Curator’s statement
Austin is an artists' paradise with pure artistry in many forms, from the art sculptures and murals around the city, to the deep roots of Austin's music culture. However, even brighter than the art, and louder than the music, is Austin's culinary scene. If you're anything like me, eating your way through a new city is the way to go and you can do just that in Austin, from Texas BBQ at Terry Black's to the best jalapeño jelly doughnut at Gourdough's. Austin is perfect spot for a casual getaway, whether you want to spend time shopping on South Congress or outdoors at one of the many parks.
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Things to do in Austin
Events
Attend South by Southwest (SXSW), a conference and music festival dedicated to creatives nationwide.
Attend Austin City Limits, one of the best music festivals in the country.
Attend a live performance! Austin is home to so many upcoming artists. You can find live music almost anywhere, whether you want to go to an upscale lounge or the favorite local Saloon.
Outdoors
Have a picnic in Zilker Park, a vast green oasis just next door from the city with the perfect backdrop for a day outdoors.
Take a canoe down Lady Bird Lake in the spring and summer, partnered with the best views of the city.
Take a bike ride around Barton Creek in the spring and summer time.
Take a swim in the Barton Springs pool, a local summer favorite for everyone to get together, host cookouts and enjoy the summer.
Bars/Coffee Shops
Visit the Carpenter Hotel's Coffee Shop for a light workday paired with a matcha latte and breakfast tacos. The Carpenter Coffee Shop turns into a bar in the afternoon and evenings; join them for bi-monthly vinyl nights! Explore their collection and enjoy the atmosphere.
Visit the Equipment Room, Hotel Magdalena's brand new experience, featuring an incredibly curated record collection from Breakaway Records. Stop in for great sounds and tasteful sips.
Places to eat & drink in Austin
Breakfast
Granny's Breakfast Tacos - Food Truck with outdoor seating with really good tacos.
Bird Bird Biscuit - Casual to-go spot offering delicious sandwiches and (of course) delectable biscuits.
Biscuits + Groovy - Food Truck with outdoor seating.
Revival Coffee Shop - Pay a visit to a pink, Bad Bunny themed coffee shop/bar with an incredible cold brew float and a churro stand out back.
Gourdough's Big Fat Donuts - The best donuts I've ever had, hands down. The Squealing Pig is a MUST try.
Lunch
Summer House at Hotel Magdalena has a great vibe, just as it sounds. Open and airy with great drinks and better food.
Dinner
Terry Black's Barbecue - One of Austin's most famous BBQ spots. There will always be a line, but don't be intimidated; they know what they're doing in there to get the line moving. Pro tip: you will want to go earlier in the day if you want a full menu, as they sell out as the day goes on.
Carpenters Hall - An exceptional dinner menu. The muscles and the scallops were exceptional, but the carpenter salad brought me back the next day.
Aba - New and popular Mediterranean restaurant with a killer smoky garlic hummus.
Wu Chow's - Completely caught by surprise... we stumbled upon some of the best Chinese food we have ever had.
Travel Advisor
Kassandra Manalo
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Danielle Di Maio's guide, A Beginner's Guide to Austin.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Austin, and our longer series on travel to Texas.