A WEEKEND TRAVEL GUIDE TO AUSTIN, TEXAS

Austin, Texas is a vibrant city that has a little something for everyone: concerts for the music enthusiast, water activities for the adventure seeker, a thriving culinary scene for the foodie, and so much more! Each visit is a unique opportunity for a bucket list-worthy experience, and no two trips are alike!

After 6 years away, I finally had the opportunity to return to my home state with Travel Texas and explore one of my favorite cities in the U.S.! I spent a weekend in Austin uncovering the hottest restaurants, trendiest cocktail lounges and best wineries; top things to see + do; and, of course, I had to round up the best coffee shops in the city! So whether you're visiting Austin for the first time, or you’re a local looking to try something new, I've got you covered with where to stay, play & eat!

Where to Stay in Austin, TX

From the moment I laid eyes on the Austin Proper Hotel, I knew I had to stay here! This beautifully designed hotel is located in Downtown Austin and features artistic vintage and modern touches throughout. The rooms are stunning, beds are luxe, and the rooftop pool boasting views of Lady Bird Lake is a total vibe! The hotel also features The Peacock, an upscale restaurant serving Mediterranean fare, in addition to two stunning bars (Psst … Goldie’s is open to hotel guests by reservation-only; if you stay here, I definitely recommend making time for a drink in this intimate lounge, tucked away near the front entrance!).

Best Things To See + Do in Austin, TX

• Get Tickets to a Live Concert: Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin’s concerts and music festivals are unrivaled. When in Austin, you must attend a concert! Stubb’s is my favorite outdoor music venue in the city, and I’ve been so lucky to see some of my favorite pop and rock bands perform here over the years (Panic! at the Disco, The Script and Hot Chelle Rae, to name a few!).

• Kayak on Lady Bird Lake: If you love a good outdoor adventure, don’t miss an opportunity to get out on the water! Located in the heart of the city, Lady Bird Lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin. Stop by the Rowing Dock to rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board and see the city from the water!

• Pennybacker Bridge / 360 Bridge Overlook Trail: Nature lovers, rejoice! A brisk, 10 minute hike along the 360 Bridge Overlook Trail will reward you with beautiful, panoramic views of the Pennybacker Bridge.

  • Getting there: route to 5300 N Capital of Texas Highway. When you arrive, you’ll see a row of cars on the right side — that’s where the trail begins!

  • Travel Tip: Though the hike is quick, this trail is a bit rocky and unpaved, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes!

• Visit Austin’s Famous Murals: Take a self-guided tour and snap a photo for the ‘gram in front of Austin’s most unique and colorful murals! Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Greetings From Austin — 1720 S. First Street

  • I Love You So Much — 1300 S. Congress Avenue (at Jo’s Coffee)

  • Love From Austin — 1912 S. Congress Avenue

  • Hi, How Are You? — Guadalupe Street & 21st Street

  • Kobe & Gianna — 2912 Guadalupe Street

• Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk: Grab a cup of coffee (see below for my favs!) and stroll along Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk while you take in some of the best views of the city’s skyline!

• Indulge in Some Good Ole Texas BBQ: If you’ve never had Texas BBQ, you’re in for a real treat! Some local favorites include Franklin Barbecue, La BBQ, Terry Black’s Barbecue, and Stiles Switch BBQ. Pro Tip: Don’t skip the sides — they’re my favorite part!

• Go Wine Tasting in Texas Hill Country: Texas Hill Country is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards, each sharing their unique history and distinctive approach to winemaking. If you don’t have enough time for a full weekend getaway, escape for a day trip like I did, and sip your way through Texas Wine Country! Here are a few spots to get you started in planning your wine tasting tour:

  • William Chris Vineyards

  • Augusta Vin Winery

  • Signor Vineyards

  • Barons Creek Vineyards

  • Slate Theory Winery

• Visit the Texas State Capitol: Measuring just over 300 feet tall, the Texas State Capitol stands 14 feet higher than the US Capitol in Washington, D.C.! This historic building is an architectural gem and totally worth checking out! Join a free guided tour to learn more about the ornate details, or take a stroll outside and admire the beautiful grounds!

• Have A Picnic at Zilker Park: I love how lively and energetic Zilker Park is — it’s the perfect place to pack a picnic and spend a sunny day with your family or friends!

Where to Find Amazing Coffee in Austin, TX

• Palomino

• Mañana (at the South Congress Hotel)

• Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors

• Greater Goods Coffee Roasting Co.

• Two Hands

• Jo’s Coffee (grab a Belgian Bomber)

Where to Eat + Drink in Austin, TX

• Aba’s Restaurant: Aba’s is a Mediterranean restaurant with the most enchanting outdoor seating area — everything from the ambiance to the cocktails and the food here is to die for. Picture yourself surrounded by charming lanterns and lush greenery as you taste your way through richly flavored dishes! (PS: My favorite things on the menu were the Muhammara and the Short Rib Hummus!)

• Lenoir: This local Austin restaurant serves flavorful farm-to-table food in a vintage-chic space and has the most inviting wine garden out back. Not only is it the cutest spot for a night out, but the food & wine is some of the best in the city!

• Comedor: We came here for brunch and it did not disappoint — we dined in an airy indoor/outdoor space, perfectly designed for anyone searching for a little piece of Mexico City in Austin! Psst … Don’t sleep on the cajeta & brown butter pancake!

• Lutie’s at Commodore Perry Estate: Snag a reservation well in advance to dine here, or arrive as they open to grab a drink and light bites at the bar. The vibes are immaculate, complete with checkered tiles, hanging plants and an impressive cocktail menu!

• The Peacock: Located inside the Austin Proper Hotel, The Peacock features wholesome Israeli and Turkish-inspired mezze and wood-grilled items.

• Cuantos Tacos: A must-try food truck in Austin, serving up Mexico City style tacos on nixtamal tortillas! Don’t be fooled by these bite-sized tacos — they’re packed full of flavor!

• Veracruz All Natural: We love the breakfast tacos here!

• Stiles Switch BBQ: This local barbecue joint serves up more than just delicious brisket — the smoked wings, corn casserole and beef ribs were pretty delicious too! I was so thrilled to have my Texas BBQ fix, and all I can say is: there was no better way to close out a weekend in Austin!

• The Roosevelt Room: Posted up in a swanky, industrial space, the bartenders here are true artists! Kick off your night here, or stop by for a nightcap — either way, you’ll sip on some of the most innovative craft cocktails you’ve ever had.

• Kinfolk Lounge & Library: This intimate, reservation-only cocktail lounge (located in the historic cellar below Moonshine Grill) will give you all the speakeasy vibes and transport you back in time. The staff is extremely welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable, making the entire experience one to remember.

• Here are a few more highly-recommended restaurants I’ll be saving for my next trip to Austin:

  • Loro

  • Nixta Taqueria

  • Cafe No Se

  • Taquero Mucho

  • Zanzibar

  • Perla’s

Travel Tip: Many restaurants we visited required reservations in advance, so make sure to plan ahead!

Spending a full weekend experiencing the very best of Austin — from its scenic outdoor adventures by day to the bustling alfresco patios at night — I was truly blown away by how unique each trip to Texas can really be. I already can’t wait to return and experience what pops up next!

I hope this curated guide is a helpful resource and that it inspires you to Get Your Own Trip to Texas!

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This post was created in partnership with Travel Texas.
As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.