Zilker

The Epicenter of Austin’s Outdoor and Cultural Life. South Austin.

The Vibe

Zilker is one of Austin’s most iconic and desirable neighborhoods, a vibrant community that is synonymous with the city’s love for the outdoors, live music, and eclectic culture. It’s a place where old Austin charm, with its towering oak trees and classic bungalows, meets a thriving modern scene of restaurants and shops. With Zilker Park as its magnificent front yard and downtown just minutes away, the neighborhood offers an unparalleled lifestyle that is active, social, and quintessentially Austin.

The Story

The Zilker neighborhood’s history began around 1918, when philanthropist Andrew Jackson Zilker deeded 35 acres of land surrounding Barton Springs to the city, with the first homes being built in the early 1920s. The neighborhood grew up around this incredible public green space, which has become the cultural and recreational heart of Austin. Zilker Park is home to some of the city’s most famous attractions and events, including the Austin City Limits Music Festival, the Zilker Holiday Tree, and the Zilker Summer Musical.61 The neighborhood is not governed by a formal HOA, but the Zilker Neighborhood Association (ZNA), a voluntary organization, is active in preserving the community’s character and advocating on local issues.72

The Lifestyle

Life in Zilker is an immersion in the best of Austin. It’s an incredibly walkable and bikeable neighborhood where residents can easily access a world of recreation and entertainment. A typical weekend might involve a swim in the historic Barton Springs Pool, a round of mini-golf at the whimsical Peter Pan Mini Golf (an Austin fixture since 1948), or a visit to the Zilker Botanical Garden. The neighborhood is a hub for foodies, with a thriving restaurant scene that includes everything from the vegetarian-friendly institution Casa de Luz to the legendary Tex-Mex of Matt’s El Rancho. The social scene is equally vibrant, with popular spots like Gibson Street Bar hosting fun, themed events year-round. It’s a community-focused, outdoorsy lifestyle that perfectly captures the dynamic, “Keep Austin Weird” spirit of the 78704.

The Homes

The homes in Zilker are a diverse mix of traditional and modern designs, reflecting the neighborhood’s evolution from a 20th-century suburb to a highly sought-after urban community. The streets are lined with a harmonious blend of charming bungalows from the early- to mid-1900s, modernist homes, and innovative contemporary new builds. This architectural eclecticism is a key part of the neighborhood’s character. The housing stock caters to a wide range of residents, from young professionals and artists to families drawn to the area’s excellent schools and unbeatable amenities. The prime location and high demand make Zilker a premium real estate market, with properties prized for their charm, character, and proximity to everything that makes Austin special.

Local’s Guide to Zilker

• The Crown Jewel: Zilker Park, a 351-acre metropolitan park that is home to Barton Springs Pool, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and the ACL Music Festival.
• For a Nostalgic Outing: Peter Pan Mini Golf, an iconic Austin landmark since 1948, featuring two whimsical 18-hole courses.
• For a Classic Austin Meal: Matt’s El Rancho, serving beloved Tex-Mex dishes and famous margaritas since 1952.
• For a Unique Experience: A night swim at Barton Springs Pool, where locals traditionally howl at the full moon, perfectly embodying the “Keep Austin Weird” motto.