United States · June 2025
Overview
Austin is the young, creative, slightly weird side of Texas. People swim in a natural spring in the middle of the city, watch a million bats fly out from under a bridge at sunset and go to live music every night of the week. It is relaxed and outdoorsy, but keep in mind that it has also become expensive and traffic can be bad.
The city was founded in 1839 as the capital of the Republic of Texas and named after Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas". It stayed the state capital when Texas joined the US in 1845. The University of Texas opened in 1883. From the 1970s the city built its music scene (the TV show Austin City Limits started in 1974), and from the 1990s it became a tech hub. The motto "Keep Austin Weird" came from local businesses in 2000.
How long to stay: 2 to 3 days. Add a day for the Hill Country.
Last updated: October 2026
Quick Facts
Location
Central Texas, on the Colorado River (Lady Bird Lake), at the edge of the Texas Hill Country. San Antonio is 1.5 hours south, Dallas about 3 hours north.
Budget
Per person, per day.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Comfort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bed | $45–75 | $170–260 | $350+ |
| Food | $30–45 | $60–90 | $130+ |
| Getting around | $3 (bus day pass) | $25–50 | $80+ |
| Daily total | $80–125 | $255–400 | $560+ |
Prices do not include tax (8.25%) or tips. BBQ is sold by the pound: about $30–35 for a pound of brisket.
Things to Do
Up to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats live under the bridge from March to October, the largest urban bat colony in North America. At sunset they fly out in a long dark ribbon to hunt insects.
Price: free · Season: March to October, best in August · Tip: watch from the bridge or from a kayak on Lady Bird Lake.
Completed in 1888 and built of local pink granite, it is taller than the US Capitol in Washington. You can walk in freely, look up into the dome and join a free guided tour.
Price: free · Time needed: 1 hour.
A spring-fed pool in Zilker Park, about 275 m long, that stays around 20°C (68°F) all year. It has been a local favourite since the 1920s.
Price: about $9 for non-resident adults · Tip: it is closed one morning a week for cleaning; check before you go.
The river through downtown, with a 16 km walking and running trail (Ann and Roy Butler Trail). Rent a kayak or paddle board, or relax in Zilker Park, where the ACL festival is held.
Price: free; kayaks and SUPs about $20–30 an hour.
The street of vintage shops, food trucks, boots and murals, with the classic view back to the Capitol. Find the "i love you so much" mural on the side of Jo's Coffee.
Price: free.
Austin calls itself the "Live Music Capital of the World". 6th Street is loud and party-focused, Red River has the best music venues and Rainey Street is a row of old bungalows turned into bars.
Price: many bars free; small cover charges at venues.
Two museums near the university: one tells the whole story of Texas, the other the life of President Lyndon B. Johnson, including the civil rights laws he signed.
Price: each about $15–20.
One of the highest points in Austin, with a view over the Colorado River and mansions. A short stair climb from the road.
Price: free · Tip: go for sunset.
Central Texas BBQ is all about smoked brisket with salt and pepper. Franklin Barbecue is famous for its lines (people queue for hours); other great options have shorter waits.
Tip: go early; good places sell out by afternoon.
Wineries in Fredericksburg, swimming holes and small German-Texan towns. Hamilton Pool is a collapsed grotto with a waterfall; reservations are required.
Transit Tips
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Airport: CapMetro bus 20 to downtown (about 30 minutes, $1.25); Uber or Lyft about $25–40.
By car: San Antonio 1.5 hours, Dallas 3 hours, Houston 2.5 to 3 hours.
Uber and Lyft both work.
CapMetro: $1.25 a ride, about $2.50 for a day pass; buy in the app.
Scooters and bikes: good for downtown and the lake trail.
Keep in mind that summer is very hot (often over 38°C / 100°F). Plan outdoor things for early morning and evening.
Helpful Words
A few basics in English can make everyday conversations much easier.
Where to Stay
Plan & Book
Explore accommodation options and open hotel details directly from the map.
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