Austin

Day Trips

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.

Kickstart your day with breakfast at a trendy café in East Austin, such as Elizabeth Street Cafe, known for its delightful pastries and Vietnamese-inspired breakfast options. Afterward, take a walk around the murals and vibrant street art that East Austin is famous for, capturing the local spirit and creativity. Visit the Texas Farmers' Market at Mueller for fresh produce and artisan goods.

For lunch, try a food truck or local restaurant specializing in Southern cuisine, perhaps at the Mueller area where options abound. Take some time to explore the nearby parks or visit the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center to learn about African American history in Austin. Spend your afternoon browsing through the unique boutique shops in the area, from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that showcases farm-to-table dining, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local music scene by visiting a live music venue in East Austin, where you can enjoy both up-and-coming and established artists. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar or brewery, soaking in the local nightlife vibe.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Blanton Museum of Art, where you can explore an impressive collection of European, American, and Latin American art. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful architecture of the museum and the outdoor sculpture garden. Afterward, visit the nearby Harry Ransom Center to explore literary and cultural artifacts, including rare manuscripts and photographs.

For lunch, stop by a local eatery offering delicious sandwiches or salads, and enjoy some downtime before your afternoon explorations. Spend the afternoon at the Contemporary Austin - Jones Center, where you can appreciate modern and contemporary art exhibits. If time allows, wander through the vibrant 2nd Street District for shopping and unique local boutiques.

As the sun sets, find a charming restaurant in the area for dinner, perhaps trying some innovative Southern cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk to the iconic 6th Street to experience the vibrant nightlife, with live music and countless bars to choose from. Cap off the night with a visit to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the Austin skyline.

Begin your day with a drive to Lake Travis, where you can enjoy breakfast at a lakeside café with beautiful views of the water. After breakfast, rent a boat or jet ski for an exhilarating morning on the lake, soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenic surroundings. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider taking a leisurely hike along the trails of the nearby parks.

Enjoy a lakeside picnic for lunch or stop by a local restaurant for some fresh seafood or Tex-Mex cuisine. Spend your afternoon swimming or lounging at a designated swimming area, where you can bask in the sun and enjoy the lake atmosphere. Alternatively, you can explore the nearby wineries for a tasting experience with stunning views of the vineyards.

As evening falls, unwind with dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor delicious dishes while watching the sunset over the water. After dinner, consider taking a sunset cruise on Lake Travis for a magical experience as the sun dips below the horizon. Conclude your day with stargazing by the lake, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the night.

Take a scenic drive to Gruene, a charming historic town just outside of Austin, and start your day with breakfast at a local café that has a homey feel. After breakfast, stroll through the town’s historic district, visiting unique shops and boutiques that offer handmade crafts and local goods. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas.

For lunch, enjoy some famous Texas BBQ at a local eatery, where you can savor flavors that are deeply rooted in Texas tradition. After your meal, take a stroll along the banks of the Guadalupe River, where you can rent tubes for a relaxing float or simply enjoy the natural beauty. Explore the nearby vineyards or wineries for a delightful afternoon of wine tasting.

As evening approaches, return to Gruene Hall to catch a live music performance, where you can dance and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For dinner, choose a nearby restaurant with outdoor seating to soak in the ambiance of the historic town. End your night with a nightcap at a local bar, perhaps enjoying some Texas craft beer.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a renowned breakfast taco spot, savoring the unique flavors and local ingredients. After breakfast, embark on a guided food tour that takes you through various neighborhoods, introducing you to the culinary gems of Austin. Sample everything from gourmet food trucks to local favorites as you learn about the city's vibrant food scene.

Continue your food tour into the afternoon, with stops at local markets, artisanal bakeries, and taco stands. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a popular food truck park, where you can choose from a wide variety of delicious options. Take time to chat with local chefs and get a deeper understanding of Austin’s culinary culture.

As evening falls, conclude your food adventure with a visit to a highly-rated restaurant for dinner, indulging in a multi-course meal that showcases the best of Texan cuisine. Consider joining a dessert tour afterward, where you can sample local sweets and treats. Wrap up your night with a visit to a local brewery, enjoying a cold brew while reflecting on your culinary journey.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café known for its artisanal coffee and fresh pastries to fuel your day. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the history of Austin's music scene at the Austin Music History Museum, where you’ll discover the roots of the city’s vibrant musical culture. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, perhaps visiting local shops that celebrate Austin’s artistic side.

For lunch, indulge in some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant or food truck, ensuring to try out a famous Austin dish. Spend your afternoon exploring the various music venues in the area, perhaps even catching an afternoon show at a smaller venue known for showcasing local talent. If you have time, visit the ACL Live at the Moody Theater for a guided tour.

As the sun sets, prepare for a night out in Austin’s famed nightlife scene. Dinner at a lively restaurant with live music is a must to get the full experience of Austin's vibrant culture. Afterward, hop between famous music venues on 6th Street, immersing yourself in the sound of live bands and the energy of the crowd.

Treat yourself to a relaxing morning at a local spa that offers rejuvenating treatments such as massages and facials. After your spa experience, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, savoring the calm atmosphere. With your energy restored, prepare for a day of leisurely shopping.

Spend your afternoon exploring the high-end shops and boutiques at The Domain, an upscale shopping area with a variety of stores. Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area, choosing from different cuisines that cater to every palate. After lunch, consider visiting a local artisan market or craft fair to pick up unique souvenirs.

As the evening approaches, enjoy a delicious dinner at a chic restaurant in The Domain, perhaps trying a trendy new dish. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the shopping area, enjoying the lights and ambiance of the outdoor spaces. Conclude your day by enjoying a nightcap at a stylish bar, reflecting on your relaxing day.