One of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, Austin is a city with a vibrant outdoor scene, iconic Capitol, and some of the greatest restaurants in the country. It is home to the beloved Texas Longhorns, the biggest live music scene, vast lakes, and so much more. You may know the slogan, "Keep Austin Weird", which represents all the funky local businesses around town. There’s no shortage of unique things to do and see, eat and drink, and beyond…so explore the below and get ready to keep it weird in Austin!
Although things slow down when temps cool off, Austin has tons of holiday pop-ups and parties that keep spirits high! Grab a hot cocoa or holiday-themed cocktail and chill by the fire on a rooftop. For all your Christmas shopping, head to the Domain Mall -- you might even see Santa! Austin's music and entertainment scene still thrives in the winter, with local performers playing Christmas songs around town and tons of shows at the Bass Concert Hall or the Long Center!
SPRING
The city comes alive again in the Spring, with the sun shining and bluebonnets blooming everywhere you turn. Enjoy the milder temperatures on a patio, take a walk on the iconic Roy Butler Hike + Bike Trail, experience a picnic at Zilker Park, take in the views from the 360 Bridge Lookout, or if you’re visiting in March, you can’t miss SXSW! Take a stroll down South Congress Ave for all kinds of shopping…everything from Nike to Hermes and Alo to cowboy hats, boots + vintage finds!
SUMMER
With triple-digit temperatures as the norm, Texas Summers are famously scorching but also famously spectacular if you know the right places! If you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a cold dip in Barton Springs or head to Town Lake for kayaking + paddle boarding, or even rent a boat on Lake Austin or Travis. If you’d rather enjoy the air-conditioning, explore the Bob Bullock Museum, Texas Capitol or LBJ Library. And you must see the bats as they fly from under the bridge during sunset!
FALL
Not only is it Pumpkin Spice time, but it’s also football season! We definitely going to a Texas Longhorns football game -- keep an eye out for Matthew McConaughey, who is often on the field! Wander the local pumpkin patches, catch your favorite NFL team’s game at a local dive bar, or try fun fall-themed cocktails! You absolutely cannot miss Austin City Limits, the biggest Texas music festival at Zilker Park filled with banging headliners, local food, and breathtaking views!
Whether you're looking for lakeside views, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, or a challenging hike, Austin is full of seriously stunning outdoor activities! Explore the outdoors and make a splash all around the city!
Austin is a modern metropolis with so much to do and see, from funky museums to concerts galore, and everything in between. There is something to do for everyone, no matter if you're a first time visitor or a seasoned veteran.
The food scene in Austin is chef's kiss. While it's known for authentic tacos and funky food trucks, the dishes you'll find here go far beyond. From authentic mom and pop restaurants to gorgeous upscale patios, and late-night eats to vegan options galore, no matter what your palate is calling for, you'll find it in Austin! Explore all the best places to eat below!
From rooftop bars to mezcalerias, Austin knows how to pour a great drink. Not only is Austin the birthplace of the beloved Ranch Water cocktail, you'll also find craft breweries, Instagrammable cocktail bars, hidden speakeasies, and delicious coffee shops. You can even try twelve coffees for free with an Austinites101 Coffee Passport! No matter what you're cheers-ing, Austin has you covered.
Whether you're looking for Austin's most iconic photo ops, great vintage shopping, or wanting to explore local eats and drinks, each of Austin's neighborhoods offers something unique for visitors! Take a dip in Barton Springs, explore the stunning University of Texas campus, take in the quirky vibes of East and Rainey, have a wild night of bar-hopping on Dirty Sixth, or stroll down South Congress!
