Austin, Texas, USA-5-day-itinerary

Austin, Texas 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Austin

  • Morning: Start at the Texas State Capitol building (free guided tours available) and take a stroll around the surrounding grounds.
  • Lunch: Head to Franklin Barbecue (get there early, lines can be long!) for some of the best BBQ in the city.
  • Afternoon: Walk off your lunch by exploring the vibrant 6th Street entertainment district, filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • Evening: Catch a show at one of the many venues on Red River Cultural District, such as Stubb’s BBQ or Emo’s.
  • Stay: The Omni Austin Hotel Downtown or the Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt are both centrally located and offer comfortable accommodations.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Hike Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, a scenic 7.9-mile trail with beautiful views of the Hill Country.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Home Slice Pizza, a popular spot for delicious pies and a fun atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake, taking in the city skyline from a different perspective.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Uchi, a critically-acclaimed sushi restaurant with fresh, creative dishes.
  • Stay: The same hotels as Day 1 are great options, but consider the Hotel San José for a more laid-back vibe.

Day 3: Foodie Heaven

  • Morning: Visit the Hope Farmers Market (Sundays only) or the SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown (Tuesdays and Saturdays) to sample local flavors.
  • Lunch: Try some of the best Tex-Mex in the city at Matt’s El Rancho, a family-owned institution since 1952.
  • Afternoon: Take a tour of the iconic Salt Lick BBQ, learning about their pit-smoking techniques and sampling their delicious ‘cue.
  • Evening: Dine on innovative Southern cuisine at Olamaie, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
  • Stay: Same as Day 1 or 2.

Day 4: Music and Arts

  • Morning: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Hope Outdoor Gallery (free admission).
  • Lunch: Head to Veracruz All Natural for delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Continental Club, a legendary music venue that’s hosted some of the biggest names in music.
  • Evening: Catch a live music performance at the Paramount Theatre or the Moody Theater at ACL Live.
  • Stay: Same as previous days.

Day 5: Day Trips and More

  • Morning: Take a day trip to nearby Fredericksburg, exploring the charming German-influenced town’s shops and vineyards.
  • Lunch: Enjoy some of the best burgers in Texas at Otto’s German Bistro.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, showcasing beautiful native flora and fauna.
  • Evening: Return to Austin for a farewell dinner at La Condesa, serving up creative, farm-to-table Mexican cuisine.
  • Stay: Same as previous days.

Transportation

  • Rent a car or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around the city.
  • Consider purchasing an Austin Visitor Pass for free admission to many attractions and discounts on public transportation.

Tips and Essentials

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the Texas sun.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing!
  • Download the Austin Chronicle’s app or website for up-to-date event listings and recommendations.

Other Things of Interest

  • Visit the LBJ Presidential Library to learn about the 36th President’s life and legacy.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Zilker Botanical Garden.
  • Explore the eclectic South Congress neighborhood, filled with unique shops and eateries.
  • Catch a sporting event at the University of Texas or a Round Rock Express minor league baseball game.