Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, with barbecue, tacos and breweries all over town and spring-fed swimming holes just outside it. Spring and fall are best; summers are brutally hot.
Good to know
- Book popular barbecue spots by arriving early or ordering ahead; many sell out by early afternoon.
- SXSW (March) and ACL (October) change hotel prices dramatically; check dates.
- Barton Springs is closed Thursdays for cleaning.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Austin's densest strip of live venues, from rock to country to jazz.
The largest urban bat colony in North America flies out at dusk from March to October.
Pink granite building taller than the US Capitol; free tours.
Legendary brisket with long lines; order ahead or get there early.
Trailer parks, taquerias and some of Austin's most creative restaurants.
Three-acre spring-fed pool that stays 68-70F year-round.
Boutiques, boot shops and food trucks along a quirky avenue.
Two UT museums, one strong on contemporary art and Ellsworth Kelly's Austin chapel.
Kayak or paddleboard past the skyline and a trail loop that runs around the lake.
Two hours west for German bakeries and Texas wines.
Swimming holes and limestone ledges 20 minutes from downtown.