Austin Travel Tips
Keep in Mind...
- Yes, you're in Texas You should be aware that it is perfectly legal to carry a concealed weapon (as long as you have the proper permit to go with it). But that doesn't mean you have the right to re-enact a Wild West shootout.
- Yes, you're in the "Live Music Capital of the World" The sweet notes of undiscovered musicians pour out onto 6th Street from almost every bar every evening. Don't miss out on a critical part of Austin's culture.
- Yes, you're in a college town Home to the University of Texas-Austin, the city's pride is its beloved Longhorns. If you can find tickets, go to a sporting event and feel the fervor of the Texas fans.
Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin boasts more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in the nation. It has witnessed the early careers of several famous musicians, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Janis Joplin and the Dixie Chicks. Despite significant growth in recent years, Austin maintains a quirky, laid-back atmosphere that you won't find in other Texas cities. Outsiders tend to see the city as a home base for wacky characters, but Austinites revel in their eccentricity and proudly flaunt the city's motto, "Keep Austin Weird."
Aside from its buzzing live-music and nightlife scenes, the main reason to visit is to enjoy the outdoors. With an average of 300 sunny days per year and large swaths of green space like Zilker Park, many experts consider Austin "the most livable city" in America. It's probably because there's something here for everybody: Whether you're a museum buff (Blanton Museum of Art) a bargain-hunter (Renaissance Market), a sports fan (University of Texas-Austin football) or a budding musician (6th Street). After your visit, you might be asking: Why don't I live here?
How To Save Money in Austin
- Go where the students are Budget-conscious students are always first to discover bargains in this town.
- Avoid festivals and game days Lookout for major citywide events, such at UT home football games and the South by Southwest music festival. If you're not in Austin to attend the specific event, you'll not enjoy paying extra for your room.
- Reduce your carbon footprint Walk, bike, or use public transit to move about Austin and gain a deeper appreciation of this city's beautiful neighborhoods.
Austin Culture & Customs
According to TripAdvisor, "Austin culture is best described by two words: laid-back and friendly!" Austinites are known for being helpful to visitors, and the lifestyle of this city is extremely relaxed yet energetic. Music plays a major role here, and a great way to meet and mingle with residents is to see a show or stop by one of the many music festivals hosted here.
When it comes to clothing, Austinites are casual. You can pretty much wear whatever you please without anyone passing judgment. Austin is also very accepting of all types of personalities. After all, "Keep Austin Weird" isn't just a motto: It's a way of life.
Austin Dining
A city formerly overrun with barbecue joints and chop houses, Austin has since welcomed a more diverse dining scene featuring more upscale restaurants as well as a wide array of international cuisine. However, the traditional barbecue joints continue to thrive alongside sushi bars and European bistros. Tex-Mex is also a thriving fare. Austin's proximity to Mexico has allowed for the infiltration of south-of-the-border favorites, such as fish tacos, burritos and fajitas.
If you're looking to dine like the Austinites, 2nd Street and 6th Street are packed with saucy joints serving hearty portions of spicy ribs and savory beef brisket accompanied by live music. For a tasty budget meal, experts recommend checking out the restaurants near the University of Texas and along The Drag. If it's the fiery flavors of Mexico that you crave, head to the East Side where Tex-Mex joints abound. For a more upscale, classy meal out, head north to Clarksville where you can find a wide variety of upscale restaurants and international cuisines.
You might also like...
-
San Antonio
- More historic attractions
- Less quirky
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Dallas - Fort Worth
- Much larger city
- More "authentically Texan"
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Santa Fe
- Less music, more art
- Very relaxed feel
