West Central

Pease Mansion: West Central Austin, including Pemberton Heights on the hills northwest of downtown, includes an impressive array of stately homes and the Pease Mansion on Niles Road is a stunner. Also named "Woodlawn," the Greek Revival-style estate has hosted many famous historic figures, such as Will Rogers and General George Custer, and been home to two Texas governors. Now privately held, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

WEST CENTRAL AUSTIN

A picturesque area steeped in Austin history covers the hills and wooded terrain just to the west of downtown. West Central Austin is anchored by Clarksville, which unfolds just to the west of Lamar Boulevard fanning out along West Sixth Street. The post-Civil War neighborhood features an array of historic homes — especially Craftsman style bungalows.

The stout, towering oak trees shade the cozy streets — a refreshing canopy for residents walking home after grabbing takeout from Whole Foods Market or a wide array of popular restaurants nearby such as 24 Diner and Clark’s Oyster Bar. Other neighborhoods that are a part of West Central Austin are among the most coveted in the city. Old Enfield, Pemberton Heights and Bryker Woods stretch out to the north of Clarksville. West of the MoPac Expressway to the shores of Lake Austin are other charming enclaves, including Tarrytown and Deep Eddy Heights. Some of the most beautiful streets in Austin are in the Tarrytown area — Balcones Drive, for example.

The northern shore of Lake Austin is another plus. Oyster Landing Marina provides one of those iconic waterfront viewing spots where visitors can enjoy a cappuccino at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters or watch the sunset with a margarita in hand on the deck at Hula Hut.