🧪 Cedar Park's next big thing? Biotech.

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It’s wild how fast things are changing around here.

We’ve got a major life sciences hub in the works (more on that below), plus that huge development at 183 and New Hope. Nebraska Furniture Mart, Scheels, a full-service hotel, and some seriously big buildings are going up. This area’s not slowing down, and honestly, we’re not complaining.

Meanwhile, the week’s stacked with tons of great stuff: art night for kids, live music for flood relief, and a glam rock tribute at Haute Spot.

Feels like peak summer in the best way.

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The Gist: Big changes are coming to the old quarry. Cedar Park’s planning to turn those 215 acres into a whole mixed-use development, with a life sciences campus at the center. Could be half a million square feet of labs, offices, shops, restaurants, and even some new places to live.

Why It Matters: City leaders want to bring in biotech companies that started in Austin but need more space to grow, and maybe a cheaper place to do it. If it happens, we’re talking more jobs, more research, and a serious upgrade to that part of town. Crazy to think the old quarry might turn into Cedar Park’s version of a mini tech district.

Read more here.

I've had some wild adventures helping clients find their dream homes, like landing properties perfect for moth breeding or even an in-home salon. Right now, I'm on a mission to find the ultimate live-work space for a couple with a toy train business.

So, whether your property dreams are wonderfully weird or perfectly practical, I'm ready to help you find that "just right" spot!

Move over, drive-thru usuals. Layne’s Chicken Fingers is bringing its saucy swagger to Hero Way Crossing this September. Known for crispy chicken baskets (original or spicy), toasted sandwiches, and that craveable secret sauce, this Texas-born spot adds a little college-town nostalgia to fast food.

Bonus: the Leander location is a family affair, run by eight cousins with serious hometown pride. Sweet tea, milkshakes, and good vibes included. Read more here.

What started as a book trailer is becoming a full-fledged hometown bookstore. Lioness Books, founded by former teacher Sarah Ambrus, is setting up shop in Old Town Leander by late 2025.

Known for its curated, inclusive reads and community spirit, this mobile favorite is growing roots without losing its roaming charm. Until then, you can still spot the trailer, and yes, you can keep browsing online too.

Read more here.

✂ Kid’s Bad Art Night | Library Annex | Leander | 07/24 | More
A silly, freestyle craft night where making “bad” art is the whole point.

🎸 Rock the Relief + Live Music | Nameless Saloon | Leander | 07/26 | More
Nameless Road Band, Love Child, and community vibes supporting Leander flood relief efforts.

🎄 Christmas in July | First Baptist Church | Leander | 07/25–07/26 | More
Shop early for unique gifts and festive finds in a relaxed, indoor market.

🧺 Let’s Have a Picnic | SW Williamson County Regional Park | Cedar Park | 07/26 | More
Family picnic fun with games, music, and splash pad adventures to beat the heat.

🎨 Grab & Go Craft Kit | Leander Public Library | Leander | 07/28 | More
Fun, free take-home crafts perfect for little hands and big imaginations.

🌴 Latin Tropical Thursday | Firewater Sports Bar | Cedar Park | 07/24 | More
Salsa, Bachata, and drink specials heat up this free, high-energy summer dance night.

🐶 Yappy Hour | The Monarch | Cedar Park | 07/24 | More
Sip, socialize, and pamper your pup in a charming, pet-loving courtyard.

🏈 Friday Night Lights Launch | Simply Home Boutique | Liberty Hill | 07/24–07/26 | More
Celebrate football season kickoff with spirit wear, giveaways, and stadium-ready style.

🤘 Hair Metal Giants Live | Haute Spot | Cedar Park | 07/25 | More
An electrifying tribute to glam rock’s golden age—big hair, big hits, big fun.

🎤 Kevin Kelly Live | Maggie Mae’s | Leander | 07/25 | More
Feel-good Austin vibes with soulful tunes and a no-cover, all-ages show.

🥂 Laughs & Life with The PJs | First Watch | Cedar Park | 07/26 | More
A cozy, joy-filled brunch gathering with Pilates pals and plenty of laughs.

🎶 Synth and Sip | Night Owl | Leander | 07/30 | More
All-genre EDM night with local DJs, cool vibes, and craft cocktails indoors.

🎸 Hot Summer Nights | Various Venues | Austin | 07/24–07/26 | More
Three nights of free live music across Austin’s iconic Red River venues.

🎨 Sip & Sketch: Couples Portrait Night | Grapes & Rye | Hutto | 07/25 | More
A playful date night with wine, laughter, and paint-your-partner portraits.

🎶 The Fray & The Strike Live | ACL Live at The Moody Theater | Austin | 07/26 | More
Chart-topping alt-pop and emotional anthems light up one unforgettable night.

🔥 Heatwave Car Show | Travis County Expo Center | Austin | 07/26–07/27 | More
Custom cars, drift rides, and high-octane thrills all weekend long.

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Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you next week!