Welcome to Clarksville
Charming and historic community steps away from downtown Austin
Clarksville is one of Austin’s oldest and most coveted neighborhoods. This charming historic district is a picture-perfect snapshot of life in the south. Populated with various bungalows and mansions, Clarksville retains a sense of the past while growing to embrace the future. This walkable community has developed into an urban playground for Texans who wish to mix historical relevance with Southern amiability.
Though many historic homes still stand, the area has grown to include several new developments. The landmarks of the past are still predominant in the community, with large art installations highlighting those who came before to make Clarksville the amazing location it is today.
What to Love
- Within walking distance of downtown
- Upbeat, friendly community
- Abundant upscale restaurant selections
Local Lifestyle
Clarksville residents enjoy a walkable neighborhood of hilly, clean streets with beautiful views. Neighbors are often found biking and walking between residential zones to the entertainment options in downtown Austin. Residents often split weekends between enjoying the incredible weather on Lady Bird Lake or walking through the hip and contemporary art galleries in Clarksville.
Many older bungalows still stand in the neighborhood, but as Austin grew up around it, Clarksville’s real estate market blossomed to include many larger homes as well. Luxury amenities in Clarksville are common as residents expand properties and update homes, bringing historical houses into a modern era while maintaining the charm of the past. Condominiums and apartments are available for residents that want to live in the area and commute, an easy feat in this central location.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Clark’s Oyster Bar is a hometown favorite serving the freshest water-to-table oysters in Austin. This restaurant has a raw bar, fresh bread, burgers, cocktails, and other types of seafood, including lobster and caviar. Seating is available inside and outside, and the restaurant's atmosphere is jovial and light, making for a celebratory and joyous dining experience.
For modern American cuisine, try the dishes at Josephine House. The menu features elevated Southern American favorites like shrimp and grits, steak and eggs, and lemon ricotta pancakes. Try adding one of the house-made cocktails or freshly brewed coffees and enjoy your meal outside on the vast lawn or well-lit patio of this adorable blue cottage restaurant.
Cipollina is one of Clarksville's highest-rated Italian eateries. Housing one of Austin’s oldest wood-burning pizza ovens, this restaurant serves the best Italian American favorites in a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Each dish features fresh ingredients and highlights flavors that keep diners returning for their favorite Italian comfort foods.
24 Diner has an excellent selection of elevated diner favorites complemented by an extensive wine list. Tapping into the nostalgia of the 1950s, 24 Diner uses farm-fresh ingredients and imaginative recipes to blend the past into their modern meet-up. Whether you choose meatloaf and milkshakes or brioche and craft beer, 24 Diner provides a fun choice for a classic meal.
One of Clarksville’s most charming destinations for wine tasting is Rosie’s Wine Bar. This cozy and light-filled bar features an eclectic rotating wine list emphasizing natural wines from small producers worldwide. Rosie’s highlights fine wines to complement their small plate menu of delicacies from France, Portugal, and Spain.
Another favorite of Clarksville locals is Elle’s Austin. Locals tout this boutique as one of the best in West Austin for its atmosphere and customer service. Selling tasteful luxury lingerie, pajamas, and swimsuits, this locally owned shop pays close attention to customer needs, providing an upscale experience. The boutique’s modern and warm design is inviting and offers privacy with a welcoming touch.
Things to Do
North of Clarksville, you’ll find Pease District Park, an 84-acre public park run by the Pease Conservancy, a group working to preserve the vibrant wildlife in the Austin area. The park has abundant green spaces with barbeque areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, sporting areas, and an observation pod named the Pease Park Treehouse. This unique structure, reminiscent of a seed pod, is a two-story wooden structure made of wood and rope and allows you to lie among the tree canopy and enjoy the fresh air while viewing the stars.
The HOPE Outdoor Gallery is one of Austin’s most famous art destinations. This collection of street art has been growing since 2010 when street artists reclaimed the barren walls of a failed condominium development at Castle Hill and transformed them into a massive canvas. The gallery moved to a new location across from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and the new facility will be upgraded with amenities such as an art supply store, rooftop bar, food trucks, and a cafe, but the opening date is yet unannounced.
Nearby Pease Mansion, also known as Woodlawn, has been home to two Texas governors. The classically designed mansion is a beautiful architectural and historical destination.
To the south are Ladybird Lake and Ladybird Lake. Residents love to meet here for weekend strolls with friends, family, and pets. Paddleboards and kayaks dot the lake year-round as Austin citizens enjoy incredible views of the city skyline from the water.
