Austin a week

Explore the vibrant South Congress Avenue, known for its eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, live music venues, and iconic murals. It's a perfect place to soak in Austin's unique culture and grab a coffee.

• Look for the 'I Love You So Much' mural at Jo's Coffee for a classic photo op.
• Many shops offer unique Texas-made souvenirs.

Enjoy delicious Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican dishes in a lively atmosphere. Güero's is a South Congress staple, famous for its oak-fired tacos and margaritas.

• Try their signature margaritas.

Walk or bike across the historic Congress Avenue Bridge for great views of the Austin skyline and Lady Bird Lake. It's most famous for being home to North America's largest urban bat colony.

• If visiting between March and October, plan to be here at dusk to witness the bats emerge. Check bat emergence times online.

Experience legendary live music at The Continental Club, a historic venue on South Congress that has hosted countless iconic artists. It offers a classic Austin music experience.

• Check their schedule in advance as shows often sell out.
• Arrive early for a good spot.

Tour the impressive Texas State Capitol building, a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Explore its beautiful grounds and learn about Texas history and government.

• Free guided tours are available daily.
• The Capitol building is taller than the U.S. Capitol.

Indulge in some of the world's most renowned barbecue. Franklin Barbecue is famous for its melt-in-your-mouth brisket and unique spice rub. Be prepared for a wait, or order ahead if possible.

• Pre-ordering is highly recommended to avoid the long lines; check their website for details.
• The brisket is a must-try.

Discover a diverse collection of art spanning various periods and cultures at the Blanton Museum of Art, located on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Don't miss their impressive collection of Latin American art.

• Free admission on Thursdays from 10 AM to 9 PM.
• Check for special exhibitions.

Experience Austin's unique nightlife on Rainey Street, where historic bungalows have been transformed into bars and restaurants. Enjoy craft cocktails, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere.

• Many bars have outdoor seating and food trucks.
• It can get crowded, especially on weekends.

Hike, bike, or swim in the beautiful Barton Creek Greenbelt, a natural oasis offering miles of trails and swimming holes. It's a popular spot for outdoor recreation and escaping the city buzz.

• Wear sturdy shoes as trails can be rocky.
• Check water levels for swimming conditions, especially after rain.

Savor innovative Japanese cuisine and exquisite sushi at Uchi, one of Austin's most acclaimed dining destinations. Reservations are essential, often months in advance.

• Book your reservation well in advance.
• Consider the omakase tasting menu for a curated experience.

Explore the vibrant and evolving art scene in East Austin, featuring numerous galleries, street art, and studios. This area is known for its creative energy and diverse community.

• Keep an eye out for colorful murals on many buildings.
• Check local listings for gallery openings or art walks.

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Launderette, a popular East Austin restaurant offering a creative American menu in a stylish, converted laundromat. It's known for its excellent food and cocktails.

• The birthday cake ice cream is a must-try dessert.
• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

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 water and downtown skyline.

• Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for a different perspective.
• The trail is mostly flat and paved.

Grab some of Austin's famous tacos from Torchy's Tacos, known for its creative and 'damn good' taco combinations. It's a casual and popular spot for a quick, flavorful meal.

• The 'Trailer Park' taco is a classic, but ask for it 'trashy' (add queso).
• There are multiple locations across the city.

Climb the steps to Mount Bonnell for panoramic views of Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. It's a short but rewarding climb, offering one of the best vistas in the city.

• Visit during sunset for a truly magical experience.
• It's a popular spot for proposals.

Experience authentic Texas honky-tonk at The White Horse, a lively bar featuring live country music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere. It's a quintessential Austin honky-tonk experience.

• There's often a small cover charge.
• Learn a few country dance steps!

Browse a wide range of shops at Barton Creek Square Mall, offering a mix of popular retailers and local boutiques. It's a good option for a leisurely shopping experience.

• Look for sales and special offers.
• Plenty of food court options available.

Savor incredibly fresh and authentic Mexican food, particularly their famous tacos and aguas frescas, at Veracruz All Natural. This popular food truck offers a taste of Mexico in Austin.

• The Migas taco is a local favorite.
• They have multiple food truck locations.

Wander through the beautiful outdoor sculpture park and historic villa at The Contemporary Austin's Laguna Gloria site. It's a serene setting to enjoy art and nature.

• Check for special events or artist talks.
• Great spot for photography.

Experience a unique fusion of Texas barbecue and Japanese izakaya at Kemuri Tatsu-ya. This popular spot offers creative dishes and a lively atmosphere.

• The 'Texas Ramen' is a signature dish.
• Reservations are highly recommended.

Explore the sprawling campus of the University of Texas at Austin, including landmarks like the UT Tower and the LBJ Presidential Library. It's a hub of academic and cultural activity.

• Take a stroll through the beautiful Main Mall.
• The UT Tower offers great views on guided tours.

Enjoy authentic New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie at Home Slice Pizza. This beloved South Congress eatery is always bustling and serves up delicious, classic pies.

• Expect a wait, especially during peak hours.
• Their margherita pizza is a classic.

Spend the afternoon at Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin's premier park featuring botanical gardens, Barton Springs Pool, and ample green space for recreation. It's a central gathering place for locals.

• Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed pool that stays a cool 68-70 degrees year-round.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.

Immerse yourself in the cool vibes of The Elephant Room, a renowned downtown jazz club. Enjoy live jazz performances in an intimate, subterranean setting.

• Check their schedule for nightly performances.
• There's usually a cover charge.

Explore one of Austin's vibrant food truck parks, offering a diverse array of culinary options from around the world. The Picnic is a popular choice with a variety of trucks and ample seating.

• Try a few different trucks to sample a variety of cuisines.
• Check hours of operation as they can vary.

Enjoy fresh seafood and oysters in a chic, coastal-inspired setting on South Congress. Perla's is known for its excellent raw bar and vibrant patio.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
• Their oyster selection is extensive.

Browse a curated selection of new and used books at South Congress Books. It's a cozy spot for book lovers to find unique titles and local authors.

• Look for rare and collectible editions.
• A great place to find a unique souvenir.

Catch an intimate live music performance at the Continental Club Gallery, a smaller, more intimate venue attached to the main Continental Club. It often features local artists and emerging talent.

• Check the schedule for specific performers.
• Often has a smaller cover charge than the main club.