Discover Austin TX in 2004
A Nostalgic Look at the Capital City
Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant music scene and unique neighborhoods. One area that embodies the city's eclectic spirit is the 04, named after its zip code 78704. This South Austin district has become a cultural hub, attracting locals and visitors alike with its diverse offerings.
The 04 Center, located at 2701 South Lamar Boulevard, serves as a focal point for the area's artistic community. Originally built as Faith United Methodist Church in 1968, the building has been repurposed into a modern listening room while preserving its historical a-frame aesthetic. The venue hosts a variety of musical performances and entertainment events, providing a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists.
Beyond the 04 Center, the surrounding neighborhood boasts a mix of trendy restaurants, quirky shops, and green spaces. This blend of old and new, coupled with the area's commitment to fostering creativity, makes the 04 a quintessential Austin experience. Visitors to the district can immerse themselves in local culture, enjoy live music, and explore the unique character that defines this corner of the Texas capital.
Overview of 78704
ZIP code 78704 is a vibrant and eclectic area in South Austin, Texas. This densely populated district is known for its unique character, diverse community, and central location within the city.
Geography and Demographics
78704 covers approximately 8.8 square miles in eastern Texas. The area has a high population density compared to other ZIP codes in the United States. White residents make up the majority of the population, with a notable concentration of young adults in their late 20s to early 40s.
The district includes several well-known neighborhoods such as Travis Heights. Its boundaries encompass parts of downtown Austin and extend south, creating a mix of urban and residential areas. The Colorado River forms a natural border along the northern edge of 78704.
Historical Significance
South Austin has played a crucial role in shaping the city's cultural identity. The 78704 area has been at the forefront of Austin's growth since the early 20th century.
Many historic buildings and landmarks can be found within the ZIP code, reflecting its rich past. The district has been home to influential musicians, artists, and activists who have contributed to Austin's reputation as a creative hub.
In recent decades, 78704 has become synonymous with the "Keep Austin Weird" movement, embodying the city's commitment to local businesses and quirky charm.
Economic Profile
78704 boasts a diverse economic landscape. The area is known for its abundance of local businesses, including unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Real estate in 78704 is highly sought after, with property values generally higher than the Austin average. The district attracts young professionals and creatives, contributing to a dynamic job market in sectors such as technology, arts, and hospitality.
South Congress Avenue, a major thoroughfare in 78704, serves as a commercial hub. It features a mix of trendy boutiques, popular eateries, and live music venues that draw both locals and tourists.
Culture and Entertainment
Austin's 78704 zip code, known as "The 04," boasts a vibrant arts scene and diverse entertainment options. This area exemplifies Austin's reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World while nurturing a thriving creative community.
Live Music Venues
The 04 Center stands out as a premier live music destination in South Austin. Located at 2701 South Lamar Boulevard, this intimate listening room evolved from a 1960s A-frame church. The venue hosts performances across various musical genres, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. Nominated for Best New Venue in 2019 by the Austin Chronicle, The 04 Center has quickly become a local favorite.
Other notable music spots in the area include the iconic Continental Club and C-Boy's Heart & Soul. These venues showcase nightly performances ranging from rock and blues to country and jazz, attracting music enthusiasts from across the city and beyond.
Arts and Artists Community
The 04 neighborhood nurtures a diverse community of visual artists, musicians, and performers. Local galleries and studios dot the area, showcasing works by Austin-based painters, sculptors, and photographers. The neighborhood's creative spirit is evident in its street art, with colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the district.
Many artists choose to live and work in this area, drawn by its eclectic atmosphere and supportive community. Collaborative spaces and workshops provide opportunities for artists to connect, create, and share their work with the public.
Festivals and Events
The 04 area hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, food, and local culture. South by Southwest (SXSW) often extends into this neighborhood, bringing an influx of performances and pop-up events each March.
The Austin City Limits Music Festival, while centered in Zilker Park, spills over into the 04 with numerous aftershows and special events. Smaller, community-focused events like First Thursday on South Congress showcase local businesses and artists, drawing crowds to enjoy live music, food, and shopping.
Annual events like the South Austin Popular Culture Center's Art Show highlight the neighborhood's artistic heritage and contemporary talent.
Dining and Cuisine
Austin's 04 zip code boasts a vibrant culinary scene with diverse flavors and dining options. Local eateries showcase Texan favorites, while international cuisines add global flair. Convenient food delivery services cater to busy residents and visitors alike.
Local Eateries and Food Culture
The 04 area is home to numerous beloved local restaurants. Matt's El Rancho serves up classic Tex-Mex dishes in a lively atmosphere. For comfort food, Kerbey Lane Cafe offers all-day breakfast and hearty meals.
Burgers take center stage at several spots. Hopdoddy Burger Bar crafts gourmet patties with unique toppings. P. Terry's Burger Stand provides a quick, no-frills option for burger enthusiasts.
Food trucks are a staple of Austin's culinary landscape. Veracruz All Natural's food truck on South Lamar is renowned for its breakfast tacos. El Primo, another popular truck, serves authentic Mexican street food.
International Cuisine
The 04 zip code reflects Austin's multicultural influences through its diverse dining options. Italian cuisine shines at Grata's Pizzeria, known for wood-fired pies and homemade pasta dishes.
For Asian flavors, Uchi presents innovative Japanese fusion in an upscale setting. Sway serves modern Thai cuisine with a twist, featuring communal tables and shareable plates.
Mediterranean options abound as well. Lazeez Mediterranean Cafe offers quick, casual fare like falafel and shawarma. Aba provides a more upscale dining experience with Israeli-inspired small plates and cocktails.
Food Delivery Options
Residents of the 04 area have access to numerous food delivery services. Popular apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub connect diners with local restaurants for convenient at-home meals.
Many local eateries offer their own delivery services. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken provides direct delivery for those craving Southern comfort food. Loro Austin, an Asian smokehouse, offers curbside pickup and delivery options.
For sweet treats, Tiff's Treats specializes in warm cookie delivery. Their South Lamar location ensures quick service to 04 residents craving freshly baked cookies.
The 04 Center
The 04 Center is a vibrant music venue and community space in South Austin, Texas. It occupies a former church building and hosts diverse events while maintaining strong local connections.
Event Hosting
The 04 Center provides a platform for various musical styles and entertainment. Located at 2701 South Lamar Boulevard, the venue features a full bar and free on-site parking. It hosts concerts by both local and touring artists, including well-known Austin musicians like Bob Schneider.
The venue's layout preserves the historical aesthetic of its original A-frame church architecture. This unique setting creates an intimate atmosphere for performances. The 04 Center accommodates all-ages shows, making it accessible to a wide range of attendees.
Concert-goers can find event schedules and purchase tickets through the venue's website or ticket platforms. Shows typically start at 8:00 PM, with doors opening an hour earlier.
Community Engagement
The 04 Center's name reflects its deep ties to South Austin, often referred to as "The 04" due to its 78704 zip code. This connection underscores the venue's commitment to serving the local community.
The center emerged from a partnership with Austin New Church in January 2018. This collaboration helped transform the former Faith United Methodist Church into a modern listening room while preserving its historical significance.
The venue's mission emphasizes creating a welcoming space for all to enjoy. It maintains an active mailing list to keep community members informed about upcoming events and initiatives. The 04 Center's approach to programming and outreach aims to foster a sense of inclusivity and cultural enrichment in South Austin.
Local Business Landscape
Austin's vibrant economy supports a diverse array of businesses. The city's entrepreneurial spirit and growing population fuel opportunities for both established companies and emerging ventures.
Retail and Services
South Lamar stands out as a bustling commercial corridor in Austin. The area boasts a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and service providers. Parking can be challenging during peak hours, but many businesses offer dedicated spots for customers.
Electricians are in high demand due to Austin's construction boom and older home renovations. Local electrical service companies range from small family-owned operations to larger firms handling commercial projects.
Austin's retail scene blends national chains with unique local shops. Many stores emphasize sustainability and locally-sourced products, reflecting the city's eco-conscious values.
Small Businesses and Startups
Austin's startup ecosystem thrives, attracting entrepreneurs and investors. Coworking spaces and incubators dot the city, providing resources for new ventures.
Tech startups dominate the scene, but innovative businesses emerge in various sectors. Food trucks, craft breweries, and artisanal goods makers exemplify Austin's creative small business landscape.
The city offers support programs for small businesses, including training workshops and networking events. Local banks and credit unions provide specialized financing options for startups and growing companies.
Social Scene
Austin's 04 area boasts a vibrant social scene with diverse options for nightlife and community engagement. The neighborhood offers a mix of lively bars and local gatherings that cater to various interests and preferences.
Bars and Nightlife
The 04 Center, located at 2701 South Lamar Blvd, serves as a popular venue for music and entertainment in South Austin. This repurposed 1960s A-frame church now hosts a variety of events, drawing locals and visitors alike.
The area features an eclectic mix of bars, ranging from laid-back dives to trendy cocktail lounges. Many establishments offer live music, showcasing Austin's renowned music scene. Patrons can enjoy craft beers, innovative cocktails, and local spirits while mingling with fellow Austinites.
Some bars in the 04 area provide outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying Austin's pleasant weather. Happy hour specials are common, attracting both young professionals and long-time residents looking to unwind after work.
Community Gatherings
The 04 neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community through various social events and gatherings. Local parks and green spaces often host outdoor movie screenings, farmers markets, and fitness classes, encouraging residents to connect with their neighbors.
Community centers and libraries in the area organize book clubs, workshops, and cultural events that bring people together. These gatherings provide opportunities for learning, socializing, and celebrating local culture.
The Austin Social Scene group, with over 500 members, organizes diverse events that cater to different interests. This group emphasizes inclusivity and aims to create a welcoming environment for all attendees, reflecting the neighborhood's commitment to diversity.
Local businesses often collaborate to host street fairs and block parties, showcasing the area's unique character and supporting small entrepreneurs. These events strengthen community bonds and highlight the 04's distinctive charm.
Digital Presence
Austin's 78704 zip code area has a vibrant digital footprint. Local businesses and residents leverage online platforms to connect, promote, and engage with the community.
Social Media Influence
Facebook serves as a key hub for 04 Austin residents and businesses. Local shops and restaurants use the platform to share updates, promotions, and events. The Austin Chronicle maintains an active Facebook page, posting news and articles relevant to the 78704 area. Video content plays a significant role, with businesses sharing behind-the-scenes looks and event highlights.
Instagram is popular for showcasing the area's unique culture and aesthetics. Residents and visitors frequently post photos of street art, local landmarks, and food from beloved eateries.
Twitter provides real-time updates on community events, traffic, and local news. Many 04 businesses use targeted ads on these platforms to reach potential customers in the area.
Local Online Communities
Reddit hosts an active r/Austin subreddit where 78704 residents discuss neighborhood issues, share recommendations, and organize meetups. NextDoor is widely used for hyperlocal communication, allowing neighbors to connect, exchange information, and buy/sell items.
Several Facebook groups cater specifically to 04 Austin, covering topics like community events, local politics, and business networking. These groups foster a sense of digital community among residents.
Online review platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation of 04 businesses. Positive reviews can significantly boost a local establishment's visibility and customer base.
Music Genres of Austin
Austin's vibrant music scene encompasses a diverse array of genres, reflecting the city's eclectic cultural landscape. The Texas capital boasts a rich musical heritage spanning rock, country, jazz, and blues, with each style leaving an indelible mark on the local soundscape.
Rock and Alternative Scene
Austin's rock and alternative scene thrives with a mix of established venues and emerging artists. The city hosts renowned festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW), showcasing local and international talent. Iconic venues such as Stubb's BBQ and Emo's have nurtured countless rock acts.
Notable Austin-based rock bands include Spoon, ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead, and The Black Angels. The alternative scene embraces subgenres like indie rock, psychedelic rock, and punk, fostering a creative environment for musicians to experiment and evolve.
Country Music Roots
Country music runs deep in Austin's veins, earning it the nickname "Live Music Capital of the World." The legendary Broken Spoke dance hall has been a cornerstone of the city's country scene since 1964, hosting both up-and-coming artists and established stars.
Willie Nelson, a Texas icon, calls Austin home and has significantly influenced the local country music landscape. The annual Austin City Limits Music Festival features prominent country acts alongside other genres, celebrating the city's musical diversity.
Jazz and Blues Influence
Austin's jazz and blues scenes have flourished, producing renowned artists and iconic venues. The Continental Club, established in 1955, remains a premier destination for blues enthusiasts, hosting local and touring acts.
The city's jazz scene thrives in intimate venues like the Elephant Room, offering nightly performances. Austin's commitment to these genres is evident in events like the Austin Jazz Festival and the Austin Blues Society's weekly jams.
Stevie Ray Vaughan, an Austin blues legend, helped put the city on the map as a blues destination. His statue on Lady Bird Lake serves as a testament to Austin's enduring blues legacy.
Practical Information
Austin's 04 area offers convenient transportation options and useful resources for visitors. Navigating this vibrant district is straightforward with the right information at hand.
Transportation and Accessibility
Public buses serve the 04 area regularly. Capital Metro operates routes connecting major destinations. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
Bike rentals provide an eco-friendly way to explore. Austin B-cycle stations are located throughout the neighborhood. Many streets have dedicated bike lanes.
Parking can be challenging in popular areas. Metered street parking is available, but spots fill quickly. Several public parking garages offer longer-term options. The South Congress Transit Center provides park-and-ride services.
Walking is a pleasant option in many parts of 04. Wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes make strolling enjoyable.
Local Maps and Guides
Free neighborhood maps are available at the Austin Visitor Center. These highlight key attractions, dining spots, and shopping areas in 04.
Mobile apps like Google Maps and Waze provide real-time navigation. They're useful for finding specific addresses and avoiding traffic.
The City of Austin website offers downloadable PDF maps of the area. These include details on parks, trails, and public facilities.
Local businesses often distribute area guides. These showcase nearby points of interest and may include discount coupons.
Online resources like Yelp and TripAdvisor provide user-generated reviews and recommendations for 04 attractions.
