Austin, Texas, USA

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Austin, Texas, USA

Introduction

Austin, the vibrant capital of Texas, is a city like no other. Known for its eclectic music scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a thriving food culture, Austin is a must-visit destination for any traveller. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best places to go, activities to enjoy, where to eat, where to stay, things to know, transportation options, tips, and other interesting facts about this amazing city.

Places to Go

Natural Attractions

  • Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a refreshing swim.
  • Lady Bird Lake: A scenic lake offering stunning views of the Austin skyline, ideal for kayaking, paddle-boarding, or taking a leisurely walk.
  • McKinney Falls State Park: A beautiful park featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas.

Cultural Attractions

  • Texas State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the impressive Capitol building and learn about Texas history.
  • Bullock Texas State History Museum: Explore the rich history of Texas through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • The Contemporary Austin: Discover innovative art exhibitions at this premier art museum.

Entertainment Districts

  • 6th Street: A lively entertainment district lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • Red River Cultural District: A vibrant area featuring music venues, bars, and restaurants.
  • South Congress Avenue (SoCo): A trendy street filled with eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries.

Neighborhoods to Explore

  • South Lamar (SoLa): A hip neighborhood with a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • East Austin: A rapidly gentrifying area with a growing arts scene and trendy eateries.
  • Hyde Park: A charming neighborhood with a small-town feel, featuring boutique shops and restaurants.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures

  • Kayaking or Paddle-boarding on Lady Bird Lake: Rent equipment and enjoy the scenic views of the lake.
  • Hiking at Barton Creek Greenbelt: Explore over 13 miles of hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels.
  • Cycling in Zilker Park: Rent a bike and ride through this beautiful park.

Music and Arts

  • Attend a Live Music Performance: Catch a show at one of Austin’s many music venues, such as Stubb’s BBQ or the Continental Club.
  • Take a Street Art Tour: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Hope Outdoor Gallery.
  • Visit a Local Brewery or Winery: Sample some of Austin’s best craft beers and wines.

Foodie Fun

  • Take a Food Truck Tour: Sample the diverse culinary delights offered by Austin’s famous food trucks.
  • Explore the Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday, shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food at the SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown.
  • Indulge in Brunch: Try one of Austin’s many brunch spots, such as Magnolia Cafe or Cafe No Sé.

Where to Eat

Breakfast and Brunch

  • Magnolia Cafe: A local institution serving up delicious breakfast and brunch dishes.
  • Cafe No Sé: A trendy spot offering creative breakfast and lunch options.
  • Kerbey Lane Cafe: A popular cafe with multiple locations, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Lunch and Dinner

  • Franklin Barbecue: Often named one of the best BBQ joints in the country, be prepared for a wait.
  • Uchi: Savor fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine at this award-winning restaurant.
  • Home Slice Pizza: Enjoy New York-style pizza with a Texas twist.

Food Trucks

  • Veracruz All Natural: Try authentic Mexican cuisine from this popular food truck.
  • The Peached Tortilla: Sample Asian-fusion eats, such as Korean BBQ tacos and burritos.
  • Chi’Lantro: Indulge in gourmet burgers and sandwiches.

Where to Stay

Hotels

  • Hotel San José: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of South Congress Avenue.
  • The Driskill: A historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and a prime location on 6th Street.
  • Hyatt Place Austin/Downtown: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.

Hostels and Budget Options

  • HI Austin: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, featuring a lively atmosphere and events.
  • Firehouse Hostel: A boutique hostel located in a historic firehouse, offering unique accommodations.
  • Airbnb Options: Rent an entire apartment or house through Airbnb, often more affordable than hotels.

Things to Know

Weather

  • Austin has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Be prepared for potential summer heatwaves and occasional winter cold fronts.

Safety

  • As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, such as the lake trails at night.

Festivals and Events

  • South by Southwest (SXSW): A massive festival celebrating music, film, and interactive media.
  • Austin City Limits Music Festival: A two-weekend festival featuring a diverse lineup of musicians.
  • Texas Book Festival: A celebration of literature and authors, held annually in October.

Transportation

Getting Around

  • Ride-hailing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in Austin, making it easy to get around without a car.
  • Public Transportation: Capital Metro provides an extensive network of buses and light rail.
  • Biking: Rent a bike and explore the city’s many bike lanes and trails.

Airport and Car Rentals

  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS): Located about 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin.
  • Car Rental Options: Major car rental companies, such as Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, operate at the airport.

Tips and Tricks

Essential Apps

  • Ride-hailing apps: Download Uber or Lyft to navigate the city easily.
  • Food delivery apps: Try Uber Eats, Grubhub, or DoorDash for convenient food delivery.

Local Insights

  • Tipping Culture: Tip 15-20% at bars and restaurants, as service industry workers rely on tips.
  • Austin Time: Austinites often run on a relaxed schedule, so don’t be surprised if things start a bit later than expected.

Sustainable Travel

  • Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
  • Use Public Transportation or Bike: Help reduce Austin’s carbon footprint by using eco-friendly transportation options.

Other Interesting Facts

Fun Facts

  • The Live Music Capital of the World: Austin has more live music venues per capita than any other city in the world.
  • The Birthplace of SXSW: The South by Southwest festival was founded in Austin in 1987.
  • A City of Outdoor Enthusiasts: With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Austinites love spending time outdoors.

Unique Experiences

  • Take a Dip in Barton Springs Pool at Midnight: A surreal experience during the summer months.
  • Attend a Bat-Watching Tour: Witness the world’s largest urban bat colony emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge.
  • Explore the Hope Outdoor Gallery: Discover vibrant street art and murals in this outdoor gallery.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Austin, Texas. From outdoor recreation to cultural attractions, delicious eats, and lively entertainment districts, Austin has something for everyone. So, grab your cowboy boots and get ready to experience the best of Texas!