Renting an apartment in Southeast Austin gives you access to a vibrant and diverse part of the city. This part of town offers a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're a music enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone right outside your door.
And at the heart of it all is The Metropolis Apartments. Using our first-hand experience, we’ve put together this guide of fun things to do in the Southeast Austin area.
Living in a Southeast Austin apartment means you’re never far from a night of awesome music and good company. Check out these great live music venues and bars in the Southeast Austin area.
Emo’s is a legendary live music venue known for hosting a variety of artists across genres. This high-energy space consistently features both prominent national and local performers. From rock to electronic to hip-hop and even live comedy, there's always an unforgettable performance worth catching at Emo’s.
Located on East Riverside Drive, Come and Take It Live is a genre-neutral music venue that hosts events of all types. From music to art to film, this lively spot always has a stacked lineup of local and touring artists.
As Austin’s live music hub, the Red River Cultural District is teeming with nightlife venues ranging from dance clubs and dive bars to rooftop patios and outdoor stages. This iconic and bustling entertainment district attracts both local and national artists across various musical genres. And while you’re waiting for a show to start, you can grab some late-night bites from the many restaurants and food trucks in the area.
For a more relaxed vibe, check out the Buzz Mill, a rustic bar and coffeehouse located on East Riverside. Open 24 hours, this community hub is known for its live music, locally roasted coffee, and homemade infused liquors.
Known for its laid-back atmosphere and yummy bar food, Frazier’s is a favorite local hangout. This retro-style neighborhood bar has pool tables, a shuffleboard, and a dog friendly patio so your furry friend can join in on the fun.
If you love the outdoors, living in apartments in Southeast Austin provides you with easy access to some of the city’s best outdoor activities. From biking and hiking to paddleboarding and kayaking, there’s adventure waiting for every outdoor enthusiast.
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake is a popular 10-mile loop in the heart of Austin. This scenic urban path winds past skyscrapers, neighborhoods, ball fields, and cultural attractions. For many locals, it offers both a recreational outlet as well as an alternative transportation route to the downtown area.
Mabel Davis District Park features Austin’s first public skatepark, a large playground, basketball courts, softball fields, and nature trails. The park’s lush green spaces and diverse amenities make it ideal for picnics, casual sports, and leisurely strolls.
Tucked inside Southeast Austin's Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park, Secret Beach offers a secluded escape from busy city life. This hidden gem is a favorite among locals for unwinding by the water, sunbathing, and enjoying picnics in a tranquil natural setting.
Located near the Colorado River, Krieg Fields is a premier complex with 11 softball fields and 4 sand volleyball courts. The facility regularly hosts tournaments and is a hub for recreational sports in Southeast Austin
Craving something tasty? Whether you have a hankering for comfort food, international flavors, or a classic sandwich, Southeast Austin is packed with delicious and diverse local dining options.
A Vietnamese and French locally owned family business, Café Crème is the perfect cozy spot for your morning coffee or midday pick-me-up. Their menu includes breakfast and lunch options, as well as fresh pastries.
If you’re craving Asian cuisine, 888 Pan Asian serves a diverse menu that features Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai dishes. From flavorful pho and vermicelli bowls to classic stir-fries and clay pot specialties, there’s something for everyone.
For authentic Mexican street food, Pueblo Viejo is a must, especially for all the taco lovers out there. This spot serves up bold flavors in the form of street tacos, breakfast tacos, gorditas, and more.
ThunderCloud Subs on Riverside delivers fresh, made-to-order sub sandwiches with a distinctly Austin touch. Their bread is made from scratch and delivered by a local bakery every morning, and the produce and meats are deli-sliced daily in the shop.
In need of some retail therapy? If you’re living in apartments in Southeast Austin, you’ll have easy access to some of Austin’s premier shopping spots.
Austin’s iconic shopping district, SoCo is lined with eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and vibrant street art. You can spend the day visiting murals, grabbing gourmet bites, and shopping for one-of-a-kind finds.
This modern area features everything from upscale shopping to trendy dining and a state-of-the-art Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. Lamar Union Plaza is a great place to catch a movie, sip craft cocktails, or browse the latest in fashion and home goods.
Located in the heart of downtown, 2nd Street District is a top shopping destination with a seemingly endless row of local boutiques, upscale brands, and delicious dining. Beyond shopping, this walkable district also has electric nightlife and prominent entertainment venues like ACL Live at The Moody Theater.
Conveniently located on Riverside Drive, H-E-B plus! is your go-to for groceries, fresh produce, and daily essentials. You can also find a variety of local products and Austin-made goods for a true taste of the city.
The Southeast Austin area is just minutes away from Downtown Austin — the cultural and entertainment epicenter of the city. From world-renowned music venues and rooftop bars to museums and iconic landmarks, downtown is full of unique and buzzing districts to explore.
If you’re looking for apartments for rent in Southeast Austin, The Metropolis is the perfect home base for exploring everything this energetic area has to offer. Located in Austin’s East Riverside neighborhood, our residents enjoy access to shopping, nightlife, great food, and more. From live music and delicious eats to outdoor adventures and unique shopping destinations, Southeast Austin is a place where you can truly live, work, and play.
Schedule a tour today to discover why so many people are making The Metropolis their home in Austin!
