VISITING AUSTIN, TX

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!

Visiting Austin Page Graphic

WHEN TO VISIT

WINTER

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!

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!

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!

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!

THE ESSENTIALS

70+ of the Best Patios in Austin by Category

The Best Rooftop Restaurants + Bars to Catch Golden Hour in Austin

35+ Places to Watch Football and Sports in Austin

Where to Get the Best Queso in Austin, Texas

THINGS TO DO

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.

Discover the Thrill of Austin With Tribe Bus: a Unique Open-Air Party Bus Experience

20+ Indoor Activities to Beat the Heat in Austin, Texas

17 of the Best Museums in Austin

10+ Places for the Best Comedy Shows in Austin

17 of the Best Drag Brunches and Shows Around Austin

OUTDOORS

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!

6 of the Coolest Caves & Caverns in Texas to Beat the Heat

13 Watering Holes Throughout Texas To Beat This Summer Heat

The Ultimate Guide To Floating The River In Texas

Best Boat Rentals on Lake Travis and Lake Austin

Have a Tiki Treehouse River Adventure at One of Son’s Island’s Six Properties Outside Austin

WHERE TO EAT

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!

20+ Local Spots for the Best Tacos in Austin

50+ Places to Host Large Group Dinners in Austin, Organized by Category

10 Places to Get the Best Ice Cream in Austin

60+ Food Trucks and Where They Are Located Around Austin

60+ Spots for the Best Brunch in Austin

WHERE TO DRINK

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.

Your 101 to the Best Bars in Austin, Broken Out by Category

Saddle Up Austin Because Ranch 616, Home of the Original Ranch Water, is Back and Better Than Ever

SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH AUSTIN WITH A COFFEE PASSPORT

NEIGHBORHOODS

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!