local owners.
Tips
- Try food trucks in clusters, then go back to your favorite.
- Catch a show at a small venue. Musicians and venues are small businesses too.
- Shop makers’ markets for gifts that are actually from Texas.
Have a Central Texas business with a story to tell? Reach out through our Get Featured page.
Featured photo: Austin skyline and Lady Bird Lake by Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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