Top Austin tours
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Frequently asked questions about Austin
What are the must-see landmarks in Austin?
Austin is Texas’ capital city, and the chocolate brown capitol dome is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The dome is conveniently located to many of the city’s other most well-known landmarks, like the Bullock State History Museum, the Blanton Museum of Art, and James Turrell’s skyspace on the UT campus.
Zilker Metropolitan Park is the city’s most famous greenspace and home to Barton Springs. And no trip to the city would be complete without a trip to Mount Bonnell to take in a view of the hill country.
What are the best attractions in Austin for families?
There’s lots to do for parents traveling to Austin with their little ones, starting with exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re paddle boarding on the lake, taking a dip or enjoying a hike along the greenbelt, watching the wildflowers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, or even doing yoga with goats, outside is where it’s at The Thinkery is the city’s best children’s museum, with attractions that are as fun as they are educational. Or simply explore Zilker Park, riding the model railroad and taking a dip in the springs.
What are the best tours in Austin?
Austin is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for foodies, so no trip to the city would be complete without enjoying the East Austin Food Tour.
Explore the city’s historic east side, and watch famous chefs prepare their signature dishes as you sample pretzels, taquitos, smoothies, and more. Before you visit, you can read up on the city’s most famous museums and iconic outdoor spaces, like Zikler.
When is the best time to visit Austin?
The Texas summers can be brutal, with temperatures climbing into the high 90s in June through August, with sky-high humidity to match. While it’s a great time to enjoy those natural swimming holes, most visitors have a better time visiting the city in fall, September to November, and spring, March through May, when temperatures are in the 70s and 80s and the skies are sunny and bright.
Where should I stay in Austin?
Most of the must-see destinations in Austin are near, or close by, downtown, making this central district a prime place to stay during your Austin trip. If you’re looking for a destination that’s a little bit more removed from the urban hustle and bustle, the Eastside is home to some charming Airbnbs and boutique hotels with a more laid-back vibe.
What are the best annual events in Austin?
Austin is sometimes called the Live Music Capital of the world, and it’s got the festivals to match the title. SXSW and Austin City Limits are the most famous of the city’s annual music events, attracting acts and visitors from around the world.
In the summer, Rodeo Austin is a charming slice of Texas history, with bull riding and steer roping by the finest cowboys in the state. For fans of keeping Austin weird, Eeyore’s Birthday is one of the city’s quirkiest and most colorful events.
What food is unique to Austin?
It wouldn’t be Texas without finger lickin’ barbecue, and Austin is home to some of the state’s best spots. Stand in line at Franklins, or head to the hill country to enjoy the historic patio at Salt Lick BBQ.
Tex Mex is another must-eat, with locals flocking to Fonda San Miguel or El Patio to soak up the old-school charm. Or experience the new school of Austin haut cuisine, with farm-to-table spots like Barley Swine, Odd Duck, Salty Sow, Emmer & Rye, and Apis.
What should I do on my first trip to Austin?
Spending your first trip to Austin getting the lay of the land is the way to go, so make sure you plan a diverse itinerary that takes you through the highlights of the city. Explore the historic downtown, visiting the capitol, history museum, and historic preserved houses in the city center.
Enjoy the cultural side of the city with trips to Austin’s art museums and galleries. Eat your way through the home of new Texan cuisine, and enjoy the eclectic energy of the east side as you sample tacos, Tex Mex, and local craft beer. And don’t forget to make time to catch a show or two during your stay in the live music capital of the world.
How much time should I spend in Austin?
Since Austin is a smaller city, with a compact and easy-to-navigate core of tourist activities and attractions, most visitors can get to most of the must-see sites within the span of a long weekend, enjoying two to three full days in the city. However, spending more time in Austin is its own reward, as you enjoy a more leisurely stay and explore like a local.
What are the best transportation options in Austin?
Austin’s public transportation system is limited. Many places outside the city’s urban core are difficult, or even impossible, to get to via bus.
Downtown and the east side are both fairly walkable, but for activities outside those locations, a rideshare or a rental car is the way to go. Uber and Lyft both have a substantial presence in this tech-loving city, so your ride is never far away.
Where is the best shopping in Austin?
The east side of Austin is home to some truly unique vintage stores and boutiques, selling everything from clothing to pottery and home goods. BookPeople downtown is the city’s best-loved bookshop, although poetry haven Malvern Books is also worth a visit.
The Austin Flea is a monthly pop-up where you can shop the best small local vendors, exploring vintage goods, crafts, edibles, and more. And of course, you can’t forget to make time to check out the record shops. Waterloo Records & Video downtown is a local favorite, and Breakaway Records, Antone’s Record Shop, and End of an Ear are all well worth a visit.