Austin, Texas is known as a hip city with constant live music and award-winning cuisine. Thousands descend upon the area for festivals and events, especially Austin City Limits and South by Southwest. But there’s always something going on, especially around the University of Texas at Austin campus.
Settled on the site of Spanish forts, Austin is ideal for outdoors lovers, surrounded by lakes and rivers. It’s also a place that fosters arts and technology, creating the mindset of “Keep Austin Weird.” Big name companies like Whole Foods, Dell, and The Chive call the city home.
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The Neighborhoods of Austin
There are so many interesting neighborhoods in Austin that it can be hard to see them all. Downtown is where many of the main attractions are located, including the Texas State Capitol, and the big-name hotels. Previously more of a business district, this section now has its own food hall, chic Houndstooth Coffee, and Midnight Cowboy, a modern speakeasy.
East Austin is like many of the hipster neighborhoods found the world over, including Bushwick and Shoreditch. Its landscape is rapidly changing, bringing with it trendy restaurants. I stayed at an Airbnb here and was able to walk to places like Lazarus Brewing. It’s also home to Cuvee Coffee and Chi’lantro.
If you’ve seen images of Austin’s best murals, they were likely in South Congress, another hip neighborhood south of Downtown. Here you’ll find Home Slice Pizza, the Austin Motel, Jo’s Coffee, and Roadhouse Relics, each with their Instagrammable exteriors.
There are plenty of other unique Austin suburbs that we didn’t get to see, including South Lamar, Holly, and Zilker Park.
Austin Restaurants and Cafes
Mention to anyone that you’re going to Austin and they’ll have a massive list of places to eat, especially for barbecue and tacos. Everyone has their own favorite spot, so find out for yourself which one is best. And don’t forget about the food trucks set up in just about every parking lot in every corner of the city.
Counter Culture– The vegan fare at this East Austin cafe are so good you might forget you’re not eating meat or dairy. I loved the salads and buffalo macaroni and cheeze balls but they also had sandwiches, pizzas, and brunch.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden– On the opposite end of the spectrum, this Rainey Street favorite has over 100 beers on tap, housemade barbecue and sausage, and good vibes. There’s also live music throughout the week and a dog park!
Gourmands– I grabbed a bite at this neighborhood bar known for its sandwiches. The delicious BLT comes with garlic mayo. They also serve breakfast, including breakfast bowls, egg sandwiches, and french toast with vegetarian options.
Las Trancas– The simple taco stand has just about any type you could want, but I opted for carne asada and al pastor, paired with a Topo Chico. There’s a covered platform where you can eat. Other favorites around town include Veracruz, Torchy’s, and Pueblo Viejo, but you can’t go wrong with any of the taco trucks or restaurants.
Fareground– The downtown food hall has a little bit of everything, including sushi and ramen, Mexican, burgers, and pastries. There’s a full bar and an outdoor seating area. I loved my nigiri and roll from Ni-Kome.
La Barbecue– Franklin may be the most well-known, but La Barbecue is giving them a run for their money. LeAnn Mueller followed in her father’s footsteps with her barbecue restaurant, smoking brisket and ribs. Diners can also enjoy spicy sausage and sides.
Scholz Garten– The authentic German beer garden near the University of Texas campus dates back to 1866. They serve heaping portions in the fried chicken sandwich with waffle fries, which can be enjoyed inside or al fresco.
Las Trancas 
Jo’s 
Fareground
Elizabeth Street Cafe– I didn’t make it to this cute cafe, but I’ve heard great things about the French and Vietnamese-inspired breakfast dishes as well as lunch and dinner. They carry Stumptown Coffee and have quirky flavors of macarons.
Launderette– Another recommendation that I didn’t have time for was this New American restaurant in a former laundromat. Start with weekday happy hour and shared plates like beet hummus and burrata or large plates and brunch.
Lucky Robot– Quirky and colorful plates are the draw at this South Congress Japanese restaurant. Choose from dumplings, fresh sushi, bowls, and ramen, along with mochi and cakes for dessert.
Jo’s Coffee– Stop by one of their three locations for specialty coffee drinks, like the Belgian Bomber or Turbo, as well as breakfast tacos, sandwiches, pastries, and snacks.
Forthright– The clean lines and chicly designed cafe as a simple menu of favorites like avocado toast, kale Caesar salads, and burgers, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Bird Bird Biscuit– A popular coffee shop expanded into a breakfast and lunch eatery known for its biscuit sandwiches. Doughnut holes and chicken sausage sandwiches are so beloved that they frequently sell out.
Wright Bros Brew and Brew– By day it’s a coffee shop and cafe with freshly made bagels and by night it’s a popular place for happy hour. Try the avocado toast and local brews.
For more suggestions on places to eat in town, visit Eater Austin and A Taste of Koko.
Austin Bars and Nightlife
The nightlife scene in Austin is legendary, with all sorts of watering holes from old-school dives to rowdy college spots to swanky cocktail bars. I only scratched the surface but found a number of places to grab a drink.
Mort Subite– This Belgian beer bar was a surprise find when I was looking to grab a beer before dinner. The obscure brews can be a bit expensive, but you won’t find many of them anywhere else in town. There’s also a food truck out back if you get hungry.
Speakeasy– Spread across three levels, this bar has an indoor vintage bowling alley, live music, and a rooftop bar overlooking downtown Austin. Enjoy a cocktail in the space, which is reported to be haunted.
The Roosevelt Room– A modern take on a speakeasy, the moody interiors in this lounge surround a long bar with classic cocktails as well as beer and wine. Indulge in happy hour for the best value.
Craft Pride– Beer lovers can’t miss this cozy beer bar that focuses on craft options, especially those local to Austin and Texas. The adjoining pizza truck lets you take a pie to go and has special food and drink options for brunch.
Kitty Cohen’s– When you need to cool off, visit this poolside cocktail lounge and patios bar. They host weekly pop up events like food trucks and vinyl dance parties.
Azul– This rooftop pool bar and lounge is another respite from the Austin heat, located atop Westin hotel. Enjoy a drink alongside one of the fire pits, soaking up views of downtown.
Ah Sing Den– Styled like an opium den, this spot has weekly tiki drinks alongside its Prohibition-era cocktails. You can also chow down on small plates like dumplings and noodles.
Craft Pride 
Mort Subite 
Roosevelt Room
Central District Brewing– The downtown brewery has a chic space and a diverse lineup of beers including saisons and IPAs. They also carry beers from partner breweries.
Breweries- There are a few breweries in Austin to explore ranging from small brewpub operations to well-known brands. Blue Owl, Lazarus, Zilker, and Hops and Grain are among them. Visit on an Austin Brewery Tour.
Container Bar– Made up of a number of colorful shipping containers, this unique bar carries draft and canned beer from the state and beyond, along with wine and craft cocktails.
Star Bar– This longtime favorite on West Sixth Street is known for its over-the-top Bloody Marys, plentiful craft beers, and sports on the televisions. The associated food truck serves Nashville-style hot chicken.
Hangar Lounge– Inspired by the Golden Age of Travel, this rooftop bar is located in the Warehouse District. Complete with airline-style decor, this three-level space has all the standard drinks on offer.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema– This legendary independent movie theater screens classic and first-run films, along with a full food and drink menu.
Live music- Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, there’s always something going on in Austin in every genre of music. Popular venues include Emo’s, Broken Spoke, The Continental Club, and Scoot Inn. The Austin Live Music Crawl visits many of these spots.
Things to Do in Austin
Most of the appeal of visiting Austin is the restaurants, music venues, and neighborhoods, but there are also a few traditional tourist attractions. These aren’t the only attractions in the Texas capital, so check out these Austin tours for more!
Texas State Capitol– The 1881 national landmark in the heart of downtown welcomes visitors for free tours every half hour about Texas history and the legislature. Don’t miss the grounds, which are full of sculptures and monuments.
Bat Observation– The famous bats on South Congress take off around dusk every night and can be viewed from the parking lot of The Statesman or the Ann Richards Bridge.
Barton Springs– Cool off at this popular swimming hole, set in a 300 plus acre park. Fed from an underground spring, it remains around 70 degrees year round. There is a small fee for admission, which grants access to the bathhouse as well. Lady Bird Lake is another popular body of water, where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards.
Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library– Learn about the Texan president at his presidential library detailing the man’s life and career. See the artifacts that make up the collections as well as the changing exhibits.
Bullock Texas State History Museum– Boasting three floors of interactive exhibits, this sprawling space tells the story of Texas, starting from its early settlers to the present.
Art museums- Soak up the local art scene at museums and galleries like The Contemporary Austin, the Mexic-Arte Museum, Women & Their Work, and the Blanton Museum of Art.
Hope Outdoor Gallery– This colorful space allows people to “tag” or paint graffiti on the walls. The park supports the local arts community through education, field trips, and events. Outside of town, don’t miss the Cathedral of Junk, another quirky art installation. The Tipster Pay-What-You-Want East Austin Street Art Walking Tour is another way to see these murals.
Shopping in Austin
Browse one of Austin’s unique shops, selling everything from vintage clothing to records to artwork and everything in between. Don’t miss the many maker’s markets that take place all over town.
Salvage Thrift– This East Austin store has all sorts of finds, including clothing and accessories and quirky home decor.
BookPeople– The state’s largest independent bookstore carries all sorts of titles and has a staff ready to help you find the perfect read. They also host readings and events.
Waterloo Records– You can’t go to a music town without bringing some home. This legendary record store sells both new and gently used records, CDs, DVDs, and even cassettes.
Roadhouse Relics– Known for its Austin mural outside, this store carries vintage and new neon signage, but it will cost you. Some were taken from closed businesses and restored, while others were created just for the store.
Charm School Vintage– Another favorite vintage store, they carry items from the 1890s to the 1990s, as well as crafted apothecary products.
Uncommon Objects– Scour for one of a kind antiques at this store that has been an Austin favorite since 1991.
Parts and Labor– Looking for a place to pick up funky souvenirs? This variety store is the one, with t-shirts, jewelry, and gifts.
Plant Party– Aspiring plant moms and dads can’t miss this store selling everything you need to green your home from terrariums to cacti to monsteras.
Charm School Vintage– Pick up a soft vintage tee to wear out on the town at this East Austin shop. In addition to clothing, expect to find jewelry and other gifts.
Austin Visitor’s Center– Believe it or not, the visitor’s center in the heart of the city is a great place to pick up locally made goods. They have books about the city as well as Texas products.
Where to Stay in Austin
When looking up places to stay in Austin, I quickly discovered that hotels in the central business district are much more expensive than those elsewhere in town. I decided to stay further out to save money and instead spend more on transportation. Decide in advance which is your priority.
Airbnb– I chose to rent a guesthouse behind an East Austin home because it provided me with my own space but was in a neighborhood I might not otherwise explore. It was also fairly cost-effective. There are plenty of rentals in this tech-heavy town. Get a discount on your first stay by using the above link.
Native Hostel– There’s nowhere better to stay for trendy accommodations at a reasonable price. The twelve rooms have a variety of layouts, but bunk beds have privacy curtains and a lamp. Rooms have ensuite bathrooms and the hostel also has an in-house restaurant and coffee shop.
HI Austin Hostel– Set on Lady Bird Lake, this Hostelling International hostel is a retreat within the city. Your stay includes free daily breakfast and access to yoga mats and bikes. There are private and shared rooms and a full-service kitchen.
Firehouse Hostel– This 1885 fire station was converted into a hostel with its own craft cocktail lounge. They have private rooms and varying styles of dorms, as well as free daily breakfast, a full kitchen, and a cozy common area.
Drifter Jack’s Hostel– Located north of downtown, this funky spot is covered in colorful murals. They offer free WiFi, free tea and coffee, lockers, and cheap drinks at their in-house bar. All beds have high-quality mattresses and Serta pillows.
The LINE Austin– The import from Los Angeles designed by the stylish Sydell Group has chic rooms and complimentary breakfast. The property also boasts two restaurants, a rooftop bar, and an in-house coffee shop.
Hotel ZaZa– The Texas-based boutique hotel brand opened an Austin location in the Warehouse District featuring over 150 rooms and suites, two restaurants, a pool, and artwork featured throughout the property.
Austin Motel– The chic Bunkhouse group’s South Congress icon was originally a motel. They have many types of rooms, including suites, surrounding the pool. Each is decorated in colorful furnishings and guests have free WiFi. They have an in-house restaurant and shop selling gifts and snacks. Non-guests can also get a pool pass for $20.
Hotel San Jose– Also owned by Bunkhouse, this 1936 motor court has been renovated into an ultramodern 40-room hotel. The rooms come in standard, ensuite, and suite varieties. There’s even a small pool and store where you can stock up on essentials.
Lone Star Court– This Western-inspired hotel at The Domain has over 100 retro-inspired rooms, including three suites, all with top-notch bedding and linens. Guests also receive complimentary daily breakfast. The hotel also has live music, a pool, bike rentals, and an onsite restaurant.
Hotel Van Zandt– Kimpton’s Austin property is in the heart of the Rainey Street District with over 300 guest rooms and suites, complete with high-speed WiFi and Bluetooth speakers. The pet-friendly property also has a rooftop pool and multiple dining options.
Kimber Hotel– Located in South Congress, the light-filled modern rooms at this design hotel come with everything included: breakfast, beer and wine, snacks, and WiFi. Each room has unique furnishings and the property is covered in artwork.
Tiny Home Hotel– Spend the night in one of these six tiny homes, which have all the amenities but half the space. All have televisions, WiFi, showers, and full kitchens, and some even have porches!
Transportation in Austin
Most parts of Austin are highly walkable, especially if you don’t mind the humidity. But if you’d rather go faster than by foot, the city has bike and scooter rentals. B-Cycle operates bike shares, with docking stations all over town.
Lime and Bird also can be found in nearly every corner of the city, which you can rent by downloading the app, scanning the barcode, and going on your way. Pay attention to traffic and wear a helmet if you have one.
If you’re staying downtown, leave the car behind. Driving is unnecessary, although a few hotels have free parking, especially around South Congress. Instead, take advantage of ridesharing apps like Lyft and Uber. Get a discount on your first Lyft ride by using the code “CAROLINE868074”.
You can take them from Austin Bergstrom Airport or, if you have plenty of time, ride the bus, which also serves the city. Amtrak makes stops in the city, as do bus companies like Greyhound and Megabus.
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