Things To Do, Eat, and See

Barton Springs Municipal Pool

This is a natural spring pool with super cold water that helps to beat the heat. Passes are $10 for non-Austin residents. Download the ATX Swims app to buy your tickets ahead of time and skip the long ticket kiosk lines. No food/drinks/alcohol allowed. Parking situation: There are two main lots, one off of Barton Springs Road, and a smaller one off of Azie Morton Road. Both metered.

Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail

This trail goes through the middle of the city and is a great place to get some sun and a good walk in. Parking Situation: Various parking lots along the trail and will vary based on which direction you're coming in from. Parking is free after 4pm on weekdays and on Saturdays and Sundays.

Paperboy

This is a favorite breakfast/brunch spot, so much so they recently added a second location (one on East 11th, one on South Lamar). Reservations are highly recommended as each location typically books 2 weeks out. Parking situation: For East Austin: There is a small parking lot adjacent to the restaurant and street parking on East 10th. For South Lamar: Parking available in the back of the building, validated by the restaurant.

Super Thai Cuisine

Go for the: edamame, pad see-ew, pad kee mow Parking situation: Parking is limited, but there are surrounding neighborhood streets to park on a short walk away. If you can find a spot in the parking lot, Super Thai will comp 2 hours.

Tikka House Indian Eatery

A newer restaurant that's located next to Super Thai and has also become a favorite for us. Parking situation: Similar to Super Thai, Tikka House will comp parking for up to 2 hours if you are able to park in their lot. Surrounding neighborhood streets are also available.

Terry Black's Barbecue

The debate on the best BBQ in Austin is never-ending, and Terry Black's is always named in that conversation! Parking situation: Terry Black's has a small parking lot attached to it, as well as a lot across the street on Dawson Road.

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Aba Austin

A mediterranean-style restaurant with a pretty ambiance, perfect for Happy Hour! Parking Situation: Back-in parking along South Congress avenue or metered parking in side streets. You may also visit the host stand after dining to receive a $3 discount when self-parking in Music Lane's underground parking garage, located at the intersection of South Congress and Music Lane. You may also book parking with SpotHero.

Zilker Botanical Garden

South Congress Avenue

South Congress Avenue has a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels. Home to Aba, White Tiger, and one of the Amy's Ice Creams locations on this list, and also a neat place to walk around.

Desnudo Coffee: East Austin

One of Sabrina's favorite coffee spots. There are two locations in East Austin and downtown.

White Tiger

Located in the heart of South Congress, a great live music spot. Parking Situation: back-in parking along South Congress avenue or metered parking in side streets.

Broken Spoke

A Texas two-stepping dance hall. If you choose to take a Two-Stepping lesson, make sure you bring cash (around $20 per person). There is an ATM, but it is sometimes out of service. Parking situation: A small parking lot in front, with parking available on side streets as well.

Zanzibar

A super cool rooftop spot with tropical vibes.

Amy's Ice Creams

There are a variety of locations of Amy's across Austin.