Things To Do
in Austin
Austin sits at the crossroads of tech innovation and live music, surrounded by Hill Country scenery. The city blends a bold, creative vibe with a legendary food scene rooted in BBQ, Tex-Mex, and eclectic street fare. Waterways like Lady Bird Lake thread through vibrant neighborhoods filled with trailheads, murals, and live venues.
Its motto, 'Keep Austin Weird,' signals a welcoming, curious spirit that draws visitors and locals alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Austin's famous brunch spots, such as Magnolia Cafe, where pancakes and breakfast tacos are a must-try. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll down Congress Avenue to admire the Texas State Capitol building, a stunning piece of architecture. Don’t forget to capture some photos of the beautiful grounds before heading to your next destination.
In the afternoon, visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn about the rich history of Texas through engaging exhibits and films. After immersing yourself in Texas history, enjoy lunch at a local food truck for some authentic Austin cuisine, perhaps sampling some BBQ or Tex-Mex. Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the vibrant shops and galleries in the South Congress (SoCo) district.
As evening falls, head to the iconic Continental Club for some live music, where you can experience the heartbeat of Austin's music scene. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant offering delicious local dishes, such as the famous Franklin Barbecue. Wrap up the night with a stroll along the Lady Bird Lake, enjoying the beautiful views of the city skyline.
Begin your morning with a refreshing visit to Zilker Park, where you can enjoy a brisk walk or jog along the trails surrounded by nature. After your exercise, grab a light breakfast at a nearby café and take your time soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the park. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Barton Springs Pool for a refreshing dip in the natural spring waters.
After your swim, head to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum located within the park to admire beautiful works of art amidst lush greenery. Grab lunch at a nearby food truck, enjoying the local flavors and outdoor seating. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake for a unique view of the city from the water.
In the evening, enjoy a picnic dinner at Zilker Park, where you can savor local delicacies while watching the sunset. After your meal, gather around for a free outdoor movie screening if it’s a Thursday night during the summer. Cap off the night with a visit to the Austin Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge, where you can witness the spectacular sight of thousands of bats taking flight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,800-2,800/mo |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $120-250 |
| 🛒Grocery for one person per week | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.0-4.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class live music and cultural events
- Strong barbecue and Tex-Mex food scene
- Walkable downtown and scenic outdoor spaces
- Innovative food truck culture and markets
- Hot summers and occasional humidity
- Rapid growth can mean traffic and crowded weekends
- Some popular spots have long waits or require reservations
- Limited parking and high ride-share demand in busy areas
Places to Visit in Austin
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge at dusk when millions of bats emerge above the skyline, perfect for dramatic cityscape shots.
Cliffside overlook offering panoramic views of the city and the hills—great for sunrise or golden hour photography.
Sunny vantage with lake views and a colorful sunset backdrop; ideal for landscape and skyline shots.
Vibrant street scenes, including the iconic I Love You So Much mural and unique shop facades.
Lush greenery and sparkling water reflections; best in late afternoon light.
Food in Austin
Austin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential morning staple; try versions with eggs, cheese, and salsa from Veracruz All Natural, Tamale House East, or popular taco trucks around the city.
Must-Try!
Low-and-slow smoked beef that defines the city’s barbecue scene; iconic spots include Franklin Barbecue, La Barbecue, and Micklethwait Craft Meats.
Creamy melted cheese dip served hot with tortilla chips; a must-have at Guero's, Torchy's Tacos, or local Tex-Mex joints.
Comforting stacked enchiladas with chili sauce and cheese; classic versions can be found at spots like El Chile Cantina and Güero's.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A Sustainable Food Center market featuring local produce, prepared foods, and seasonal bites from Austin vendors.
A large weekly market with farm-fresh goods, snacks, and prepared foods, just north of central Austin.
A cluster of food trucks and small eateries along Congress Avenue near the SoCo corridor offering diverse street eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Austin hosts a casual, friendly culture; greet with a warm hello, say 'howdy,' and dress comfortably for the climate.
Be mindful of neighbors and neighbors' spaces; keep noise reasonable late at night in residential areas.
Many locals value local businesses, eco-friendly practices, and recycling and composting at markets and events.
Safety
Tipping in Austin
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants generally expect 15-20% pre-tax; higher in fine dining. For bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% typical.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) common; cash is accepted, but many street vendors and food trucks prefer cards or apps.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming wildflowers; great for outdoor festivals and hiking, but expect seasonal pollen and occasional rain.
Hot and humid with long daylight hours; use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and schedule outdoor plans for early morning or evening.
Pleasant temperatures and prominent cultural events like festivals and live music; comfortable for walking city streets and parks.
Generally mild with cool days; occasional cold fronts. Layering is key for early mornings and nights.
Austin at Night
Hiking in Austin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic swimming hole and hiking area about 25 miles west of downtown.
Pond and hill country views along Loop 360, great for photos and gentle hikes.
Extensive network of trails with rivers, cliffs, and scenic overlooks near the city.
Airports
How to reach Austin by plane.
Main airport serving Austin; about 15-25 minutes from downtown by car, with many direct domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of the population is employed in tech, education, healthcare, and startups; vibrant neighborhood scenes across East, Central, and South Austin.
A prominent cultural influence with deep roots in local food, music, and events.
Diverse demographic mix with a growing international presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The University of Texas at Austin home games; a major sports and community event with a spirited atmosphere in fall.
Races held at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in nearby Pflugerville; a major international motorsport event.
Local college and club teams, plus MLS and minor league soccer options in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Austin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer meatless options, including veggie tacos, roasted vegetables, and veggie sides; look for plant-based bowls and salads at cafes and markets.