Exploring Austin During Austin Film Festival

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Michele Pruitt
Curated By

Michele Pruitt

  • Austin

  • Arts & Culture

  • Food & Wine

  • City Travel

  • Solo Travel

  • Texas

  • Downtown

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

Arial view of Austin
Curator’s statement

Right in the capital of Texas is home to the Austin Film Festival where creators alike come together to celebrate the creative contributions to the film industry. As a former model and commercial actress that has booked several modeling and acting jobs in Austin, Austin is the city in Texas that has an expanding entertainment industry and has been an on-set location for movies and shows to be filmed like: Dazed & Confused, Miss Congeniality, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Alita: Battle Angel and Season 7 of The Walking Dead.

The Fora Difference

Book with Michele to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

[object Object]
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

[object Object]
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

[object Object]
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Austin

Unlock perks by contacting Michele to book your trip.

Things to do in Austin

Paramount Theatre at night

Go for a trail walk or run at Lady Bird Lake. Beautiful views of Lady Bird, trail paths that are bike and stroller friendly. Paddle board and kayak rentals available to enjoy the scenery and views of the Austin skyline at Lady Bird Lake.

Attend the conference panels at the Driskill Hotel for the Austin Film Festival. It's one of the locations that it will take place and also a great hotel to stay. Pass is required to attend conference panels. A very interactive event that is hosted by actors, filmmakers and screenwriters.

Have drinks at the Azul Rooftop. It's the highest rooftop lounge in Austin at the Westin Hotel downtown. You can lounge in a private cabana and since the Austin Film Festival takes place in the fall, Azul has small firepits that will keep you warm.

The Domain for luxury shopping. It's an outdoor shopping center filled with luxury stores like Gucci, Saint Laurent and Neiman Marcus to name a few. They also have various bars, and restaurants that are all in walking distance.

Taking a break from the Film Festival but still want to explore the artsy side of Austin, visit the Blanton Museum of Art. This museum has the largest permanent collections in Texas with more than 17,000 works of art and 124,000 sq ft to explore. They have something to showcase for every art genre like interactive installations, American/Contemporary, European and so much more. They have free admission on Tuesday, 10am - 5pm.

For films that will be hosted by the Austin Film Festival, Paramount Movie Theater is one of the theaters that will be providing film screenings. It's a historical building that was opened back in 1915. A pass will need to be purchased to attend movie film screenings.

Places to eat & drink in Austin

BBQ place in Austin

BRUNCH

Launderette: IG worthy picture food that is vibrant and full of flavor. Featuring seasonal rotating pastries, mimosas and the Crab Louie is to die for.

For Vegan/Vegetarian option head over to Boudin Creek and try their grilled blueberry cornbread that is served with real maple syrup. I was vegan for three years and Boudin Creek was always my favorite for breakfast and their laid back vibe that is very family oriented.

LUNCH

Franklin BBQ: You can't visit Texas without trying our BBQ. I highly recommend getting their mouthwatering brisket. It's also a celebrity favorite.

Citizen Eatery: For vegan/vegetarian option, try the Paleo Bowl and add the tofu. Light but very fulfilling to give you a nice healthy boost for the rest of the day

DINNER

Luminaire: Upscale restaurant and led by six-time James Beard nominated chef, Steve McHugh. They have indoor and outdoor sitting. Reservations are highly recommended. Grilled tenderloin with their black truffle mac 'n' cheese is the perfect comfort meal.

The Beer Plant: Intimate atmosphere. Nashville Hot & Crispy which is fried Oyster Mushrooms to crisp to perfection and not overly breaded, paired with their remoulade is a great combination.

Advisor - Michele Pruitt

Travel Advisor

Michele Pruitt

Get in touch with Michele

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Michele within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Looking for more Austin travel advice? Check out Fora Travel Advisor Parker White's guide, Foodie's Guide to Tacos, Coffee & More in Austin, TX.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Austin.