Airport Boulevard, also known as Texas State Highway 111, is a major thoroughfare in Austin, Texas. The boulevard runs east-west through the heart of the city, providing a vital link between Interstate 35 and Highway 183. With its rich history, eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, and proximity to downtown Austin, Airport Boulevard has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
From its humble beginnings as a small country road to its current status as a bustling thoroughfare, Airport Boulevard has undergone significant transformations over the years. In the early 20th century, the boulevard was primarily used by farmers and ranchers to transport their goods to market. However, with the growth of Austin's population and the expansion of the city's airport, the boulevard began to take on a more prominent role in the city's infrastructure.
Today, Airport Boulevard is lined with a diverse array of businesses, including restaurants, boutiques, and services. Visitors can find everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to vintage clothing stores, making the boulevard a shopper's paradise. Additionally, the area is home to a number of community events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Airport Boulevard Festival, which celebrates the area's unique culture and heritage.
One of the most notable aspects of Airport Boulevard is its vibrant food scene. With a wide range of cuisines to choose from, visitors can sample everything from traditional Tex-Mex to Asian fusion and Italian cuisine. Some popular eateries in the area include:
- Veracruz All Natural: A family-owned Mexican restaurant serving up authentic dishes like migas tacos and chicken mole.
- Fat Straws: A popular bubble tea shop offering a variety of flavors and toppings.
- Home Slice Pizza: A New York-style pizzeria serving up giant slices and pies.
In addition to its culinary delights, Airport Boulevard is also home to a number of unique shops and services. Some popular destinations include:
- Parts & Labour: A boutique clothing store offering a curated selection of vintage and contemporary items.
- The Herb Bar: A natural health store offering herbal remedies and supplements.
- Austin Pets Alive: A no-kill animal shelter offering pet adoption services and animal care products.
History of Airport Boulevard
Airport Boulevard has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally known as East Avenue, the boulevard was initially used as a country road connecting the small town of Austin to the surrounding rural areas. However, with the growth of the city's population and the expansion of the airport, the boulevard began to take on a more prominent role in the city's infrastructure.
In the 1920s, the Texas Department of Transportation began to widen and improve the road, paving the way for increased commercial development in the area. As the airport expanded and the city grew, Airport Boulevard became a major thoroughfare, providing a vital link between downtown Austin and the surrounding suburbs.
Today, Airport Boulevard is a thriving commercial corridor, lined with a diverse array of businesses and services. Despite its growth and development, the area still retains much of its original charm and character, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Community Events and Festivals
Airport Boulevard is home to a number of community events and festivals throughout the year. Some popular events include:
- Airport Boulevard Festival: A annual festival celebrating the area's unique culture and heritage. The festival features live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages.
- East Austin Festival: A bi-annual festival showcasing the area's vibrant arts and culture scene. The festival features live music, performances, and exhibits by local artists.
- Airport Boulevard Holiday Parade: A festive holiday parade featuring floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus.
Things to Do in Airport Boulevard
Airport Boulevard offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some popular things to do in the area include:
- Shopping: With a diverse array of boutiques and specialty stores, Airport Boulevard is a shopper's paradise. Visitors can find everything from vintage clothing to unique gifts and souvenirs.
- Dining: With a wide range of cuisines to choose from, Airport Boulevard is a foodie's dream destination. Visitors can sample everything from traditional Tex-Mex to Asian fusion and Italian cuisine.
- Community Events: Airport Boulevard is home to a number of community events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can attend events like the Airport Boulevard Festival, East Austin Festival, and Airport Boulevard Holiday Parade.
Getting Around Airport Boulevard
Getting around Airport Boulevard is relatively easy, with a number of transportation options available. Visitors can:
- Drive: Airport Boulevard is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the area.
- Use Public Transportation: The Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) offers bus services throughout the area, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Ride-Share: Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around the area.
Conclusion
Airport Boulevard is a vibrant and eclectic destination in the heart of Austin, Texas. With its rich history, diverse array of businesses and services, and community events and festivals, the area is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or simply explore, Airport Boulevard has something for everyone.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to Airport Boulevard in Austin, Texas. Whether you're planning a visit or simply looking to learn more about the area, we're confident that you'll find this information helpful. Don't forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!
What is Airport Boulevard?
+Airport Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in Austin, Texas, running east-west through the heart of the city.
What can I do on Airport Boulevard?
+Airport Boulevard offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including shopping, dining, and community events.
How do I get around Airport Boulevard?
+Visitors can drive, use public transportation, or ride-share to get around Airport Boulevard.