Explore the Vibrant Heart of Austin: Downtown Austin
Discover the vibrant energy of Downtown Austin, where live music, delicious food, and rich culture come together in Texas's capital city.
Downtown Austin is a lively hub of culture, entertainment, and gastronomy, offering tourists a unique blend of Texas charm and urban sophistication. This vibrant area is known for its iconic live music scene, eclectic shops, and diverse culinary offerings, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
A brief summary to Downtown Austin
- Austin, Downtown Austin, Texas, US
Local tips
- Visit during the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival for an unforgettable music and film experience.
- Explore the food truck scene for affordable and diverse culinary options.
- Take advantage of outdoor activities at Lady Bird Lake, including biking and kayaking.
- Attend a live music show at one of the many venues on Sixth Street for an authentic Austin experience.
- Check out local art galleries and street art for a taste of Austin's creative vibe.
Getting There
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Bus
If you are starting from the University of Texas at Austin, walk to the bus stop at either 24th St & Guadalupe St or 21st St & Guadalupe St. Catch the Capital Metro Bus #7, which goes directly to Downtown Austin. Get off at the 'Congress Ave & 6th St' stop. From there, it's a short walk to explore the vibrant Downtown area.
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Bicycle
If you are near Zilker Park, rent a bicycle from one of the local bike-sharing stations. Head north on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which runs along Lady Bird Lake. Follow the trail until you reach the intersection with Riverside Dr. Continue north to get onto 1st St, which will lead you to Downtown Austin. You can lock your bike at one of the bike racks around the area.
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Walking
If you are staying at a hotel in the South Congress area, you can easily walk to Downtown Austin. Head north on South Congress Avenue until you reach the intersection with 6th Street. Turn left onto 6th Street and continue walking straight; you will arrive in the heart of Downtown Austin, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and local attractions.
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Ride-sharing
To get to Downtown Austin using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, simply open the app on your smartphone. Enter 'Downtown Austin' as your destination. The drivers can pick you up from your current location within the city and drop you off at various points in Downtown, such as near the Texas State Capitol or the popular 6th Street entertainment area.
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Public Transit
From the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, take the 100 Airport Flyer bus. It runs every 30 minutes to downtown Austin. Get off at the '4th St & Trinity St' stop, and you'll be just a short walk away from the downtown attractions. Follow 4th Street towards Congress Avenue to reach the center of Downtown Austin.
Discover more about Downtown Austin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Old U.S. Courthouse
0.1 km
Discover the grandeur of the Historic Old U.S. Courthouse in Austin, Texas, a landmark that embodies rich history and stunning architecture.
Hirshfeld House
0.2 km
Discover the architectural charm of Hirshfeld House in Downtown Austin, a historical landmark showcasing early 20th-century design.
700 Guadalupe St
0.3 km
Explore the architectural gem of 700 Guadalupe St in Austin, where history meets modern vibrancy in the heart of the city.
John Bremond House
0.3 km
Explore the John Bremond House, a captivating historical landmark in Downtown Austin that showcases Victorian architecture and rich local history.
Central Presbyterian Church
0.3 km
Discover tranquility at Central Presbyterian Church, an architectural treasure and spiritual haven in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Gold Star Mothers Memorial
0.3 km
Visit the Gold Star Mothers Memorial in Austin, Texas, a touching tribute honoring mothers who have lost children in military service, surrounded by vibrant city life.
Space cowboy mural
0.4 km
Explore the Space Cowboy mural in Downtown Austin, a vibrant historical landmark that embodies the city's artistic spirit and rich cultural heritage.
Houghton Carriage House
0.4 km
Discover the historical elegance of Houghton Carriage House, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Downtown Austin, Texas.
Joseph and Mary Robinson Martin House
0.5 km
Explore the architectural elegance of the Joseph and Mary Robinson Martin House, a historical landmark that showcases Austin's rich heritage.
Robinson-Macken House
0.6 km
Discover the Robinson-Macken House, a historical landmark in Austin, Texas, showcasing stunning architecture and rich local heritage.
Terry's Texas Rangers Monument
0.6 km
Explore the rich history of the Civil War at Terry's Texas Rangers Monument, a symbol of bravery in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Volunteer Firemen Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Volunteer Firemen Monument in Austin, Texas, a poignant tribute to bravery, community, and the spirit of volunteer firefighting.
Hood's Confederate Texas Brigade Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Hood's Confederate Texas Brigade Monument, a poignant historical landmark in downtown Austin, honoring the bravery of Texas soldiers during the Civil War.
The Price of Liberty
0.6 km
Discover The Price of Liberty in Austin, a captivating war memorial honoring sacrifices for freedom amidst the city's vibrant historical landscape.
Ten Commandments Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Ten Commandments Monument in Austin, a significant historical landmark reflecting Texas's cultural and legal heritage amidst the Capitol's grandeur.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center
0.1 km
Discover innovative contemporary art and engaging programs at The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center, a vibrant destination in downtown Austin.
The Paramount Theatre
0.2 km
Experience the charm of The Paramount Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in Austin, Texas, hosting films, concerts, and live performances.
Old Bakery and Emporium
0.3 km
Explore the Old Bakery and Emporium, a historic site in downtown Austin, showcasing local artisans and delicious baked goods amidst rich Texan heritage.
Texas Governor's Mansion
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Texas Governor's Mansion, a historic landmark in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Austin History Center | Austin Public Library
0.3 km
Explore the Austin History Center for a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage and historical archives of Austin, Texas.
Firehouse Lounge
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Austin at Firehouse Lounge, where craft cocktails meet live music in a cozy setting.
Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover the serenity and architectural beauty of Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral, a must-see spiritual landmark in the heart of Austin.
Texas African American History Memorial
0.4 km
Explore the Texas African American History Memorial in Austin, a tribute to the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans in Texas history.
Friends Bar
0.4 km
Discover the lively Friends Bar in Downtown Austin, where live music, delicious tacos, and a vibrant atmosphere await you in the heart of Texas.
Walking Tours of Austin
0.4 km
Explore Austin's vibrant history and culture through guided walking tours, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks in the heart of Texas.
Speakeasy
0.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Speakeasy in Austin – a unique blend of cocktails, live music, and bowling in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mexic-Arte Museum
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant art and culture of Mexico at the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Bat Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bat Bar in Downtown Austin, where lively nightlife meets creative cocktails and local brews in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lavaca Street Bar
0.4 km
Discover Lavaca Street Bar, a vibrant sports bar in Downtown Austin, offering a lively atmosphere, delicious bites, and a wide selection of drinks.
Cedar Street Courtyard
0.4 km
Experience the lively ambiance of Cedar Street Courtyard, where live music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable memories await you in the heart of Austin.
Essential places to dine
Roaring Fork
0.2 km
Experience upscale American dining at Roaring Fork in Downtown Austin - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Caroline
0.2 km
Discover the best of American cuisine and artisanal coffee at Caroline in Downtown Austin – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Upstairs at Caroline
0.2 km
Discover Upstairs at Caroline: A vibrant American restaurant and bar in Downtown Austin offering fresh cuisine and crafted cocktails.
Lonesome Dove Austin
0.2 km
Experience innovative Western cuisine at Lonesome Dove Austin - where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in downtown's vibrant heart.
Péché
0.4 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Péché, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in Downtown Austin.
Diner Bar - Seafood Bistro & Lounge
0.5 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Downtown Austin at Diner Bar - where fresh flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Stella San Jac
0.5 km
Discover Stella San Jac: A premier American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering delicious dishes and craft drinks in a lively setting.
Fixe Southern House
0.5 km
Savor authentic Southern flavors at Fixe Southern House in Downtown Austin - where tradition meets innovation.
Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab
0.5 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab in Downtown Austin - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Swift's Attic
0.5 km
Discover Swift's Attic: A vibrant American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering eclectic tapas and artisanal cocktails for an unforgettable dining experience.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood
0.5 km
Experience fine dining at Eddie V's Prime Seafood in Downtown Austin - where fresh seafood meets live jazz in an elegant setting.
Red Ash
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Red Ash in Downtown Austin - where tradition meets modern elegance.
Taverna Austin
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Taverna Austin - where every dish tells a story through rich flavors and fresh ingredients.
Dean's Italian Steakhouse
0.7 km
Experience exquisite steak and authentic Italian flavors at Dean's Italian Steakhouse in Downtown Austin.
North Italia
0.7 km
Experience authentic Northern and Southern Italian cuisine at North Italia in Austin's Seaholm District – perfect for families and food lovers!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wild About Music
0.2 km
Explore Wild About Music, Austin's vibrant gift shop and art gallery, showcasing unique musical treasures and local artistry.
6th Street Trading Company
0.4 km
Explore the heart of Austin's culture at 6th Street Trading Company, your go-to souvenir store for unique local treasures.
Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, local snacks, and craft beers at Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart in vibrant Downtown Austin, the perfect stop for every traveler.
Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts
0.6 km
Explore a vibrant collection of unique gifts and souvenirs at Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts in downtown Austin, Texas.
The Singing Ox
0.6 km
Explore The Singing Ox in Austin for unique home goods that reflect local artistry and creativity, perfect for every home and occasion.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover unique fashion, accessories, and home goods at Urban Outfitters, a trendy shopping destination in the heart of Austin.
Texas Capitol Gift Shop
0.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of Texan souvenirs and artisanal crafts at the Texas Capitol Gift Shop, located in the heart of Austin.
Second Street Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts, chic women's fashion, and local beauty products at Second Street Boutique, a gem in the heart of Downtown Austin.
francesca's
0.7 km
Discover unique fashion and gifts at Francesca's, a charming boutique in Downtown Austin, Texas, where style meets personal service.
Austin Rocks
0.7 km
Explore the charm of Austin at Austin Rocks, your destination for unique gifts and local fashion in the heart of Downtown.
2nd Street District
0.7 km
Explore the eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and events in the 2nd Street District, Austin's vibrant downtown shopping destination.
Joy
1.1 km
Discover Joy, a charming gift shop in Old West Austin, offering unique treasures and local artistry that capture the spirit of Texas.
lovecraft
1.4 km
Explore Lovecraft, a unique women's clothing store in East Austin, featuring vintage fashion and sustainable styles that celebrate individuality.
Charm School Vintage
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage clothing at Charm School Vintage in East Austin, where every piece has a story and sustainability meets style.
take heart
1.6 km
Explore Take Heart, East Austin's boutique for unique home goods and gifts that celebrate local craftsmanship and creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Higher Ground
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Higher Ground, your go-to cocktail bar, dance club, and live music venue in the heart of Downtown.
Small Victory
0.2 km
Discover Small Victory, a stylish cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, offering creative drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
Garage
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Garage Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Here Nor There
0.3 km
Discover Here Nor There, a premier cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, where mixology meets vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences await.
The Roosevelt Room
0.4 km
Discover The Roosevelt Room, Austin’s premier cocktail bar, where mixology meets sophistication in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Devil May Care
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Devil May Care, a premier lounge in Downtown Austin with innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
The Library Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Library Bar in Downtown Austin, featuring craft cocktails and a chic ambiance perfect for any evening out.
Key Bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Key Bar, a cocktail haven and event venue that perfectly captures the city's spirit.
Kung Fu Saloon
0.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft cocktails, arcade games, and a whimsical atmosphere at Kung Fu Saloon in Austin's vibrant West End.
Foxy's Proper Pub
0.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Foxy's Proper Pub in Downtown Austin, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Tiniest Bar In Texas
0.9 km
Experience the intimate charm of the Tiniest Bar in Texas, where unique cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Shangri-La
1.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Shangri-La, a hidden gem in Austin's nightlife, known for its creative cocktails and welcoming vibe.
The Tipsy Alchemist (Austin)
1.4 km
Discover innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Tipsy Alchemist in Downtown Austin, a must-visit bar for every cocktail lover.
Half Step
1.4 km
Discover Half Step, Austin's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet live music in a vibrant atmosphere on Rainey Street.
Nickel City
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nickel City, an inclusive bar in East Austin serving unique cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
