Things To Do
South Congress Avenue
If this is your first visit to Austin or one of your firsts, South Congress is the perfect place to walk around. There are tons of shopping spots (Allan's Boots is a must), restaurants, and Austin charm with a great view of the Capitol.
Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail
Right in the middle of Austin, Lady Bird Lake is one of our favorite spots to get outside. It’s the perfect place to catch some fresh air and get your steps in if you want to get active.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs is a landmark here. It’s an ice-cold natural spring right in the middle of Zilker Park. In November here, it will either be the perfect temperature to sit outside or chilly, and I would skip if it's chilly out. Make sure to come with $10/person to get in. A great alternative to picnic is Zilker Park right next door.
Texas Capitol
You can’t miss the Texas State Capitol when downtown. The grounds are perfect for a stroll, and it’s right downtown, so it’s an easy stop if you’re exploring the city.
Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library
The Austin Central Library is modern, bright, and full of cool spaces to read, work, or just explore. With a rooftop garden, local art, and a killer view of downtown, it’s a surprisingly fun spot to check out while you’re in the city.
Terry Black's Barbecue
If you’re looking for great Texas barbecue, this is the spot.
ATX Cocina
ATX Cocina is an upscale Mexican-inspired small plates/tapas-style restaurant. They focus on shareable dishes with creative twists on traditional Mexican flavors—so it’s perfect if you are looking for a nicer dinner and want to try a bunch of different things instead of just ordering one entree.
Odd Duck
Our favorite sit-down restaurant in Austin. Farm-to-table style food. Odd Duck is one of the city’s best spots for creative, shareable dishes made with 100% local ingredients.
Matt's El Rancho
Matt’s has been serving Tex-Mex in Austin since the ’50s. Order a margarita and the famous Bob Armstrong Dip. Big portions, lively atmosphere, but there can be wait times.
Home Slice Pizza
A classic in-and-out spot on South Congress with the best Italian sub in town and great pizza slices.
Torchy's Tacos
Best local "fast food" option for a quick lunch.
Quickie Pickie
Coffee, beer, breakfast tacos, or sandwiches. This one-stop shop has it all. Austin's best hybrid of a convenience store, bar, and cafe!
Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz is a must for Austin breakfast tacos. Fresh and simple.
Bird Bird Biscuit
Great breakfast chicken biscuits. Order online for pick-up to cut the line (breakfast is tough without prior reservations in this city).
The White Horse
Live country music, cheap drinks, and plenty of room to two-step—or just hang out. This is right on East 6th Street, which has a strip of bars within walking distance. Great if you want to see ATX nightlife and bar hop around.
Donn's Depot
Donn’s Depot is one of Austin’s most beloved dive bars, tucked inside a historic 1940s train depot. Live music is a staple here—everything from local bands to up-and-coming acts. This is less central to the bar scene than White Horse, but it has a great dive bar across the street called Mean Eyed Cat that is fun to hit as well.
The Continental Club
A vintage live music spot with great cocktails.
Upstairs at Caroline
A rooftop bar right downtown. Great cocktails, good music, and plenty of room to hang out with friends. It also has a great city skyline view for sunset.
Powder Room
Upscale cocktail lounge close to Upstairs at Caroline. They have a "hand your phone at the door" policy!