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Welcome, ladies and gents, to Austin — the Texan capital that sizzles with southern charm, hums to the rhythm of live music, and sends your taste buds on a tantalizing Tex-Mex roller coaster ride! Nicknamed the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin lures nomads and thrill-seekers alike from every corner of our planet, all year round. However, don’t be fooled into thinking Austin’s got a one-track mind; it’s got more up its sleeve than just rocking tunes.
Parks that rival Eden, museums that ooze with character, and a food scene so vibrant, it puts rainbow sprinkles to shame — that’s Austin for you. Did you know Austin was the birthplace of Whole Foods Market, the biggest organic munchies dealer on the globe? Or that it was named after Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas,” and a key player in the Texas Revolution? But wait, there’s more — loads more, and you’re about to discover why Austin should be on your “Cities to visit before I croak” list.
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is your magic carpet ride into the city. It throws its arms wide open with non-stop flights from major U.S cities including the Big Apple, the City of Angels, the Windy City, and the Big Peach. Who’s at your service, you ask? The usual suspects — American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest Airlines. Once you’ve set foot in Austin, hop onto a taxi, an Uber, or Lyft, or ride the Capital Metro bus into the city. And of course, there are a plethora of car rental companies for the road warriors among you.
If you fancy a scenic detour, San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is another gateway to Austin, just an hour’s drive away. It connects with a number of U.S cities, with American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines at your beck and call. Taxis, ride-shares, and car rentals can whisk you from San Antonio to Austin in a jiffy.
And for those of you with a penchant for chugging along the scenic route, Amtrak’s Texas Eagle will take you from the City of Broad Shoulders all the way to San Antonio, with Austin as one of the pit stops.
Once you’ve unpacked your bags and fed your wanderlust, your best bet to criss-cross the city is the Capital Metro bus and rail system. Affordable and all-encompassing, it’s a godsend for those without wheels. And don’t forget, your friendly neighborhood Uber and Lyft drivers are just a call away.
If I were asked to choose one Austin adventure to recommend, hands down it would be the Barton Springs Pool. Nestled in the bosom of Zilker Park, this 3-acre natural spring-fed pool is an urban Eden. Bathed in a year-round temperate climate of 68–70 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s the perfect spot for a swim, a sun-soak, a picnic, or just plain ol’ people-watching. An adult pass comes at a bargain of just $9, and guess what? It’s open all year round!
Stand in awe of the Texas State Capitol, the grandest state capitol building in Uncle Sam’s backyard, with free guided tours to boot.
Stroll or cycle by the scenic Lady Bird Lake, Austin’s own mirror to the sky. Take a journey into the life of Lyndon B. Johnson at the LBJ Presidential Library.
Experience Sixth Street after dark — an entertainment extravaganza filled with music that will set your feet tapping, bars that never run dry, and restaurants that will have you coming back for more.
Feast your eyes on the vast collection at the Blanton Museum of Art, boasting over 18,000 art pieces from around the world.
Snap a selfie at the iconic “Greetings from Austin” mural on South 1st Street.
Indulge your foodie instincts in the bustling food truck scene, with over 1,000 trucks serving everything from sizzling tacos to finger-licking BBQ.
Step into the past at the historic Driskill Hotel, built in 1886, and toast to the good times at its bar.
Escape to the nearby Hill Country for a day amidst picturesque wineries, natural springs, and adorable small towns.
Groove to live music at the Continental Club, a legendary music venue that’s been on the beat since 1957.
If you ask me, Franklin Barbecue is the crown jewel of Austin’s dining scene. Famous for its drool-worthy smoked brisket and ribs, this pitstop has won a slew of awards and rave reviews. The lines at Franklin may stretch out the door, but trust me, the wait is worth every delectable bite. A scrumptious lunch for two at Franklin Barbecue will set you back by around $50.
Now, before you embark on this gastronomic journey, here are a few insider tips:
The early bird catches the barbecue: Franklin Barbecue’s doors swing open at 11:00 am, but the queue starts forming way before.
Want a guaranteed taste of their legendary barbecue? Be an early bird.
Know your appetite: With a limited yet mouth-watering menu, knowing what you want before you reach the counter can save time and indecision.
While the brisket is a fan favorite, don’t overlook the ribs, pulled pork, and turkey.
Embrace the wait: Queues and waits are part of the Franklin experience. Come prepared with a hat, sunscreen, and water to beat the Texas sun.
BYOB is welcome: Bring your own beer or wine to wash down the heavenly barbecue.
Preorder if patience isn’t your virtue: If the line isn’t your thing, Franklin Barbecue offers a preorder option, but remember, it requires a minimum order size and must be placed at least one month in advance. This is a lifesaver — get your food, head to a nearby park, and picnic like a king.
remember to relish the experience: Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at Franklin Barbecue is a rite of passage. So, sit back, dig in, and revel in the company of fellow barbecue aficionados. Austin, you see, is the ultimate BBQ haven, and it’s waiting for you! So, grab your cowboy hats, dust off your boots, and gear up for a Texas-sized adventure. Yeehaw!
Austin is a great BBQ destination.
Austin is known for its great barbecue, and by barbecue, I mean beef barbecue. Brisket it is King in Texas, and while Franklin Barbecue is one of the most famous places, there are many other amazing places to get BBQ in Austin. Here are five other options to consider:
La Barbecue: This popular food truck is known for its brisket but also offers delicious ribs, sausage, and pulled pork. They have a wide variety of sides to choose from, including spicy pickles and chipotle slaw. Prices start at around $15.
Terry Black’s Barbecue: Terry Black’s has been serving up BBQ in Austin since 2014 and is known for its beef ribs, brisket, and sausage. They also have a range of sides, including creamed corn and jalapeno cheese grits. Prices start at around $15.
Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew: Stiles Switch has a great selection of meats, including brisket, pork shoulder, and turkey breast. They also have a great selection of sides, including mac and cheese and jalapeno cheese sausage. Prices start at around $15.
Kerlin BBQ: Kerlin BBQ is a small food trailer that has made a name for itself with its brisket, pork ribs, and smoked turkey. They also offer unique dishes like beef rib grilled cheese sandwiches and smoked brisket kolaches. Prices start at around $12.
Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ: Valentina’s combines traditional Texas BBQ with Tex-Mex flavors. Their signature dish is the smoked brisket taco, which is filled with juicy brisket, guacamole, and salsa. They also have great sides like charro beans and elote. Prices start at around $10.
These are just a few of the many amazing BBQ options in Austin. Each of these places offers something unique, so it’s worth trying a few to see which one you like best.
Uchi: This popular Japanese restaurant offers a unique twist on sushi and other Japanese dishes in a modern and elegant atmosphere. Prices start at around $10 per dish.
Launderette: A trendy eatery with a laid-back atmosphere, Launderette offers American cuisine with a twist, including wood-fired pizzas and unique appetizers. Prices start at around $12 per dish.
Veracruz All Natural: This food truck offers some of the best tacos in Austin, with fresh and authentic Mexican flavors. Prices start at around $3 per taco.
Loro: A fusion of Texas and Asian cuisine, Loro offers a unique menu of smoked meats, rice bowls, and small plates, all served in a casual outdoor atmosphere. Prices start at around $9 per dish.
Kemuri Tatsu-ya: This Japanese-Texas smokehouse fusion restaurant offers an inventive and flavorful menu of dishes such as brisket ramen and smoked quail. Prices start at around $10 per dish.
My top pick for cheap eats in Austin would be P. Terry’s Burger Stand. They offer a variety of classic fast food items, such as burgers and fries, but with a focus on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Their prices start at around $3 for a burger and $2 for fries, making it an affordable option for a quick meal.
Torchy’s Tacos A popular food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, Torchy’s offers a creative and delicious menu of tacos with unique flavor combinations. Prices start at around $3 per taco.
Home Slice Pizza: This New York-style pizzeria serves up large, delicious slices with a variety of toppings. Prices start at around $3 per slice.
Juan in a Million: This no-frills Tex-Mex restaurant is known for its famous breakfast tacos, made with fluffy scrambled eggs and other classic breakfast ingredients. Prices start at around $3 per taco.
Pluckers Wing Bar: A popular sports bar with a focus on wings, Pluckers offers a wide variety of flavors and sauces to choose from. Prices start at around $8 for a small order of wings.
Chi’Lantro: A Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant, Chi’Lantro is famous for its delicious kimchi fries and Korean BBQ tacos. Prices start at around $8 per dish.
My top pick for breakfast in Austin would be Kerbey Lane Cafe. They offer a wide variety of breakfast dishes, from classics like pancakes and eggs to more unique options like queso blanco and brisket breakfast tacos. Their prices start at around $8 per dish, making it an affordable option for a sit-down breakfast.
Gordough’s: This food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant serves up some of the most decadent and creative donuts you’ll ever try. Prices start at around $4 per donut.
Easy Tiger: A popular bakery and beer garden, Easy Tiger offers a variety of freshly baked bread and pastries, as well as a selection of sandwiches and snacks. Prices start at around $4 per item.
Tumble 22: This popular food truck serves up some of the best Nashville-style fried chicken in Austin, with a variety of heat levels to choose from. Prices start at around $8 for a chicken sandwich.
Here are my top three picks for getting a sweet treat or dessert in Austin:
Amy’s Ice Creams: Amy’s Ice Creams is a local Austin institution known for their delicious and creative flavors and their “Mexican Vanilla” ice cream. They also offer a variety of toppings, mix-ins, and cones to customize your treat. Prices start at around $3 for a single scoop.
Gourdough’s: If you’re looking for something indulgent and over-the-top, Gourdough’s is the place to go. They specialize in gourmet donuts with toppings like bacon, fried chicken, and Nutella. They also offer other sweet treats like beignets and funnel cakes. Prices start at around $5 for a single donut.
Lick Honest Ice Creams: Lick Honest Ice Creams is another local favorite, known for their use of locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. They offer unique flavors like “Cilantro Lime” and “Goat Cheese, Thyme, & Honey,” as well as classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla. Prices start at around $4 for a single scoop.
Overall, these three places offer a range of sweet treats and desserts that are unique to Austin and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
I recommend staying at the Driskill Hotel in Austin. The Driskill is an iconic and historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Austin. The hotel was built in 1886 and has since undergone several renovations to provide modern comforts while maintaining its classic charm.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Driskill is its reputation as being haunted. Over the years, there have been countless reports of paranormal activity at the hotel. Many guests have reported hearing strange noises, such as footsteps and voices, coming from empty rooms. Others have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, including the ghost of Colonel Jesse Driskill himself, who is said to haunt the hotel to this day.
Legend has it that Colonel Driskill lost the hotel to a game of poker and was so distraught that he eventually died of a broken heart. Some guests have reported seeing his ghost in the lobby or in one of the hotel’s many halls. There are also reports of a young girl ghost who is often seen playing with a ball in the hotel’s hallways.
One of the most haunted areas of the hotel is said to be room 525. It is believed that two different suicides occurred in this room, and guests have reported strange occurrences, such as the lights turning on and off by themselves or the bathroom door opening and closing on its own.
Despite the many reports of paranormal activity, the Driskill Hotel remains a popular destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and historic place to stay in Austin. The hotel has even embraced its haunted reputation by offering ghost tours and other spooky events throughout the year.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Driskill Hotel is undeniably one of the most fascinating and intriguing hotels in Texas.
The hotel offers a variety of room types, from classic queen rooms to luxurious suites, all featuring modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and plush bedding. The rooms are beautifully decorated with elegant furnishings and rich colors, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
One of the highlights of The Driskill is its excellent dining options. The Driskill Grill is a renowned restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with an extensive wine list, while the 1886 Cafe & Bakery serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting. There’s also an on-site bar that serves handcrafted cocktails and features live music.
The hotel also features a fitness center, a business center, and a concierge service that can assist with any travel needs or recommendations for exploring Austin.
A typical room at The Driskill Hotel can range from $250 to $500 per night, depending on the room type and time of year. While the rates may be higher than some other hotels in the area, the exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and prime location make it well worth the cost for a memorable stay in Austin.
The Hyatt Lost Pines Resort is a beautiful property located just outside of Austin, Texas, in a picturesque natural setting. The resort features a wide variety of activities and amenities for guests of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and groups of friends.
One of the highlights of the resort is the award-winning Wolfdancer Golf Club, which boasts a challenging 18-hole course designed by Arthur Hills. The course winds its way through the scenic Texas wilderness, offering stunning views and a truly memorable golfing experience.
For those who prefer more leisurely activities, the resort offers a variety of outdoor recreation options, including hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking on the nearby Colorado River. Guests can also relax by one of the resort’s several swimming pools, including a lazy river and an adults-only pool.
In addition to its outdoor activities, the resort also features a luxurious spa, where guests can indulge in a variety of treatments and therapies designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
For families with children, the resort offers a variety of kid-friendly activities, including a kids’ club, a nature program, and a water park with slides and other aquatic attractions.
Finally, the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort is also home to a variety of dining options, ranging from casual cafes and snack bars to fine dining restaurants serving gourmet cuisine.
If you are staying at Lost Pines, I recommend heading out to Fitties BBQ for breakfast. It is located in the city of Bastrop, Texas (about 5 minutes from the resort). The exact address is 506 Highway 71 West, Bastrop, TX 78602. Do yourself a favor and get the Jailhouse breakfast tacos. It has all their smoked meats in it, plus potatoes, eggs, and cheese. If you eat two, you will not need to eat another meal for the rest of the day.
Overall, the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort is an exceptional destination that offers a wide variety of activities and amenities for guests of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, relaxation, or just a fun family getaway, this resort has something for everyone.
3 New and Interesting Hotels in Austin
Austin Proper Hotel: Located in downtown Austin, the Austin Proper Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with a modern and eclectic design. The hotel has 244 rooms, including 99 suites, with amenities such as rain showers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom-made furnishings. The hotel features two restaurants, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a spa, and a rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city. The average cost per night starts at around $400.
Thompson Hotel: The Thompson Hotel is located in the trendy South Congress neighborhood, just south of downtown Austin. The hotel has 197 rooms and suites, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, luxurious bedding, and marble bathrooms. The hotel offers three dining options, including a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa. The average cost per night starts at around $350.
Commodore Perry Estate: This historic estate in the heart of Austin has been transformed into a luxury hotel with 42 rooms and suites. The estate features a classic Italian Renaissance design with original artwork and antique furnishings. The hotel offers a fine dining restaurant, a cocktail bar, a pool, and a fitness center. The estate also has expansive gardens and courtyards for guests to explore. The average cost per night starts at around $600.
Here are some of my recommended hotels in Austin based on their star ratings:
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin Downtown/Convention Center: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Austin and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a free hot breakfast. Prices typically range from $130 to $200 per night.
Aloft Austin at The Domain: This trendy hotel is located in the upscale Domain shopping and dining district and features sleek, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and an on-site bar. Prices typically range from $120 to $180 per night.
Hyatt Place Austin Downtown: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Austin and offers spacious rooms with separate living areas, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Prices typically range from $150 to $250 per night.
The Westin Austin Downtown: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Austin and features luxurious rooms with stunning views of the city, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also offers an outdoor rooftop pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Prices typically range from $250 to $400 per night.
Hotel Granduca Austin: This boutique hotel is located in the Westlake area of Austin and offers elegant rooms with Italian-inspired decor, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Prices typically range from $300 to $500 per night.
The W Austin: This trendy hotel offers sleek and modern rooms and suites, as well as multiple dining options, a rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and a fitness center. The W Austin is located in the heart of downtown Austin, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions. The average cost per night starts at around $350.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin: This iconic hotel is located on the banks of Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin and offers luxurious rooms with stunning lake or city views, marble bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant. Prices typically range from $500 to $800 per night.
Fairmont Austin: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown Austin and offers spacious rooms with marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel also features five restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. Prices typically range from $300 to $600 per night.
Hotel Saint Cecilia: This boutique hotel is located in the trendy South Congress area of Austin and offers luxurious rooms with vintage-inspired decor, record players, and minibars stocked with local treats. The hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, a courtyard with a fire pit, and an on-site restaurant. Prices typically range from $500 to $800 per night.
Pedernales Falls: Pedernales Falls is a beautiful state park located about an hour west of Austin. The park features stunning natural scenery and is known for its cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear swimming holes. To get there from Austin, you’ll need to take Highway 290 west towards Johnson City. Once you reach the park, there are several hiking trails to explore, and you can also swim in the river or have a picnic.
Winery Tours: The Texas Hill Country is known for its vineyards and wineries, and there are several great options for a winery tour from Austin. One popular route is to take Highway 290 west towards Fredericksburg, where you can visit several wineries in the area. Some of the most popular wineries include Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards, and Torre di Pietra Vineyards. Another option is to take Highway 290 east towards Johnson City and visit wineries like Driftwood Estate Winery and Hye Meadow Winery.
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels: The Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels is a popular destination for families and anyone looking to cool off during the hot Texas summers. To get there from Austin, you’ll need to take I-35 south towards San Antonio and exit at Exit 191 for TX-46 towards New Braunfels. Once you arrive, you can enjoy a variety of water rides and attractions, including the Black Knight, the Master Blaster, and the Guadalupe River Tube Chute. There are also several restaurants and food stands within the park if you get hungry.
The Midnight Cowboy is a speakeasy-style bar located in downtown Austin, and it is widely considered to be one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. The best thing to do at the Midnight Cowboy is to experience the unique atmosphere and delicious cocktails that the bar has to offer.
To enter the Midnight Cowboy, you must first find the unmarked entrance at 313 E. Sixth Street, and then ring the buzzer to gain access. Once inside, you’ll be transported back in time to the Prohibition era, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening.
It is highly recommended to make a reservation at the Midnight Cowboy, as the bar only has a few tables and can fill up quickly. The place is small and intimate, with a seating capacity of around 25–30 people, so you’ll want to make sure you have a reservation to guarantee a spot.
The most popular drinks on the menu at the Midnight Cowboy are the expertly crafted cocktails, which feature high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Some of the favorites include the Watermelon Thyme, the Basil Smash, and the Old Fashioned. The drinks range in price from around $12-$15, which is typical for high-end cocktail bars.
Overall, the Midnight Cowboy is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a unique and memorable night out in Austin. From the secret entrance to the delicious drinks, this speakeasy-style bar is the perfect spot for a night of fun and relaxation.
Antone’s Nightclub — A legendary music venue in Austin that has hosted some of the biggest names in blues and rock n’ roll. The atmosphere is electric, and the music is sure to get you on your feet. Address: 305 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701.
The Continental Club — Another iconic music venue in Austin, the Continental Club has been around since the 1950s and features live music every night of the week. The vibe is laid-back, and the music ranges from blues to rockabilly to jazz. Address: 1315 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704.
Esther’s Follies — A comedy club and vaudeville theater that offers a hilarious and unique night out. The performances are a mix of sketch comedy, magic, and musical numbers that are sure to keep you laughing all night long. Address: 525 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701.
The Roosevelt Room — This upscale cocktail bar offers a menu of classic and inventive drinks that are expertly crafted by the skilled bartenders. The atmosphere is sophisticated and perfect for a fancy night out. Address: 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701.
The Velveeta Room — A small, intimate comedy club that has been a staple of the Austin comedy scene since the 1980s. The performers are up-and-coming comedians as well as established names, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Address: 521 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701.
My favorite dive bar in Austin is The White Horse. This honky-tonk bar has live music every night of the week, with a focus on traditional country and Western swing. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious, with a large dance floor for two-stepping and plenty of cheap beer and whiskey to go around. The decor is classic Texas, with a vintage jukebox, neon signs, and a mural of Willie Nelson on the outside wall. It’s the perfect spot for a fun night out without breaking the bank.
The Lost Well: Located in East Austin, The Lost Well is a favorite among locals for its extensive beer selection, live music, and divey atmosphere. The bar has a patio out back, a pool table, and a jukebox stocked with punk, metal, and rockabilly tunes. Beer prices start at around $4.
The Skylark Lounge: Another East Austin staple, The Skylark Lounge is known for its blues music, cheap drinks, and friendly atmosphere. The bar has been around since the 1950s and has a classic dive bar feel with a red vinyl bar, vintage light fixtures, and a pool table. Beer and cocktails are both priced at around $5.
Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon: This North Austin dive bar is famous for its Sunday evening chicken shit bingo games, where patrons bet on where a chicken will drop its business on a giant bingo board. The bar also has live music and a friendly, laid-back vibe. Beer prices start at around $3.
Deep Eddy Cabaret: Open since 1951, Deep Eddy Cabaret is one of the oldest dive bars in Austin. The bar has a retro vibe with red vinyl booths, a jukebox, and a pool table. There’s also a large outdoor patio with picnic tables and a food truck. Beer prices start at around $3.
Lala’s Little Nugget: This Christmas-themed dive bar is open year-round and has been a fixture in the Brentwood neighborhood since 1972. The bar is famous for its kitschy holiday decor, including a large Christmas tree, vintage ornaments, and a glowing Rudolph nose on the roof. There’s also live music, pool, and shuffleboard. Beer prices start at around $3.
Breakfast: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Kerbey Lane Cafe, known for its famous pancakes and queso.
Morning Adventure: After breakfast, head to the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride along the lake.
Lunch: Grab lunch at the iconic Texas-style barbecue spot, Terry Black’s Barbecue. Their brisket, ribs, and sausage are a must-try.
Afternoon Adventure: Visit the Texas State Capitol for a tour of the historic building and to learn about Texas politics.
Snack: Take a break and grab a refreshing drink and snack at Juiceland, known for its fresh juices and smoothies.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Uchi, a James Beard Award-winning sushi restaurant. Try their omakase, which features the chef’s choice of seasonal dishes.
Nightlife: Finish the night with some live music at the legendary Antone’s Nightclub, known for its blues and rock performances.
Breakfast: Start the day with a breakfast taco at Veracruz All Natural, known for its authentic and delicious Mexican food.
Morning Adventure: Visit the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool in the heart of the city.
Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at Chi’Lantro, a Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant known for its signature dish, the kimchi fries.
Afternoon Adventure: Head to the Blanton Museum of Art to see their impressive collection of art, including works by contemporary artists.
Snack: Grab a sweet treat at Gourdough’s, known for its over-the-top, gourmet doughnuts.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Olamaie, a Southern-style restaurant that serves up modern twists on classic dishes.
Nightlife: Head to The Roosevelt Room for some craft cocktails in a stylish, speakeasy-style setting.
Breakfast: Start the day with a breakfast sandwich at Paperboy, a popular food truck known for its farm-to-table breakfast fare.
Morning Adventure: Take a tour of the iconic University of Texas at Austin campus, including the Tower and the LBJ Presidential Library.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Ramen Tatsu-ya, a beloved ramen spot that serves up authentic and delicious bowls of noodles.
Afternoon Adventure: Visit the Zilker Botanical Garden, which features a wide variety of plant life and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Snack: Grab a quick snack at P. Terry’s, a local burger chain known for its fresh, all-natural ingredients.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Fonda San Miguel, a beloved Mexican restaurant that serves up authentic dishes from across the country.
Nightlife: Head to The White Horse, a classic honky-tonk bar that features live music and a fun atmosphere.
Breakfast: Start the day with a breakfast sandwich at Bird Bird Biscuit, known for its creative and delicious biscuit sandwiches.
Morning Adventure: Take a tour of the historic Paramount Theatre, a beautiful venue that hosts a wide range of performances and events.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Loro, a modern smokehouse and Asian fusion restaurant that serves up delicious brisket and other smoked meats.
Afternoon Adventure: Visit the South Congress Avenue shopping district, known for its unique and eclectic shops and boutiques.
Snack: Grab a quick snack at East Side King, a popular food truck that serves up creative Asian-inspired dishes.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Jeffrey’s, a classic American steakhouse that serves up perfectly cooked steaks and other upscale dishes.
Nightlife: Finish the night with a drink at The Broken Spoke, a beloved honky-tonk bar that has been a staple of Austin’s nightlife scene for decades.
Austin, Texas, is a unique and vibrant city with a variety of experiences to offer visitors. From the mouthwatering BBQ to the live music scene and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a quirky dive bar, Austin has it all.
I also highly recommend visiting another city in Texas: San Antonio. Located just a short drive from Austin, San Antonio is known for its rich history and cultural significance, as well as it’s famous Riverwalk and iconic Alamo. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore more of what Texas has to offer.
Overall, I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Austin and has inspired you to discover all that this amazing city has to offer. Safe travels and happy exploring!