Austin, Texas, USA-3-day-itinerary
Austin, Texas 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Downtown Austin
- Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Cafe No Sé, a trendy spot serving up delicious pastries and coffee.
- 9:00 AM: Visit the Texas State Capitol, an impressive building offering guided tours, including a stop at the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.
- 11:00 AM: Head to 6th Street, a vibrant entertainment district lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Pop into Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar for some lively tunes.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Franklin Barbecue, often named one of the best BBQ joints in the country. Be prepared for long lines!
- Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, offering beautiful views of the lake and the Austin skyline.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Uchi, a critically-acclaimed sushi restaurant with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Day 2: Outdoor Activities
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Zilker Park, a 351-acre green space featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city.
- 9:00 AM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Zilker Park Boat Rentals and explore Lady Bird Lake.
- Lunch: Head to Food Truck Park, where you can sample some of Austin’s best street food from various vendors.
- Afternoon: Visit the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon!
- Evening: Catch a live music performance at Continental Club, a legendary music venue featuring local and national acts.
Day 3: South Congress and Culture
- Morning: Explore the eclectic shops and galleries along South Congress Avenue (SoCo).
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Allens Boots, a iconic Western wear store offering an impressive selection of cowboy boots.
- Lunch: Grab some lunch at Home Slice Pizza, a popular spot serving up New York-style pizza with a Texas twist.
- Afternoon: Head to the Bullock Texas State History Museum, featuring interactive exhibits showcasing the state’s rich history and culture.
- Evening: End your trip with dinner at Olamaie, an upscale restaurant offering creative, farm-to-table American cuisine.
Where to Stay
- Hotel San José: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of South Congress.
- The Driskill Hotel: An historic hotel with elegant rooms and a prime location downtown.
- Airbnb: Consider renting a unique apartment or house through Airbnb, many options available throughout the city.
Things to Know
- Austin is a vibrant city with a thriving music scene. Be prepared for loud live music and enthusiastic crowds!
- Traffic in Austin can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Plan accordingly.
- The city has a strong outdoor culture; don’t forget sunscreen and comfortable shoes!
Transportation
- Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft operate in Austin.
- Public Transportation: Capital Metro offers an efficient bus system, including the MetroRail train connecting downtown to outlying areas.
- Walking/Biking: Austin is a pedestrian-friendly city; consider exploring on foot or renting a bike.
Tips
- Be prepared for Texas-sized portions when dining out!
- Don’t forget to try some of Austin’s famous breakfast tacos.
- Explore beyond the main tourist areas – there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered!
Other Things of Interest
- Austin City Limits Live: Catch a live taping of this iconic music show at The Moody Theater.
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: A beautiful botanical garden featuring native Texas plants and flowers.
- Take a Day Trip: Consider visiting nearby Hill Country towns, such as Fredericksburg or Dripping Springs, for some scenic wine country exploration.