AUSTIN AT A GLANCE
CITY
Austin
COUNTRY
The United States of America (US)
TIMEZONE
UTC-5 (Chicago / CDT)
TRAIN
CapMetro Rail ($3.50 USD)
BUS
CapMetro Bus ($1.25 USD)
TERRAIN
Metropolitan, Hill Country
WEATHER
105ºF Summer / 40ºF Winter
AVERAGE MEAL COST
$15 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
$45 USD
LAST UPDATED
13/03/2023
The Best Bites in Austin, USA
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Austin, the capital of Texas, is renowned for its vibrant live music scene, earning it the nickname "The Live Music Capital of the World." The city is celebrated for its diverse and thriving music venues, hosting everything from intimate acoustic performances to large-scale festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW). Beyond music, Austin is also known for its eclectic food culture, craft beer scene, outdoor recreational opportunities along the beautiful Barton Creek Greenbelt, and a unique blend of Texan tradition and progressive innovation. The city's friendly and inclusive atmosphere, combined with its commitment to art, technology, and cultural diversity, makes Austin a dynamic and beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike.
ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Texas State Capitol: Tour the majestic pink-granite Texas State Capitol, a historical and architectural masterpiece, and explore its rich history and stunning interior.
Barton Springs Pool: Take a refreshing dip in the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool, a popular spot for cooling off during the hot Texas summers.
The Bat Bridge: Witness the awe-inspiring emergence of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats from the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk, an iconic Austin experience.
South Congress Avenue: Stroll down South Congress Avenue, or "SoCo," for eclectic shopping, dining, and live music venues, reflecting Austin's unique and vibrant culture.
Live Music on Sixth Street: Enjoy the live music scene on Sixth Street, where you can hop between bars and clubs, experiencing Austin's renowned music culture.
Zilker Park: Relax in Zilker Park, a sprawling green space offering outdoor activities, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and the Umlauf Sculpture Garden.
Lady Bird Lake: Take a leisurely walk or rent a kayak or paddleboard along Lady Bird Lake, enjoying scenic views of the city skyline and the hike-and-bike trail.
Mount Bonnell: Hike to the top of Mount Bonnell, offering panoramic views of the Colorado River and the Hill Country, making it a popular spot for sunsets.
Food Truck Tasting: Sample Austin's diverse culinary scene at its many food trucks, serving everything from gourmet tacos to BBQ.
LBJ Presidential Library: Explore the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum to learn about the life and presidency of the 36th U.S. President, Lyndon B. Johnson.
Hamilton Pool Preserve: Discover the natural beauty of Hamilton Pool, a collapsed grotto with a jade-green pool, ideal for swimming and photography.
Bullock Texas State History Museum: Dive into Texas history at the Bullock Museum, where interactive exhibits and artifacts provide insights into the state's past.
Texas Hill Country Wineries: Embark on a wine-tasting adventure in the Texas Hill Country, visiting wineries and vineyards known for their scenic views and award-winning wines.
The Contemporary Austin: Immerse yourself in contemporary art at The Contemporary Austin, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and installations.
Blanton Museum of Art: Visit the Blanton Museum to explore an extensive collection of European, American, and contemporary art, housed within a striking building.
Austin Zoo: Enjoy a family-friendly day at the Austin Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
Graffiti Park at Castle Hill: Admire the ever-changing street art and graffiti at the colorful and iconic Graffiti Park.
Mexic-Arte Museum: Learn about Mexican, Mexican-American, and Latinx art and culture at the Mexic-Arte Museum, showcasing a diverse range of artworks.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve: Relax in the serene gardens of Mayfield Park and spot peacocks roaming freely in the lush surroundings.
Texas Military Forces Museum: Explore the history of the Texas military at the Texas Military Forces Museum, featuring exhibits on Texas' military heritage.
Underrated Destinations
Barton Creek Greenbelt Hiking: Venture beyond the pool at Barton Springs and explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt's extensive hiking trails and swimming holes, hidden gems for those seeking a more natural Austin experience.
Jacob's Well Natural Area: Take a day trip to Jacob's Well Natural Area, a lesser-known but enchanting spot, where you can swim in the spring and explore the nearby trails, providing a unique outdoor adventure away from the city.
Cidercade: Visit Cidercade for a unique blend of cider tasting and arcade gaming, a delightful and lesser-known entertainment option in Austin, perfect for a fun and casual night out.
Attend a Social Event: Austin is home to many different social and networking events across the city. The FIESTA (Founders, Investors, Entrepreneurs, Startups, Techies, Austin Newcomer) and The Boardwalks are two local events which bring in hundreds of people every month who are craving meaningful conversations and connections.
East 6th Street: Experience the lively atmosphere of East 6th Street, an eclectic and underrated entertainment district with live music, bars, food trucks, and a vibrant local scene, offering an authentic taste of Austin's nightlife.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Downtown: The heart of Austin is its downtown district, where you'll find the Texas State Capitol, numerous restaurants, bars, live music venues, and cultural attractions like the Mexic-Arte Museum. The downtown area is bordered by Lady Bird Lake to the south, providing a picturesque waterfront.
South Congress (SoCo): Located just south of the river, South Congress is known for its unique shops, food trucks, and vibrant nightlife. The iconic South Congress Avenue is the main thoroughfare through this district.
East Austin: The eastern part of the city is known for its creative energy, with a thriving arts scene, galleries, and local businesses. East 6th Street, in particular, offers a distinct alternative to the more famous 6th Street entertainment district in the downtown area.
West Austin: This hilly and upscale area includes neighborhoods like Tarrytown and Rollingwood, with beautiful residential properties and scenic views of the city.
Rainey Street: A unique district located near downtown, Rainey Street features bungalow-style bars and food trucks, creating a distinct atmosphere for a night out.
The Domain: In the northern part of the city, The Domain is a rapidly developing shopping and dining district, offering a modern and upscale experience.
Mueller: A master-planned community in central Austin, Mueller features green spaces, shopping areas, and residential neighborhoods with a focus on sustainability and urban living.
Greenbelt and Parks: Austin is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Zilker Park, and numerous outdoor recreational areas that provide opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and enjoying nature.