Tarrytown

Tarrytown is one of Austin's most prestigious and historic neighborhoods, located in Central West Austin just west of downtown and the MoPac Expressway. The neighborhood is bordered by West 35th Street to the north, Lake Austin to the west, Enfield Road to the south, and South MoPac to the east, with the zip code 78703. Tarrytown's origins trace back to the 19th century when it was part of the Woodlawn estate, a 365-acre property designed for Texas State Comptroller James Shaw in 1853. The neighborhood was officially established as a suburb in 1915, with significant development beginning in the 1930s when Niles Graham and Murray Graham subdivided the former Pease family land through the Enfield Realty and Home Building Company. The Tarrytown addition officially opened on November 4, 1934, followed by subsequent additions through the 1930s and 1940s. Today, Tarrytown stands as one of Austin's safest and most close-knit communities, characterized by tree-lined streets, perfectly manicured lawns, a blend of historic architecture and thoughtfully designed modern homes, and abundant green spaces. The neighborhood is dotted with local parks and features extensive sidewalks ideal for walking and biking, creating a highly walkable environment that maintains the small-town feel Niles Graham originally envisioned for English country living in West Austin.

Tarrytown attracts generations of Austinites who value the neighborhood's tight-knit community atmosphere, walkability, and proximity to downtown while maintaining a residential character with minimal commercial activity. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that blends 'old Austin' charm with modern convenience, with many families choosing to raise children in this established neighborhood. The community is known for neighbors running into each other at area parks, local stores, and schools, fostering genuine connections and a strong sense of belonging. Recreational opportunities abound with multiple parks throughout the neighborhood, tree-lined streets perfect for morning jogs and evening strolls, and easy access to Lake Austin for water activities. The neighborhood's cultural attractions include Laguna Gloria, now part of The Contemporary Austin, and the nearby Mayfield Park, a lush 23-acre estate turned gardens and nature reserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Residents benefit from easy access to downtown Austin's business and entertainment districts, the State Capitol, and the University of Texas, making it ideal for professionals and families who want urban amenities without sacrificing neighborhood character. The community maintains its appeal through careful preservation of its residential scale and character, with an emphasis on maintaining harmony between historic homes and thoughtful new construction.

Tarrytown is served by Austin Independent School District (AISD). The neighborhood's elementary school is Mathews Elementary School, located at 906 West Lynn, which has served the community for decades. Students typically progress to middle and high schools within the AISD system, with convenient access to schools throughout Central Austin. The neighborhood's proximity to the University of Texas campus also makes it attractive to families with college-age children and university-affiliated residents. Specific current school ratings and programs should be verified through the Austin ISD website, as educational offerings and performance metrics are regularly updated.

Tarrytown is anchored by two main shopping centers that serve as community gathering places. Tarrytown Shopping Center was developed by the Kruseman family in 1939 and is now owned by Jeanne Kruseman Daniels; it has been modernized and expanded over the years and remains a neighborhood hub. Tarrytown Pharmacy, founded in 1941, was one of the first tenants in the shopping center and continues to serve the community. Casis Village shopping center was built in 1952 by the Bryant family and provides additional retail and dining options. The neighborhood offers convenient access to all modern conveniences within walking distance of homes, and residents can easily reach downtown Austin's extensive dining and entertainment options just minutes away. The area maintains its character through small-scale, neighborhood-serving businesses and local establishments that cater to residents' daily needs.

Tarrytown features a diverse housing stock that reflects its evolution from the 1930s through present day, including historic bungalows and Victorian-era homes from the early 20th century, mid-century residences, and contemporary new construction. Homes range from small, charming period cottages to substantial two-story mansions, with many properties featuring the architectural character that defines the neighborhood. Lot sizes vary but typically range from modest urban lots to larger estates, particularly in the western sections closer to Lake Austin. The neighborhood commands premium pricing due to its location, history, walkability, and desirability, with prices reflecting its status as one of Austin's most sought-after residential areas. Recent market trends show continued demand from buyers seeking established neighborhoods with character, proximity to downtown, and strong community identity. Many residents purchase older homes for renovation and modernization, while others build new homes that harmoniously blend with the neighborhood's existing character. The neighborhood attracts both owner-occupants and investors, with some properties available for rental. Buyers should expect competitive pricing, potential bidding wars on desirable properties, and the opportunity to either preserve historic character or undertake significant renovations depending on their preferences and the specific property.