Known for Music, and So Much More
When people first think of Austin TX, the name that often comes to mind is music. However, there’s a lot more to this city than that—world-class museums, one-of-a-kind shopping, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Unlike other close-minded Southern towns, the doctrine of massive resistance against the civil rights movement never took hold here.
Culture
The city has a booming cultural arts scene and is a hub for innovation. It is also a popular filming location. The filming industry here has nurtured the talents of local directors such as Richard Linklater and Robert Rodriguez.
The culture of Austin is influenced by its diverse residents and rich history. It was first settled by Anglo-Americans and later occupied by various ethnic groups such as Mexicans, African Americans, Germans, and Czechs.
The city was once plagued by segregation, but racial relations improved with the Civil Rights Movement and the University of Texas became the first southern university to admit black students in 1956. Today, the city is experiencing rapid growth as young people move to the area. This has put strain on city infrastructure and has led to a lack of affordable housing.
Food
Austin is best known as a music town, but the city’s food scene is also worth exploring. You’ll find everything from traditional Texan flavors to dishes that break stereotypes.
For example, Salty Sow offers up a savory menu that includes triple-fried duck fat fries with a 110 minute egg and cold bearnaise. Or visit the former Holly neighborhood laundromat to enjoy a meal of fresh produce, meats and roasted Gulf seafood at Hillside Farmacy.
You can even dine on a truck that started as a food truck (see Franklin’s BBQ and Torchy’s Tacos) or enjoy upscale cuisine at Fareground Foodhall, which is perfect for big groups looking to try a lot of different things. Taking a food tour led by an expert local is one of the most fun ways to explore the city’s culinary highlights.
Nightlife
With a wide range of bars, lounges and clubs, ATX caters to every night time craving. The Warehouse District offers upscale bars and restaurants in a gritty backdrop. The neighborhood feels like a European city with its mix of old and new.
A lively bar district called Rainey Street is home to trendy bars that are popular among locals. The area features dilapidated bungalows that have been transformed into cozy, come-as-you-are bars. Some highlights include Lucille Patio Lounge, a dog-friendly bar with outdoor hammocks and games; Container Bar, where patrons sip drinks in one of the seven stacked shipping containers; and Clive Bar, whose dark wood paneling and white vinyl chairs create a vintage vibe.
Cheer Up Charlies is a queer bar and dance club that embraces all bodies with love and acceptance. The space is illuminated with rainbow colors and energizing dance music, both spun by talented DJs and performed by local musicians.
Shopping
If anyone tells you retail therapy isn’t the best way to treat yourself, they clearly have never been shopping in Austin. From well-known chains like Allens Boots and Waterloo Records to smaller boutiques and art galleries, these shops are a hit with both locals aiming for something unique and visitors looking to add to their Austin souvenir collection.
The South Congress area (better known as SoCo) is a boutique-shopping paradise that’s home to everything from locally made jewelry to handmade clothing. Other favorite local stores include Flashback Vintage and Sugar & Paris, both of which offer up a mix of trendy fashion for women (think boho-inspired dresses and updated western attire) and cool home goods, such as scented candles and hand-woven angora blankets. The more-upscale Domain in North Austin is a one-stop shop for high-end designers and exclusive brands.
Outdoor Activities
Glorious sunshine and acres of green space make Austin a nature lover’s dream. From rooftop bars and patio brunching to outdoor parks, trails, and lakes, locals and visitors alike enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities during warm weather months.
The city’s riverside paths are popular for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Lady Bird Lake (actually a wide section of the Colorado River) is a peaceful spot for watersports and offers stunning views of downtown.
Take a break from the heat with a quick dip in Barton Springs Pool, where underground springs maintain a temperature of 68-70 degrees. It’s also the site of the Zilker Kite Festival every March, which features thousands of kite enthusiasts flying their handmade colorful creations at Zilker Park. Or, head to the Mueller district for a day at the thinkery, an interactive children’s museum where kids explore the forces of nature and learn about building and inventing.