Austin has become one of the top destinations in the United States with its live music scene, mouth-watering bites and vibrant nightlife. It’s home to crazy attractions like the Cathedral Junk – a stunning private backyard of artwork created by Vince Hanneman.
Ready to dive into this incredible city? Here are six tips on how to take on Austin like you’ve lived there your whole life.
1. Get Your BBQ fix
First things first, you can’t visit Austin without digging into some delicious BBQ. This city has a legendary barbecue scene that is unrivaled in its mouth-watering flavors.
Franklin Barbecue and Salt Lick BBQ are two of Austin’s most famous BBQ spots. Don’t be turned off by the line, the wait is totally worth it! For a more low-key experience, check out Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew or Terry Black’s Barbecue. If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry, Austin has plenty of options for you too: try BBQ tofu at The Vegan Nom or the veggie burger at Arlo’s. From traditional smokehouses to innovative food trucks, this city offers a vast selection of options to satisfy every palate.
2. Experience the music scene
Internationally renowned for its lively and eclectic music scene, Austin earned the title of the “Live Music Capital of the World.” From the iconic bars on Sixth Street to the expansive outdoor venues, this city has hundreds of live music venues pulsating with live performances across a multitude of genres.
Make sure to check out The Continental Club, where you can enjoy live shows in an intimate setting and watch as rock and roll, blues and country music all merge together.
If you’re in town the first or second weekend of October, check out Austin City Limits (ACL); a highly anticipated two-weekend event. Held in Austin’s Zilker Park, ACL showcases an impressive lineup of both established and up-and-coming musicians from various genres, featuring your favorite artists like Chappell Roan, Dua Lipa and Blink-182.
3. Enjoy the great outdoors
Austin is a playground for all your outdoorsy activities, offering adventures amidst its picturesque landscapes. The city is located along the Colorado River and is super close to the Texas Hill Country, providing you with abundant opportunities for exploration.
With its calm waters and scenic beauty, Lady Bird Lake is the ideal setting for a day on the water. You can soak up the stunning surroundings by renting a paddle board and gliding along the tranquil waters. Take in the lush greenery and luxurious lakeside homes and you may get lucky and spot some local wildlife along the way.
4. Explore South Congress
South Congress, or “SoCo,” is a trendy and energetic neighborhood that’s a must-visit. It embodies the laid-back, bohemian spirit of Austin with its local boutiques and vintage shops. Take a stroll down the street and check out the shops, grab a coffee at Jo’s Coffee and snap a picture with the famous “I Love You So Much” mural. Don’t forget to indulge in some breakfast tacos at Torchy’s Tacos or the avocado toast at Café no Sé.
5. Party with the Locals
With its legendary nightlife, Austin has a bar or club for every taste. For a mellow evening, grab a drink at The White Horse, where live country music is served up at this upbeat honky-tonk. If you’re looking for a wild night out, head to Sixth Street or Rainey Street where bars are lining the streets. And if you’re into craft cocktails, stop by Midnight Cowboy for their tasty Chai Bellas and Clara Rosas.
6. Attend a festival
Hosting a collection of diverse festivals throughout the year, Austin is notable for its electric festival culture, drawing crowds from near and far to celebrate music, art, food and more.
Attend the famed South by Southwest (SXSW), a cultural phenomenon that highlights Austin’s exuberant reputation and solidifies its position as a leading hub for innovation and collaboration. It’s not your typical festival, its unique blend of music, film and interactive conferences takes over the city every year. It’s a melting pot of artists, musicians, filmmakers, tech enthusiasts and dreamers from all around the globe, coming together to celebrate their passions and exchange ideas.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply love exploring new flavors, you have to check out the Austin Food + Wine Festival. By showcasing Austin’s food scene through a mouthwatering experience, you will be left with unforgettable gastronomic memories that will delight all your senses. It also offers a wide range of tasting experiences, cooking demonstrations and interactive seminars.
Ready to get weird in Austin?
Austin has so much to offer and the best way to experience the city is to embrace its unique culture and vibe. Go beyond the tourist hotspots and fall in love with the true essence of this remarkable city.
So book your flight, strap on your cowboy boots and travel safely with Faye Travel Insurance.
These activities and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on where to go in Austin, Texas.
