Dive into the heart of Austin, TX with our comprehensive Austin Travel Guide, showcasing the coolest places to stay, the most vibrant food scenes, and the can’t-miss cultural experiences in Texas’s capital of cool.
About
With a famous slogan of, “Keep Austin Weird” this city is a truly unique blend of multiple cultures. Music, BBQ, technology, music, the list goes on for what Austin is known for. In the past decade, Austin’s population has exploded bringing in thousands of new residents from around the country adding to its rich culture. The culinary scene here is impressive with an abundance of food trucks, trending hot spots, and fine dining staples. No matter what brings you to this thriving city, you are sure to experience something new.
Where to Stay
The Loren at Lady Bird Lake
As one of the newest hotels in Austin, The Loren at Lady Bird Lake is a stylish and luxurious boutique hotel located just across the river. The Loren has huge modern windows giving guests beautiful views of Lady Bird Lake and the city’s skyline. Amenities include an elegant restaurant, a spa, a rooftop pool, a high-end gym, and a wonderful staff that is ready to help you plan experiences during your stay.
The Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Also located along Lady Bird Lake, the Four Seasons Hotel Austin is centrally located in the city. Accommodations you would expect from any Four Seasons are also present here including a full-service spa, fitness center, pool, and signature restaurants. The Four Seasons Austin is perfect for those looking for traditional luxury and class during their stay.
Austin Proper Hotel
Located in the heart of Austin, the Austin Proper Hotel is a stylish and contemporary hotel with a unique feel that encapsulates the vibe of the city. The rooms feature designs with local influence and luxurious touches such as marble bathrooms, plush bedding, and new technology. The hotel is also home to multiple delicious restaurants including a rooftop sushi bar, and a farm-to-table signature restuarant.
Where to Eat
Lutie’s Garden Restaurant
Nestled within the Commodore Perry Estate, Lutie’s offers a picturesque environment with lush gardens and historic architecture. Chef Bradley Nicholson has crafted the menu to reflect the surrounding landscape with farm-to-table fresh vegetables, seafood, and various meats. The restaurant is also open for brunch on the weekends.
Juniper
Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist, Juniper brings a refined dining experience to East Austin. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to craft inventive dishes from handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas. Executive chef Nic Yanes, a native Texan, is well-known for his culinary contributions in the Austin area.
Wink
Wink offers locally inspired American cuisine in a cozy and intimate environment. Chefs Stewart Scruggs and Mark Paul have created a menu that includes duck breast, truffle macaroni and cheese, scallops, and even a five-course tasting menu. Wink is the perfect place for date night or a special occasion.
Ciclo
Located within the Four Seasons Hotel Austin, Ciclo (Spanish for “cycle”) serves dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Mexico, Spain, and South America. The menu offers everything from empanadas to octopus to a wagyu tomahawk steak. Ciclo also has plentiful cocktail creations and a full-service bar.
Odd Duck
Serving up New American cuisine in a contemporary and modern environment, Odd Duck is located in the South Lamar neighborhood of Austin. Led by chef Bryce Gilmore, the menu features seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Some menu favorites include the pork belly slider, redfish ceviche, and corn ribs.
Lamberts
We couldn’t make this list without including some delicious Texas barbecue. Lamberts is located in a refurbished general store in the Warehouse district of Austin. This well-known establishment serves savory smoked meats in a rustic environment. Ribs, fried green tomatoes, brisket, pulled pork, this spot has everything you could want to squash your southern barbecue craving.
What to Do
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Bordering the Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Metropolitan Park is a great place to take a walk or relax in the beautiful Austin weather. Spanning over 350 acres this park offers recreational activities for all including open spaces for picnics, scenic trails, botanical gardens and more.
Hike/Bike along The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
A perfect way to live the active Austin lifestyle, this beautiful boardwalk hugs Lady Bird Lake and overlooks the Austin skyline. It is perfect for jogging, walking, biking, and exercising. Stretching over a mile long, it is the perfect distance for an afternoon breather.
Attend a Live Music Show
Austin is known for its vibrant and legendary music scene. It is known as “Live Music Capital of the World” because it variety of music bars and stages featuring live performances on a nightly basis. Whether you are looking for blues, country, rock, indie, or electronic you can find it all in Austin.
Shopping along South Congress Avenue
Featuring a delightful blend of eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and trendy stores South Congress Avenue is the perfect place to do some retail therapy. Some popular stores include Reformation, Allbirds, Le Labo, Cove Boutique, Billy Reid, and more.
Festivals
You have probably heard of the festival scene in Austin and it is plentiful. Some of the most popular festivals held in the city include South by Southwest(SXSW), Austin City Limits Music Festival, Austin Food + Wine Festival, Austin Film Festival, and the Pecan Street Festival.
Nightlife
As mentioned above, Austin is known for its music scene which continues into the night for a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to Sixth Street (known as “Dirty Sixth”) for a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Additionally, if you are looking for something more laid back we recommend Rainey Street. Rainey Street is lined with charming bungalow bars, outdoor patios, and food trucks. No matter what the mood is, Austin has something for you.
Interested in more destinations? Check out our travel guide for Park City here.
