Local Guide
Barton Springs Pool
The water at Barton Springs Pool stays a refreshing 67°F year-round and is truly the crown jewel of the city. Feeling brave enough to take the plunge? The water is famously restorative, the vibes are pure Austin, and there are plenty of great spots nearby to grab a bite afterward.
Lady Bird Hike and Bike Trail
Looking for outdoor activities? Head to Lady Bird Lake, known to locals as Town Lake for walking, biking, kayaking, and some of the best skyline views in the city.
Mount Bonnell
Take a scenic drive to Mount Bonnell, then climb about 100 steps to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Austin. The short hike is well worth it for the sweeping city and Hill Country views.
South Congress
South Congress (SoCo) in Austin offers a vibrant, walkable shopping scene with unique boutiques, iconic boot stores like Allens Boots, vintage shops, trendy apparel, and souvenir spots, blending Austin's quirky charm with modern retail, alongside live music venues like The Continental Club and famous murals.
Home Slice Pizza
Home Slice Pizza serves what we consider one of the best slices in the U.S. A great stop while exploring South Congress, especially if you add a cold sub to your order.
Taqueria Diez de Diez 10/10
We never miss a chance to have some of THE BEST tacos and quesadillas in Austin at Taqueria 10/10. They have a new location on S. Lamar too!
Matt's El Rancho
Rob disagrees, but I stand by this one: Matt’s El Rancho is an Austin classic for Tex-Mex, strong margaritas, and a spring-perfect patio. The Asadero Taco even landed on Texas Monthly’s “120 Tacos You Must Eat Before You Die” list. Pro move: Bob Armstrong queso (86 the guac, add whole black beans) and an Altos frozen margarita or Knockout Mexican Martini. 🌮🍹
la Barbecue
You can’t visit Austin without trying our BBQ. We highly recommend LaBarbecue, a Michelin-starred favorite two years in a row. Arrive early, they’re known to sell out. But watch out, it has a little spice to it!
Ling Wu at Lantana Place
For some of the best Chinese food in Austin, visit Ling Wu, or Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum in Downtown, one of our go-to favorites. They're known for exceptional dim sum. Don’t miss the soup dumplings, shrimp har gow, or the GF pecan shrimp.
HOPE Outdoor Gallery
The long awaited The HOPE Outdoor Gallery is back! A vibrant, free-admission outdoor art park features massive murals by street artists on large walls, with designated areas for the public to paint and create their own graffiti. Known for its "Helping Other People Everywhere" (HOPE) mission, the gallery offers curated artist spaces, public painting walls, a cafe, and an art supply shop, so you can participate in Austin's creative spirit.