Austin, Texas Travel Guide

Discover Austin, Texas: A vibrant city famous for its live music, outdoor adventures, diverse cuisine, and bustling festivals. Experience the heart of Texas like never before.

Austin, the capital of Texas, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant music scene. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern urban living. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets of downtown or enjoying a live band at one of the many music venues, Austin never fails to impress. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the city's many parks and outdoor spaces. Zilker Park is a must-visit, offering beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and the refreshing Barton Springs Pool. Lady Bird Lake, which runs through the heart of the city, is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a leisurely bike ride along its scenic trails. Foodies will find themselves in heaven with Austin's diverse culinary scene. From world-famous BBQ joints to trendy food trucks, the city offers something for every palate. Don't miss out on the local Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines traditional Mexican flavors with Texas flair. Austin is also home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The South by Southwest (SXSW) festival is a major attraction, drawing in artists, musicians, and tech enthusiasts from around the globe. The Austin City Limits Music Festival is another highlight, offering two weekends of live music from top performers. With its friendly locals, eclectic culture, and endless entertainment options, Austin is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Austin.

Visit during spring or fall to enjoy mild weather and numerous festivals.
Utilize the city's bike-sharing program to explore downtown easily.
Arrive early to popular BBQ spots like Franklin Barbecue to avoid long lines.
Check out the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk to see the bats take flight.
Use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles, especially during major events.

Neighbourhoods in Austin

The Domain

Downtown Austin

South Congress

East Austin

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Austin

Explore Austin: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Austin

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas: A premier racing and live music venue in Texas, offering thrilling events and unforgettable experiences for all visitors.

4.6

The Escape Game Austin

Immerse yourself in thrilling adventures at The Escape Game Austin, where unique escape rooms challenge your wits and teamwork in a captivating environment.

5.0

Barton Springs Municipal Pool

Experience the refreshing waters and vibrant atmosphere of Barton Springs Pool, Austin's beloved natural oasis nestled in Zilker Park.

4.6

Barton Springs Municipal Pool

Experience the refreshing allure of Barton Springs Municipal Pool, a natural spring-fed oasis in the heart of Austin, Texas, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

4.7

Best landmarks in Austin

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Best Landmarks

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Bullock Texas State History Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of Texas at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, a captivating journey through the Lone Star State's past.

4.7

Texas Capitol

Explore the Texas Capitol, a stunning historical landmark in Austin, rich in culture and history, showcasing the state's vibrant legacy.

4.7

Museum of the Weird

Discover the quirky and captivating world of oddities at the Museum of the Weird in Austin, Texas, where the bizarre and extraordinary come to life.

4.2

Blanton Museum of Art

Explore the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin, Texas, home to thousands of artworks, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural events.

4.6

Best restaurants in Austin

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Caroline

Discover the best of American cuisine and artisanal coffee at Caroline in Downtown Austin – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.8

Hula Hut

Discover Hula Hut: A vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant on Lake Austin offering flavorful dishes in a tropical lakeside setting.

4.2

Moonshine Grill

Experience the best Southern cuisine at Moonshine Grill in Downtown Austin – where flavor meets Southern hospitality.

4.6

Stella San Jac

Discover Stella San Jac: A premier American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering delicious dishes and craft drinks in a lively setting.

4.8

Best bars in Austin

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Best Bars

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Twin Peaks

Discover Twin Peaks in South Austin: A vibrant sports bar with mouthwatering American cuisine and a lively atmosphere perfect for any sports fan.

4.5

The Roosevelt Room

Discover The Roosevelt Room, Austin’s premier cocktail bar, where mixology meets sophistication in an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.6

Whisler's

Discover Whisler's, an iconic bar in East Austin known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a night out.

4.6

Firehouse Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Firehouse Lounge, a lively cocktail bar with live music and an eclectic atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Austin

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Antone's Nightclub

Discover the legendary Antone's Nightclub in Austin, where live blues and cocktails create unforgettable nights filled with music and memories.

4.5

Barbarella Austin

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Barbarella Austin, a premier night club offering themed dance parties and vibrant music in downtown Austin.

4.1

Elysium

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Elysium, Austin's premier night club and live music venue in the heart of the Red River Cultural District.

4.4

Kingdom

Unleash your nightlife adventure at Kingdom Nightclub, a top destination in Austin for electrifying music, stunning visuals, and an unforgettable party atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Austin

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Best Shops

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The Domain

Discover The Domain in Austin: A vibrant outdoor shopping mall with luxury brands, unique boutiques, and a delightful dining scene for every visitor.

4.5

Round Rock Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals at Round Rock Premium Outlets, Texas' premier shopping destination with over 125 brand-name outlet stores.

4.4

2nd Street District

Discover Austin's eclectic 2nd Street District, a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and local culture in the heart of downtown.

4.4

Uncommon Objects

Discover a unique blend of vintage treasures and quirky finds at Uncommon Objects, Austin's beloved gift shop and antique destination.

4.4

Explore Austin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Austin, mapped for you.

Austin Essentials

Austin is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The primary airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), located approximately 8 miles southeast of downtown Austin. It offers numerous domestic and international flights. For those traveling by car, Austin is accessible via major highways such as I-35, US-183, and US-290. Amtrak's Texas Eagle line also serves Austin, connecting it to cities like Chicago, San Antonio, and Los Angeles.
Austin's public transportation system includes buses and light rail operated by Capital Metro. The MetroBus service covers most parts of the city, while the MetroRail Red Line runs from downtown Austin to the northern suburbs. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, as are traditional taxis. For eco-friendly travel, consider using the city's bike-share program, B-cycle, or electric scooters available around the downtown area.
The official currency in Austin, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in downtown Austin and near major attractions. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also increasingly accepted.
Austin is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions are advised. Areas like East Austin and certain parts of downtown can have higher crime rates, particularly at night. Always stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Sixth Street.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Austin has several well-equipped hospitals, including St. David's Medical Center and Dell Seton Medical Center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergencies, the Austin Police Department can be reached at 311.
Fashion: Do dress casually, as Austin is known for its laid-back style. However, avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and be considerate when visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers and those with disabilities. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Texans are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like BBQ and Tex-Mex. Don’t forget to tip your servers; 15-20% is customary.
To experience Austin like a local, visit the farmers' markets such as the Texas Farmers' Market at Mueller or the SFC Farmers' Market Downtown. Explore lesser-known music venues like the Continental Club or Mohawk for an authentic Austin music experience. Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a local favorite, and don't miss the sunset at Mount Bonnell for stunning views of the city. For a unique dining experience, try food trucks, which are a staple of Austin's culinary scene.

When is the best time to visit Austin?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Austin

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Austin. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease and thank you
  [pleez and thank yuh]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [thanks uh lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
- How are you?Howdy, how're you?
  [haw-dee, how-er yuh]
- Fine. And you?Doing good. How 'bout you?
  [doo-in good. How 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI'm fixin' to need some help
  [ahm fix-in to need sum help]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a look at the menu?
  [kan eye take uh look at the menu]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ahm fix-in tuh meat]
- Cheers!Here's to ya!
  [herez tuh yuh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
  [kan eye set-tul up]
- Help!SOS!
  [ess-oh-ess]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Ring up the cops!
  [ring up the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a Doc on the line!
  [get uh doc on the line]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahm turned uh-round]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahm feel-in poor-lee]
- I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll take...
  [eye wreck-in eye'll take]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahm just brow-sin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [wuts the dam-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats uh bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do any better on the price?
  [kan yuh do en-nee bet-ter on the price]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wuts the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's high noon
  [its hi noon]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yes-t-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [tom-or-rah]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [wuts the add-ee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [kan yuh point it out on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus comin'?
  [whens the next bus com-in]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [uh pass to]

History of Austin

Austin, originally known as Waterloo, was settled by Anglo-Americans in the 1830s. The city was chosen as the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839, and it was renamed in honor of Stephen F. Austin, the 'Father of Texas.' The city's early years were marked by growth and the establishment of governmental institutions, which helped to solidify its status as a hub of political and cultural activity.
Completed in 1888, the Texas State Capitol is a defining landmark in Austin. The building stands 14 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and is constructed from sunset red granite. This architectural marvel not only serves as the heart of Texas government but also as a symbol of the state's rich history and pride.
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the leading public research universities in the world. The campus has been the birthplace of significant advancements in various fields, and its vibrant student body contributes to the city's youthful and dynamic atmosphere. The university's iconic Tower and its sports teams, particularly in football, are central to Austin's cultural identity.
Austin earned its reputation as the 'Live Music Capital of the World' in the late 20th century. The city is home to renowned music festivals such as South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL), which draw artists and audiences from around the globe. Famous venues like the Continental Club and Stubbs BBQ have hosted performances by legendary musicians, making live music an integral part of Austin's cultural fabric.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Austin experienced a tech boom, attracting major companies like Dell, IBM, and more recently, Apple and Tesla. This influx of technology firms has transformed the city into a bustling tech hub, often referred to as 'Silicon Hills.' The tech industry's growth has spurred economic development and urban expansion, shaping Austin's modern identity.
Austin's cultural diversity is reflected in its eclectic food scene, which features a mix of traditional Texas barbecue, Tex-Mex, and international cuisines. Iconic spots like Franklin Barbecue and Torchy's Tacos are culinary landmarks. The city's food trucks and farmers markets also play a significant role in its vibrant culinary culture, offering a wide array of flavors and experiences.
Sixth Street is Austin's entertainment epicenter, known for its bustling nightlife, live music venues, and historic architecture. The street dates back to the 19th century and has evolved into a cultural hotspot where locals and tourists alike gather to experience the city's vibrant nightlife. The area is also home to numerous festivals and events, cementing its status as a key part of Austin's cultural landscape.
Austin is renowned for its commitment to preserving natural spaces within the urban environment. The city's numerous parks, such as Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offer residents and visitors opportunities for outdoor recreation and connection with nature. Lady Bird Lake, with its scenic trails and water activities, is a centerpiece of Austin's dedication to maintaining green spaces.