Austin, Texas is the Live Music Capital of the World. With a thriving music, food, and art scene, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular destination for visitors. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s our guide to exploring Austin in 24 hours.
- Visit the State Capitol
- Take a Hike
- Take a Food Tour
- Try Some BBQ
- Check Out the Nightlife
- Explore the Museums
- Shop on South Congress
- Visit the South Congress Bridge
1. Visit the State Capitol
Visiting the Texas State Capitol is a must for anyone visiting Austin. Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the Capitol stands proudly as one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The Capitol grounds are the perfect place to explore and take in the history of Texas. Take a guided tour of the Capitol and hear stories about its construction and the people who have walked the halls. The building is a stunning example of 19th century architecture, and the iconic pink granite makes it a true Texas landmark. After taking in the sights, grab a bite to eat at one of the many nearby restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, the Capitol district has something for everyone. So take some time to explore the Texas State Capitol and experience a piece of Austin’s rich history.
2. Take a Hike
If you’re looking to explore nature and get a stunning view of the city, you can’t go wrong with Austin’s many hiking trails. Popular trails include the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, which is great for a moderate workout and offers beautiful views of the Austin skyline. This 10.1-mile trail is a great way to get your heart rate up and take in the natural beauty of the city in a single day. If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, try the Barton Creek Greenbelt. This 8-mile trail offers a great workout and features several swimming holes, waterfalls, and stunning vistas.
For a truly unique experience, try a night hike at Reimers Ranch. This 2,400-acre ranch is just a short drive from downtown Austin and is home to an array of wildlife, cacti, and even bats. Choose from a variety of trails and explore the ranch under the stars. The trails vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone.
No matter what trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring nature in Austin. So grab your hiking boots, pack a lunch, and hit the trails for an unforgettable day in the Live Music Capital of the World.
3. Take a Food Tour
If you’re looking to experience the best of Austin’s culinary scene, there’s no better way to do it than with a food tour. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a food tour will take you to some of the best restaurants and cafes that the city has to offer. From traditional Texas BBQ to creative vegan cuisine, you’ll get a taste of what makes Austin so unique.
Sample dishes from family-owned restaurants, food trucks, and gourmet eateries, and learn about the history and culture behind each dish. Discover the secrets behind the city’s culinary landscape and savor the flavors of Texas. On a food tour, you’ll get to experience the city’s unique culture through the lens of local chefs and restaurants.
For those looking for a truly immersive experience, there are tours that focus on a particular type of cuisine or district. Explore the East Side for a taste of traditional Mexican-American dishes or take a walk through the Warehouse District for a taste of craft beer and burgers. There are even tours that specialize in vegan and vegetarian cuisine, or focus on Austin’s famous BBQ.
Experience Austin’s culinary scene like a local with a food tour. With so many delicious dishes to explore, you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach and a new appreciation for the culture and flavors of Austin.
4. Try Some BBQ
If you’re looking for the most authentic Texas BBQ experience, look no further than Franklin BBQ. Located in downtown Austin, this award-winning restaurant has been winning over the hearts and stomachs of locals and visitors alike. With its smoked meats, homemade sauces, and delicious sides, it’s no wonder why it’s been named one of the best BBQ spots in the nation.
If you’re short on time, don’t worry; you can still get a taste of Austin’s famous BBQ. Check out some of the local food trucks, like Micklethwait Craft Meats and La Barbecue, for some delicious BBQ dishes. They’re sure to fill you up with all the smoky flavors you’d expect from a Texas BBQ joint.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at smoking your own BBQ. Stop by a local butcher or grocery store to pick up some brisket or ribs, then get creative with your own rubs and sauces. You may not be able to rival Franklin BBQ’s legendary smokey flavor, but it’s sure to be a fun and tasty experience.
No matter which way you choose to enjoy BBQ in Austin, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. With its smoky goodness and world-class flavor, BBQ is definitely something you have to try while in Texas. So grab your friends and get ready to chow down on some delicious BBQ!
5. Check Out the Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the city of Austin comes alive in the most vibrant way. As the Live Music Capital of the World, the nightlife here is like no other. With a diverse array of bars and clubs, along with live music venues, there’s plenty to choose from for the perfect night out.
For a classic Austin experience, check out the bustling Sixth Street. This is the heart of the city after dark, and you can find everything from popular bars and clubs to rooftop lounges and live music venues. The energy here is electric, and you’ll be sure to have a great time.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, head over to Rainey Street. This area is filled with fun and unique bars and restaurants, all of which are housed in repurposed bungalows. You’ll be sure to find a cozy spot with a great atmosphere.
Live music is obviously a staple of the Austin nightlife, and you won’t want to miss your chance to experience it for yourself. Be sure to check out the iconic Austin City Limits venue, or head over to the Continental Club for a more intimate atmosphere.
No matter what kind of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Austin has something for everyone. From classic bars and clubs to live music venues, you’re sure to have a great time. Make sure to take advantage of the city’s vibrant nightlife when you’re exploring Austin in 24 hours.
6. Explore the Museums
- Discover the city’s culture and history. The Blanton Museum of Art and Bullock Texas State History Museum are two must-see stops for visitors to Austin. Home to over 18,000 works of art, the Blanton Museum of Art is one of the largest university art museums in the United States. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is filled with interactive exhibits and artifacts to explore, making it the perfect place to learn about the many stories of Texas. The museum also offers educational programs and special events to further immerse yourself in Texas culture and history.
- Check out the Texas Memorial Museum. The Texas Memorial Museum is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the natural history of the Lone Star State. With interactive exhibits, a variety of educational programs, and a variety of special events, you can explore the ecology and biology of Texas. From the museum’s fossil collection to the butterfly garden, the Texas Memorial Museum is a great place to learn about the unique biodiversity of the state.
- Visit the Harry Ransom Center. The Harry Ransom Center is a research library and museum that is home to over 36 million books, manuscripts, photographs, and more. Here, visitors can explore the history of literature, art, and photography. From rare editions of books to historical artifacts, the Harry Ransom Center provides a unique insight into the world of arts and humanities.
7. Shop on South Congress
One of the most memorable experiences in Austin is a stroll down South Congress Street. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, a trendy outfit, or an item of memorabilia, South Congress has something for everyone. This vibrant street has some of Austin’s most beloved stores and boutiques. From vintage clothing boutiques to jewelry stores and handmade goods, you’ll find something special here.
If you’re looking to pick up a souvenir to remember your trip, be sure to visit some of the local stores. From t-shirts to coffee mugs, you’ll find something special to add to your collection. You can also find a variety of handmade items, crafted locally by Austinites. Whether you’re searching for jewelry, artwork, or a new outfit, you’ll find the perfect item here.
If you’re looking to take a break from shopping, South Congress Street also has plenty of dining and cafe options. From local favorites to up-scale restaurants, you can find any type of cuisine here. There’s also plenty of outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal with the Austin skyline in the background.
Explore the unique and vibrant stores along South Congress during your 24 hours in Austin. You’ll find something special here, whether it’s a souvenir to remember your trip or a new outfit to enjoy during your stay. Make sure to take the time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy all that South Congress has to offer.
8. Visit the South Congress Bridge
- Take in the city’s beauty The South Congress Bridge is a must-visit, iconic landmark in Austin. From the bridge, you’ll get a stunning view of the skyline and the bridge’s famous graffiti. This bridge is a great spot to take photos or to just soak in the beauty of the city. For a unique experience, you can also join the hundreds of bats that fly out from the bridge at sunset – it’s an incredible sight!
- Live music galore Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, and you can experience it first-hand along the South Congress Bridge. There are plenty of venues along the bridge to catch some live music, from cozy bars to large outdoor concerts. You can also stroll along the bridge and listen to street performers, or just listen to the music from the nearby venues. No matter what type of music you’re into, you’ll find it here!
- Delicious food around every turn The South Congress Bridge is a great spot to experience the local cuisine of Austin. You can find everything from traditional Tex-Mex to modern fusion cuisine. There are plenty of restaurants and food trucks that line the bridge, offering up an array of delicious options. You can also walk around and explore the nearby boutiques and shops for a unique shopping experience.
- Unique art to explore The South Congress Bridge is also home to an array of unique and creative art. From colorful murals to interactive sculptures, you’ll find something to admire here. There’s also an array of galleries and art studios to explore, showcasing the work of local and international artists. Whether you’re a fan of street art or traditional art, you’ll find something to appreciate here!
