Things To Do
South Congress
Need a new pair of boots or just looking for an excuse to buy something? Unique shops, restaurants, and street art (like the "I Love You So Much" mural). Great place to wander and 'bop' around.
Lady Bird Lake Trail
Access to this riverside trail is just minutes from Hotel Van Zandt and offers fresh air with beautiful views. Our favorite place to walk and bike.
Trail of Lights Austin
A magical, walk-through holiday light display — iconic Austin tradition. Tickets required.
Bar Districts
3 Bar Districts depending on your vibe: - West 6th - Shortlist: Parlor & Yard, Little Woodrow's, Dirty Bills (where Shelby and I met!!) - Vibe: Will probably be quieter during this time of the year, still divey and great for sports watching at Parlor and Woody's!! - East 6th - Shortlist: Lucky Duck, Latchkey, Hotel Vegas - Vibe: Divey, weird, and very Austin. Think cheap drinks, good music, and no dress code (this is what chatGPT says, there's no dress code anywhere in Austin) - Rainy Street (walking distance from Hotel Van Zandt! but the least cool of the three :( ) - Shortlist: Bungalow, Banger's Sausage House and Beer Garden, The Stay Put) - Vibe: Bungalow bars, string lights, and food trucks. Super chill, walkable, and easy to post up for a few hours
Food Recommendations
Texas Barbeque Terry Black’s, La Barbecue, Franklin's World-famous BBQ (pro tip: pre-order or go early to avoid lines) TexMex Is it really even a trip to Texas without some TexMex? Some of our favorites: Matt's El Rancho, El Alma, La Piscina
Texas Capitol
Free tours are available — beautiful architecture and history, if you're into that kind of thing.
Honky Tonk - Wanna Dance??
Broken Spoke or White Horse Classic Texas honky-tonk with dance lessons and live country music.