It’s finally spring, the perfect season for impromptu, super chill road trips – the kind where you toss a suitcase into the backseat of your car on a Friday afternoon and just take off. And with Austin only a little over two hours away, you’ve got one of the best destinations in Texas within reach.
Be spontaneous. All you have to do is get there. You can rely on these tips to make sure your weekend away is as adventurous and fun as you like.
Get to Know Historic Austin
If you’d like to get to know the history of Austin a little better, check out the Visit Austin guide to historic sites around the city. They’ve chosen 35 of the most important locations for visitors to see, including Barton Springs Pool, The Tejano Walking Trail, Mount Bonnell, and the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge. This isn’t a stuffy, boring list of old buildings, but a diverse look at Austin’s vibrant history that includes everything from historic landmarks to music venues.
Follow Your Stomach
Austin is well-known for its exciting and innovative restaurant scene, so you’ll definitely want to sample as much as you can. Check out the downtown food truck scene, grab a coffee at Jo’s, or if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the charred octopus at the Launderette. Stop by Perla’s for a lobster roll, Via 313 for some of Austin’s best pizza, or enjoy smoked wings and outdoor dining at Cedar Door.
Enjoy the Music
One of Austin’s biggest claims to fame is their music scene – and with good reason. On any given night, you can find live music from country to rock. Head over to The White Horse, a favorite local honky tonk, to enjoy some country crooning, or visit The Empire Control Room, which is basically a warehouse-turned-concert-scene where you can find an eclectic rotation of boot-tapping, head-bobbing music.
Head Outdoors
While it’s true that visitors typically have food and music in mind when it comes to Austin, you’ll also find some incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation while there. If you love to commune with plants, check out the Zilker Botanical Garden or the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum. And be sure to explore the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake.
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