Austin

Texas’ capital city, Austin, is known for its live music scene, trendy neighborhoods, many parks and eclectic cuisine. The city hosts the annual South by Southwest Festival plus numerous other annual events and festivals. The Texas Capitol building lies a short walk from the University of Texas at Austin campus. The city is also home to the original flagship Whole Foods Market. Austin proves the perfect destination for foodies, art lovers, adventure seekers, music fans and history buffs.

Going Downtown:

Austin skyline

PHOTO: © SEAN PAVONE | DREAMSTIME.COM

GETTING THERE & AROUND

Located about five miles southeast of downtown, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport serves the city. The Capital Metro Bus System consists of more than 1,600 stops on 82 routes. Day passes cost $2.50. The MetroRail spans 32 miles and has nine stations; the train does not operate on Sunday. Austin’s bicycle rental program, Austin B-cycle, makes bikes available at more than 40 stations throughout the city for hourly or daily rentals. Uber and Lyft are available throughout the city.

LODGING

The Driskill

More than a century old, the iconic Austin landmark is located in the heart of downtown. The property hosts meetings and events.

604 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701, tel 512 439 1234 driskillhotel.com

Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt

One of downtown’s newer hotels, the boutique property is currently undergoing an exterior renovation. Its restaurant, Geraldine’s, offers live music and authentic Texas eats at its Jazz Brunch.

605 Davis St., Austin, TX 78701, tel 512 542 5300 hotelvanzandt.com

W Austin

W Austin is home to several dining outlets, a spa and outdoor pool. Its downtown location offers prime access to Austin’s bars, restaurants and music venues.

200 Lavaca St., Austin, TX 78701, tel 512 542 3600 marriott.com DINING

Franklin Barbecue

A destination unto itself, the restaurant is considered one of the best barbecue spots in the United States. Lines form early to dine at the lunch-only restaurant.

900 E. 11th St., Austin, TX 78702, tel 512 653 1187 franklinbarbecue.com

Suerte

Enjoy Mexican cuisine crafted with local Texas ingredients. Don’t miss the standout house-made masa.

1800 E. Sixth St., Austin, TX 78702, tel 512 953 0092 suerteatx.com

Uchi

The award-winning sushi restaurant offers hot and cold Japanese dishes plus an extensive wine and saké list.

801 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704, tel 512 916 4808 uchiaustin.com

ATTRACTIONS

Live Music

Austin’s live music scene is booming. In addition to its various annual music festivals, the city hosts nightly performances big and small. With more than 250 venues throughout the city, popular spots include Broken Spoke, ACL Live at the Moody Theater, Historic Scoot Inn, Mohawk and Antone’s Nightclub.

South Congress Avenue

South Congress Avenue runs through the popular South Congress neighborhood, known for its eclectic boutiques, public art, trendy restaurants, music venues, breweries and a picturesque view of the Texas State Capitol.

Zilker Metropolitan Park

The 350-acre park features a hike-and-bike trail, Lady Bird Lake, Barton Springs, a botanical garden, a nature preserve, Zilker Hillside Theater and more. Music fans recognize it as the site of the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival. During the holiday season, the park hosts the Trail of Lights display and Zilker Holiday Tree.

austintexas.gov/department/zilker-metropolitanpark

Walk in the Park:

Zilker Botanical Garden

PHOTO: © WENLING01 | DREAMSTIME.COM