Wednesday, September 13: Arrival and Downtown Exploration
Start your Austin adventure by exploring the vibrant downtown area. In the morning, visit the State Capitol Building, a stunning piece of architecture and an important historical landmark. In the afternoon, head to the Lady Bird Lake Trail and enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic lakeshore. As the evening rolls in, make your way to Rainey Street, a charming neighborhood filled with converted houses turned into hip bars and restaurants.
State Capitol Building: Free, 1-2 hours
Lady Bird Lake Trail: Free, 1-2 hours
Rainey Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Thursday, September 14: Cultural Exploration
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene of Austin. Start your day at the Blanton Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artwork. In the afternoon, visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn about the history and culture of Texas. As evening approaches, make your way to the iconic 6th Street, known for its lively nightlife and live music venues.
Blanton Museum of Art: $12, 2-3 hours
Bullock Texas State History Museum: $13, 2-3 hours
6th Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Magnolia Cafe, a local favorite known for its hearty dishes and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Lunch: Enjoy a tasty meal at Eberly, a historic restaurant with modern American cuisine. The elegant ambiance and rooftop patio make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at For the Light Bulb, a contemporary farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on seasonally-driven dishes. The unique menu and cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit spot. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Friday, September 15: Outdoor Adventures
Explore the natural beauty surrounding Austin. In the morning, visit the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool perfect for a refreshing dip. Afterward, head to Zilker Park and rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the peaceful waters of Lady Bird Lake. As the day progresses, take a short drive to Mount Bonnell and hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Barton Springs Pool: $5, 2-3 hours
Zilker Park: Rental costs vary, 2-3 hours
Mount Bonnell: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 16: Food and Market Exploration
Indulge in the culinary delights of Austin. Start your day at the famous Franklin Barbecue for a mouthwatering Texas-style barbecue experience. Afterward, visit the vibrant and eclectic South Congress Avenue, known for its unique shops and delicious food trucks. In the evening, explore the lively atmosphere of the food and music market at The Domain, where you can enjoy live performances while sampling various cuisines.
Franklin Barbecue: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
South Congress Avenue: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
The Domain: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Juan in a Million, known for its famous breakfast tacos. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Torchy's Tacos, a local favorite with a variety of unique and flavorful taco options. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Uchi, a renowned sushi restaurant offering innovative and high-quality dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $60 per person.
Sunday, September 17: Day Trip to Hill Country
Escape the city and venture into the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Start your day by visiting the charming town of Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage and wineries. Explore the historic Main Street with its boutique shops and art galleries. In the afternoon, head to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and hike to the top of the massive pink granite dome for breathtaking views. On your way back to Austin, stop by the Salt Lick BBQ for a delicious barbecue feast.
Fredericksburg: Cost varies, 4-6 hours
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: $7, 2-4 hours
Salt Lick BBQ: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to The Peach Tree Restaurant in Fredericksburg. This local favorite offers classic breakfast dishes with a Texas twist. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Hondo's on Main in Fredericksburg. This rustic eatery serves up mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood. This renowned barbecue joint offers tender and flavorful meats cooked to perfection. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Austin, be sure to check out the vibrant South Lamar neighborhood, known for its unique shops, restaurants, and live music venues. For nature lovers, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers miles of scenic hiking trails and beautiful swimming holes. Additionally, don't miss out on exploring the trendy East Austin area, where you'll find a thriving food and art scene. These hidden gems and local favorites will give you a taste of the authentic Austin experience.