Probably the most popular BBQ place in Austin - they have great ribs, jalapeno cheddar sausage and our favorite sides (and close to welcome drinks!)
Really good BBQ place right by the hotel. The brisket is great, but they have ~30 different meats to try
Great Mexican fusion place right by the river (reservations recommended, close to welcome drinks!)
Wide variety of food - you can't go wrong with anything on the menu (reservations recommended but you can walk up)
A more upscale BBQ place - really good meats but in a slightly fancier setting (reservations needed)
Traditional Mexican food (not Tex-Mex) in a more relaxed setting (reservations needed)
Nice rooftop bar overlooking the river. If you go around sunset, you will also be able to see the bats fly out while you are there (reservations needed +1 month out)
Cool rooftop bar downtown
A great assortment of Belgian beer!
Our favorite nightlife area with tons of bars - we would recommend Cosmic Saltillo, Whistler's, Lefty's Brick Bar, Zilker Brewing (the food truck there is great), White Horse, Shangri-La and Austin Garden
This trail goes all throughout the city and runs along the river. Very nice/relaxing scenery and a good way to see the city from a bit further out. Take a walk here in the morning before the festivities!
BYOB mini golf place that is an Austin staple (and close to welcome drinks!)
Long-standing, famous live music venue in Austin
An indoor arcade with views of the lake/downtown. They also make their own cider - this is a great option if it's cold/rainy
A high-tech shuffle board bar - we love this place and a lot of fun to go with a group
This museum on LBJ is really well done. A great option if it's cold/rainy!
It's common for people to rent paddle boards or kayaks and go out on the lake when they visit Austin. There are tons of rental options along the river and it's a lot of fun
You can stand on this bridge and watch the bats fly out every night around sunset
Huge park in Austin where you can see the entire city skyline (and close to welcome drinks!)
Natural spring-fed pool. Really unique vibe and great views of the city as well. The water is 65 degrees year round & it's free in November!