Austin, Texas is one of the hottest cities in the country and for good reason. Whether you know it as the state capital of Texas, the Live Music Capital of the World, a growing tech hub or the home of the University of Texas; Austin has a little something for everyone. World class BBQ? Check. Miles of outdoor trails? Yup. One of the hottest music scenes in the country? You betcha. Simultaneously an oasis from the rest of Texas and proudly Texan, Austin is a city that marches to the beat of its own drum. Politicos and hippies, cowboys and musicians; there’s room at the bar for everyone. With so many options it can be hard to narrow down what to do in Austin. Here are a few of my recommendations for things to do in Austin, Texas.
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To make the most of your time in Austin one of the first things you should do is take The Real Austin Tour with Austin Detours. This 2 hour tour is a great introduction to Austin’s major tourist draws as well as some of the eclectic, offbeat neighborhoods that “keep Austin Weird”.
 Austin is a city that knows how to eat and barbecue is practically a religion in Texas. The notoriously long lines for both Michelin-starred Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue are worth it, get up early and join the party-like atmosphere(La Barbecue offers free beer to those in line) while waiting for the best barbecue of your life. Masterfully cooked brisket and handcrafted smoked sausages are a revelation and will change your mind about just how good barbecue can be. Micklethwait Craft Meat and Kerlin BBQ are also solid BBQ choices in Austin while the Salt Lick and Louie Mueller Barbecue are worth the drive out to Texas Hill Country.
Get the full story of Texas at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. With over 5,000 artifacts spanning over 13,000 years you’re sure to find a side to Texas you didn’t know existed.
Welcoming visitors since 1886 the Driskill Hotel is Austin’s premier historic hotel. Take a stroll through the lobby with its marble columns and magnificent glass dome or enjoy a drink at the Driskill Bar, recently named the best cocktail bar in Austin. I recommend the Batini, the Driskill’s signature cocktail, sweet from the hibiscus with a spicy kick of ginger.
In recent years cheaper rents have attracted much of the creative class to East Austin. The result? A slightly hipper, edgier neighborhood with some of the city’s best restaurants that still is unabashedly Austin.
As far as I’m concerned the some of the best tacos in the US can be found in Austin. Torchy’s tacos is a beloved Austin institution that is perfect for fueling up for (or recovering from) an evening of bar crawling; but if I had to choose one place to get tacos from for the rest of my life it would be Veracruz All Natural. Named as one of the top 5 tacos in the US by Food Network the migas breakfast tacos (an addictive combo of eggs, tortilla chips, avocado, pico de gallo and montery jack) with a mango agua fresca may be the best way to start your morning in Austin.
Not only a seat of higher learning, the University of Texas is also home to 7 museums including the Blanton Art Museum which houses the largest art collection of any university. Sports more your thing? The Longhorns may be best known for their football program but their basketball (both men’s and women’s), baseball and softball teams also play a heck of a game. Hook em’!
The pink granite dome of the Texas State Capitol is an iconic part of Austin’s rapidly changing skyline. Built in 1888 the Texas Capitol is the largest of all the state capitols and is open for self guided tours during normal operating hours.
Austin prides itself on being the live music capital of the world and no trip to Austin is complete without catching a show. The Continental Club on South Congress Avenue is host to some of the best rock, jazz and swing bands in the city while over in East Austin the White Horse, a hipster honkey-tonk offers up live music, libations and dance lessons 7 nights a week. If you’re lucky you may even score tickets to….
Austin City Limits. Both the long running show on PBS, which has hosted everyone from native son Willie Nelson to the Foo Fighters, and the often sold out music festival in October (showcasing national headliners and upcoming indie acts over the course of two weekends) are two of the best music draws in the country.
The same creativity that inspires Austin’s musicians can be seen in Austin’s vibrant street art. Nearly 100 murals grace the sides of everything from gas stations to Chinese restaurants.
In the spring Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center for the field filled with bluebonnets.
From April to October join the crowds gather at sunset along Austin’s South Congress bridge to watch a cloud of over 750,000 Mexican free-tail bats leave their roost under the bridge to fly into the night sky. You can also opt to view this sunset bat spectacle from the water on a boat cruise or SUP tour.
When not serving as the site for the Austin City Limits Music Festival Zilker Park serves as a communal backyard for all of Austin. In addition to over 10 miles of trails and green space you can stroll through Zilker Botanical Gardens or engage in hands-on learning at the Austin Nature and Science Center.
 Bring your swimsuit and stop by for a dip at Barton Springs Pool,  located with Zilker Park, this 3 acre natural spring fed pool remains at a constant temperature of 70 degrees F making it perfect for swimming year round.
Also located in Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake is beloved by both locals and visitors alike. A popular spot for water sports of all kinds, on any given day you can find kayakers and paddle boarders sharing the water with boaters and fisherman.
Looking for funky, eclectic shops, club and restaurants? Look no further than the South Congress Ave (SoCo) neighborhood. Here you can find everything from artisan jewelry to antique European thrones and everything in between.While perusing the shops of South Congress Avenue a stop at Allen Boots is a must. This mecca for all things western wear has cowboy boots in every color, size and style imaginable. If you can’t find your perfect pair of boots here, they don’t exist. Inevitably you’ll get hungry and South Congress has you covered here too; South Congress Cafe for brunch and Hopdoddy’s for ridiculously good burgers are a few of my personal favorites.
 The Hope Outdoor Gallery, once an abandoned construction project, now invites anyone and everyone to leave their creative mark.
Have a car? Great. Get in, roll down the windows and throw on some Willie Nelson and explore the beautiful Texas Hill Country. About 30 minutes southwest of Austin the suburbs give way to rolling limestone and granite hills covered with sagebrush, cedar and Texas live oak. Winding past sprawling ranches stop at one of the state parks for some hiking then refuel with some BBQ at the famous Salt Lick in Dripping Springs. Hill Country is also home to several good wineries such as Duchman Family Winery and Driftwood Estate Winery.
 While you’re out exploring Hill Country a stop at Hamilton Pool is a must. A quick hike leads you to the beautiful crescent shaped grotto, a waterfall feeding the emerald green pool below. Be sure to check the Hamilton Pool Preserve website prior to your visit to see if swimming is allowed that day and to get a reservation, especially if you are visiting on a weekend.
Amy’s Ice Cream is an Austin institution. Whether you go with their famous Mexican Vanilla or one of their other 350 rotating flavors make sure to get a good bit of praline sauce (a gooey, butter caramel sauce spiked with pecans) on top. You can thank me later.
Where to stay in Austin
The Driskill Hotel is steeped in history and is blocks from the Texas State Capitol Building
Treat yourself at The Four Seasons Austin, this five star hotel boasts a prime location on Ladybird Lake and one of the top spas in the city.
The hip South Congress Hotel is where to rest your head after a night of partying like a rock star.
Howard @ Backroad Planet says
So much to love about Austin! Tacos, BBQ, live music, and a road trip through the Hill Country sound right up my alley. I recognize Barton Springs Pool from the movie The Tree of Life with Brad Pitt, and I am almost positive Hamilton Pool Preserve was in it, too. You know I love natural water features! đ
Ashley @ The Wandering Weekenders says
You did such a good job highlighting all of the fun things to do in Austin, including all of the food! Austin is such a fun place with so many great things to do, including eating!
Brianna says
Austin is such a fun town, I can’t wait to go back!
Mike (NomadicTexan) says
Brianna,
Certainly glad you enjoyed my home town. You hit most of the highlights I would recommend. I actually have a pair of boots made at Allen Boots back in 1969. I would add Guero’s Mexican restaurant, as a foodie stop. Next time let me know you are coming to town.
Mike
Brianna says
Will do Mike, I think you were off in Italy this time around.
Sarah Ebner says
Such great variety in this post – from the pool to the food to the history, education and culture! It sounds like some place to visit. I’m sure we’d love it.
Brianna says
Sarah, Austin (and Texas in general) is great for families.
Becky says
So when I think of Austin, I definitely think of food, drink, and music (so I wasn’t surprised to see those references!) but DANCE LESSONS – so cool and a fun way to check out the music. Plus all the outdoor things… looks like a fun weekend getaway to me đ
Brianna says
Seriously, how can you not have a good time learning to two-step then refueling with some awesome BBQ?
karilyn says
I went to college at UT! Love your suggestions. I have only done a few, so I will have to make it a point to check some of this other stuff out on my next visit. Isn’t it just the best town though?
Brianna says
Austin was a blast! It would have be dangerous for me to go to college there though, way too many distractions lol.
Shobha says
I’ve only been to Austin 1x about 20 years ago and I’ve heard its gotten even cooler and hipper since then. I thought it was pretty great back then. With two of my favourite foods (Mexican and barbecue) I am sure I will still love this city.
Brianna says
Austin definitely surprised me, I would go back in a heart beat.
Carly says
Tacos? I’m there! On a more serious note, I didn’t realize there was actually so much to DO in Austin. Hamilton pool looks lovely.
Brianna says
Hamilton Pools(and Hill Country in general) were such a pleasant surprise.
Jackie says
I haven’t been to Austin, but I’ve heard many good things! Thanks for putting together this list of things to do. It looks like there’s plenty to see, hear, taste, and explore. I’d love to sip a cocktail and listen to some live music!
Brianna says
Austin is such a fun city, I can’t wait to go back.
Lyndall @SeizeTheDayProject says
Wow Brianna, such an incredible rundown on Austin. I haven’t been to Texas, but I now have a list of amazing things to take in when I do! I particularly like the outdoor gallery for the street art and those gorgeous cowboy boots đ
Brianna says
I so wanted to come back with a pair of cowboy boots; my bank account however, not such a fan. The boots were gorgeous though.
Hugo says
Never been that far south, but looks pretty cool. Will check it out for my next trip to the US.
Brianna says
Texas is a very unique part of the US and definitely worth a stop.
Rob says
Austin sounds like a great city to visit! There is far more to do than I would have thought. Admittedly I didn’t know much about Austin but looks like a fun place.
Brianna says
Austin is one of the coolest cities in the US, definitely worth a visit.
Jolanta says
I’ve never been to Austin, so I don’t have any additional tips, just a comment that I would love to take a detour to find out why Austin is weird đ Sounds like a lot of fun.
Brianna says
Austin is a lot of fun, so much to do!
zof says
Great list. I’ve never been to these parts, but I love the variety of activities Austin seems to offer. Great.
Brianna says
Austin offers a lot to do, it really has it’s own vibe.
Michela of Rocky Travel Blog says
Never been to Texas and Austin looks like an interesting city with so many things to do and see. I love the colourful cowboys boots, I am sure if I visit Austin, I’ll buy some there! đ
Brianna says
The hard part is choosing which pair you want!
Mar says
750,000 Mexican free-tail bats! wow, this must be quite impressive, no wonder people gather around to see them
Brianna says
Both the crowds and the bats were quite impressive!
Alli says
I’d love to spend the day here! I’d also love to taste some of that smoked sausage and try on a few of those cowboy boots, hehe!
Brianna says
The smoked sausage alone is worth the trip!
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
I am so lucky to call Austin my home. I keep meaning to take one of those tours just so I can see the city through a visitor’s eyes. I’ll have to look into the one you recommended. You put together a great list!
Brianna says
Thanks Michele, you definitely are lucky to call Austin home!
Megan | Traveling Nine to Fiver says
This made me want to go back to Austin so badly. A great list and I’ve only done about half of them. The BBQ and live music have been my favorite. I’ve gone to ACL Festival twice now and it is my favorite music festival by far.
Brianna says
I didn’t get a chance to go to ACL, work got in the way. Did you have any favorite acts?
Meg Jerrard says
Fantastic list of things to do! The Texas State Capitol reminds me very much of the Capitol Building in Washington DC – just that that one is white. Got some great photos in front of it while we were there … I would love to get to experience Texas sometime đ
Brianna says
You would love Texas and Austin in particular Meg.
Jessica van Dop DeJesus says
Haven’t been to Austin in a few years but one of my favorite memories is paddleboarding at Lady Bird Lake. Such a beautiful area.
Brianna says
That was something I really wanted to do, looks like I have an excuse to go back!
Christina @ Christina's Cucina says
I have no suggestions as I’ve never been, but looks like you have it covered! That hotel looks fabulous and I had no idea there was so much to do and see in Austin!
Brianna says
That’s only the tip of it to, Austin is such a fun city.
Andi says
As far as I am concerned, all 21 should be eating! Although I would love to buy some cowboy boots in Texas!
Brianna says
That’s an entirely different post Andi lol đ
Natalie says
Austin is a really cool place! Great list to get started seeing the city that loves to be weird!! Enjoyed it!
Brianna says
How can you not love Austin?
Jessica says
Haven’t been to Austin in a few years, but I do recall the great food! Especially the food trucks. Great guide!
Scott says
Brianna — glad you enjoyed our town. If you want two-step lessons, the Broken Spoke dance hall on S Lamar has them Wed-Sat 8:30 to 9:30 before the bands start. It is an iconic institution – 51 years old, still owned by the same family.
But for the love of all that is good, please don’t go back to the Salt Lick. Unmistakable atmosphere, but some of the worst barbecue in all of Texas. There are dozens better, that don’t have a 3 hour line like Franklin, or an hour like LA.
Brianna says
I had a fantastic time in Austin and will definitely be back. I live in a BBQ black hole, I’d love to hear about your other BBQ recs!
christine says
What a wonderful place to visit. I love your pictures. thanks for sharing.
Brianna says
thanks, I loved my time in Austin and can’t wait to go back!
Charles McCool says
Dang, you had to mention ice cream. Time to look at flights. Austin has such amazing food, including the absolute BEST (and I rarely use the term best) donuts I have had in USA, outstanding food truck tacos (like everywhere), perhaps the best (not again) steak I have had.
Brianna says
Donuts? Dang, I completely missed donuts! Looks like I need to head back.
Laura @ Grassroots Nomad says
The food in Austin was probably my favourite thing about the city – such incredible meat!!! mmmmmm….
Sara Broers says
I have not spent a lot of time in Texas~ Looks like I need to add Austin to the bucket list of destinations!
Brianna says
Austin quickly became one of my favorite cities, I’m sure you’ll love it too!
Arnie says
I keep telling Jo that we need to find our way to Austin. Maybe I can get her to, after she reads your article. I’m excited!
Brianna says
Jo, you should definitely put Austin on your list!
Katja says
I lived in Houston for a bit when I was a kid but we never visited Austin and I really regret it! It seems like a very cool town, and very different from the rest of Texas. I think I’d go for the BBQ alone! That and the Hope Outdoor Gallery
Brianna says
The BBQ is worth several trips!
Vasan says
Austin is such a lovely city in Texas that a casual traveller should not miss it. OK. But how about vegetarian food that too South Indian type available and where to go for a south Indian traveller? That is what I required Brianna?.
Brianna says
I’m sure there is quite a bit of vegetarian food to be had too
Brian says
Austin looks like so much fun. I went for ACL last year, but I have been itching to go back to just explore the city. Thanks for sharing!
Kristin @ Camels & Chocolate says
NAILED IT. I’m constantly returning to Austin as it’s one of my favorite cities in the US. And if you liked it so much, then Nashville (obviously) needs to be your next tripâthey’re so similar! =)
Michelle Joy says
We only live 3 or so hours away but still haven’t been yet! Must get on that. Great tips!
Andi says
I want to go back for that taco! Austin is such a rally cool town, I almost moved there!
Christina says
Who knew? I’ve never been to Austin, but I’d go just for the food alone! Wow, that bbq looks killer! Hopefully my travels will take me to this part of Texas and SOON!
Jenna says
I have a cousin who lives there and they love it. I haven’t been to Austin, but it looks like a fun city to visit, and the capitol is beautiful! Looks like you stayed in a really nice hotel, too–beautiful architecture.
Laura says
I’ve never been to Austin (or anywhere else in Texas) but I’ve just put it on my list. That BBQ alone is reason enough!
Shauna says
Austin is a great city. We hit up 6th street while we were there!
Solar Company Iloilo says
I travel to for two things: food and nature, so knowing from you that Austin is serves the best barbeque, I can’t wait! Thanks for the tips!
Meaghan says
Great post on a great city! Love Austin and cannot stress enough how important a trip to Torchy’s is. Get the street corn! You won’t be disappointed!
Sophie Williams says
The State Capitol looks amazing!
Chris Dolce Castillo says
This is great! My bucket list is to go to all 50 state capitals (and capitols!) and I still haven’t been to Austin yet. Saving this for when I make it!
Sarah Turner says
Awesome list! Shouldn’t have read it before breakfast though because now all I want to eat in Barbecue and tacos!! đ
Victor Tran says
I like your travel philosophy Brianna. Being a transplanted Texan from up north, I could never go back now. Austin is such a great city because it has a little of everything with style to spare and especially the diverse food options. Austin is my hometown now! Thanks for sharing!
Will Charles says
Austin looks like so much fun. Can’t wait to try out all the watering holes this summer! Thanks for sharing!
Jack Rady says
Brianna, I’ve been a lifelong Texan and your article still gave me insight to things to in Austin that I never knew about! Thank you.
Jesse says
Franklin’s Barbecue is a must to visit when you are in Austin, Texas! I love that place, the firs time I ever had Franklin’s barbecue was on a boat on Lake Austin I have never tried such a unique barbecue taste and soft pork ribs!
Sage Scott says
Austin is on our list for the second half of 2019, so it’s awesome to have these recommendations. Except since we’re from Kansas City, we’re kind of snobby about our barbeque, so I’m not sure we can do #2. LOL!
Nicky says
I have a friend who lives near Austin – oh my goodness, I need to go and visit; I had no idea how awesome it is there! I need to try those tacos, too! Thanks for sharing!
Meet Saxena says
I never planned to visit Austin because it always seemed boring, but I had no idea Austin can be this amazing.
Travelbyu says
Austin, TX is already popular for being one of the top-performing cities in the US for jobs as well as overall cost of living. With this recent growth, traveling to this city becomes a favorite destination for solo travelers. I must add in downtown, locals and visitors-alike spend their leisurely walk in long Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.