A Beginner's Guide to Austin

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Curated By

Danielle Di Maio

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  • USA

  • Texas

  • Domestic Travel

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Downtown

  • Local Food

  • City Parks

Man walks in crosswalk with capitol building in the back in Austin, Texas
Curator’s statement

There are few cities that offer the  variety of things that Austin does. Between its vibrant live music scene, eclectic food options, quirky culture, exciting nightlife and endless outdoor activities, it truly has something for everyone. Say howdy to the city of Austin, Texas!

The Fora Difference

Book with Danielle to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Austin Proper Hotel

Close to Ladybird Lake, this style standout has spectacular views across the city and a locals vibe in its four bars and restaurants, including the hotspot rooftop pool.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The LINE Austin

Once home to a jazz club in the late 1960s, The LINE is part of Downtown Austin history and holds a cultural legacy within its chic accommodations and welcoming lounge areas.

Fora Perks
  • $25 daily food / beverage credit.

  • Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

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Unlock perks by contacting Danielle to book your trip.

Day 1: Explore South Congress

Stacks of leather cowboy boots at Allen's Boots in Austin, Texas

Spend your first day exploring the most quintessential neighborhood of Austin, South Congress, complete with tacos, live music and bats (yes the black furry flying creatures!)

South Congress is one of Austin's most beloved neighborhoods on foot! Here’s are the spots you should check out:

Allen's Boots: an iconic Austin boot shop with over 4,000 pairs of custom made leather boots. try on as many as you want!

Parts & Labor: souvenirs, art and quirky gifts handcrafted by artists from Austin.

Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds: wild costumes, vintage clothing, wigs, jewelry and other outrageous items.

Big Top Candy Shop: a must-see old school candy shop.

All of the SoCo murals!

Grab tacos at one of Austin's better-known taco institutions, Torchy's.

Head over to the South Congress Bridge at sunset and get a look at the millions of bats flying overhead.

Enjoy some Austin tex-mex at Guero's Taco Bar.

Spend the rest of your night enjoying drinks and live music at the famous Continental Club.

Day 2: Austin Food Tour, Mount Bonnell & Rainey Street

View of water and trees in Texas

Spend day two in Austin indulging in the best of the city! Kick off your day with a Secret Food Tour then catch a sunset at Mount Bonnell and spend your night bar hopping on Rainey Street.

Start your day by grabbing a coffee and enjoying the morning on the patio at Cenote.

Next, discover the best kept secret eats in Austin on a "secret food tour" while getting the chance to explore some of the city’s most popular sights and attractions.

Spend the rest of your afternoon enjoying happy hour at endless bars on Sixth Street.

Too full to keep indulging? Check out the museums in this area instead like the Mexic-Arte Museum or the Museum of the Weird!

Get some movement in with a hike up 100 steps to Mount Bonnell for sweeping views of Austin and to catch the sunset (you will need to Uber about 15 minutes to get here; the hike is only a half mile long).

After your hike, head to Rainey Street for a locally sourced meal at Emmer & Rye (make a reservation!)

Spend the rest of your night bar hopping on Rainey Street. Some favorites are Lucille and Parlor Room.

Day 3: Austin’s Outdoor Activities & DIY Brewery Tour

People swimming in the Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas

On your third day in Austin, spend your morning experiencing the city's awesome outdoor activities and an afternoon doing a DIY brewery tour!

First head to the Biscuits & Groovy Food Truck for some breakfast.

Next, Uber or walk one mile to take a dip in Barton Springs Pool (get there early to avoid the crowds!) and hang out in Zilker Park afterwards!

Then take a ten minute walk to Barton Springs Picnic Food Truck Park for a delicious lunch from one of Austin's food trucks!

Ready for more activity? Kayak or stand up paddle board in Lady Bird Lake.

Spend your afternoon in East Austin with a DIY brewery tour! Zilker Brewing, Lazarus Brewing and Blue Owl Brewing, are all walking distance from each other- end at Blue Owl Brewing and walk 10 minutes to dinner.

Enjoy a dinner at Launderette, a converted gas station/ laundromat serving up gourmet American fare.

End your night in Austin listening to some live music and grab some drinks at Antone's and/ or bar hop on dirty sixth street.

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Travel Advisor

Danielle Di Maio

Get in touch with Danielle

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