You're not in Texas till you've been to the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Here's where you'll learn about every facet of Texas: cattle, oil, space and, of course, the big battles.
One of the oldest recorded tourist attractions in the Austin area and the highest point within Austin's city limits, Mount Bonnell offers fantastic sunset views of Lake Austin and the 360 Bridge.
This place it worth it for the view. Climb to the topic and get into selfie mode. The art is okay too, I guess.
Pack light, bring a towel, some snacks, lay on the lawn and when it gets too hot, just dive right in. The cold water is nearly unbearable for only a short spell. Bring $mall bills for admission.
On the right side of the bridge (facing north) is good.... seeing from a boat even better! Read more.
MUST go here. But first, grab a "pickle shot" next door from the jackalope. Definitely worth the small ticket price. Assortment of odd items and CRAZY sideshow at the end! Remember to tip!
Texas always does barbecue right, especially at this joint. Enjoy live music while you indulge in succulent BBQ with a dry rub and smoky taste.
The Long Center is home to Austin’s premier performance art groups, including the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Lyric Opera and Ballet Austin. See touring acts here as well.
If you like BBQ this is an Austin staple. Located just south of downtown. Specials include $8.99 for a three meat plate with two sides on Wednesday's and ½ chicken BBQ plate $6.99 on Thursday's. Read more.
BEST BBQ this side of the Mississippi! Chow down on some ribs while over looking the beautiful hill country in Driftwood. But it’ll cost you: this little piece of heaven is 20 miles outside Austin.
Go to Juan in a Million, order the Don Juan. The greatest breakfast taco known to mankind.
Amazing place. A must on the East Side of Austin. The shrimp and gumbo were great meals. Don't miss the green beans and yams as sides!
French technique, exotic ingredients, a judicious use of spice and heat, and strong Southeast Asian and Northern African influences on the three-course prix fixe menu distinguish this upscale option. Read more.
Try the Beef Brisket - Extremely moist and delicious without being greasy. Really flavorful crusty rub on the outside, and a great smoke flavor.
Show up before 1130 or you won't get any food. Ashley at the register is awesome too! Tip her!
You're a damn fool if you don't come here to eat the Tacos El Pastor with bananas and refried beans on the side and an avocado margarita to wash it down. Prices are cheap and the chips are addicting.
The perfect outdoor drinking destination. Nothing beats watching the sunset with a frosty drink in hand.
Austin's best beer garden...over 100 beers on tap and great artisanal (yeah, I said it) sausages. The lunch special ($8 for a sausage, side and a beer) is one of the best deals in town.
Moist brisket, sausage, and potato salad are all solid bets. Oh, and don't forget to get a beef rib on the side!
Awesome brunch location. $7 carafes of mimosas on Saturday and Sunday. Queso fundido and guacamole are delicious!
Anyone who visits Austin should see the Whole Foods flagship store. After all, it started here. All kinds of food, beer, natural beauty and health goods and tiny restaurants dot the headquarters.
Venison chili is pretty darn good, might not always be available but worth it.
The O.G. Torchy's. PRO TIP: Ask for the Mad Cow (beef fajita, black beans, grilled corn) or Missionary-style Pork (carnitas, guacamole) off their secret menu.
Short rib with duck fat mash, French onion soup..ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING. All day HH Sun & Mon: $5 cocktails and 1/2 off apps with an *
Flix is the 21st century version of Alamo Drafthouse. Slide out tables, glowing button to get your servers attention and lights under the table so you can actually see the menu! Oh, and great beer!
Great mixologists and an extensive drink menu. Don't confuse this place with your typical restaurant/bar -- they have great jazz bands that play throughout the week as well.
Guided tours are offered weekdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 12-3:30 p.m.
Around 2am-3am the drunk couples start yelling at each other... y'know, if you're into people watching.
Sits on a beautifully landscaped city block in Austin near the Capitol building. Built in 1856, it is the oldest continuously occupied executive residence west of the Mississippi.
They put on a comedy show like no other. Pushing the limits, they cover current events to members of the audience. The props, location and cast make it is a performance that you will never forget.
Moonlight Towers were used in the olden days to illuminate city streets and scare away late-night muggers. Nowadays we have the magic of streetlamps, but Austin keeps the towers around for fun anyway.
(4.2 mi) Park beneath the Mopac Bridge, cross the lake at the South 1st bridge and loop back to Mopac. Water coolers there to greet you at the start and finish!
Make sure to see if someone is working in the paleo-lab! Normally not staffed on weekends, but it normally is during the weekdays until at least 2:00.
Hmm...I think you can only go up on Saturdays- sign up for the tour in the Student Union.
Great when you're drunk and don't care what people think of you as you shove a giant brat in your face. Or when you're sober & don't care what people think anyways.
A great way to see downtown Austin and avoid traffic. Soak up a little of the Lance Armstrong vibe." – Darryl Kotyk
Make sure to visit the Sculpture Garden featuring the works of Charles Umlauf when around Zilker Park. It's a great cultural detour in your Perfect Day in Austin. Read more.
Get the #1. Add a carne guisada taco if you are man enough. Meet Juan before you leave.
Go on Wednesday for pint night. It's an opportunity to try something new and get a free glass in the process
Snow's BBQ is open only on Sat 8am until their food sells out at ~11am. This is your only chance to savor 79 year old pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz's pork steak. Recommend arriving before 9am. - AA Mag
