Guide to Austin, Texas, USA

Austin was originally developed in the early 1800s as an alternative capital to Houston, whilst under threat from attack from Native American Comanches. Austin thrived, became the state capital and has gradually built a reputation as a laid-back, progressive and arts-centric city whilst also being a thriving technology centre to rival Silicon Valley.

Top reasons to visit Austin

Indulge in the creative hotbed that is Austin, home to edgy music, art, writing and performing.

Attend the legendary SXSW (South by South West) Festival

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Main areas of Austin

Austin is rapidly developing accommodation and property to meet the tech-fueled boom in population, which is threatening Austin’s small-town feel. Hotels and accommodation are generally readily available, apart from the mass influx of visitors for festivals and events such as SXSW (South by South West).

South Congress

is home to more upmarket hip accommodation

I-35 area

adjacent to the highway are more budget accommodations such as B&Bs, hostels and guest houses

The University of Austin

Home to the Longhorns football team, with a high student population frequenting the plenty bars , restaurants and stores along the Drag (Guadalupe Street).

When to go to Austin

Austin is rapidly developing accommodation and property to meet the tech-fueled boom in population, which is threatening Austin’s small-town feel.

Top Attractions in Austin

• explore the green Hill Country
• walking tours of the city centre
• Texas State Capital
• Governors Mansion - fine example of antebellum building
• see the world’s largest urban bat colony at Lady Bird Lake
• Zilker Park
• Barton Springs Pool
• The University of Austin - one of the richest in the country, with the Harry Ransom Centre hosting valuable exhibits, manuscripts and an art gallery
• Umlaut Scuplture Garden

Shopping in Austin

Congress Avenue is the main area for shopping, with individual and eclectic shops such as:-

• Uncommon Objects
• Stag
• Parts and Labour
• Mi Casa Gallery
• Big Top Candy Shop
• Tesoros Trading Co.
• Allens Boots
• Service Menswear
• Kendra Scott

Eating in Austin

Austin is home to some of the best restaurants in the state, most being situated along South Congress, with budget options being frequented by students along the Drag.

Recommended restaurants include - Cisco’s, Texas Chilli Parlor, Magnolia Cafe, Sam’s BBQ, Threadgill’s, Lambert’s and Guar’s.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Austin

Austin’s nightlife is legendary, particularly South Congress containing a hip neighbourhood of bars, restaurants and live music venues. Some of the clubs and bars around 6th Street cater more to tourists, with higher prices and crowds.

• Coffee - Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, Jo’s, Halcyon
• Nightlife - Sixth Street
• Live Music - Antone’s Blues Club, The Broken Spoke, Continental Club
• Bars - Hole in the Wall, Horseshoe Lounge, Long Branch Inn, Scoot Inn
• Performing Arts - Arthouse
• Museums - O’Henry Museum, Mexic-Arte Museum, LBJ Library and Museum, Bob Bullock Texas Texas State History Museum

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