What's New This February?
|
|
February may be a short month, but there’s no shortage of things to do—whether it’s exploring a new trail, catching live music, or just taking in those crisp, sunny days. The spring season is right around the corner, which means more time outdoors, fresh starts, and maybe even some home projects on the horizon.
In this month’s newsletter, I’ve got some local wineries, upcoming events, and new developments around town. As always, if you ever have questions about the market—or just want to chat about your favorite Austin spots—I’m here for you. Let’s dive in!
Here's a look at what caught my eye this month:
- Best Central Texas Wineries For A February Escape
- City of Austin Breaks Ground On Bergstrom Spur Trail in South Austin
- Upcoming Events
- Shannon's Spotlight: SXSW
- Barbie-Themed Cafe & Roller Rink Headed To Downtown Austin This Spring
- 5 Huge Changes Coming To Austin in 2025
- Real Estate Market Update
If you have questions about anything local or real estate related, consider me a resource. If you or someone you know is thinking of making a move, I'm always happy to help. Let’s make this a great year together! |
|
|
|
Best Central Texas Wineries For A February Escape
|
|
 |
|
As February rolls in, Texas Hill Country offers the perfect setting for a cozy, wine-filled getaway. With crisp air, rolling hills, and some of the best wineries in the country, it’s an ideal time to explore local vineyards. Whether you're looking for a romantic day date, a fun group outing, or a peaceful retreat, these Central Texas wineries offer tastings, live music, and scenic views that make for a memorable escape.
As a local real estate expert and wine lover, I know all the best spots—so grab a glass and explore these top picks! 🍷
The Austin Winery – Downtown Austin
📍 Location: 440 E St Elmo Rd A1, Austin, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: 2021 Pet-Nat Rosé
For those who want to enjoy great wine without leaving the city, The Austin Winery is a hidden gem in the vibrant St. Elmo district. As Austin’s first full-production urban winery, they craft natural wines sourced from Texas vineyards. The cozy industrial-chic space makes for a perfect winter wine escape, and they often host tastings and special events.
The Wayback – Southwest Austin
📍 Location: 9601 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: House Red Blend
For a boutique, intimate wine experience just west of Austin, The Wayback is a must-visit. This charming spot features a well-curated selection of Texas wines, paired with a delicious seasonal menu. Stay for an elegant dinner, sip wine on the scenic patio, or even book a cozy cottage for the weekend.
Fall Creek Vineyards – Driftwood
📍 Location: 18059 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: Salt Lick Vineyard Tempranillo
Just a short drive from Austin, Fall Creek Vineyards in Driftwood offers a classic Texas Hill Country wine experience. Located next to the famous Salt Lick BBQ, it’s a perfect stop for those looking to pair award-winning wines with mouthwatering barbecue. The peaceful setting, surrounded by ancient oaks, makes it a dreamy February escape.
Duchman Family Winery – Driftwood
📍 Location: 13308 FM 150, Driftwood, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: Vermentino & Aglianico
If you're looking for a taste of Italy in Central Texas, Duchman Family Winery is the place to go. This breathtaking estate features a stunning vineyard, a Tuscan-inspired tasting room, and fantastic wines made from 100% Texas-grown grapes. With regular live music and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway.
Driftwood Estate Winery – Driftwood
📍 Location: 4001 Elder Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: Longhorn Red
Overlooking breathtaking Hill Country views, Driftwood Estate Winery is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The sprawling deck is the perfect spot to sip a glass of wine while watching the sunset. With a casual, friendly atmosphere and excellent reds, this winery is a must-visit in February.
Bell Springs Winery – Dripping Springs
📍 Location: 3700 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX
🍷 Must-Try Wine: Syrah
Bell Springs Winery is one of the best spots for a laid-back afternoon of sipping wine while listening to live music. The winery’s rustic charm, picnic tables, and spacious outdoor area create a welcoming and family-friendly environment. Don’t forget to stop by their on-site food truck for delicious bites!
With so many incredible wineries in and around Austin, it’s easy to see why Central Texas is a wine lover’s paradise. If you’re dreaming of a home with vineyard views, an easy escape to the Hill Country, or a vibrant Austin lifestyle, let me help you find the perfect place!
Photo credit to FCV.com.
|
|
City of Austin Breaks Ground On The Bergstrom Spur Trail in South Austin
|
|
 |
The City of Austin has broken ground on the Bergstrom Spur Trail, a 6.5-mile shared-use path transforming the abandoned Union Pacific Railroad tracks into a pedestrian and bike-friendly corridor.
Stretching from Vinson Drive in South Austin to East Riverside Drive and US 183 in southeast Austin, the trail will connect neighborhoods, parks, and transit hubs, including 43 Capital Metro bus stops and the CapMetro South Congress Transit Center, and provide an alternate route for people to walk or bike to Austin-Berstrom International Airport.
Funded by $29 million from voter-approved bonds and developer parkland fees, construction will occur in three phases, with full completion expected by late 2027.
Read more here.
|
|
|
Looking to buy or sell in 2025 or have a question about the real estate market? Let's chat!
|
|
Shannon's Spotlight: SXSW
|
|
 |
South by Southwest (SXSW) is one of Austin’s most iconic events, drawing creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators from around the world every March. What started in 1987 as a small music festival has grown into a massive, multi-faceted event celebrating music, film, technology, and culture. Over the course of 10 days, the city transforms into a vibrant hub of live performances, film screenings, keynote speakers, networking events, and cutting-edge technology showcases. Whether you're a music lover, a film buff, a startup founder, or just someone who loves to experience the energy of Austin at its peak, SXSW offers something for everyone.
One of the most exciting aspects of SXSW is the sheer variety of experiences available. The music portion of the festival features both world-famous artists and up-and-coming talent performing at venues across the city, giving attendees a chance to discover their new favorite bands. The film festival showcases groundbreaking independent films, often with Q&A sessions featuring directors and actors. Meanwhile, the interactive conference is a must-attend for tech enthusiasts, featuring talks from industry leaders, product launches, and hands-on experiences with emerging technologies like AI, virtual reality, and sustainability innovations.
Beyond the official events, SXSW is about the atmosphere—Austin comes alive with pop-up experiences, brand activations, surprise performances, and some of the best networking opportunities you’ll find anywhere. Whether you're attending for business, creativity, or fun, SXSW is an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of Austin: innovative, artistic, and full of energy. If you’ve never been, it’s a bucket-list event that will leave you inspired, entertained, and eager to return year after year.
This year, SXSW will be held from March 7th-15th and feature keynotes Ben Lamm, Joe Manganiello, and Issa Rae, plus 45+ featured speakers, including Meredith Whittaker, Pedro Pascal, and Hideo Kojima. Interested in attending? Get your badge here!
Photo credit to SXSW Facebook Page.
|
|
Barbie-Themed Cafe & Roller Rink Headed To Downtown Austin This Spring
|
|
 |
A Malibu Barbie-themed pop-up is coming to Austin this spring, combining roller skating, cafés, and ‘70s Malibu vibes. The Malibu Barbie Cafe will open at Wanderlust Wine Co.'s downtown location from April to June, featuring a fast-casual menu curated by Master Chef finalist and Chopped champion Becky Brown.
Not only can guests enjoy delicious food, but also a roller rink, with all skate rental proceeds benefiting Girls, Inc., along with cupcake decorating, paint parties, and 21+ skate nights.
Read more here.
Photo credit to article.
|
|
5 Huge Changes Coming To Austin in 2025
|
|
Real Estate Market Update
|
|
In January, closed sales across the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos MSA saw a slight increase year-over-year of 1.1% to 1,761 sales, according to the latest Central Texas Housing Report released by Unlock MLS. While shifts in affordability and inventory continue to shape the market, the rise in active listings–up 17.0% from last year–indicates increased opportunities for buyers. At the same time, a notable 11.7% year-over-year increase in closed leases highlights the persistent demand for rental options as many navigate affordability challenges.
Clare Knapp, Ph.D., housing economist for Unlock MLS and the Austin Board of REALTORS®, noted that rising mortgage rates and ongoing affordability challenges have driven first-time homebuyers to lease single-family homes as a more accessible option.
“The single-family leasing market is often a more affordable option for potential homebuyers, and with median rents stabilizing at $2,195 in the MSA, we’re seeing a shift in dynamics. While home prices increased nearly 40% from 2019 to 2024, rents rose a more moderate 25%, making leasing a relatively more accessible option–particularly for potential first-time buyers. However, while leasing provides short-term affordability and flexibility, renters miss out on the long-term financial benefits of building equity through homeownership. With more inventory in both the for-sale and for-lease markets, potential homeowners and renters have more options than ever before. This dynamic allows them the opportunity to plan for a transition into homeownership while still benefitting from competitive lease options.”
Excerpted from ABOR.com
|
|
What My Clients Are Saying
|
|
|
"Shannon Green was absolutely phenomenal throughout our home-buying process! From the very beginning, she went above and beyond to ensure we felt confident and well-informed every step of the way. Her knowledge of the market, attention to detail, and dedication to finding the perfect home for us were unparalleled. Shannon made herself available to answer all of our questions, often going out of her way to accommodate our schedule and provide updates.
What truly stood out was her genuine care for our family and her determination to make this experience as stress-free as possible. Whether it was negotiating the best deal, coordinating inspections, or simply offering reassurance, Shannon handled everything with professionalism and warmth. Thanks to her, we found our dream home, and we couldn’t be more grateful. If you’re looking for a realtor who truly cares and delivers results, Shannon Green is the one to call!"
- Allan C.
|
|
| If you know of anyone that would find these tips, updates, and headlines interesting, feel free to share! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
