Southtown 

Once a neglected area of deteriorating historic homes and high crime, Southtown is now one of San Antonio’s most established successful creative revitalization projects. Southtown consists of the King William, Lavaca, and Lone Star neighborhoods. Each has its own vibe and culture (and price range), yet all are within walking distance of the San Antonio river, shops, art galleries, bars, and restaurants.

King William, with its mix of bungalows, lofts, and mansions, is home to the Blue Star Arts Complex, classic restaurants, and the annual King William Fair and neighborhood parade during Fiesta. If you want to be able to walk to your German beer hall, breakfast taco spot, pilates studio, and contemporary art museum, King William is for you. Located in the heart of Southtown, every home has character and charm, but at a price.

Lavaca, located a few minutes east of King William, is less gentrified and exudes a more artsy, gritty vibe. Bungalows and commercial spaces can still be found by patient buyers. Meet your neighbors at the monthly Lavaca Porch Sitting Club and hang out at Roosevelt Park. Lavaca is the gateway to the new Mission Reach of the San Antonio River, a natural environment of walking and kayaking trails.

Lone Star, to the south, is on the rise and still has affordable, historic gems. Lone Star is a flourishing arts district, where every second Saturday young artists open their studios and galleries for a neighborhood party. Adjacent to the action is Dorcol Distillery and Kunstler Brewery, two hometown sipping favorites. With a little elbow grease, great investments are still able to be found in this mixed rental, owner, commercial neighborhood.