Need southern hospitality, down-home cooking and fun? Pack your bags and head to the Lone Star State for all the excitement in Austin. This capital city is at the hub of all that’s charming about the home of Bluebonnets. From the magnificent Hill Country to the vibrant city life, there’s something for everyone. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to keep going back for more.
MUST-SEE DAYTIME ATTRACTIONS
Texas State Capitol Building – One of America’s Favorites
Walk in the steps of famous Texans and tour one of the largest state capitols. In addition to seeing the majestic dome and taking in the amazing architecture, you may even witness the Texas Legislature in session. Don’t miss the grandeur of the Tyler Rose Garden and numerous monuments on the capitol grounds.
University of Texas
Four blocks from the state Capitol building, The University of Texas campus is where you can stroll the South Mall lined by stately oak trees and go up to the iconic UT Tower observation deck. Want to experience Texas football? Attend a game at Darrell K. Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium and become a Texas Longhorn fan. Hook’em Horns! Love baseball? Attend a game at UFCU Disch-Falk Field, site of the longest baseball game in NCAA history.
South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
Get the Austin vibe. Spend the evening exploring this hip strip dotted with an array of eclectic shops, ranging from quirky to sophisticated. Quaint restaurants, bars, coffee shops, food trucks will satisfy your appetite. There’s more: boutiques, antiques, music venues and galleries – all of this sums up the Austin persona.
FOR THE FAMILY
The Bullock Texas State History Museum – Plan a day to step back in time with the kids. Artifacts, rare documents, photographs and special exhibits will help the family identify with the past. View 4D special effects films at the Texas Spirit Theater and watch the latest blockbuster movies on Texas' biggest IMAX® screen.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Treat your family to the great outdoors. They’ll discover beautiful Texas wildflowers and go wild with lots of fun activities, including a shrubs maze, tree stump climb, cave/waterfall exploration and water activities.
Shore Club Volente Beach – Cool off and make memories with the kids at one of Austin’s favorite waterparks located on Lake Travis. Let the kids slip into fun at the water slides, sandy beach and pools, while you enjoy the swim-up tiki bar.
TOP AUSTIN EATERIES
Stubb’s Bar-B-Q – No trip to Texas is complete without indulging in serious BBQ while listening to live music. A favorite stop for presidents and celebrities, Stubb’s is sure to rope you in to Texas cuisine. Try the fried green tomatoes!
Fonda San Miguel – One of the finest interior Mexican restaurants in the country. Treat your taste buds to authentic Mexican food and relax in a colorful hacienda setting.
Parkside – A downtown Austin favorite owned by five-star chef Shawn Cirkiel. Mouth-watering entrées await you in an upscale American casual atmosphere. Don’t miss the oysters and happy hour.
AUSTIN’S NIGHTLIFE
6th Street – Stroll down the five-block strip in the “Live Music Capital of the World.” From packed saloons to low-key piano bars, this area is perfect for music lovers.
Broken Spoke – Texas’ last true dance hall! Two-step your way to the real country/western scene at this famous honky tonk. Listen to live bands, dance (for beginners or pros) and order the fabulous chicken-fried steak.
Cactus Café – Ranked by Billboard magazine as one of 15 solidly respected savvy clubs nationwide and located on the University of Texas Campus, top local, regional, national and international acoustic artists perform here.
