Austin

Texas's vibrant capital city known for live music, tech innovation, and a progressive cultural scene. Visit for the iconic 6th Street nightlife, Congress Avenue bats, and excellent food and brewery scene.

Things to do

• Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Colony — Watch over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at dusk from beneath the bridge, a spectacular natural phenomenon especially vibrant from May to November.
• 6th Street Live Music Venues — Experience Austin's legendary live music scene by bar-hopping along 6th Street where nearly every venue features local and touring bands nightly.
• Lady Bird Lake Trail — Bike or jog the scenic 10-mile hike-and-bike trail circling Lady Bird Lake with views of downtown skyline, parks, and wildlife.
• State Capitol Building and Grounds — Tour the pink granite capitol building and its surrounding 22-acre park, featuring monuments and native Texas plants, with free guided tours available.
• South Congress Avenue (SoCo) — Stroll the eclectic retail and dining district known for vintage shops, street art, local boutiques, and the iconic South Congress Bridge graffiti.
• Barton Springs Pool — Swim in this spring-fed natural pool that maintains a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round, located within Zilker Park.
• Food Truck Circuit on East 6th Street — Explore the concentration of award-winning food trucks serving tacos, barbecue, and global cuisine along East 6th Street near Rainey Street.

Food to try

• Austin-Style BBQ Brisket — Sample slow-smoked brisket seasoned simply with salt and pepper from legendary pitmasters like Franklin Barbecue or la Barbecue, a Texas staple.
• Breakfast Tacos — Try the local breakfast staple of flour or corn tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon, and salsa, available at taquerias throughout the city.
• Tex-Mex and Queso — Enjoy creamy queso dip with chorizo or jalapeños paired with chips at Austin's numerous Tex-Mex restaurants like Matt's El Rancho.
• Texas Czech Kolaches — Sample sweet or savory pastries with fruit or meat fillings reflecting the Czech immigrant heritage found at local bakeries and food trailers.
• Craft Beer and Brewery Tours — Discover Austin's thriving craft beer scene with over 30 breweries offering tours and tastings, from Austinite-owned spots to national favorites.

Local customs & good to know

• Keep Austin Weird — Embrace the city's motto celebrating individuality, local businesses, and quirky culture; support independent shops and venues rather than chains.
• Live Music Everywhere — Austin has more live music venues per capita than any U.S. city—expect live performances at bars, coffee shops, parks, and street corners day and night.
• Tech and Innovation Hub — The city's identity blends music and nightlife with a booming tech sector; be aware of rapid growth, rising costs, and a young, entrepreneurial demographic.
• Outdoor Activity Culture — Austinites prioritize outdoor recreation year-round; hiking, biking, swimming, and paddling are central to local life, so plan activities accordingly.