Kathryn & Matthew
Things To Do
Lou’s Eastside
This was our first stop of three places on our first date! Enjoy some food here then take a walk to Drinks Lounge where we enjoyed some great music and a game of pool. There's also a Lou's by Barton Springs which is another good location and maybe closer for some.
Rowing Dock
You can try to cure your hangover with a relaxing kayak or paddle board when you rent from Rowing Dock! If you head east, you will have a beautiful view of the downtown area by Lou Neff Point, and if you go South from there, you will find yourself at Barton Springs.
Barton Springs Municipal Pool
It might be too chilly to swim but you can enjoy one of the Austin staples, Barton Springs natural pool. The water maintains a 68-70 degree temperature year round! No food or beverages other than water are allowed inside the pool area, and tickets are required.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Alongside Zilker Park is a walking trail that you can enjoy. If you'd prefer something a little more relaxed, pack some snacks and have a picnic at the same location where they host the ACL music festival! Also at Lou Neff Point in the corner of the park there's a great view of downtown and the river.
Armadillo Den
This a great spot for some live music and good food! One of Kat's favorite places.
Terry Black's Barbecue
You're in Texas so this is your BBQ reccomendation and our favorite. Lines could be a little long at times, but the place is huge and well run. Fantastic BBQ of course. There's also Black's BBQ (the rival family BBQ) on Guadulpe St which is just as good.
Congress Avenue
Congress Avenue has lots of shopping and restaurants. Here is where you can find Tecovas, Kate Spade's flagship store, and one of Austin's favorite pizza joints, Home Slice.
The Continental Club
Legendary South Congress club for rock, country, jazz & blues acts. Usually a small cover at the door at nights, but not much. Fun place to see a show. Great date night spot or if just looking to see some live music.
Broken Spoke
On our third date, we took a two-stepping lesson at one of Austin's oldest dance halls! Matthew notes the places is not kind to tall people with its short ceilings but only here can you eat a chicken fried steak and then walk ten feet to go two-stepping. Usually will have a live band on weekend nights.
Matt's El Rancho
Tasty Tex-Mex restaurant. What is Tex-Mex? Large portions and Queso really, and this place has awesome Queso.
Pease District Park
Family friendly park features trails, picnic space, sports courts & an annual public party in honor of Eeyore. Also has a treehouse and a large troll scultupre. Yes, a troll, and it's name is Malin.
Mort Subite Belgian Beer Bar
A vast list of Belgian beers & spirits in a rustic tavern with a European vibe, plus front & back patios. Also a Spanish food truck there. Kat and Matthew stop for a drink when they are roaming downtown.
Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom
Fun location on East 6th street with plenty of other bars and restaurants to hop to. This place has the Spicy Boy's food truck which has great fried chicken and tots.
Radio Coffee & Beer
Great place for a casual outing any time of day. Has a couple food trucks, including Pueblo Viejo which has good tacos. If getting into town early, also has Trivia on Thursday nights.
Kat's google document of recommendations
Kat has lived in Austin for almost 5 years, and ever since she has been here, she has been exploring the best food and activities to enjoy! This is a list of places she has been too with some comments about the type of atmosphere or food. If you have questions or want more info about a certain place feel free to reach out to Kat!