15 Traveling to Austin Texas Tips: Nailing Your Family Adventure in the Lone Star State’s Coolest City
Introduction to Austin
Austin is a vibrant city located in the heart of Texas, known as the Live Music Capital of the World. With over 250 live music venues, Austin boasts a unique cultural scene that showcases its eclectic arts and vibrant food culture. From the famous South by Southwest festival to the Continental Club, visitors can experience the best of live music in downtown Austin. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore a new city. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or great food, Austin has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in the United States.
Planning a trip to Austin, a world-renowned destination? We’ve got you covered!
Austin, Texas offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, great food, and unforgettable music scenes that make it a perfect destination for travelers from every country. June is a good time to visit due to lower hotel prices, despite the hot weather.
From paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake to exploring the vibrant nightlife scenes on 6th Street and Rainey Street, Austin has something exciting for everyone no matter what kind of traveler you are.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, knowing the best spots and local tips can make your Austin experience truly special.
We’ve put together this helpful guide based on our own adventures and recommendations from frequent visitors to help you navigate this fun-loving city and discover the wonder of Austin’s unique attractions.
Get ready for sunshine, amazing tacos, outdoor swimming, and plenty of “Keep Austin Weird” vibes!
1) Kick-off with breakfast tacos at Torchy’s Tacos – they’re a must!
Let’s be real, no trip to Austin is complete without diving into their craft beer, breakfast taco, and drink scene! And honey, Torchy’s Tacos is where the magic happens.
Their breakfast tacos are seriously life-changing.
We’re obsessed with their cage-free egg tacos that come with all kinds of yummy add-ins like refried beans, crispy potatoes, and chorizo, making it a must-try in downtown Austin!
Torchy’s has become a total Austin institution, and we can see why! With over 90 restaurants across 14 states, they’ve taken street tacos and given them that special Austin twist.
Don’t sleep on their famous green chile queso either! It’s the perfect side to your breakfast tacos and absolutely worth the calories.
The vibe is super casual and perfect for your first morning in Austin.
We recommend going earlier rather than later because this place can get packed with locals and tourists alike.
With a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, you know they’re doing something right!
Trust us, starting your Austin adventure at Torchy’s is just the beginning and will set the perfect tone for your entire trip.
2) Barton Springs Pool: Dive into the refreshing coolness, Texas-style!
OMG, we absolutely HAVE to tell you about Barton Springs Pool! This natural gem is one of Austin’s crown jewels and trust us, it’s a must-visit spot during your trip.
Located in gorgeous Zilker Park, this three-acre swimming hole is fed by underground springs that keep the water at a perfect 68-70 degrees year-round. How cool is that?! When it’s blazing hot outside (hello, Texas summer!), it’s the ultimate refresher.
We love that you can swim here in January or July and get the same delightful experience! The temperature hovers between 68-74 degrees, which feels absolutely amazing when the Texas heat is doing its thing.
From the pool, you can catch awesome views of the Austin skyline over the deep end.
There’s even a diving board in the middle for those of us feeling a little adventurous!
The pool is huge, so you won’t feel crowded even when lots of folks are there. It’s the perfect place to chill out, catch some sun, and take a dip when the Texas heat gets to be too much.
Don’t forget your sunscreen, besties! The Texas sun doesn’t play around, even when you’re splashing in those cool spring waters!
3) Don’t skip Lady Bird Lake for a breezy walk or kayak fun
Lady Bird Lake is one of our absolute favorite spots in Austin! This gorgeous lake flows five miles through the heart of downtown, giving you amazing city skyline views while you play outdoors.
We love hitting the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail for a quick morning walk.
The scenic path takes you through lush green parks and peaceful water views – perfect for a refreshing start to your day!
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Girl, grab a paddle! You can rent canoes or rowboats and explore the lake at your own pace.
We personally recommend Texas Rowing Center for kayak rentals – they’re super helpful for beginners!
For the cutest Instagram pics, try paddleboarding with the Austin skyline as your backdrop.
We’re not saying we’ve done this specifically for the ‘gram… but we’re not saying we haven’t either! 😉
The 3-mile loop from Austin High pedestrian bridge to the Pfluger Bridge is the busiest section, especially on weekends when there’s a sporting event nearby but honestly, that just means more friendly faces to smile at along your journey!
4) Stay weird with vintage finds on South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue (or SoCo as the locals call it) is seriously one of our favorite shopping spots in Austin! We absolutely love how this area is filled with unique restaurants and perfectly captures that “Keep Austin Weird” vibe we’ve all heard about.
When we visited, we were totally blown away by the amazing vintage clothing shops and boutiques lining the street.
Places like Feathers Boutique and Prototype Vintage have such wonderfully curated finds that’ll make your heart skip a beat!
The vintage scene in Austin is seriously impressive. We checked out so many shops during our last visit and couldn’t believe the treasures we found!
You can score everything from retro cowboy boots to funky accessories that’ll have your friends asking, “Where did you get that?!”
We recommend setting aside at least a couple hours to properly explore South Congress Avenue.
Trust us, you’ll need it! There’s something magical about hunting through racks of pre-loved clothing and discovering that perfect piece.
Don’t forget to snap some pics of your vintage finds against Austin’s colorful backdrops! It’s the perfect way to remember your SoCo shopping adventure.
5) Check out live music at The Continental Club – groovy vibes await!
We absolutely love The Continental Club when we’re visiting Austin! This iconic venue is the granddaddy of all local music venues and has been rocking South Congress since 1955.
When we’re in the mood for authentic Austin vibes, this place never disappoints.
It’s one of the oldest continuously running clubs in Austin, and you can totally feel that cool history when you walk in!
The atmosphere is delightfully divey in the best possible way.
We’ve found the staff super friendly, and the music lineup is always amazing. From blues to rock to country, there’s usually something for everyone to enjoy!
Don’t be surprised if you spot us dancing the night away at concerts on our next Austin trip! It’s definitely a must-have on your 2025 Austin bucket list.
Pro tip: Check their online calendar before you go.
We always like to see who’s playing and plan accordingly!
6) Get your culture fix at The Blanton Museum of Art. Artsy alert!
Let’s be real—when we need a break from Austin’s food trucks and live music, the Blanton Museum of Art is our go-to spot for some cultural refreshment!
Located on the University of Texas campus, this art haven is a total gem.
The Blanton is closed on Mondays, but open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 5pm. They’re also open on Saturdays, perfect for weekend adventures.
Just plan accordingly so you don’t show up on their day off!
With over 21,000 artworks in their collection, we’re talking everything from ancient Greek pottery to abstract expressionism.
It’s basically a time machine through art history, and we are here for it!
Remember some basic museum etiquette, mamas:
No touching the artwork (no matter how tempting!) and leave your drinks and snacks outside the galleries.
This includes water bottles, so hydrate before you admire!
For you photography enthusiasts, just know that flash photography isn’t allowed. But honestly, a photo couldn’t capture the magic of seeing these pieces in person anyway!
7) Austin’s BBQ scene is legendary – Franklin Barbecue is a delish spot!
OMG y’all, we can’t talk about Austin without gushing about the BBQ scene! It’s seriously mind-blowing and deserves a special spot on your travel itinerary.
Franklin Barbecue is basically BBQ royalty in Austin.
We’re not kidding when we say people line up HOURS before opening time just to get a taste of their amazing brisket. It’s that good!
The smell alone will have you drooling as you wait in line. But don’t worry – the wait is totally part of the experience!
Bring some camp chairs, make friends with other BBQ enthusiasts, and soak in that Austin vibe.
Franklin’s is considered an iconic Austin experience that you simply have to try at least once.
Their slow-smoked meats are perfect for visitors – juicy, tender, and packed with flavor that’ll make you want to slap your mama (kidding, we love our mamas!).
Austin has tons of other amazing BBQ joints too!
If Franklin’s line is too crazy, check out other spots like Kerlin BBQ which locals consider a hidden gem.
8) Capture epic views from the top of Mount Bonnell, selfie time!
Ladies, we’ve found the PERFECT spot for your Austin Instagram moment!
Mount Bonnell gives you some of the most incredible views the city has to offer without having to break a sweat.
Don’t worry about an intense hiking experience – it’s really just 106 stairs to reach the top!
Even our kiddos can handle this one, which makes it a perfect family adventure spot.
The best time to visit? We’re obsessed with going at sunset when the lighting is absolutely dreamy for photos!
The golden hour glow on Lake Austin is chef’s kiss.
Pack some snacks and water because once you’re up there, you’ll want to hang out for a while.
There are plenty of spots to sit and take in the views overlooking Lake Austin.
We always tell our friends to bring a portable phone charger because trust us – you’ll be taking SO many pics!
The downtown Austin skyline view from up there is totally worth the climb.
9) Cool off with a cold brew at local favorite, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
When the Texas heat hits hard, we know exactly where to go! Mozart’s Coffee Roasters is our absolute favorite spot to chill out with an amazing cold brew.
Located at 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, this coffee haven is conveniently accessible from the airport and offers the perfect escape from those sweltering Austin afternoons.
Their cold brew on tap is seriously next level – we’re talking 10/10 deliciousness that will make your taste buds dance!
The best part? Mozart’s has tons of indoor and outdoor seating options.
We love grabbing a spot on their deck overlooking the water – talk about coffee with a view!
For something extra special, try their seasonal offerings like the Reese’s Puffs Cold Brew that’s been getting all the buzz lately. So yummy!
This spot isn’t just a quick caffeine fix – it’s an experience that many visitors call the highlight of their Austin trip.
Trust us, your Instagram will thank you almost as much as your taste buds will!
10) Bats! Watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony take flight at dusk
OMG friends, we absolutely HAVE to tell you about one of Austin’s most magical events! The Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. How cool is that?!
Every evening from late March to early November, these little winged wonders (Mexican free-tailed bats) emerge from under the bridge in a spectacular show.
We’re talking about up to 1.5 million bats taking flight at once! It’s seriously amazing and totally free entertainment.
The best viewing spots? You can watch from on top of the bridge or head to the southeast corner viewing area by Lady Bird Lake.
We personally love grabbing a spot on the grassy hillside below the bridge for the perfect view.
Timing is everything, ladies! The bats typically emerge around sunset, but it can vary.
We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes early to snag a good spot because this is a popular attraction allowing visitors to enjoy every moment !
Want to make it extra special? Book a bat-watching boat tour on Lady Bird Lake.
It’s such a fun way to experience this natural phenomenon with the kiddos!
11) Taco deli serves breakfast tacos that are a morning game changer!
When we’re in Austin, there’s one breakfast spot we absolutely cannot miss – Tacodeli! These aren’t just any breakfast tacos, they’re life-changing morning fuel that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Locals rave about the Otto taco, which was so popular it recently made it to their all-day menu!
We’re obsessed with ordering it on corn tortillas with their amazing salsa roja.
Tacodeli prides itself on using local and organic ingredients in their Mexican-inspired creations.
Plus, their award-winning salsas take these breakfast beauties to the next level!
Need your taco fix in a hurry? They offer convenient grab-and-go options that are totally worth every penny and super filling!
We love pairing our tacos with their small queso (absolute perfection!) and washing it all down with Cuvee coffee.
Trust us, you’ll be planning your next morning visit before you’ve even finished your first taco!
With locations across Austin, Dallas, Plano, and Houston, catching this breakfast magic isn’t hard. But fair warning – you might get addicted to these morning miracles!
12) Food truck haul! Grab diverse eats at The Picnic – foodie heaven!
Okay, listen up, fellow food lovers! One thing we absolutely cannot miss while in Austin is The Picnic food truck park on Barton Springs Road, where you’ll find great transportation options to get aroun . It’s seriously the cutest little foodie paradise!
With 7 different food trucks all in one spot, we can each grab whatever we’re craving and still eat together. No more friend fights about where to eat – problem solved!
The best part? There’s FREE parking (hello, rare Austin win!), which makes this spot even more magical. We love not having to stress about feeding that meter while stuffing our faces.
Some days the trucks are super busy with lines of hungry folks, and other days it’s more chill. That’s just the reality of food truck life in Austin!
The Picnic is perfectly located near lots of Austin attractions, making it an ideal lunch stop during your sightseeing adventures.
We recommend going with an empty stomach and sharing a few dishes with your travel buddies for the full experience!
13) Chill out like a local at Zilker Park, picnics totally welcome.
Zilker Park is our absolute favorite place to escape the hustle of Austin without actually leaving the city! This gorgeous green space is where locals go to unwind, and we’re letting you in on the secret.
You can totally bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal in this beautiful setting. We’ve spent many afternoons lounging on the grass watching clouds roll by!
If you’re feeling fancy, there are even picnic services in Austin that will set up and clean everything for you. Talk about treating yourself while traveling!
The park offers so many ways to experience natural beauty right in the middle of the city. From sculpture gardens to walking trails, there’s something for everyone.
We love that it’s completely free to visit and perfect for photos! Just grab some local tacos, find a shady spot, and enjoy people-watching like a true Austinite.
14) Explore the vibrant East Austin murals – snap those Insta-worthy shots!
East Austin is a treasure trove of colorful street art that’s perfect for spicing up your Instagram feed! We absolutely love wandering through this artsy neighborhood to discover the most photogenic walls in the city.
One of our favorites is the iconic Til Death Do Us Part mural, which makes for an amazing backdrop for those travel selfies. It’s super popular, so try going early in the morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
The You’re My Butter Half mural is another must-visit spot that’ll give your social media that extra pop of color! This sweet message painted on a bright orange background is just too cute to miss.
Austin is basically an outdoor art gallery with murals around every corner! We recommend taking a casual self-guided tour to see the most photo-worthy spots at your own pace.
Don’t forget to wear something that pops against these vibrant backdrops! We always plan our outfits with these colorful walls in mind – it’s part of the fun!
15) Head to Alamo Drafthouse for a movie and dine-in experience like no other.
Ladies, if you’re looking for a unique night out in Austin, we’ve got just the ticket! The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is seriously the coolest movie theater you’ll ever visit.
Picture this: watching the latest blockbuster while munching on delicious food and sipping craft beers or cocktails. It’s basically our dream movie night come true! Their menu goes way beyond typical theater snacks.
Pro tip from us moms who’ve tried it all: arrive about 15 minutes before showtime. This gives you plenty of time to settle in and place your food order before the movie starts.
The Alamo takes movie-watching super seriously – they have a strict no talking, no texting policy. We love this because it means no distractions during our precious kid-free time!
Several locations exist around Austin, but the South Lamar spot is a local fave. Trust us, this isn’t just dinner and a movie – it’s dinner, drinks, AND a movie all rolled into one amazing experience!
Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Austin can be an exciting experience, with numerous options for transportation, accommodation, and activities. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels, restaurants, and live music venues, making it easy to plan a trip that suits their interests. The city’s website provides helpful information on local recommendations, events, and festivals, allowing visitors to make the most of their trip. With its rich history, vibrant nightlife scenes, and stunning natural beauty, Austin is a city that has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Some popular events to consider when planning your trip include the Southwest Festival, which takes place in March, and the Austin City Limits Music Festival, which takes place in October.
Getting Around Austin
Getting around Austin is relatively easy, with various transportation options available, including public buses, ride-hailing services, and car rentals. Visitors can also walk or bike around the city, exploring its many neighborhoods and attractions. Downtown Austin is particularly pedestrian-friendly, with many live music venues, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Lady Bird Lake is also a popular destination, offering stunning views and outdoor activities such as kayaking and paddle-boarding. For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, car rentals are available, making it easy to visit nearby attractions such as the Hill Country and historic homes in the Texas countryside.
Hill Country and Outdoors
The Hill Country surrounding Austin is a beautiful region with rolling hills, wildflowers, and scenic lakes. Visitors can explore the area by car or bike, taking in the stunning views and enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering kayaking, paddle-boarding, and sailing opportunities. The nearby town of Dripping Springs is also worth visiting, with its charming shops, restaurants, and wineries. For those interested in exploring the great outdoors, Austin has numerous parks and nature reserves, including Barton Creek Greenbelt and McKinney Falls State Park, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Shopping and Markets
Austin is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of unique boutiques, vintage shops, and markets to explore. The South Congress neighborhood is a popular destination for shopping, with its eclectic mix of stores, restaurants, and live music venues. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing, making it a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. The Hope Farmers Market is another popular destination, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food. For those interested in exploring the local art scene, the East Austin Studio Tour is a must-visit event, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. With its vibrant atmosphere and unique shopping experiences, Austin is a city that is sure to delight visitors of all interests.
Navigating Austin’s Seasons
Austin’s weather can be a wild rollercoaster ride throughout the year in this country ! We’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) how to handle everything from scorching summers to those surprise thunderstorms that seem to come out of nowhere.
What to Pack for Texas Heat
Y’all, the Texas heat is no joke! From May through September, temperatures regularly climb above 90°F, with July and August often hitting triple digits.
We always recommend bringing lightweight, breathable clothing – think cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics that’ll be your best friends.
Don’t forget these summer essentials:
- 🧴 Sunscreen (SPF 50+ is our go-to)
- 👒 A wide-brimmed hat
- 🕶️ Sunglasses
- 🍶 Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated is crucial!)
Planning to explore Austin’s outdoor attractions? Early mornings and evenings are your best bet. The city has plenty of swimming holes like Barton Springs Pool where you can cool off when the heat becomes unbearable!
Surviving the Sudden Rain Showers
We’ve all been there – blue skies one minute, and suddenly it’s pouring! Austin’s rain patterns can be super unpredictable, especially during spring (March-May) and fall (October-November).
Our not-so-secret tip? Always check the weather forecast before heading out and pack a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket. Those quick afternoon thunderstorms can pop up with little warning!
When it does rain, embrace it as a perfect opportunity to explore Austin’s amazing indoor spots:
- Museums and galleries
- Food halls and restaurants
- Live music venues (it’s the Live Music Capital for a reason!)
Cultural Insight
Austin’s culture is so unique and exciting that we simply have to share some local recommendations and insider tips! The city’s vibrant energy comes from its eclectic mix of people, traditions, and creative expressions that make it truly special. Visitors can create their own soundtrack while exploring Austin’s music and cultural offerings.
When you hear about the local spas, sports, and other attractions, you can trust that these recommendations are authentic and reflect the true essence of Austin. The strong local consensus on the quality and diversity of offerings ensures that your experiences will be memorable and genuine.
Understanding Austin’s Unique Vibe
Austin isn’t called the “Keep Austin Weird” city for nothing, as its music scene is a testament to that ! This unofficial slogan perfectly captures the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses and embracing individuality. When you visit, you’ll immediately notice how different it feels from other Texas cities.
The locals are super friendly and laid-back. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up conversations with you in coffee shops or while waiting in line for tacos! That’s just how things roll here.
Austin has this amazing blend of Texas hospitality with progressive attitudes. You’ll see cowboy boots paired with hipster glasses and traditional barbecue joints next to vegan cafés.
Some must-experience cultural elements include:
- South Congress Avenue (SoCo) for people-watching and unique shopping
- Food truck culture that’s become part of the city’s identity
- Bar hopping through Rainey Street where historic houses have been transformed into cool bars
Music and Art Scenes
OMG, we can’t talk about Austin without gushing about its great live music scene! As the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin delivers with over 250 live music venues throughout the city.
Sixth Street is where the magic happens at night, but don’t just stick to the obvious spots.
Check out intimate venues like the Continental Club or the Saxon Pub for authentic Austin music experiences.
The city hosts world-renowned art in various locations including traditional museums like The Blanton, but we’re obsessed with the public art scene too!
Look out for colorful murals around town – perfect for those Instagram moments!
Annual festivals to put on your radar:
- South by Southwest (SXSW) – a massive music, film, and tech festival
- Austin City Limits – fall music festival that draws huge headliners
- East Austin Studio Tour – peek inside artists’ creative spaces
Learning to two-step at places like The White Horse or Broken Spoke is such a fun way to experience authentic Texas culture with a twist!
