What are The Best Places to Visit in Austin?When it comes to one of the best cities in the United States to visit, Austin, Texas has to be among the top of the list. With its diverse mix of culture and lifestyle, it provides something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a night out on the town, or a peaceful day exploring nature, Austin is the perfect destination for all types of travelers.Located in central Texas, between San Antonio and Dallas, Austin has become a hub for entrepreneurs and startups, making it an incredibly livable city. With the rolling hills of the Hill Country and plenty of recreational opportunities along the lakes, rivers and creeks; nature is always around. And the city is full of art galleries, entertainment venues, restaurants, and creative housing options like tiny homes and live/work spaces. In this guide, we will cover some of the best places to visit in Austin. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, live music, shopping or delicious foods – there’s something for everyone. Outdoor AdventuresIf you’re looking for outdoor adventure and natural beauty, there are plenty of options in Austin. From star gazing in a dark sky park to river tubing to visiting a hidden beach alongside Lake Travis… here are some of the best places to explore:
- McKinney Falls State Park – This park is perfect for camping, hiking, mountain biking and even fishing. It also offers 7 miles of trails and 487 acres filled with pine forests, trails, swimming holes and cascading waterfalls.
- Zilker Park – A massive 350 acre public park located on the Colorado River. It’s a great spot for swimming, picnics and kite flying. It also houses Barton Springs Pool—a 3 acre pool fed by a natural underground springs.
- Mount Bonnell – Near Lake Austin and the Colorado River, this high point offers incredible views. You can take a beautiful walk up nearly 100 steps to get the best views of downtown!
- Barton Creek Greenbelt – This urban oasis offers seven miles of trails and plenty of swimming spots in natural springs.
- Enchanted Rock Park – Located in Fredericksburg, it’s one of the top state parks in Texas .Hike up the 425 foot dome to reach its peak and enjoy views from every side.
- Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve – This preserve is home to a beautiful pool, formed when an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago.
- St Edward’s Park – Check out hiking trails, wildlife, wildflowers and even swimming!
- Pedernales Falls State Park – Located on the banks of Pedernales River, rafting, swimming, kayaking and bird watching are among the activities people enjoy here.
Texas is known for its larger than life adventures- and Austin honestly does not disappoint! There’s always something new to explore every season and many more outdoor areas that are worth exploring around town as well. Entertainment Venues & Live MusicAs the “Live Music Capital of the World” Austin should absolutely be included on everyone’s must visit list! There are so many venues around town where you can listen to some amazing music by both local and international artists alike.
- The Fake Moustache Saloon – This classic Western Saloon offers live music seven days a week and plays a wide variety of genres like rock & roll, punk, country and more!
- Continental Club – Opened in 1957, this historic live music venue hosts some legendary acts in the genres of country, rock & roll, blues and jazz.
- Empire Control Room & Garage – If you’re looking for an alternative venue with great music you need to check out Empire Control Room & Garage! With live music every night (and free parking!) it”s an easy choice for anyone’s list.
- 3Ten Austin City Limits Live – This small venue on South Congress offers more intimate music performances from some well-known artists.
- The Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen – Located in East Austin this beer garden is true mix between urban gritty and natural beauty! It also has some amazing live music.
- ColdTowne Theatre – ColdTowne Theatre is a comedy theatre that brings together local comedians as well as professional improv troupes for some unique comedy performances.
- Mohawk Austin – This open air venue hosts some amazing local music but also some well known acts from all over the world who come to visit!
Whatever your taste may be, Austin offers a range of entertainment for everyone! There is nothing better than seeing a performance in an improvisation theatre or listening to a rocking band at a late night venue! Shopping & Local Markets From vintage clothes, to handmade gifts, books and more; exploring local markets is always an adventure! Here are some of the best shopping spots in Austin:
- South Congress Shopping Area: Head to South Congress Avenue for an eclectic mix of shops that cater to every style—from vintage stores to art galleries to unique boutiques.
- Manor Road Shopping Center: This wellestablished shopping area offers book stores, art galleries, independent cafes and much more! Wander through its different streets until you find something you like!
- The Domain Mall: This outdoor mall has it all: boutiques, one-of-akind stores and popular brands––all within reach! It”s also home to food trucks, casual eateries and an IMAX theatre.
If you”re looking for some truly local finds then check out these markets:
- Soco Farmers Market: Visit this lively foodie market every Sunday to browse through freshly made organic produce and handmade products from local artisans (it also has some delicious breakfast options).
- Strange Brew Food Truck Court & Beer Garden: This venue combines live music as well as food trucks serving delicious street food.
- The Great American Fleamarket: If you’re in search of vintage treasures then check out this fleamarket on weekends for unique finds!
- Texas Trade Days Market Day: Spend the day wandering through acres of vintage finds at this outdoor trade day fleamarket.
- Zaftig Stein Market: See displays of high quality luxury goods as well as handmade products displayed by local artisans at this upscale shopping market.
- Metropolis Market : This new market just opened up in 2019 offering handmade candles, jewelry, art and more from local vendors.
- Cedar Market : Check out Cedar Market for handmade vintage pieces available from local vendors every month.
- Waller Creek Market : This farmers market offers fresh produce as well as handmade crafts from local vendors—every first Saturday of the month!
- Garage Door Market : On weekends this market opens up its doors with dozens of boutique vendors selling antiques, handmade products and much more.
- The Market at Townsend Square : Wander through this indoor market with different shops offering clothes, jewelry, food trucks and many more unique gifts!
- Eastside Branded Market : This unique fleamarket style concept store offers fashion brands from all over the world such as cactus jacks disney streetwear and much more!
- Garden Party Vintage : Visit Garden Party Vintage to explore their collection of handpicked vintage clothing pieces ─truly one-of-akind finds complimented with jewelry and home goods.
: Located in Downtown Austin- this vintage store it carries mostly dead stock items from the 90s and early 2000s—all perfectly curated by its owner.
Whether your shopping around town or exploring one of the markets mentioned above—Austin is certainly a shoppers haven with plenty of unique finds to discover! Foodie Heaven: Best Restaurants & Street Food As if having great entertainment and shopping hasn’t already made you fall in love with Austin- wait until you try the food here! From famous BBQ joints to late night taco stands—that truly offer delicious treats all around town:
- Foodie Tours Austin : Enjoy exploring some delicious foodie spots by taking this 5 hour tour through the city!
: Venture out to South Congress Avenue for some lip smacking wings at this popular restaurant chain!
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