Austin 10 days

Stroll down South Congress Avenue, Austin's vibrant cultural heart. Browse eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries, soaking in the city's unique bohemian spirit.

• Keep an eye out for live music spilling from local venues.
• Visit the 'I love you so much' mural at Jo's Coffee for a photo op.

Enjoy fresh, Gulf Coast seafood and oysters on the patio at Perla's. This popular spot offers a lively atmosphere and an extensive wine list, perfect for a sophisticated evening.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
• Their oyster selection is extensive and changes daily.

Experience legendary live music at The Continental Club, a historic venue on South Congress. Catch local and touring bands playing rock, blues, and country music.

• Check their schedule in advance as acts vary nightly.
• There's often a small cover charge.

Explore the magnificent Texas State Capitol building, a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Free tours are available daily, offering insights into Texas history and government.

• The rotunda's dome is impressive; look up to see the painted ceiling.
• The surrounding grounds are also beautiful for a short walk.

Indulge in some of the most famous barbecue in Texas at Franklin Barbecue. Be prepared for a wait, but the melt-in-your-mouth brisket and ribs are worth it.

• Arrive very early (before opening) or consider pre-ordering if available.
• The wait is part of the experience; bring a book or enjoy conversation.

Discover a diverse collection spanning various periods and cultures at the Blanton Museum of Art, part of the University of Texas at Austin. Highlights include Latin American art and contemporary exhibitions.

• Don't miss Ellsworth Kelly's 'Austin', a building of light and color.
• Check for free admission days or student discounts if applicable.

Explore Rainey Street, a unique entertainment district where historic bungalows have been converted into popular bars and restaurants. Enjoy craft cocktails and a lively, yet laid-back, atmosphere.

• Each bar has its own distinct vibe, so hop around.
• Many venues have outdoor spaces and live music.

Hike or bike through the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a natural oasis offering miles of trails and swimming holes. It's a fantastic escape into nature within the city limits.

• Wear sturdy shoes as trails can be rocky.
• Check water levels for swimming opportunities; popular spots include Sculpture Falls.

Grab some inventive and delicious tacos from Torchy's Tacos, a local favorite. Known for their 'Damn Good Tacos,' they offer creative combinations and a casual dining experience.

• Try the 'Trailer Park' taco (get it trashy!) or the 'Green Chile Queso'.
• Multiple locations make it convenient.

Witness the spectacular nightly emergence of North America's largest urban bat colony from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. This natural phenomenon is a quintessential Austin experience.

• Bats typically emerge around sunset; check local times.
• Best viewing spots are on the bridge itself or from the lawn below on the south side.

Experience authentic Austin honky-tonk at The White Horse, featuring live country music and dancing. It's a no-frills, high-energy spot popular with locals.

• They often have free line dancing lessons earlier in the evening.
• The atmosphere is casual and friendly.

Explore the vibrant street art and numerous galleries scattered throughout East Austin. This area is a hub for local artists and creative expression.

• Look for murals on many buildings, especially around East 6th Street.
• Check out galleries like the ICOSA Collective or the Big Medium.

Savor authentic and highly-rated Mexican tacos at Veracruz All Natural. Their migas taco is a must-try, and they use fresh, quality ingredients.

• They have multiple food truck and brick-and-mortar locations.
• Their aguas frescas are also delicious.

Catch a performance or tour the historic State Theatre Company, a cornerstone of Austin's performing arts scene. They offer a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

• Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.
• Check their website for current productions and showtimes.

Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting at Whisler's. This popular East Austin bar features a great patio and a sophisticated ambiance.

• Explore the 'hidden' bar, Mezcaleria Tobalá, in the back.
• Great spot for a date night or a relaxed evening with friends.

Enjoy a scenic walk, run, or bike ride along the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. This urban trail offers beautiful views of the city skyline and the lake.

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a different perspective on the lake.
• The trail is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible.

Savor authentic Taiwanese noodle soup and dumplings at Lao Wang Noodle House. This no-frills spot is a local favorite for its comforting and flavorful dishes.

• The pork chop noodle soup is a signature dish.
• It's a small establishment, so expect a short wait during peak hours.

Relax with a coffee and people-watch at Jo's Coffee on South Congress. Famous for its 'I love you so much' mural, it's a great spot to recharge.

• Grab a 'Turbo' coffee for a caffeine boost.
• The patio is a great place to soak in the SoCo vibe.

Immerse yourself in cool jazz at The Elephant Room, a basement club known for its intimate atmosphere and talented local musicians. It's a staple of Austin's live music scene.

• There is usually a cover charge.
• The drinks are strong and the music is consistently excellent.

Take a scenic drive to Wimberley, a charming small town nestled in the Texas Hill Country. Browse unique shops and enjoy the relaxed, artistic atmosphere.

• Visit the Wimberley Market Days if your visit coincides (third Saturday of each month).
• Look for the 'Blue Hole Regional Park' for swimming and nature.

Experience classic Texas barbecue at The Salt Lick in Driftwood, a short drive from Wimberley. Enjoy all-you-can-eat family-style meals in a rustic, outdoor setting.

• They do not take reservations; expect a wait during peak times.
• Bring your own beer or wine, as they are BYOB.

Visit the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural grotto with a waterfall and jade-green water. Swimming is often permitted, but reservations are required.

• Reservations are mandatory and book up weeks in advance.
• Be prepared for a short hike down to the pool.

Return to Austin and enjoy craft beer and delicious pretzels at Easy Tiger. This beer garden offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of local brews.

• Their house-made sausages are also a great option.
• Offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Explore the rich history of Texas through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and an IMAX theatre at the Bullock Museum. It offers a comprehensive look at the Lone Star State's past and present.

• Consider seeing an IMAX film for an immersive experience.
• Look for special exhibits that might be on display.

Enjoy upscale Tex-Mex cuisine and a vast selection of margaritas at Iron Cactus. Located downtown, it's a popular spot for lunch with a view of the city.

• Their rooftop patio offers great views.
• Try a flight of their tequilas.

Discover the life and times of President Lyndon B. Johnson and First Lady Lady Bird Johnson at their presidential library. The exhibits offer deep dives into the political and social issues of the 1960s.

• The exhibits on the Civil Rights Act and the Vietnam War are particularly impactful.
• Located on the University of Texas campus.

Experience the vibrant and sometimes rowdy nightlife of Sixth Street, Austin's most famous entertainment district. It's packed with bars, live music venues, and restaurants.

• Be aware that Sixth Street can get very crowded, especially on weekends.
• There are many different types of bars, from dive bars to cocktail lounges.

Explore Austin's renowned food truck scene by visiting one of its many food truck parks. The Picnic offers a diverse array of culinary options in a casual outdoor setting.

• Check which trucks are present on the day of your visit.
• Great for trying multiple cuisines in one stop.

Dine at Matt's El Rancho, a long-standing Austin institution serving classic Tex-Mex dishes since 1952. The lively atmosphere and strong margaritas make it a local favorite.

• Their Bob Armstrong Dip is legendary.
• The patio is a great place to enjoy the Austin weather.

Relax and explore Zilker Park, Austin's premier urban park. It's home to Barton Springs Pool, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and ample space for recreation.

• Barton Springs Pool is a must-visit for a refreshing swim (separate fee applies).
• Pack a picnic to enjoy on the Great Lawn.

Sample a wide selection of Texas-brewed craft beers at Craft Pride. This popular spot on Rainey Street is a haven for beer enthusiasts.

• They often have food trucks parked outside.
• Ask the bartenders for recommendations based on your preferences.

Explore The Domain, Austin's upscale outdoor shopping center, offering a mix of high-end retailers and popular brands. It's a modern district with boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Plenty of dining options are available within The Domain.
• It's a good place to find unique gifts or souvenirs.

Indulge in an exceptional sushi and Japanese dining experience at Uchi. This acclaimed restaurant is known for its innovative dishes and impeccable service.

• Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
• Consider the chef's tasting menu ('omakase') for a curated experience.

Hike up Mount Bonnell for panoramic views of Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. It's a popular spot for watching the sunset over the city.

• The climb is short but involves many stairs.
• Go just before sunset for the most picturesque views.

Enjoy live music and a relaxed dive bar atmosphere at The Lost Well. This venue frequently hosts local and touring bands, often with no cover charge.

• Check their schedule for punk, rock, and blues acts.
• It's a classic Austin dive bar experience.

Visit the Texas Memorial Museum, part of the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on natural history. Exhibits include dinosaur fossils, Texas wildlife, and geological displays.

• It's a great option for a more relaxed, educational morning.
• The dinosaur exhibits are particularly popular.

Enjoy a delicious and healthy vegetarian and vegan meal at Bouldin Creek Cafe. Known for its creative dishes and laid-back vibe, it's a local favorite for brunch and lunch.

• Even meat-eaters rave about their flavorful dishes.
• Their coffee and juices are also excellent.

Depart from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.