Austin, Texas, Journey Information

The capital of Texas, Austin is a bustling metropolis that pulls everybody from tech giants to wannabe Willie Nelsons. It is referred to as the Dwell Music Capital of the World, and each night time of the week, you’ll discover crooners belting out tunes at ramshackle dive bars and world-class theaters. No matter style you’re into, you’ll discover it in Austin.

Other than the coveted music scene, Austin is bursting with outside pursuits, from kayak journeys throughout Girl Hen Lake and hikes via the Barton Creek Greenbelt to runs via town’s huge path system. Bikers love Austin, because it’s one of many few cycling-friendly cities within the state. Town can also be dwelling to the vigorous College of Texas at Austin, so count on a sea of burnt orange come soccer season and Matthew McConaughey, the college’s Minister of Tradition, on the sidelines cheering on his Longhorns. “As a result of we’ve UT right here, there’s nonetheless loads of locations which can be focused for youthful generations, which helps me keep younger,” says Cindy Y. Lo, an Austinite, occasion planner, public speaker, and creator who got here to review at UT in 1994 and by no means left.

Austin has loads of unbelievable lodging, from storied boutique properties to sprawling oases just like the Commodore Perry Property, which transports you to the Texas Hill Nation, the Mediterranean, and the roaring ’20s all of sudden. Sprawl out subsequent to a lodge pool for a day, or get your steps in and take a look at a few of Austin’s high eateries, which embody arguably one of the best tacos you’ll ever have, award-winning craft barbecue, and Michelin-starred eating all over the place you flip.

Austin is undeniably a hub for creatives—whether or not your medium is paint, brisket, or a worn-out guitar. It’s at all times been a spot for these trying to specific themselves, with the motto “Preserve Austin Bizarre” continually igniting innovation throughout town. Right here, our information to Austin’s bizarre but great scene.

Greatest Inns & Resorts

Fairmont Austin

Downtown, the Fairmont Austin gives six eating venues, three bars, an distinctive spa and pool, and lovely views of the skyline, Girl Hen Lake, and the State Capitol constructing. There are greater than 1,000 visitor rooms and suites, and locals and visitors alike adore the rooftop pool, which gives cabana leases and poolside cocktails and snacks. “The rooms on the Fairmont Austin are enormous,” says Lo. “If dimension issues, they’re nice in comparison with what you get at different downtown Austin properties.” Ebook a spa appointment so you possibly can benefit from the solariums, full with scorching tubs and lounge areas.

Austin Correct Resort

In every single place you flip on the Austin Correct Resort, you’ll discover Instagrammable areas, from a sculptural staircase lined with classic rugs to a tiled restaurant wall that appears like a patchwork quilt. Designed by Kelly Wearstler, the downtown lodge gives 238 rooms and suites; a rooftop pool, spa, and restoration space; and 4 on-site eateries. The Peacock serves Mediterranean meals and natural wines in a heat, inviting area, whereas La Piscina delivers recent ceviche, scorching fajitas, and small-batch tequilas on the rooftop.

Resort Saint Cecilia

Awarded a Michelin Key in 2024, Resort Saint Cecilia is a boutique property within the Travis Heights neighborhood with 5 suites, six poolside bungalows, six backyard suites, and three studios. It was initially in-built 1888 because the Miller-Crockett home and was as soon as occupied by a descendant of Alamo legend Davy Crockett. It’s considered one of 5 remaining Victorian properties of the 12 initially constructed alongside this part of the Colorado River, and its secluded grounds are open solely to lodge visitors and members. Benefit from the heated lap pool, meals on the Resort Saint Cecilia Lounge, and the lending library, the place you possibly can borrow classic LPs to play again in your room’s turntable.

Commodore Perry Property, Auberge Resorts Assortment

Named the greatest lodge in Austin by T+L readers, the Commodore Perry Property blends European opulence with Hill Nation appeal. Manicured gardens and a dreamy courtyard throughout 10 acres make the proper backdrop for croquet and lounging by the property pool, whereas rooms characteristic Juliette balconies, terraces, daring wallpapers, and heirloom furnishings. Lutie’s Restaurant transports you to the Jazz Age with craft cocktails, velvet barstools, and classic glam set within the formal gardens. “My favourite cocktail right here is the Keep Gold, and their zero-proof cocktails as effectively,” Lo shares. The lodge has two Michelin Keys and on-site actions embody en plein air portray lessons, Texas wine tastings by the property sommelier, culinary lessons, and boat days on Lake Travis.

Line Resort

Previously a jazz membership, the Line Resort gives views of Girl Hen Lake and downtown Austin, with 400-plus rooms and suites, an infinity pool that serves tacos and margaritas all day, and quite a few on-site eating ideas. P6 is the lodge’s lounge and bar the place you possibly can watch the sundown over Congress Bridge, and Arlo Gray is the restaurant specializing in central Texas substances. Veracruz All Pure is a coastal Mexican taqueria, whereas Cantero honors sotol, a local Texas spirit. Visitors might use complimentary paddleboards on the lake or take a look at the occasion calendar, which may embody tarot within the foyer, comfortable hour, and yoga.

Greatest Issues to Do

Get on the water.

Austin is heat for a majority of the yr, and town is filled with swimming holes and spots for paddling. Girl Hen Lake is nice for kayaking, as there are quite a few launch factors and the calm waters give supply a relaxed trip as you float via town. For boating, swimming, and water sports activities, Lake Travis and Lake Austin are each wonderful choices with beautiful views of hilltop properties close by. And for a lazy day of sunbathing or hanging with buddies, there’s Barton Springs, a three-acre spring-fed pool in Zilker Park, and the Deep Eddy Pool, one other spring-fed choice.

See stay music.

You possibly can’t go to the Dwell Music Capital of the World and never see a present or two. Venues massive and small throughout Austin supply stay music units each night time of the week, from grunge and pop to electrical, Tejano, and Texas nation. Antone’s, which celebrates its fiftieth anniversary in 2025, is the place for blues, and the historic Paramount Theatre is an iconic venue for nation, jazz, rock, and extra. Mohawk is the place for indie, hip-hop, and steel, and the Carousel Lounge‘s small stage continues to maintain Austin bizarre.

Hit the path.

Austinites are typically very energetic. There are lots of choices for hitting the pavement, and also you’ll see bikers, hikers, and runners buzzing about all over the place. The Barton Creek Greenbelt has 12 miles of trails via South Austin for climbing, biking, mountain climbing, and swimming, and the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Path at Girl Hen Lake welcomes cyclists, walkers, and runners with attractive skyline views. Cyclists and inline skaters love the Veloway, a three-mile pedestrian-free path, and the Violet Crown Path runs 13 miles from Zilker Park to the Girl Hen Johnson Wildflower Middle. Lo recommends a morning trek up Mount Bonnell for beautiful views of Austin and surrounding Hill Nation.

Go on an Austin meals tour.

There’s a lot good meals to expertise in Austin, so why not take a tour via town to get your bearings? Secret Meals Excursions Austin takes you to pattern breakfast tacos, barbecue, and extra, and Austin Eats Meals Excursions will get boozy with breweries, cocktail bars, and brunch spots, amongst different choices. The Twisted Texas Tour has a Brew Bus and a Brunch Bus, the place you’ll traverse town for craft beers and brunch whereas having fun with a live performance on the street.

Discover South Congress Avenue.

Austin’s South Congress Avenue (SoCo) attracts a mixture of guests and locals who come for eclectic procuring, stay music, and nice eating places. The historic Continental Membership has seen the likes of Leon Bridges, Robert Plant, Gary Clark Jr., and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the always-photographed “I Love You So A lot” mural is close by. Meals vans and bars are ample, and classic outlets and boutiques will hold you busy for hours.

Greatest Buying

The Area

The Area is an outside shopping center in North Austin filled with mid-range to luxurious shops, together with huge names similar to Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, Anthropologie, Rolex, and extra. That is your cease for all of it: clothes, decor, furnishings, presents, and baubles, as The Area has greater than 100 procuring and eating choices.

Classic

Austin is ripe with classic outlets which can be filled with clothes and enjoyable decor so as to add to your wardrobe or dwelling. Leopard Lounge has denim, assertion T-shirts, and must-have boots, and Monkies Classic & Thrift is close to the UT campus with common offers. Unusual Objects is stocked with jewellery, taxidermy, fantastic china, and the whole lot you by no means knew you wanted, and Room Service Classic has furnishings, lighting, data, and clothes.

Allens Boots

On the lookout for your first pair of cowboy boots? Head to Allens Boots, which has been open on South Congress since 1977. In-store consultants can assist you discover the precise boots with an ideal match, or you possibly can customise a pair of your individual, selecting the leather-based and heel and toe sort. Prepared-made choices come briefly or bootie kinds to knee-high showstoppers in a rainbow of colours. “Allens has the biggest choice and widest worth vary for these on a price range and people who need to splurge,” says Lo. “I’ve by no means been in a position to depart Allens with out shopping for one other pair of trainers.”

Maufrais

Cowboy hats are the secret at Maufrais, the place you possibly can select your model and have it formed to your liking. Add on a hat band, pin, or feather to customise your new lid. Kinds differ, which means you possibly can choose your participant: coastal cowgirl, boho cowgirl, or rodeo queen, amongst others.

Nightlife

East Austin

East sixth Road might have the nickname “Soiled Sixth,” however you will discover a variety of bars to probe for an evening out. Whisler’s is an award-winning cocktail bar with 4 seasonal menus a yr, plus an all-mezcal bar upstairs. When you’re on the lookout for a honky-tonk, head to The White Horse. Yellow Jacket Social Membership is a tucked away dive with weekend brunch, and The Fortunate Duck has a big patio and a meals truck. Lo recommends an evening out right here, noting each bar has one thing to supply.

Downtown

Downtown is full of elevated bars and beloved dives. Powder Room is an upscale cocktail bar with a no-phone coverage—you test your cellular on the door so everybody can grasp up and hang around. El Cockfight is a mezcal and tequila bar with a cool rooftop vibe. Close to The Driskill, Right here Nor There is a hidden-in-plain-sight speakeasy that requires reservations. When you safe a spot, you’ll be despatched a code to unlock the doorway.

South Congress

Close to downtown, South Congress is the place throngs of individuals congregate for procuring, music, dinner, and, after all, after-dinner drinks. Watertrade is an intimate Japanese-style cocktail bar with whiskies, sake, craft cocktails, and bar bites coming from the hooked up omakase-style Otoko. Tools Room, inside Resort Magdalena, has traditional cocktails and a heavy deal with music, whereas June’s focuses on wine.

Greatest Eating places

Fonda San Miguel

Fonda San Miguel is price a go to just because it’s considered one of Austin’s most stunning eating places. Step inside and discover breathtaking chandeliers, leafy foliage at each flip, bold-colored partitions studded with Mexican work, and hanging alebrijes—dreamscape figures that depict animals, objects, and imaginary creatures. Inside and coastal Mexican delicacies is the main target, with dishes stemming from Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, and Yucatán. “I extremely suggest the mango frozen margarita, no matter particular they’ve that day for starters, and enchiladas de pato or camarones con chipotle,” says Lo. “Plan forward and make a reservation, or go early sufficient and check out your luck sitting within the bar space, which is a big, enclosed patio.”

Discada

Nice tacos are plentiful in Austin, and pinning down one of the best is likely to be powerful. However what makes Discada stand out is its simplicity. Discada cooking is a northern Mexican method, the place substances are combined collectively in a tractor plow disc earlier than being piled into tacos. Right here, the one selection you must make is what number of tacos you’d like. Your order comes with beef, pork, bell peppers, and onions gradual cooked for six hours within the disc. Tacos are topped with onion, cilantro, pineapple, and salsa. Did we point out this spot is Michelin beneficial?

Lenoir

Nice for date night time, Lenoir is a Michelin-recommended spot highlighting seasonal Texas substances. There’s a wine backyard out again, and inside, bench and bar seating create an intimate but up to date really feel. The crab fingers, served with curry leaf leche de tigre and smoked chili oil, are at all times a success, as is the big house-made bread with fermented pepper pimento cheese. Seasonal menu objects rotate, so count on one thing new usually.

LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue

Very like tacos, craft barbecue is ample in Austin, and also you’ll discover tasty bites throughout town. Nonetheless, LeRoy and Lewis takes the cake with one Michelin star. The “new-school barbecue” spot blends traditional Texas barbecue with new-wave choices, like flat iron beef paired with kale Caesar slaw and grain salad. In fact, the traditional Texas barbecue objects, like brisket and sausage, are a should, however you also needs to dabble with the meat cheeks, complete hog, frito pie, and chori-papas (chorizo, fried potatoes, cheese, and salsa).

Emmer & Rye

Winner of a Bib Gourmand and Inexperienced Star from Michelin, Emmer & Rye is a New American spot specializing in seasonal substances. They make their very own pasta, bread, and desserts from heirloom grains, and an in-house fermentation program permits the staff to protect flavors and serve within the off season. The cacio e pepe is a fan favourite, made with Challerhocker Swiss cheese, and the pappardelle is served with a smoked wagyu beef ragu, crème fraîche, and Texas olive oil.

Greatest Time to Go to

The autumn months (September to November) are nice for visiting Austin, as temperatures are decrease and town’s huge occasions are unfolding. Austin Metropolis Limits Music Competition takes place in October, as does the Austin Movie Competition. The Austin Meals & Wine Competition is held in November, and soccer season can also be in full swing throughout autumn. Spring can also be an incredible selection, as you’ll get blooming wildflowers and milder temperatures. In March, SXSW takes over town, and in Might, the chef-driven Sizzling Luck Dwell Meals & Music pageant attracts crowds at numerous venues. The summer time months deliver temperatures within the triple digits and it may be harmful in case you’re outdoors for too lengthy.

Tips on how to Get There

Fly into Austin-Bergstrom Worldwide Airport (AUS), which is able to put you instantly within the metropolis. When you’re situated in Texas already, a flight could be quicker than driving, however since many Texans love a street journey, plan for not less than just a few hours to achieve town. Austin is about 200 miles south of Dallas, or 80 miles north of San Antonio.

When you’re primarily based in Dallas-Fort Value, you possibly can additionally take a Vonlane bus straight into Austin. Vonlane is a luxurious bus firm with massive reclining seats, an on-board attendant who serves complimentary drinks and snacks, free Wi-Fi, loads of electrical retailers, and, relying on the time-frame, an included meal along with your ticket. Plus, there are not any center seats. Amtrak’s Texas Eagle prepare additionally stops in Austin on its journey from Chicago to San Antonio.

Neighborhoods to Go to 

South Austin

The vibe is a bit slower in South Austin, the place you’ll discover folks idling away in Zilker Park, tossing round a frisbee, or having fun with a picnic. South Austin can also be dwelling to Barton Springs, the UMLAUF Sculpture Backyard + Museum, and the Zilker Botanical Backyard—all locations the place folks spend a lazy afternoon with family members. Numerous long-standing outlets and eating places are present in South Austin as effectively, combined in with newer spots that hold issues recent.

East Austin

East Austin is an up-and-coming space, as extra bars and eating places proceed to open right here continually. There’s at all times a brand new store, meals truck, or restaurant that seemingly pops up in a single day, which means this neighborhood is a scorching spot for fashionable eats and buzzy nights.

Downtown Austin

It’s exhausting to overlook the center of town, however you need to give your self a while to discover right here. See the Texas State Capitol constructing or kayak alongside Girl Hen Lake. Dwell music venues like Antone’s and the Moody Theater are plentiful, as are murals, native outlets, and eating places.

South Congress

South Congress is rarely sleepy. Right here, you’ll discover funky outlets and boutiques, buzzy espresso spots, cute cocktail bars, top-notch eating, and, after all, extra stay music. This space is pedestrian pleasant, so spend a while looking the outlets or soak up a day on a shaded patio.

Tips on how to Get Round

You possibly can lease a automotive at Austin-Bergstrom Worldwide Airport, however parking in Austin may be troublesome and restricted, particularly throughout festivals and huge occasions. Sure, there are parking garages and plenty all through town, however discovering alternate transportation is less complicated. Experience-share providers are ample all through town and are nice for getting round.

Scooters are enormous in Austin, and also you’ll discover numerous electrical scooter stations from Lime, Hen, Lyft, and extra all through town. Electrical bikes through CapMetro can be found to lease from greater than 40 stations all through town, and there are different outlets like Barton Springs Bike Rental that provide leases, too.

Public transportation through CapMetro can also be an choice. CapMetro is a community of bus routes with 1,600 bus stops and 82 routes. The CapMetro app means that you can purchase passes and take a look at routes. The CapMetro Rail system connects Austin on a 32-mile line from Leander, Texas to downtown Austin with 9 stops in between.