Neighborhood Spotlight – Zilker
With a name derived from the beautiful green park that surrounds it, Zilker Park Neighborhood is truly a unique area of Austin. Walk-ability to parks, restaurants and an excellent set of schools makes this neighborhood highly sought after by families and Empty Nesters alike. Homes range from mid-century modern with a low profile, butterfly roof and open floor plans to sleek and modern new construction.
Now onto a little bit of history... People have come to swim and play in the cool waters of Barton Springs and Zilker park since the 1840's. The area remained rural throughout the turn of the century as Andrew Jackson Zilker began to buy several acres around Barton Springs. Mr. Zilker was a self-made business man who made a living selling artificial ice. In 1917 Zilker donated 37 acres of land around Barton Springs to Public Free Schools of Austin, who later sold it to the City of Austin. The sale of $100,000 was donated to the school system and also significantly increased Austin's park system. Zilker later donated between 250 and 300 acres to the city in 1932.
Funds raised from the New Deal allowed the Zilker Club House to be built and the current swimming pool was built in 1947. The Zilker Zephyr Railroad was added in the 60's and in the 1980's, the Nature and Science Center was built. Today, the park sets a perfect backdrop for the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the treasured holiday event, Trail of Lights.
The popularity of this neighborhood has changed the dynamic quite a bit through the years. Homes are being renovated, torn down and rebuilt into magnificent new masterpieces. Whether you are looking for a mid-century bungalow or a contemporary new construction, Zilker offers a little bit of everything. With its walk-ability, outdoor activities and great schools it is hard not to love this South Austin neighborhood.
Highlights:
Umlauf Sculpture Garden: Located on Robert E. Lee Road, this outdoor museum hosts beautiful masterpieces by Charles Umlauf. The garden is tranquil and perfect for a picnic.
Zilker Botanical Garden: Home to diverse topography with an array of native and exotic plants. There are themed gardens such as the rose, herb and Japanese with intricate streams, waterfalls and koi ponds. It is a popular tourist destination, but magical for locals alike.
JuiceLand: Head to JuiceLand for refreshing fresh pressed juices and other healthy goodies, conveniently located on Barton Springs Road.
Shady Grove: An outdoor patio with delicious tex mex sets the perfect back drop for some live music and laid-back summer nights.
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