Pack your boots and birks but leave your expectations at home because Austin isn’t
your average Texas town, it’s a whole vibe!! Its where live music is basically a birthright,
tacos come with a cult following, and every street corner tells a story through a murals,
sometimes an old-school neon signs.
Doesn’t matter if you’re headed there for a honky-tonk weekend with the girls, a hipster
vacay for the vintage markets and rooftop pools or a little R&R in this city of personality,
this 3-day guide will spill all the salsa on where to stay, what to eat, and how to make
your Instagram feed jealous. We’re talking hotels with charm, restaurants locals won’t
shut up about, hidden landmarks, art scenes that pop harder than your spicy margarita,
and enough quirky local tips to make you feel like an Austin insider before you even
unpack.
So, grab your reusable cup (because Austin loves Mother Earth), loosen that belt
(because of the BBQ), and let’s dive into the ultimate weekend wander Austin style.
Where to Stay in Austin (by vibe, not just stars)
Cool & Casual
Hotel San José– This boutique bungalow style gem on South Congress screams
artsy chill. Think minimalist rooms, lush courtyards, and typewriters in the lobby.
You’ll feel like you just joined an underground creative retreat.
Location: South Congress (SoCo)
The Carpenter Hotel – Housed in an old union hall, this place is part retro-
industrial, part poolside oasis. It’s where design nerds and breakfast taco
aficionados unite. Location: Zilker/Barton Springs
Sophisticated but Funky
Hotel Van Zandt – A polished hotel with major local swagger, attached to the
infamous Rainey Street scene. Rooftop pool, nightly music, and that classic
Austin edge. Location: Rainey Street District
The LINE Austin – Mid-century modern meets downtown lakeside cool. Expect
local art, a hipster rooftop bar, and sunset views over Lady Bird Lake.
Location: Downtown/Lakefront
Luxe but Laid-Back
Commodore Perry Estate – An actual historic mansion with whimsical interiors,
lush gardens, and Gilded Age vibes. Think Great Gatsby goes Texan.
Location: Hancock Neighborhood
Four Seasons Hotel Austin – Sophisticated Southern charm lakeside serenity. It’s luxe that feels relaxed not fussy. Perk it’s just steps from the city buzz. Location: Downtown Lakefront
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Top Things to Do
(Where weird meets wonderful—and your weekend becomes legendary.)
Kayak Lady Bird Lake at Sunset
Paddle through the heart of downtown with skyline views so good, you’ll question reality.
It’s peaceful, picturesque, and gives you front-row seats to the bat show (yes, real bats).
Watch the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats Take Flight
Every night from March to October, 1.5 million bats emerge in a swirling, spooky cloud
over Lady Bird Lake. It’s weird, it’s wild, and it’s so Austin.
Explore the Shops, Murals & Magic of South Congress (SoCo)
From quirky boutiques and vintage finds to iconic murals (hello, “I love you so much”),
SoCo is Austin’s artsy playground. Coffee in one hand, tacos in the other.
Catch Live Music on Rainey Street
Old bungalows turned into bungalow bars? Yes, please. Grab a local brew and groove
to everything from indie to blues in this funky little music district.
Swim (or people-watch) at Barton Springs Pool
Three acres of spring-fed chill and the unofficial headquarters for sun-soaked locals.
Pack a towel, leave your worries, and bring your weirdest floatie.
Visit the Texas State Capitol
Bigger than the U.S. Capitol (because, of course), it’s free to enter, insanely photogenic,
and surprisingly not boring especially when you add a ghost story or two.
Eat Your Way Through East Austin’s Food Truck Scene
One street, 27 food trucks, and at least 4 types of tacos. Bonus points if you find the
hidden gelato trailer.
Chill (or snap selfies) at Mount Bonnell
A short hike, stunning views over the Colorado River, and maybe even a proposal or
two. This one’s golden hour gold.
Tour the LBJ Presidential Library
History nerds and curious minds will love this beautifully curated collection. Bonus: Air
conditioning.
Day Trip to Hamilton Pool Preserve
Just 45 minutes outside the city, this collapsed grotto, and natural pool is straight out of
a fairytale. Reservations required but oh-so-worth-it.
Groove at a Live Show on Sixth Street
Sixth Street isn’t just for party animals. It’s also where up-and-coming bands test their
magic. Duck into a dive, grab a Lone Star, and see who’s about to blow up. My favorite
is the Blind Pig, but you choose.
Check Out the Cathedral of Junk It’s literally a towering cathedral made of…wait for it…junk. It’s chaotic, creative, and completely like you’ve never seen.
Bonus: The Longhorn Saloon for Chicken Sh!t Bingo.
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like…and yes, it’s iconic!! Every Sunday afternoon, a
chicken struts around a numbered board and does its business. If its “lands” on your
number, you win. It’s part live music, part honky-tonk hilarity, and totally unforgettable.
Don’t knock it till you’ve cheered it on.
♥ This post contains some affiliate links. If you purchase something I’ve recommended, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your support and hope this guide helps you!
Bite Into Austin: Where to Eat
Breakfast Bliss
Veracruz All Natural – Legendary migas tacos and fresh juices. Locals swear by it.
Location: Multiple food truck parks.
Paperboy – Chic brunch spot with rooftop views, sourdough French toast, and a farm-to-table soul. Location: East 11th St
Magnolia Cafe – Open 24/8 (yes, really), a retro diner that’s been keeping Austin weird and well-fed since before avocado toast was a thing. The gingerbread pancakes are legendary, and the vibe is pure local magic. Location: South Congress
Lunch Legends
Loro – Asian smokehouse meets Texas BBQ, founded by the minds behind Uchi and Franklin BBQ. Order the brisket sandwich. Trust! Location: South Lamar
Perla’s – Seafood in a landlocked city? Trust us. This upscale spot is a total SoCo staple, dishing out oysters and lobster rolls under shady oaks. It’s where locals take out-of-towners to show off. Location: South Congress
Caroline – Modern, bright, and stylish without trying too hard. It’s all-day menu delivers elevated comfort food right across from the Paramount Theatre. If the weather is good, snag a patio table.
Dinner with a Side of Wow
Uchi – Award-winning sushi in a repurposed bungalow. High-end, but totally
worth it. Location: South Lamar
Suerte – Elevated Mexican with handmade masa dishes that dance on your taste
buds. Location: East Austin
Late Night Bites
Home Slice Pizza – You haven’t done SoCo right if you didn’t stumble into Home
Slice for a post-bar slice. Open late, loud, and always busy (in the best way), this
NYC-style pizza joint slings pies with a side of sass and soul. Location: SoCo
Neighborhood Vibes: Where to Hang
South Congress (SoCo) – Trendy shops, vintage neon, and street performers galore.
East Austin – Creative, gritty, foodie-central. Murals, mezcal, and indie everything.
Downtown/Rainey Street – High-energy nights, historic homes turned bars, and rooftops with live DJs.
Zilker/Barton Hills – Laid-back, green, and local. Great for outdoor adventures and by the river few tourists know.
Mayfield Park – Tranquil gardens, koi ponds, and actual peacocks strutting around.
Cathedral of Junk – A backyard sculpture of pure chaos and brilliance.
Shopping Scene
Allen’s Boots – Legendary cowboy boot mecca.
ByGeorge – Elevated fashion for the effortlessly cool.
Parts & Labour – Local artisan gifts and funky souvenirs.
Uncommon Objects – Antique heaven with serious Austin character.
Feathers Boutique – Vintage wear with serious fashion cred.
Art + Instagram Spot
Blanton Museum of Art – Contemporary meets classic.
The Contemporary Austin – Sculptures, installations, and that “deep thinker” vibe.
Murals to Snap
o I Love You So Much (Jo’s Coffee, SoCo)
o Greetings from Austin (1st Street)
o You’re My Butter Half (East MLK)
When to Visit: Seasonal Vibes
Spring (March-May) – Bluebonnets are in bloom, patios reopen, and the weather is perfect.
Summer (June-August) – Hot (and most days humid), but perfect for pool- hopping and sunset cocktails.
Fall (Sept-Nov) – Music festivals, mild temps, and fewer tourists.
Winter (Dec-Feb) – Still walkable, with festive lights and no need for snow boots.
Getting There + Getting Around
Fly into Austin – Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) – 15-minute ride to downtown.
Getting Around – Rideshares are easy, but biking and walking downtown/South
Congress are clutch. Scooters are everywhere, and if you’re feeling adventurous,
rent an electric moped or pedal pub.
Tip: Parking downtown is tricky. Use garages over meters for less stress. Or better yet…ditch the car and stay walkable.
3 Local Secrets to Know Before You Go
- Locals Swim in the Greenbelt – Access the Barton Creek Greenbelt from Spyglass or 360 Trailhead for hidden watering holes and cliff-jumping spots.
- Go Early for Tacos – The best taco joints sell out by 10am. Real ones know.
- Mural Magic is Sunrise Best – Get those mural snaps early for good light and no photobombers.
A Little Texas Toast
Austin is definitely a mood in all the best ways!! It hits that perfect spot between
Southern hospitality and hipster charm, all wrapped up in a free-spirited, unapologetic
vibe. It’s loud where it should be, chill where it matters, and never tries too hard
because it doesn’t have to. Not to sound too cliché, but Austin is the kind of trip you’ll
be talking about for a long time. Like “Remember those bomb tacos?” “Remember
when we danced to that live band on 6th?” “Or watched Chicken Sh*t Bingo like it was
a sport?” Some you can’t divulge 😉
Sure, you can do a lot in three days. But if you want to really want to embrace
everything Austin has to offer, stay a little longer… or just plan your next trip back before
your flight even leaves.
If you only do one thing? Dive into Barton Springs to shake off the Texas heat, then
head over to the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk to watch thousands of bats fly out
from underneath. It’s weird. It’s wild…It’s Austin!
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