This vibrant neighborhood south of Lady Bird Lake is a must-stroll for visitors and a popular hangout for locals. South Congress oozes homespun character and boasts the story of Austin’s yesteryear in its boutiques, eateries, galleries and music venues. If you're trying to get in touch with your inner cowboy or cowgirl, head on over to Allens Boots where you'll find plenty of cowboy boots and hats to choose from. If you're looking to grab some food, you can't go wrong with breakfast tacos at Guero's or if you're feeling fishy grab a table on the patio at Perla's and chow down on some seafood.
Once your done stuffing your face with either BBQ or Tacos, what better way to help digest the food by going on a nice passeggiata (where are our Italians at!). There's no better place to do this than the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. The trail is a lush, urban path that meanders along the water’s edge and passes by skyscrapers, neighborhoods, ball fields and cultural attractions. With more than 2.6 million visits a year, the 10-mile trail is Austin’s most recognized and popular recreational area. The trail is named after a former Austin mayor and his wife and is a natural gem in the heart of the Texas capital.
Auditorium Shores is often the locale for outdoor concerts, festivals and other events. Other times, it is a great open space for a game of frisbee, flying a kite or putting down a blanket and catching some rays. The Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial statue is located at Auditorium Shores, along the south bank of Lady Bird Lake on the Hike-and-Bike Trail.
The granite Texas statehouse stands as a testament to the history of the Lone Star State. The Texas Capitol is widely recognized as one of the nation's most distinguished state capitols. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Free, guided tours are available Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30 p.m.; Sat. 9:30-3:30 p.m.; Sun. noon-3:30 p.m.
If you're coming to Texas then there's one thing that's a MUST...BBQ! This is one of our favorite spots which we've brought plenty of friends and family to when they've visited us. We definitely recommend getting the brisket and our favorite sides are the Mac & Cheese and Cole Slaw. Do not forget about the cornbread!
Within Zilker Park's 358 acres lies one of the crown jewels of Austin - Barton Springs Pool. The pool itself measures three acres in size, and is fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 68-70 degrees, ideal for year-round swimming. There is a $9 entrance fee for non-residents.