Austin, TX is a city that pulses with energy and creativity, offering an unforgettable experience year-round. Each neighborhood brings its own unique vibe, from the lively streets of South Congress to the artsy corners of East Austin and the laid-back green spaces of Zilker Park. Beyond its renowned live music, mouthwatering food scene, and outdoor adventures along Lady Bird Lake, Austin plays host to some of the country’s most celebrated annual events. Experience the world-famous South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, where music, film, and technology converge, or catch the Austin City Limits Music Festival, which draws top artists and music lovers from around the globe. Don’t miss the colorful Austin Food + Wine Festival or the beloved Trail of Lights during the holiday season. With friendly locals, a welcoming spirit, and a commitment to keeping things fun and a little bit “weird,” Austin is the perfect destination for a getaway packed with excitement, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Things to See & Do:
• Things to Do:
- Stroll through South Congress Avenue (SoCo) for boutique shopping, live music, and great eats.
- Paddleboard or kayak on Lady Bird Lake for skyline views and a bit of adventure.
- Explore Zilker Park—perfect for picnics, festivals, or just relaxing outdoors.
- Hike or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake.
- Catch a live show at ACL Live at The Moody Theater or any of Austin’s legendary music venues.
- Experience the nightlife and historic bungalows along Rainey Street.
• Things to See:
- Watch the bats emerge at sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge
- Visit the Texas State Capitol and its beautiful grounds
- Check out the “Greetings from Austin” mural and other vibrant street art
- Head up to Mount Bonnell for one of the best panoramic views of the city
• Golf Courses: Lions Municipal Golf Course (“Muny”), Grey Rock Golf Club, Riverside Golf Course, Morris Williams Golf Course, Roy Kizer Golf Course, Jimmy Clay Golf Course, Harvey Penick Golf Campus
• Museums: Blanton Museum of Art, Bullock Texas State History Museum, The Contemporary Austin (Jones Center and Laguna Gloria), Mexic-Arte Museum, Texas Memorial Museum, Thinkery (children’s museum), Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, Museum of the Weird, Austin Nature & Science Center
• Local Markets: Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller, SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown, HOPE Farmers Market, Barton Creek Farmers Market, Lakeline Farmers Market
• Local Restaurants & Shopping
- Restaurants: Franklin Barbecue, Uchi, Torchy’s Tacos, Home Slice Pizza, Loro, Odd Duck, Jo’s Coffee, Hula Hut, Elizabeth Street Café, Perla’s, Via 313, La Barbecue
- Shops: South Congress Avenue (SoCo), The Domain (North Austin),2nd Street District (Downtown), Austin Central Market, Uncommon Objects, BookPeople, Blue Genie Art Bazaar (seasonal), East Austin boutiques and pop-up markets.
Annual Festivals & Events:
• South by Southwest (SXSW)
• Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)
• Austin Food + Wine Festival
• Trail of Lights
• Austin Film Festival
• Pecan Street Festival
• Texas Book Festival
• Blues on the Green
• Bat Fest
• Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas
• Austin Marathon
• Hot Luck Festival
• Levitation Music Festival
• Moontower Just for Laughs Comedy Festival
• Zilker Kite Festival\
• Austin Pride Parade & Festival