Milwood - Austin, TX

Austin began expanding in the 1840s when fields and forests were plowed, and replaced by homes and shopping centers. In the 1870s the railroads made their way to Austin, and two major railroads bordered Milwood to the east and west. As a result, the growth of Milwood was initiated and the area developed into what it is today.

On Amherst Road you will find the St. Stephens Missionary Baptist Church, one of the area's most historic establishments. The origin of the church dates back to 1870s, when it played an integral role in African-American history.

Every October, Milwood hosts the Rattan Creek Festival. The day starts with a 5k fun run followed by a day of fun with vendors, kids events and a great opportunity to meet other neighborhood residents.

Several tasty restaurants line the perimeter of Milwood, giving residents their pick of tempting dishes and dining experiences. The Austin area is famous for tex-mex cuisine, and the astounding number of taco joints in Milwood doesn't disappoint. Tacodeli, one of the most popular taco restaurants in Austin, serves up a taco menu with options for beef, pork, vegetarian, chicken, and breakfast tacos. Fans deliver high praise for the housemade mole sauce.

One of Austin's most reknowned sushi joints calls Milwood home as well. Tomodachi Sushi makes creative sushi rolls, appetizers and grilled seafood dishes for a taste of the far East in the deep South. The intimate space and warm decor create the perfect ambiance for a night out or a hot date.

If you have a craving for Thai food, the aptly-named Thai Cuisine in nearby Austin has more Tom Kha Gai and Pad Thai than you can shake a stick at. This restaurant serves huge portion sizes - be prepared to nosh on leftovers the next day - and an appetizer bar on the weekends that allows Thai cuisine fans to sample several different dishes.

On the southeast side of the neighborhood you'll find the Hideout Pub. Known for its affordable drinks, friendly staff and large outdoor patio, it's little wonder why this bar is a local favorite. Every Wednesday night has been dubbed "Wing Night" with 50 cent wings cooked to order.

Driving remains the preferred method of transportation by Milwood residents. While most people choose to use their personal vehicle to get around, there are a public transportation options for those that need them. Capital Metro services the Austin area with bus, rail and shuttle options. There are several stops located in and around Milwood that provide access into downtown Austin and to businesses and establishments in the area as well.

Three major highways surround Milwood to provide direct access to nearby neighborhoods, towns and attractions. Milwood sits a short 23 mile drive north of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. With downtown Austin and the University of Texas only located only 12 miles south, many area residents working downtown choose to live in Milwood and make the short daily commute.

Milwood is fairly bike friendly with a number of paved greenways and designated bike lanes.

Milwood's most popular neighborhood park is Balcones District Park, located just off of Amherst Road. The park is equipped with a basketball court, volleyball court, hiking trail, swimming pool and a kid's playground. The pool is available free of charge, and the Milwood neighborhood hosts an annual "It's My Park Day" to keep the park clean and well-maintained.

Another popular option located just west of Milwood is Yett Creek Park and Riata Neighborhood Park. The two parks are next to each other, providing a large amount of open space for area residents to enjoy. The 40 acres remain largely undeveloped with an established hiking trail, creating a great natural space to go for a Sunday stroll.

Just a little further away sits the Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park and it's full of 15 miles worth of dirt trails perfect for hiking, running and mountain biking. The meandering trails will take you over varying terrains, across creeks and through areas of blooming flowers. Many of the trails are dog friendly and designated "off-leash," so bring your four-legged friend along, too. You will also find playgrounds, barbecue pits, basketball courts, softball fields, volleyball courts and picnic areas. Walnut Creek Park is the perfect place to spend a sunny Saturday with friends and family.

The cost of living in Milwood is significantly lower than that of the city center. Average monthly rental rates run $922 while those in the city of Austin itself are well over $1,000.

The average cost of a one ticket on public transportation is $1 while monthly passes are available for around $35.

When neighborhood residents decide to meet up with some friends at a local bar, they pay around $1.50 for a domestic beer and $2.50 for an import.

Gas prices in Milwood are comparable to those in Austin, but both sit well below the state and national average.

Milwood's prime location creates a selling point for those that love to shop. With several shopping centers located only a short distance from the city center, residents have easy access to a variety of stores. One of the most popular shopping centers, Domain, lies just outside the neighborhood and specializes in high-end brands. Visitors stop by for brands like BCGB, Juicy Couture and Tiffany's.

Milwood offers a number of grocery store options from which residents can choose. Whole Foods is the favorite for the healthy eater. Bargain shoppers prefer to make the HEB Grocery store their neighborhood grocer. For a more intimate, locally owned grocery setting, residents choose the Corner Market.

Milwood has two local farmers markets from which to choose, each open year round. With a farmers market located literally just off each end of the neighborhood, residents have convenient access to fresh produce and homemade goods. Cedar Park Farms to Market opens every Saturday while the TFM (Texas Farmers Market) at Mueller operates every Sunday.