Insider's Guide to Austin
- Refined Travel By Ashley
- Apr 7
- 8 min read
By Refined Travel by Ashley
Austin has incredible energy. Foodies will love the Texas barbecue and innovative food trucks, while music fans will find tons of live performances every night of the week. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike scenic trails or boat on lakes. Wine lovers can explore the Texas countryside for its up-and-coming vineyard scene. And if you’re a sports fan, you can catch a Texas Longhorns football game or Formula 1 race.
Whether you're here for a festival, a business trip or just to explore, Austin is a mix of energy and laid-back charm. Read on to learn where to stay, what to see and where to eat.
Need to know
Austin is a friendly, laid-back city that is generally safe. In busy nightlife areas, it’s always best to keep valuables secure. Tap water is safe to drink and healthcare facilities are easily accessible. Tipping 20% at restaurants and bars is standard — be sure to have cash on hand to tip live performers when a venue passes the hat.
Airports: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is just 15 minutes from downtown. Regularly scheduled flights to domestic and international destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, Toronto, Mexico City and London are readily available.
Transportation: Uber, Lyft and airport shuttles are quick and convenient options to hotels and downtown. To explore beyond the city limits, especially the Texas Hill Country, consider renting a car. Private car services and limo options are also available for a more upscale or business-friendly experience.
Best time to visit: Austin is a year-round destination, but spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit. Expect mild temperatures for outdoor activities, al fresco dining and exploring the area. The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, so stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and take air-conditioned breaks. Be mindful of major festivals like SXSW, Austin City Limits and big sporting events (Longhorns, University of Texas, F1). They bring high prices, packed venues and limited reservations.
Ideal length of stay: Spend three nights in Austin to enjoy the music, food and outdoor scene. Extend your trip for a couple nights in the Hill Country for spa, wineries and natural hot springs.
Signature dishes: brisket (smoked low and slow; Austin’s brisket is melt-in-your-mouth tender), breakfast tacos (morning staple packed with eggs, cheese and fillings like chorizo or migas), queso (cheese dip spiked with peppers and served with tortilla chips), Tex-Mex enchiladas (rolled tortillas stuffed with cheese, meat or veggies, smothered in chili sauce), kolaches (pillowy pastries filled with sweet jams or savory sausage and cheese, a nod to Texas’ Czech heritage), chicken-fried steak (battered and fried beef steak served with gravy) and pecan pie (Texas’ signature dessert — a buttery, caramelized pecan filling in a flaky crust).
What to wear: Austin’s style is effortlessly cool and laid-back. During the day, jeans, shorts or breezy dresses with sneakers or cowboy boots are perfect. For a night out, try darker jeans, stylish tops and polished boots or sneakers. If you’re headed to a honky-tonk spot like Broken Spoke, try denim, plaid and a belt buckle.
Where to stay
Each neighborhood in Austin has a unique vibe. Downtown and South Congress put you at the center of Austin’s music, nightlife and dining scenes. Stay near Lady Bird Lake or Barton Springs for easy access to paddleboarding, kayaking and scenic trails. East Austin and Rainey Street are best for craft cocktail bars, food trucks and nightlife. For a more upscale stay, and access to Q2 Stadium for Austin FC soccer games, head to The Domain and North Austin.
Austin Proper Hotel: This modern downtown retreat is accessibility-friendly and perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Austin’s creative energy. Artfully curated rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, there’s a scenic rooftop pool and bar, plus a holistic spa on site.
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Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection: This high-end historic estate is secluded on 10 acres, with spacious contemporary rooms, an indoor / outdoor spa and delicious dining in a resort-style setting. It’s hugely popular for events, just minutes from downtown Austin.
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The LINE Austin: A vibrant hideaway overlooking Lady Bird Lake, mixing downtown Austin’s artistic energy with laid-back luxury. Rooms and suites offer floor-to-ceiling views, while the hotel features an infinity pool and a rooftop lounge. It’s also accessibility-friendly.
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Hotel Magdalena: Charming and laid-back, this boutique hotel in South Congress is distinctly Austin. Creatives and friend groups will especially love the mid-century design elements, laid-back pool area and green courtyards.
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History and culture
Austin’s history and culture are rooted in its independent spirit, live music legacy and Texas pride. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, the area became the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839. It later evolved into a hub for politics, creativity and education. The University of Texas was established in 1883, helping shape the city’s youthful culture and love of sports. Music is also at the heart of Austin, thanks to legendary venues like the Continental Club and annual festivals like SXSW or Austin City Limits. The city's slogan, “Keep Austin Weird,” reflects its embrace of individuality, exemplified in its quirky art installations and thriving food-truck scene, for instance.
Austin is a city rich in history and culture, offering numerous landmarks to explore, like the Bullock Texas State History Museum, the George Washington Carver Museum and the LBJ Presidential Library. The Treaty Oak and Historic Sixth Street also provide glimpses into the city’s early days, making Austin a vibrant blend of history, culture and creativity.
Austinites also cherish the outdoors; they take sunrise hikes up Mount Bonnell and weekend dips in Barton Springs Pool. The historic Texas State Capitol, larger than the U.S. Capitol, stands as a testament to Texas pride for its grandeur and use of Texas red granite. East Austin's street art and food scene show the city’s evolving diversity and creative energy. Whether you're exploring honky-tonks, cheering at a Formula 1 race or two-stepping at the Broken Spoke, Austin’s culture offers something for every traveler.
Cultural celebrations & events
Zilker Kite Festival (March): An Austin tradition where families and kite enthusiasts fill the lawns of Zilker Park with all kinds of kites, welcoming spring in a lively celebration.
South by Southwest (SXSW) (March): One of Austin’s most legendary events, SXSW unites music, film, technology and interactive media. It’s a week filled with conferences, performances and networking, bringing together some of the world’s top creatives.
Pride Austin (August): A celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, featuring a lively parade, live performances and citywide events.
Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival (October): A globally renowned music festival in Zilker Park, showcasing artists across multiple genres, plus an array of food trucks and immersive art installations.
F1 United States Grand Prix (October): Held at the Circuit of the Americas, this event brings together Formula 1 fans from around the world for high-speed racing.
Texas Monthly BBQ Fest (November): A must-visit for BBQ lovers, this festival spotlights Texas’ top pitmasters, offering a selection of expertly smoked meats and local culinary favorites.
Activities
Live music, nightlife, outdoors and cultural experiences define Austin. Catch a show at an iconic venue, unwind with craft cocktails or explore the thriving arts scene. Cool off in a spring-fed pool or take a scenic hike. No matter the interests, there’s plenty to do in and around Austin.
Music: Experience Austin’s live music scene with a show at the historic Paramount Theatre. For more intimate performances, check out ACL Live at The Moody Theater.
Nightlife: For a local vibe, dance the night away at The Broken Spoke (arrive early for a two-step lesson). Enjoy craft cocktails at the Midnight Cowboy speakeasy. Dive into the city’s underground, eclectic music scene with an immersive performance at Elysium.
Arts and culture: Check out the city’s creative energy with exhibitions at The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center. Explore more modern artworks at West Chelsea Contemporary.
Nature getaways: Beat the Texas heat with a dip in the springs-fed Barton Springs Pool. Rent a boat and paddle along Lady Bird Lake. For a more secluded escape, hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt to find hidden swimming holes and limestone cliffs.
Relaxation: Indulge in a private soak at Austin’s natural hot springs, in Hill Country, or treat yourself to a luxurious spa day at Lake Austin Spa Resort, a tranquil waterfront haven offering world-class wellness treatments.
Shopping: For some Texas style, head to South Congress Avenue to pick up handcrafted boots at Heritage Boot, customized hats at Maufrais or high-end outdoor gear at the YETI flagship store.
Add-on destinations
Austin is an incredible destination on its own, but it’s so central you can easily add a day trip or weekend getaway. These add-ons are perfect whether you're craving outdoor adventure, world-class BBQ or small-town charm.
Hill Country hiking and swimming holes (30–45 minutes away): Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at McKinney Falls State Park or Pedernales Falls State Park. Both have scenic trails, waterfalls and natural swimming holes (favorites include Hamilton Pool Preserve and Jacob’s Well).
Lockhart (40 minutes away): Lockhart is a must for BBQ lovers. Home to legendary smokehouses like Kreuz Market, Black’s Barbecue and Smitty’s Market, you’ll find some of the best brisket and ribs in Texas here.
Fredericksburg (1.5 hours away): This charming, German-influenced town has over 100 wineries. You’ll love all the boutiques and restaurants, too. Stay at the stylish Albert Hotel, sip bourbon at Garrison Brothers Distillery or enjoy a pint at Altstadt Brewery. Visit in the fall for Oktoberfest celebrations.
Round Top (1.5 hours away): Design lovers flock to this tiny town, famous for its eponymous antiques fair. For a unique stay, book a weekend at the colorful, artsy Rancho Pillow, perfect for getaways or group buyouts.
San Antonio (1.5 hours away): Rich in history and culture, San Antonio is home to The Alamo, the scenic River Walk and the trendy Pearl District. Stay in style at Hotel Emma or Hotel Havana.
Waco (1.5 hours away): A must-visit for fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines, Waco is home to Magnolia Market, the Dr Pepper Museum and the beloved Magnolia Table restaurant.
Houston (2.5 hours away): A bustling metropolis known for NASA’s Space Center, world-class museums and an acclaimed food scene. Wander through the hip Montrose district for boutique shopping and unique cafés.
Dallas (3 hours away): Explore the Dallas Arts District, learn history at the Sixth Floor Museum and do some high-end shopping at Highland Park Village.
Marfa (6.5 hours away): A remote arts hub famous for Prada Marfa, The Chinati Foundation and the eerie Marfa Lights. Stay in style at El Cosmico or the unique Hotel Saint George.
Explore Ranches (Exclusive Texas Ranch Stays): Explore Ranches offers exclusive stays at private Texas ranches — perfect for reconnecting with nature in an unforgettable setting.
If not Austin…
If you’re drawn to Austin’s live music, vibrant food scene and outdoor adventures but want a different destination with similar energy, consider these alternatives.
Nashville, Tennessee: Another music capital, Nashville has legendary live venues, a booming culinary scene and plenty of Southern charm.
Denver, Colorado: Blending city culture with outdoor adventure, Denver is a beloved spot for foodies, craft-beer lovers and those who want scenic mountain views and hiking trails.
Portland, Oregon: Famous for its craft beer, food trucks and artsy, laid-back vibe, Portland offers a quirky alternative with easy access to an array of outdoor escapes.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: For a slower-paced retreat rich in art and culture. You’ll love Santa Fe’s adobe architecture, bustling local markets and desert hikes.
Charleston, South Carolina: If you love Austin’s blend of history and modern hotspots, Charleston brings together cobblestone streets, world-class dining and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
