If you’re not from Texas, visiting Austin feels like a cultural experience. It’s definitely a little bit weird, and a lot to take in. My first trip to Austin was as a teenager when my family took a road trip in Texas. It was not my favorite family vacation, but Austin was the one place we visited that we all enjoyed. Given that it’s the fastest growing city in the U.S., it makes sense that it’s a major draw for all kinds of people. Here’s what to see if you have a few days to check out Austin.
5 Must-do’s if you’re visiting Austin for a long weekend
Get your Honky Tonk on at the Broken Spoke
Yes, there are places to dance to country music closer to the downtown area of ATX, but if you’re going to a honky tonk, you want the real, authentic experience. Entering the Broken Spoke, you feel like you’re entering an institution with as much history as the Alamo. Once inside, you’ll stick out like a sore thumb. In a world of men with Abraham Lincoln height hats and short ties, you might need a drink to loosen up. Don’t make the same mistake as me and ask “Can I please have a glass of Merlot?” It’s Franzia. Be less bougie. Now go ahead and watch a little but then don’t be afraid to try your hand on the dance floor! No one will be watching because you’ll be the worst person out there. Everyone else is here to watch the pros, after all. (Side note: the first episode of season 6 of Queer Eye features the owner of the Broken Spoke)
Work up an appetite by kayaking on Barton Creek
It’s surprisingly easy and affordable to rent kayaks and set out on the river. Head to Zilker Park Boat Rentals for $18/hour kayak rentals. Single kayaks are always the way to go if you don’t want to end up fighting with your partner.
Bring on the meat sweats with some hearty barbecue
I went to Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que; it was delicious and I didn’t have to wait. There are probably more famous places where you have to wait for two hours but how can you smell brisket and not be ready to eat? The ribs were the biggest I’ve seen (and also the most expensive). Don’t sleep on a side of mac n’ cheese.
Wow yourself with the sunset from Mount Bonnell
You’ve been walking a lot and you’re tired! Well, hold on because it’s a steep (paved) climb up to the top. It’s worth it though! Don’t be surprised when you realize you’re not the only one who heard this was a nice way to end a day of sightseeing.
Shop ’til you drop on South Congress
South Congress street is a long stretch but packed with shops, bars and restaurants. If you really feel like you’re going to drop, hop on one of the million scooters laying around to save your energy. This is your opportunity to go full tourist and try on cowboy hats and boots. If you’re looking for something more affordable, Allens Boots has a huge selection of classics and statement pieces. Ready to shell out? Enjoy the bougie vibes at Tecovas or Goorin Bros. You might be surprised by how good you look wearing a cowboy hat! When you need a rest stop, order a burger at Hopdoddy Burger Bar, or sip on handcrafted cocktails at the exquisitely designed June’s All Day.