Shannon B.
Yelp
Long-time Austinites remember when the land that has become The Domain was once open fields and IBM offices & recreation facilities. There was a big hullaballoo when it was sold in 1999 and the plan for redevelopment became public, but as we've seen elsewhere across town, these projects are often hard to stop. The first part of the transformed area opened in 2007 and it has continued to grow and fill in ever since. The original Domain I and II were eventually sold to Simon (the shopping mall company) and have veered toward a mostly generic commercial zone full of national chain stores and restaurants, but Domain III (branded as "Domain NORTHSIDE") remains managed by Endeavor and is described by them like this:
"Austin's best homegrown businesses with a thoughtfully curated list of benchmark brands and first-to-Austin experiences. Fashion, home interiors, beauty, dining and nightlife--you can call it home, stay the night, spend the day, enjoy the community and expect the uncommon vibe that keeps Austin together."
So, what can you find on the Northside? Whole Foods, Nordstrom, a massive Restoration Hardware, several small high-end shops, the Rock Rose strip of pedestrian-friendly bars & restaurants (many of them Austin originals), a few major employers like HomeAway and Blackbaud, some apartments, plenty of accessible parking (with tons of free ChargePoint EV chargers in the garages), and hotels Aloft and Archer. Access is easiest from the Burnet/Duval exit off Mopac, or from the east side via Burnet Road (near Top Golf).
If you live north or otherwise frequent this area, it's worthwhile to follow Domain Northside on social media and sign up for their email list to learn about new biz openings and upcoming special events. Third Thursdays from 6-pm are for adult fun in Rock Rose (including live music & lots of discounts), and First Wednesdays (10a-12p) are for daytime activities for pre-school kiddos (including costumes, crafts, and music). This year, there will even be some SXSW action happening in March. Perhaps I'll see ya there!