How to Spend a Weekend in Austin

Austin is the perfect place to spend a long weekend! Famed for its live music and refreshingly alternative identity, the Texas state capital is also compact and welcoming. Flight Centre’s Sarah Howland shares her top tips for a long weekend.

How to Start Your Weekend Off Right

“Check into the trendy South Congress Hotel in SoCo and ease into the weekend with a dip and sundowner at the rooftop pool and bar. Head out for a bite from one of Austin’s thousand or so food trucks, which serve up every cuisine you can imagine, or try Mexican and Tex-Mex fare at Güero’s Taco Bar, just around the corner.”

Engage in Austin's History and Culture

“Immerse yourself in history and culture, from the Texas State Capitol and The Bullock State History Museum to the O. Henry and Susanna Dickinson museums. Come evening, honky-tonk bars such as the legendary Broken Spoke and White Horse are fun for dancing two-step and getting down with the country crowd.”

Austin's Beautiful Nature and Unique Scenery

“Take a morning kayak on Lady Bird Lake, then wander through Zilker Park, host to festivals throughout the year. At sunset, marvel at the world’s largest urban bat colony at Congress Avenue Bridge. And end the day at Rainey Street, where craftsman houses have been turned into cool bars and eateries, most with live music.”

Shop Austin's Traditional Fashion and Styles

“For some Texan style to take home with you, stop in at Allens Boots in SoCo – it’s stacked high with beautiful cowboy boots. There are lots of independent boutiques here as well, such as Parts & Labour, which showcases Texan designers. And you’ll get a live music fix from the street performers along the way, too.”

Author's First-Hand Austin Experience

“Austin is perfect as part of a Texas and Deep South itinerary. I’ve been there twice and have another trip planned. It’s a super-accessible, creative city that’s brimming with music, food and indie spirit. It’s also a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring local gems like the Texas Hill Country wineries and the dude ranches of Bandera.”