Austin 3 Days
Day 1: Explore Downtown Austin and South Congress
Morning:
– Breakfast at a Local Cafe: Start your day with breakfast at a local cafe like Jo’s Coffee or Magnolia Cafe.
Midmorning:
– Texas State Capitol: Visit the Texas State Capitol, the largest state capitol building in the United States. Take a guided tour to learn about Texas history and politics.
Late Morning:
– Blanton Museum of Art: Explore the Blanton Museum of Art, located on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Admire its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Lunch:
– Food Truck Experience: Have lunch at a food truck park like The Picnic on Barton Springs or South Congress Avenue. Sample a variety of Austin’s famous food truck fare.
Afternoon:
– Barton Springs Pool: Spend the afternoon relaxing at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool in Zilker Park. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing in this beautiful outdoor setting.
Evening:
– South Congress Avenue: Explore South Congress Avenue (SoCo), known for its eclectic shops, boutiques, and vibrant street art. Have dinner at one of the many restaurants or food trucks along the avenue.
Day 2: Music and Outdoor Activities
Morning:
– Breakfast Tacos: Start your day with Austin’s famous breakfast tacos. Visit a local spot like Torchy’s Tacos or Veracruz All Natural.
Midmorning:
– Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake. Enjoy views of the Austin skyline and the nature along the water.
Late Morning:
– Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail: Walk or bike along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which circles Lady Bird Lake. It’s a great way to experience Austin’s outdoor scene.
Lunch:
– Austin Food Trailers: Grab lunch from one of the food trailers at The Picnic or another popular trailer park. Don’t miss trying some local barbecue or Tex-Mex specialties.
Afternoon:
– Live Music and Brewery Tour: Visit a local brewery like Austin Beerworks or Jester King Brewery for a tour and tasting. Afterward, catch live music at a venue on Sixth Street or in the Red River Cultural District.
Evening:
– Dinner in East Austin: Head to East Austin for dinner. Explore the vibrant East Sixth Street area or go to East Cesar Chavez Street for diverse dining options.
Day 3: Hill Country and Cultural Exploration
Morning:
– Breakfast at a Bakery: Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery or brunch spot in the South Congress or East Austin neighborhoods.
Midmorning:
– Explore Hill Country: Take a morning drive to the Texas Hill Country. Visit wineries, such as Duchman Family Winery or Driftwood Estate Winery, for tastings and scenic views.
Late Morning/Afternoon:
– Hamilton Pool Preserve: If it’s warm enough (check seasonal availability), visit Hamilton Pool Preserve for a unique natural swimming hole and waterfall experience. Note: Reservations may be required.
Lunch:
– Texas BBQ: Have a late lunch at a renowned Texas barbecue spot like Franklin Barbecue or La Barbecue. Be prepared for potentially long lines at popular places.
Afternoon/Evening:
– Sunset at Mount Bonnell: End your day with a visit to Mount Bonnell, one of the highest points in Austin offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Austin. Enjoy the sunset before heading back to downtown.
This itinerary allows you to experience Austin’s vibrant music scene, outdoor activities, culinary delights, and cultural attractions over three days. Adjust activities based on your interests and the time you have available.