Austin 2 weeks

Austin's main airport, serving numerous domestic and international destinations. It's known for its live music performances, a unique feature for an airport.

• Consider rideshare or taxi for transport into the city.

A vibrant street famous for its eclectic boutiques, live music venues, and iconic food trucks. It's a great place to get a feel for Austin's unique culture.

• Look out for the 'I love you so much' mural at Jo's Coffee.
• Browse the unique shops like Allen's Boots and Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds.

A popular seafood restaurant on South Congress with a lively patio, offering fresh oysters and coastal-inspired dishes. It's a great spot for a romantic dinner.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

A legendary live music venue on South Congress, known for its rock and roll, country, and blues performances. It's a quintessential Austin music experience.

• Check their schedule in advance for specific acts.
• Expect a cover charge on most nights.

A magnificent example of Renaissance Revival architecture, this is the seat of the Texas Legislature. Free guided tours are available.

• The Capitol building is taller than the U.S. Capitol building.

The final resting place for many prominent Texans, including Stephen F. Austin and several governors. It offers a peaceful walk through history.

• Respect the solemn nature of the site.

Austin's most famous entertainment district, bustling with bars, live music clubs, and restaurants. It's known for its energetic nightlife.

• The street can get very crowded on weekends.
• Explore the various side streets for different vibes.

A popular spot on Sixth Street offering Tex-Mex favorites and an extensive list of margaritas. It has a lively atmosphere perfect for experiencing downtown.

• Try their signature margaritas.

Part of the University of Texas at Austin, this museum houses an impressive collection spanning various periods and cultures, including Latin American and contemporary art.

• Check for special exhibitions.

Austin's largest and most beloved park, home to Barton Springs Pool, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and ample space for recreation. It's a green oasis in the city.

• Barton Springs Pool is a natural, spring-fed pool that's a constant 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

A natural spring-fed pool located within Zilker Park, offering a refreshing dip in Austin's often warm climate. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

• Bring your own towel and sunscreen.

A chic and popular restaurant in East Austin known for its creative American cuisine and stylish atmosphere. It's housed in a former laundromat.

• Their brunch is also highly regarded.

This stretch of East Sixth offers a more laid-back, local vibe than its downtown counterpart, with a growing number of unique bars, restaurants, and shops.

• Explore the murals and street art scattered throughout the neighborhood.

World-renowned for its brisket, Franklin Barbecue is a pilgrimage site for barbecue enthusiasts. Expect long lines, but many find it worth the wait.

• Arrive very early (before opening) to secure a spot in line.
• Consider pre-ordering if available for larger groups.

A unique district where historic bungalows have been converted into popular bars and restaurants, offering a more relaxed, garden-party atmosphere than other nightlife areas.

• Many venues have live music.
• It's a great place to bar-hop.

Located atop the Hotel Van Zandt on Rainey Street, this rooftop bar offers fantastic city views, craft cocktails, and often live music. It's a stylish spot for drinks.

• Dress code is smart casual.

Explore the sprawling campus of one of the nation's largest public universities, including the iconic UT Tower and the LBJ Presidential Library.

• Check the UT Austin website for campus tour information.

Dedicated to the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson, this library and museum offers insights into his presidency and the turbulent 1960s.

• Often has rotating exhibits of historical significance.

A popular local spot offering panoramic views of Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. It's a short climb to the top, especially beautiful at sunset.

• Best visited in the late afternoon for golden hour.

A kitschy, tropical-themed restaurant on Lake Austin known for its Polynesian-inspired Tex-Mex dishes and strong margaritas. It offers a fun, casual dining experience.

• Expect a wait, especially during peak hours.
• Parking can be challenging.

A vast natural area offering miles of hiking and biking trails along Barton Creek. It's a popular spot for outdoor recreation and escaping the city buzz.

• Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking.
• Bring plenty of water.

Austin's largest independent bookstore, offering a wide selection of new and used books, gifts, and a cozy atmosphere. It's a haven for book lovers.

• Check their events calendar for author signings and readings.

A popular spot known for its artisanal bread, pastries, craft beer, and pub fare. It has a relaxed beer garden atmosphere.

• Their pretzels are a must-try.

Witness North America's largest urban bat colony emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. It's a spectacular natural phenomenon.

• Best viewing times are from March to October.
• Arrive early to get a good viewing spot on the bridge or nearby.

One of Austin's most popular food truck parks, offering a diverse array of culinary options in a casual outdoor setting. It's a great place to sample various local flavors.

• Check their social media for which trucks are present each day.

A trendy area known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It offers a slightly more local feel than South Congress.

• Look for unique street art and murals.

A premier venue for performing arts, hosting a variety of shows including theater, dance, and music. The building itself offers great views of the Austin skyline.

• Check their schedule for performances during your visit.

An intimate basement jazz club in downtown Austin, offering a fantastic selection of live jazz music nightly. It's a classic Austin music experience.

• There's usually a cover charge.

Located at Camp Mabry, this museum showcases the history of the Texas military, from the Texas Revolution to modern day, with a collection of tanks and aircraft.

• There are also other small museums on the Camp Mabry grounds.

One of Austin's oldest and most historic neighborhoods, known for its mature trees, charming bungalows, and vibrant local businesses. It has a friendly, community feel.

• Visit the Elisabet Ney Museum for a dose of local art history.

A beloved local bakery in Hyde Park, famous for its delicious cakes, pastries, and coffee. It's a perfect spot for a mid-afternoon treat.

• Their carrot cake is legendary.

An atmospheric French brasserie in East Austin, known for its classic dishes, extensive wine list, and late-night dining. It offers a romantic and sophisticated experience.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.

A scenic 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. It offers beautiful views of the city skyline and the water.

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a different perspective on the lake.

A large restaurant and bar complex perched on cliffs overlooking Lake Travis, offering stunning sunset views and a lively atmosphere. It's a bit of a drive but worth it for the scenery.

• Go for sunset and enjoy the view with a drink.
• Can get very busy, especially on weekends.

A scenic vineyard located in the Texas Hill Country, offering wine tastings and tours. It's a chance to experience Texas wine culture.

• Book tasting appointments in advance.

A smaller, more intimate venue adjacent to the main Continental Club, often featuring blues, rockabilly, and country artists. It's a great spot for discovering local talent.

• Check the schedule for who is playing.

This museum tells the grand story of Texas through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and films. It's an engaging way to learn about the state's rich history.

• The IMAX theatre offers fascinating documentaries.

Austin's children's museum, offering interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). While geared towards kids, it's creatively engaging.

• Great for families, but also interesting for adults who enjoy interactive exhibits.

A large, urban park in the Mueller neighborhood featuring a lake, walking trails, playgrounds, and a large lawn area. It's a popular spot for locals.

• The Thinkery is located within this park.

A unique Japanese izakaya with Texas barbecue influences, offering creative small plates and a lively atmosphere. It's a standout dining experience.

• Reservations are highly recommended.

A large, upscale outdoor shopping center featuring a mix of luxury brands, popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options. It offers a modern shopping experience.

• Plenty of dining options available within the complex.

Dedicated to the work of American sculptor Charles Umlauf, this serene garden showcases his bronze and stone sculptures amidst beautiful landscaping. It's a peaceful artistic retreat.

• Located near Zilker Park, it can be combined with a park visit.

A beloved South Congress institution serving authentic New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie. Expect a lively atmosphere and delicious pies.

• The wait can be long, but it moves relatively quickly.

A popular East Austin bar with a great patio, known for its craft cocktails and relaxed vibe. It's a go-to spot for locals.

• Try their signature mezcal cocktails.

Part of The Contemporary Austin, this picturesque site features contemporary art installations set in a historic villa and gardens overlooking Lake Austin.

• The grounds are as much an attraction as the art.

A casual, waterfront restaurant on Lake Austin, perfect for enjoying burgers, seafood, and drinks with a view. It's a classic spot for lake life.

• Great spot to watch boats on the lake.

For thrill-seekers, this offers ziplining tours with stunning views over Lake Travis. It’s an adventurous way to experience the Texas landscape.

• Requires booking in advance and has age/weight restrictions.

A sophisticated downtown bar specializing in classic and contemporary cocktails, with a focus on historical libations. It offers a refined drinking experience.

• Excellent place to try expertly crafted cocktails.

A stunning natural swimming hole with a grotto and waterfall, located in a collapsed limestone cave. It's a popular natural attraction requiring reservations.

• Reservations are mandatory and often sell out weeks in advance.
• Check the official Travis County Parks website for booking details.

Located in Driftwood, Texas, this winery offers a taste of Texas wine country with its Italian varietals and beautiful vineyard setting. It's a relaxing stop after Hamilton Pool.

• Enjoy a picnic lunch on their grounds.

A legendary Texas barbecue joint in Driftwood, known for its all-you-can-eat family style meals and live music. It's an iconic Austin-area barbecue experience.

• Bring cash, as they may have limited card acceptance.
• It's a very popular spot, expect crowds.

A classic South Lamar dive bar that has been a staple for live music for decades, showcasing local and touring bands. It offers an authentic Austin music vibe.

• Check their daily schedule for performances.

A vibrant farmers market offering fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a local breakfast.

• Open on Saturdays and Wednesdays, check specific hours.

A popular Austin-based taco chain known for its creative and sometimes unconventional taco combinations. It's a casual and delicious spot for a final taste of Austin.

• Try the 'Trailer Park' taco, but get it 'trashy'!

Austin's main airport, serving numerous domestic and international destinations. It's known for its live music performances, a unique feature for an airport.

• Allow ample time for security, especially during peak travel periods.