Northwest Hills

One of Austin's most beloved shopping areas is The Arboretum about 10 miles northwest of downtown. Shops are woven into the dense foliage in a thoughtful, appealing way. A wide array of stores greet shoppers — from a huge Barnes & Nobles Booksellers to Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn. There are plenty of food options, too, including Honest Mary's, a new natural food eatery that is packed daily.

Home buyers have always flocked to Northwest Austin and its enchanting hills. You'll find everything from Mid-Century Moderns to classics like this two-story beauty. 

Even the offices in the Northwest Hills are located in lush settings with park amenities for neighbors and employees who need a break.

The views are nothing short of spectacular in the Great Hills, especially looking back toward Downtown Austin.

A small development near iFly is Austinville — a retail center with local cachet. Built and operated by Austin entrepreneurs Steve and Amy Simmons, the development includes the popular Amy's Ice Creams shop and Phil's Ice House restaurant. Other locals have their shops there as well.

NORTHWEST AUSTIN (including Great Hills and Arboretum)

The hilly terrain in Northwest Austin is some of the most picturesque real estate in the country. Driving west on RR 2222 is a pleasure all its own that may only be surpassed by the thrill of driving down the steep incline of Spicewood Springs Road as it connects with Capital of Texas Highway. Many homes in the Great Hills and Arboretum are enhanced by stunning hillside views. The highly coveted housing stock spans the gamut from contemporary glass jewel boxes to split levels to townhouses.

The Arboretum is a popular — and heavily shaded — shopping area that has maintained its cachet over the years. Nearby, Gateway Shopping Center and Target provide more consumer options. The Domain regional shopping center and Domain Northside are a hop, skip and a jump away, too.