11 Things to do in Austin, Texas | What to Expect + Where to Stay
Discover the vibrant spirit of Austin, Texas, with this curated collection of must-see attractions, from the iconic State Capitol and Zilker Park to the legendary music scene and mouthwatering BBQ. Experience the unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural hotspots, and culinary delights that make Austin a truly unforgettable destination.
Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is the country's second-largest Capitol building and a focal point of the Austin skyline, offering free admission and a chance to explore Austin's history.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a scenic reservoir in the heart of Austin, popular for hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Congress Avenue Bridge
The Congress Avenue Bridge is famous for the million Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under it from March to late October, attracting viewers and boat tours.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre man-made outdoor swimming pool within Zilker Park, fed by underground springs with a year-round temperature of 68 degrees, also home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander.
Zilker Park
Zilker Park is a large 351-acre urban park in the heart of Austin, known as a hub for outdoor recreation and cultural events, featuring Barton Springs and the Zilker Botanical Garden.
Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is one of the country's most famous barbecue spots, known for its life-changing brisket that attracts long lines.
Valentina's Tex-Mex BBQ
Valentina's Tex-Mex BBQ is known for its delicious brisket tacos.
Leroy and Lewis
Leroy and Lewis is a barbecue spot known for its innovative offerings like the bacon rib.
Gordo's Fat Donut
Gordo's Fat Donut is a food truck that offers incredible donuts.
Hold Out Brewing
Hold Out Brewing is one of the craft breweries in Austin, offering a great spot to enjoy a beer garden.
Austin Beer Garden and Brewing Company
Austin Beer Garden and Brewing Company is one of the craft breweries in Austin, offering a great spot to enjoy a beer garden.
Sixth Street
Sixth Street is the most popular spot in Austin for nightlife and live music.
South by Southwest
South by Southwest is one of the large music festivals held in Austin.
Austin City Limits
Austin City Limits is one of the large music festivals held in Austin.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is considered the Heart of Texas Wine Country, offering wine tastings, delicious meals, and downtown charm.
Zilker Botanical Garden
The Zilker Botanical Garden is located within Zilker Park.
The Alamo
Visiting the Alamo is a great thing to do in San Antonio.
Riverwalk
Walking along the Riverwalk is a great thing to do in San Antonio.
Fairmont Hotel
The Fairmont Hotel is a well-known hotel located in downtown Austin.
JW Marriott
The JW Marriott is a well-known hotel located in downtown Austin.
South Congress Hotel
The South Congress Hotel is a boutique hotel located on South Congress Avenue.
Hotel Magdalena
The Hotel Magdalena is a boutique hotel located on South Congress Avenue.
The Domain
The Domain is an upscale shopping and Entertainment District in North Austin.
Courtyard by Marriott
The Courtyard by Marriott is a hotel in North Austin.
The Westin
The Westin is a hotel in North Austin.
Lone Star Court
The Lone Star Court is a boutique hotel in North Austin.
Haywood Hotel
The Haywood Hotel is a boutique hotel in East Austin.
Arrive Austin
Arrive Austin is a boutique hotel in East Austin.