Two-Day Itinerary for Exploring Austin, Texas

  • Day 1: Historic Downtown and Hip Eastside
    Start your day by exploring the historic downtown area of Austin. Visit the Texas State Capitol, an iconic symbol of the Texas government, and take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the building. Next, head to the Blanton Museum of Art, located on the University of Texas at Austin campus to admire the impressive collection of artworks. Afterward, explore Austin's trendy east side, home to an array of unique restaurants, bars, and shops. Visit the Graffiti Park at Castle Hill and appreciate the beautiful murals adorning the walls, grab a craft beer at the East Austin Brewery, or indulge in some delicious tacos at the Torchy's Tacos food truck.
  • Day 2: Live Music and Outdoor Activities
    Start your second day by visiting the iconic South Congress Avenue, a vibrant street filled with trendy boutiques, vintage stores, and cafes. Take a stroll and admire the colorful murals and street performers. Next, make your way to Lady Bird Lake, where you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the scenic surroundings. If you're feeling adventurous, take a hike along the Mount Bonnell Trail and enjoy the stunning views from the top. Finally, end your day by indulging in Austin's famous live music scene. Catch a show at the famous Continental Club or Antone's Nightclub and enjoy some of the best live music performances Austin has to offer.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Texas State Capitol (1-2 hours, free)
  • Blanton Museum of Art (1-2 hours, $9 for adults)
  • Graffiti Park at Castle Hill (30 minutes, free)
  • East Austin Brewery (1-2 hours, beer prices vary)
  • Torchy's Tacos (30 min-1 hour, $)
  • South Congress Avenue (2-3 hours, free)
  • Lady Bird Lake (1-2 hours, $20/hr for kayak rental)
  • Mount Bonnell Trail (1-2 hours, free)
  • Continental Club (2-3 hours, ticket prices vary)
  • Antone's Nightclub (2-3 hours, ticket prices vary)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $35-$50

Transportation

While exploring Austin, it is recommended to rent a car or use ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft for convenience. If you prefer a budget-friendly option, you can also use Austin's public transportation system, Capital Metro, which offers bus and rail services throughout the city. Prices for rides range from $1.25-$3.50 depending on the service and route. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park, or taking a tour of the Jester King Brewery, known for its unique beers and rustic atmosphere. For those with less time, focus on the must-see attractions such as the Texas State Capitol, Lady Bird Lake, and experiencing Austin's live music scene. Don't forget to try some of Austin's famous cuisine such as breakfast tacos, BBQ, and Tex-Mex while you're there!

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