Things To Do
South Congress
This is the best place to walk around, any time of day or night! Don't miss the Turbo coffee at Jo's and a photo at the famous "I love you so much" mural, the Italian sandwich at Home Slice, shopping at Stag Provisions and Tecovas, live music at The Continental Club, drinks at Equipment Room and White Tiger, dinner at Aba, Lucky Robot or Perla's, and, of course, ice cream at Amy's (Lauren's fave: Mexican vanilla with cookie dough; Adam's pick: Coffee with chocolate chips).
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
This is Austin's most famous trail that stretches for 10 miles along the river running through downtown Austin. You can't go wrong in choosing any stretch of the trail for a stroll.
The University of Texas
Lauren bleeds burnt orange, so we couldn’t resist recommending a drive around campus (“grounds”, for you UVA grads!). If you’re in the area and looking for coffee and pastries, Lucky Lab is your spot. If it’s lunch you need, Foodheads will make all your sandwich dreams come true. Hook’em!
Also:
Walk the Capitol grounds, visit The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, The Blanton Art Museum, or the LBJ Presidential Library, Hike Mount Bonnell, Two-Step at The Broken Spoke, play golf at Lions Municipal Golf Course or mini-golf at Peter Pan (fun for all ages - it's BYOB!).
Lauren's Coffee shop pick: Cosmic Coffee and Beer
This is Lauren’s favorite spot to hang out in all of Austin, any time of day. The frozen boozy coffee is a must, and you can't go wrong ordering from any of the food trucks on site! Don't leave the quesadilla taco from Pueblo Viejo out of your business.
Adam's Coffee shop pick: The Buzz Mill
Wondering where the local Austin hipsters hang out? It’s here. Pro tip: spike your latte with a shot of their house-infused alcohols behind the bar.
Joint Coffee shop pick: Better Half Coffee & Cocktails
Casual, order-at-the-counter eatery with spacious outdoor seating and top-notch drinks, food and vibes. This is a go-to for any meal, any time. Try the cauliflower tots and the queso and whatever seasonal salad they have on the menu. And the breakfast sandwich. And the chicken biscuit. Just get everything. Plus there's a brewery right next door!
Honorable Mention: Swedish Hill
We take our sourdough seriously and there is no better place to pair your latte with their baked goods and a turkey sandwich.
Lauren's Restaurant pick: Matt's El Rancho
Go for the Knockout Mexican Martinis and lively atmosphere. A large Bob, the Asadero tacos, steak fajitas and chicken quesadillas are the food standouts. An Austin institution perfect for bigger groups, walk in only. There might be a wait during peak mealtimes.
Adam's Restaurant pick: Salty Sow
Traditional Texan fare & one of Adam’s favorite restaurants in town. They also have a great happy hour from 4:30-6:30 daily!
Joint Restaurant PIck: Odd Duck
Local standout serving seasonal small plates and great cocktails with stellar service. This is on almost every Austinite’s “best of” list, and for good reason! We usually hit it seasonally to try new menu items, but always get the cornbread!
Honorable Mention: De Nada Cantina
Consensus: one of the best margaritas in town. Get the De Nada Trio, allll the tacos, the bean and cheese quesadilla, and a large house marg in the souvenir pink cup to take back home with you! It's ridiculous how many of these cups Lauren has.
Lauren's Bar Pick: Nickel City
This place is iconic for a reason - the energy is always good, the cocktails are always interesting, and the bar food is on point. Just make sure you wash it all down with a boozy frozen Irish coffee!
Adam's Bar Pick: Lavaca Street Bar
This is the best sports bar (+ blackened chicken nachos!) in downtown, don’t miss the outdoor courtyard in the back!
Joint Bar Pick: Péché
Dark, moody downtown bar with a lengthy, impressive cocktail list and killer French food. Underrated spot you can usually walk-in to, plus great happy hour!
Honorable Mention: The Driskill Bar
This is as classic old school Texas as it gets! Great for groups and great for espresso martinis.
So you wanna dance?! The White Horse
Our favorite honky-tonk with good ol' fashioned Texas Two-Step (plus lessons on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:00 PM!), just a short walk from the hotel!