Recently traveled to Austin for my youngest cousins wedding. The wedding was in Liberty Hill, but we opted to stay in the downtown area. I would 100% stay downtown again despite everyone recommending against it. Downtown was centrally located to many places/neighborhoods within walking distance (or a short uber ride).
Each morning started with a workout class which was conveniently located around the corner from our Air BnB. We had a lot of fun at the Barry’s Bootcamp class as well as the Orange Theory class, both instructors were great!
I came ready to shop till I drop, but I quickly learned that ATX is not big on the shopping scene, although they did add a new mall near south congress which was fun to browse. However, I was looking for cute local boutiques (home and fashion) and didn’t find much (Nashville had much more). There are some spots on SoCo but nothing really caught my eye or is worth mentioning.
Neighborhoods to Explore:
Downtown — A mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. Lots of workout classes located within walking distance.
Rainey Street — The morning light here was gorgeous and the street was extremely quiet on a Friday at 10am which we did not mind at all. Rainey street is known for its unique blend of historic charm and modern entertainment (although this is fleeting as they are and continuing to build skycsrapers - so tragic). The strip still has lots of stylish bars, restaurants, and food trucks, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere to chill outside and grab a food or drink or enjoy the night life with the live music.
South Congress (SoCo) — A must visit. The famous “I love you so much” sign is located on this strip. The entire strip spans about .5 miles (totally walkable). Both sides of the street are filled with boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries and dining. A must visit in Austin.
6th Street — Great nightlife scene. Filled with bars, clubs and live music venues. If you can, book a show at The Mothership (Joe Rogans new Comedy venue). Also, stop into Voodoo Doughnuts and pick up a few for a late night snack. The apple fritter was divine.
Where to eat:
BBQ — This is a must in Texas. My husband really wanted to wait in the Franklin’s line, so we did. We arrived at 12pm and the total wait was about 2 hours. With that being said, I would never wait in that line again. The brisket was delicious and for sure the best we’ve ever had, I will give them that, but everything else didn’t knock my socks off. If you aren’t looking to wait 2 hours for BBQ in an underwhelming ambience, check out these spots. Terry Black’s
Vera Cruz Tacos — Wasn’t sold on their tacos, but I think it’s because I got corn tortillas and not flour. Anyways, I would go back a million times over to get an Agua Fresca. I got the pineapple one and it totally hit the spot.
Houndstooth Coffee — Good local coffee spot.
Local Foods — If you are downtown, check them out. The to-go Green Monkey Smoothie was amazing. We picked up a few for the mornings post workout.
Juice Land — I loved the variety on their menu. I got the Wild Child with Mango and it was delish and refreshing.
Via 313 — If pizza isn’t included in our trip, my husband is not satisfied. This spot is not as amazing as Ace’s Pizza in NYC, but solid Detroit style pizza.
Odd Duck — Farm to table spot that locals love located by South Lamar. Everything we ordered was so unique, but personally wasn’t a huge fan of their recent seasonal menu. The burger and the cornbread were my favorite of the items we ordered. I am also not a gamey meat person and there was a lot of that on the menu this time.
Odd Duck
On the list for next time:
Canje
Matties (this has been on my list for a while, but we didn’t get a chance to go)