Words Ainsley Gaines & Ashley Bowling
Sitting just south of Lady Bird Lake, this stretch of town balances outdoor energy with global flavor, making it equal parts chill and buzzing. This river-adjacent stretch of land boasts The Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, drawing runners, dog walkers, and sunset chasers who swear this is the prettiest loop in town. Food-wise, the flavors travel far. From craveable stir-fries at 1618 Asian Fusion to colorful plates at Ryan Lebanese Cuisine, East Riverside eats well without trying too hard. And for peak neighborhood charm, the cute food truck park at AMLI is anchored with Noble Joe’s Coffee and Brunch Brunch Baby to fuel your mornings.
Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk
Part of Austin’s ten-mile trail system, this boardwalk stretches 1.3 scenic miles along the water, offering dedicated walking, running, or biking paths with a skyline view at every turn. Whether you’re logging miles or taking the scenic route to downtown, it delivers a Texas sunset walk you won’t soon forget. austintexas.gov, 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd.
Moonlight Towers in East Austin: Myth vs. Fact
MYTH: Austin built the Moonlight Towers because of murders, specifically the 1880s “Servant Girl” killings.
FACT: The towers went up in 1894–1895, about a decade after those murders. They were part of Austin’s first electric street-lighting system (a practical way to light big areas before modern streetlights), not a direct reaction to a crime spree.
