Living an hour north of Waco, getting to Austin is not super difficult to do, and we absolutely love it. I wanted to give you the ultimate guide to Austin.

If you’ve never been, the city is full of people who love to get out in nature and bring their pups with them (big or small). So if you’re looking for the “yee-haw” version of California, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

Best Time to Visit Austin

Month	Temperature
January	62° / 41°
February	66° / 44°
March	73° / 52°
April	80° / 59°
May	86° / 66°
June	93° / 72°
July	96° / 74°
August	97° / 75°
September	91° / 70°
October	82° / 60°
November	71° / 50°
December	64° / 43°

Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild to warm weather, making it an ideal time for exploring the city. It’s also when Austin comes alive with the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival, one of the biggest cultural events of the year. And, there’s my personal favorite, The Lone Star Round Up Car Show, a large outdoor event featuring hot rods and custom cars, is held at the Travis County Expo Center. It’s important to note that this time of year, especially April timeframe, brings rain that can last a day or two.

Summer (June to August): Summers in Austin are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s or higher. This season is less popular with tourists due to the intense heat, but it’s a great time to enjoy indoor attractions or take a dip in one of Austin’s many natural swimming holes.

Fall (September to November): Fall in Austin is characterized by comfortable temperatures, typically with daily highs in the 70s and low humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. This season also features major events, such as the Austin City Limits music festival and the Austin Film Festival, drawing crowds from all over.

Winter (December to February): Austin winters are mild and dry, with temperatures usually in the low to mid-60s. This is a quieter time to visit, perfect for enjoying holiday events without the peak season crowds. Winter offers a pleasant respite for those looking to escape harsher climates.

How to Get to Austin

Getting to Austin is easy, whether you’re flying in or driving from nearby cities. Here are the most common ways to reach the heart of Texas:

• Flying In: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the main airport serving the city. Located just about 8 miles southeast of downtown Austin, it’s well-connected with domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can easily drive or take public transportation to downtown Austin, making it a convenient option for travelers.
  
• Driving from Dallas: If you’re coming from Dallas, Austin is about a 3-hour drive south on I-35. This scenic route takes you through the heart of Texas, offering a straightforward drive with plenty of rest stops and dining options along the way.
  
• Driving from Houston: For those traveling from Houston, Austin is roughly a 2.5-hour drive west on US-290. This route is mostly highway, making for a smooth journey with beautiful Texas landscapes to enjoy along the way.

What to Pack for Your Austin Trip

Packing for Austin is all about being prepared for the city’s laid-back vibe and variable weather. Here’s a list of essentials to ensure you’re ready for everything from outdoor adventures to a night out on the town:

• Swimwear and Flip-Flops: Perfect for cooling off at spots like Lady Bird Lake, Lake Travis, or Barton Springs Pool, where you can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun.
  
• Casual Clothing: Austin is known for its relaxed dress code. Jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes are ideal for exploring the city, whether you’re strolling through South Congress or enjoying live music downtown.
  
• Layers: The weather in Austin can be unpredictable, especially during the spring and fall. Pack layers like light sweaters, hoodies, or a denim jacket to stay comfortable if the temperature drops or if you encounter a rainy day.
  
• Accessories: A large scarf is a great multi-purpose item that can provide warmth or be used as a stylish wrap. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, especially during the hot summer months.
  
• Sunscreen: Be sure to bring sunscreen to protect against the Texas sun, along with your usual toiletries, such as a hairbrush and any styling tools you may need.
  
• First Aid Kit: It’s always a good idea to have a small first aid kit on hand. Include basics like bandages, disinfectant, and insect repellent to cover any minor scrapes or bites you might encounter while enjoying the outdoors.
  
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially in Austin’s warm climate. A reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly option that is easy to refill at various water stations throughout the city.
  
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Whether you’re exploring the trails around the city or checking out local shops and cafes, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Places to Stay in Austin

Finding the perfect place to stay in Austin is key to making the most of your trip. Here are a couple of unique options that cater to different needs and preferences:

• Lone Star Court: Located near the Domain shopping center, this boutique hotel combines vintage charm with modern amenities. Each room features a stocked SMEG refrigerator and an oversized shower, adding a touch of luxury to your stay. The outdoor area is equally impressive, with a pool, several fire pits, and game areas for guests to enjoy. Despite its retro-style outdoor entries to the rooms, the hotel is equipped with elevators to access the second and third floors. This hotel had been on my bucket list since 2018, ever since my first visit to the Lone Star Round Up car show, and I can’t recommend it enough—it was such a fun and unique experience!
  
• Embassy Suites in Round Rock: If you’re willing to stay a bit outside the city, the Embassy Suites in Round Rock is a fantastic option. Located about a forty-minute drive north of Austin, this hotel is relatively new and stunning on the inside. The spacious rooms can easily accommodate a family of six, making it ideal for those traveling with kids. The Round Rock area also offers plenty to do, so you’ll have the opportunity to explore both Austin and its northern surroundings.
  
• Glamping Dome in Spicewood: One of my and Nevaeh’s favorite things about Austin is the housing —it seems they are all so cool and modern. And VRBOs are right up there with them. It was hard to find just one (as a matter of fact, this was my first writing workshop, and I have the place figured out!), but I decided to go with the Hill County Glamping Dome because it’s on my bucket list. Secluded – this is the perfect getaway to fall asleep under the stars, all while staying cool in air conditioning. Complete with your own hot tub and a shared gym and sauna with the other four sites, this is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for a country oasis.
  
• Camping at McKinney Falls State Park: For those looking to immerse themselves in nature while visiting Austin, McKinney Falls State Park offers a fantastic camping experience just a short distance from South Congress. The park features 81 campsites with water and electrical hookups, as well as six newly remodeled cabins for those seeking added comfort. Amenities include restrooms, bathhouses, and a dump station, making it convenient for all campers.

Coffee Shops in Austin

Austin is a coffee lover’s paradise, boasting a diverse array of unique and quirky spots that reflect the city’s eclectic spirit. Here are some must-visit coffee shops for your next trip:

• Summer Moon Coffee: My love for Summer Moon began at their Fort Worth location, but it was in Austin that it all started. Known for roasting their beans over Texas Oak wood, they deliver a distinctive smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with their signature Moon Milk, enhancing the coffee’s oaky undertones.
  
• Houndstooth Coffee: This coffee shop aims to be your upscale coffee roaster. Here, the focus is on the pure taste of the coffee itself, with minimal flavor options to distract from the beans’ natural profile. The baristas are expertly trained and often host cupping classes, offering a deeper dive into the coffee-tasting process.
  
• Mozart’s Coffee: With a stunning location on Lake Travis, Mozart’s Coffee is a great spot to spend an entire day. They offer more than just coffee, with events like movie nights and stand-up paddleboarding. On our last visit, I tried their cereal milk latte hot, and it was one of the best lattes I’ve had in a while.
  
• Greater Goods Coffee Roasters: While not a traditional coffee shop, Greater Goods offers a unique experience with coffee classes that go beyond just brewing. My oldest and I took a latte art class here, where we learned how to create hearts, rosettes, and tulips in our cups. The baristas are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making it a memorable experience.
  
• Civil Goat Coffee: Though I haven’t made it there yet, I’ve heard fantastic things about Civil Goat Coffee, especially their Cuernavaca Shop location, which features a pygmy goat named Butters. This spot offers a fun, unique twist with great coffee. They serve traditional espresso drinks and offer cold nitro coffee in to-go bottles. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but it’s definitely on my list for next time!

Austin’s coffee scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering something for every type of coffee enthusiast, from the casual sipper to the serious connoisseur.

Food in Austin

Austin’s food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself, offering something for every taste. Here are some must-try spots:

Main Dishes

• Gourdoughs: If you love over-the-top donuts, Gourdoughs is the place for you. This food truck serves some of the best donuts I’ve ever had, comparable to Hypnotic Donuts in Dallas. I highly recommend trying the Funky Monkey.
  
• Homeslice Pizza: Located on South Congress, Homeslice Pizza is the perfect spot to enjoy giant, floppy New York-style pizzas with a deliciously fermented crust. It’s a great place to relax, watch the dough-tossing action, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of South Congress.
  
• Lucky Robot: Just two blocks down from Homeslice, Lucky Robot is Austin’s first sustainable sushi restaurant. The decor is incredibly cute, featuring cherry blossoms and disco balls that line the ceiling. On cooler nights, they open the glass garage doors, allowing you to sit on a swing and enjoy the view of Congress Avenue. I highly recommend the R2D2 sushi, featuring Texas Wagyu beef, and the yuzu pie with a toasted marshmallow meringue—both are mouthwatering!
  
• Culinary Dropout: Though part of a larger restaurant group, Culinary Dropout fits Austin’s vibes perfectly. It’s a lively spot where both kids and adults can have fun with various outdoor games. The open kitchen, visible from every angle of the restaurant through glass windows, adds to the dynamic atmosphere. We tried the pretzels with beer cheese fondue, and while the pretzels were a bit dense initially, dipping them in the cheese sauce softened them up nicely.
  
• P. Terry’s Burger Stand: While we love In-N-Out Burger when we’re out West, P. Terry’s is our go-to spot whenever we’re in the Austin or San Antonio area. This beloved burger joint serves all-natural, never-frozen beef and chicken, along with fresh-cut fries, fresh-squeezed drinks, veggie burgers, and baked goods. Owners Patrick and Kathy Terry were inspired by Kathy’s reading of Fast Food Nation and Patrick’s nostalgia for Mack Eplen’s, a classic burger stand in Abilene, Texas. P. Terry’s truly embodies the spirit of a quality, classic burger stand.
  
• The Original Black’s BBQ: Opened in 1932 in Lockhart, Texas, The Original Black’s BBQ started as a meat market before 2nd Generation Pitmaster Edgar Black Jr. transformed it into the iconic restaurant it is today. While their brisket is a staple, the biggest draw for my family is the beef ribs, which are famously “bigger than your face.” If you’re in the mood for some seriously hearty, authentic Texas barbecue, Black’s is an absolute must-visit.
  
• Slab BBQ: Slab BBQ isn’t your traditional barbecue joint. Instead, they expertly bridge the taste bud gap of the Dirty South, incorporating flavors from Memphis, the Carolinas, Alabama, and Texas. This unique approach to BBQ earned them a spot on an episode of Diners, Drive-In, and Dives. One standout menu item is their BBQ Nachos, which are generously topped with a mix of smoked brisket, pulled pork, melted cheese, jalapeños, and a tangy house-made barbecue sauce. These nachos are a favorite among patrons for their bold flavors and perfect blend of Southern BBQ styles. If you’re looking to experience a creative twist on classic barbecue, Slab BBQ is a must-visit destination in Austin.

Desserts 

When the Texas heat hits, nothing beats a cool scoop of ice cream. Here are some of my favorite ice cream spots in Austin:

• Amy’s Ice Cream: Since 1984, Amy’s Ice Creams has been a go-to for Austinites. Their original shop on Guadalupe Street gained a reputation for its famous Mexican vanilla flavor. Today, they offer a wide range of flavors, including vegan options and even adult-friendly choices for those 21 and up.
  
• Lick Honest Ice Cream: What I love most about Lick Honest Ice Cream is their dedication to using real ingredients. They believe that what doesn’t go into their ice creams—like artificial colors, high fructose corn syrup, or preservatives—is just as important as what does. We’ve been to their Lamar Union location late at night, and the staff was super friendly. I recommend the Texas Sheet Cake or Hill Country Honey from the everyday menu, but if you’re visiting in the fall, definitely try the Coconut Pecan Coffee Cake from their seasonal options.
  
• The Yard Milkshake Bar: Opened in 2017 by husband-and-wife team Logan and Chelsea Green, The Yard Milkshake Bar quickly expanded to over thirty locations after their appearance on Shark Tank. While I typically avoid chains, this one is worth the stop. We recommend the Cookies and Worms shake, which features Cookies N’ Cream ice cream in a marshmallow-dipped jar, rolled in crushed Oreos, and topped with gummy worms, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a Cookies N’ Cream cookie dough pop.

These are just a few of the great places to eat in Austin. Whether you’re in the mood for donuts, pizza, sushi, or a bustling restaurant with games and an open kitchen, Austin’s food scene has something to offer every palate.

Things To Do in Austin

Austin’s Mural Scene

Austin’s murals are as eclectic and vibrant as its music scene. The city’s love for public art dates back to the 1970s and 80s when local artists began painting murals to reflect the city’s unique culture and creativity. Over time, murals have become an integral part of Austin’s identity, celebrating its history, people, and quirky personality. My favorites tend to be those featuring people, such as the iconic “Willie for President” mural and the nostalgic “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” mural.

Visit the Flagship Whole Foods Market

For an authentic Austin experience, visit the flagship Whole Foods Market on Lamar Street. Originally opened in 1980 in a building that once housed a Goodwill store, this location is larger than any other I’ve visited. It features a rooftop playground and dining area, as well as a selection of eateries scattered throughout the store. You can even grab a beer and enjoy it with your neighbor, making it a fun, community-driven stop during your trip.

Peacocks at Mayfield Park

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot, check out Mayfield Park, located near Mount Bonnell. This peaceful 23-acre city park is home to free-roaming peacocks and features a charming cottage, relaxing garden, hiking trails, and picnic tables. It’s the perfect place for a quiet escape. The park was donated to the city by Dr. Gutsch and his wife, Mary Mayfield Gutsch, making it a beautiful blend of history and nature.

The Domain

Often considered Austin’s second downtown, The Domain offers everything you need for shopping, dining, and nightlife. You’ll find high-end stores like Apple and Burberry, alongside great restaurants like Culinary Dropout and True Food Kitchen. One of my favorite bars here is Wonderbar, which always has a fun atmosphere. On one end of The Domain is Whole Foods Market, and on the other is Lone Star Court, with apartment complexes lining the outer edges, making this a great place to live if you want to be in the city!

Inner Space Caverns

Discovered by a Texas Highway Department drilling team in 1963, Inner Space Caverns opened to the public in 1966 and offers a unique underground adventure. We took the Adventure Tour, which requires walking a mile along steep, wet, and uneven pathways—so it’s not recommended for anyone with health concerns like bad knees or heart conditions. The cavern stays around 72°F with 98% humidity, making it feel like 80°F, so it’s not your typical cool cave experience.

Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool is one of my favorite places in Austin, though I’ll give you a heads-up—it’s not uncommon to see topless women, especially in the evening. 

The pool is home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander and is listed as a federally protected habitat. With depths ranging from 0 to 18 feet and grassy areas to lounge on, it’s a fantastic spot to relax and cool off.

Part of the reason there is more nudity in the evenings is because after dark it’s FREE. So, weigh your options and go- either way, just go. It’s such a wonderful experience.

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is the perfect spot for those wanting to experience the “country in the city.” One of the most popular activities here is hiking the Homestead Trail, which starts north of Onion Creek and takes you past the ruins of Thomas McKinney’s residence and a historic gristmill. But for me, the falls are the main draw. After a good rain, you can enjoy the water by wading in the lower falls or swimming in the upper falls for a refreshing dip.

Zilker Botanical Gardens

Zilker Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Austin, offering not only stunning plant life but also a great view of downtown. One of my favorite areas is the bonsai tree section, which is always fun to explore. They also have a unique music area that I think every school should offer for their students (that’s the teacher in me!). With its combination of gardens, views, and interactive spots, this garden is a must-visit for nature lovers and families alike.

Watching the Bats in Austin

One of the most spectacular and unusual attractions in Austin is watching the Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk. Since the bridge was expanded in 1982, an estimated 1.5 million bats call it home. Initially, Austinites weren’t thrilled, but the bats help control the bug population. From mid-March to early November, they take flight around 30-60 minutes before sunset. We watched from a nearby spot, but you can also kayak or paddleboard for an up-close view of this nightly event.

Wrapping Up Our Time in Austin

I was surprised by how much I could recommend to you to see and do in the area. I don’t get to Austin as often as I do Dallas and Fort Worth, but there’s just something so different and fun about the area. I hope you love it as much as I do when you go!

Looking for more great things to do? Be sure to check out our Dallas post. And, more Texas love coming soon- I promise!