After college I was lucky to live in Austin for a few years, and the city still holds a special place in my heart. No matter how many times I visit, there’s always more to discover. My husband and I take multiple trips to Austin each year for a mini getaway—the food scene, the live music, and the outdoor life make it the perfect escape. Below is a curated list of my favorite places to stay, eat, shop, and explore in Austin. This isn’t exhaustive—there are countless great spots—so use this as a starting point and follow other recommendations you hear.
To Stay:
Hotel Saint Cecilia – Nestled in the South Congress district, this boutique hotel is an ideal choice for a quiet romantic escape or a stylish girls’ weekend. The atmosphere is artsy and relaxed, and the bungalows and pool area create a private, luxurious feeling. If you want an intimate, low-key stay in Austin, this is a top pick.
Hotel San Jose – A sister property to Saint Cecilia in South Congress, this urban bungalow-style hotel has a relaxed, stylish vibe. Rooms and bungalows are limited and often book well in advance. If you can’t stay overnight, stop in for an afternoon drink and soak up the courtyard atmosphere (note: beer and wine service only).
South Congress Hotel – One of my more recent favorites, this hotel sits right in the heart of South Congress—close to great shops and restaurants. The rooms are simple and elegant, service is attentive, and the location offers excellent value for visitors who want to be in the middle of the action.
Hotel Van Zandt – Located on Rainey Street, this Kimpton property is vibrant and fun. It’s a great base for exploring Rainey’s nightlife, restaurants, and bars. The hotel’s design and service are consistently excellent, and evenings walking the transformed historic bungalows are part of the fun.
To Eat:
Elizabeth Street Cafe – A charming French-Vietnamese spot in South Austin. The atmosphere is cozy and the food is delicious. Favorites for sharing include the fried spring rolls and pork belly steamed buns; for a main I love the lemongrass chicken skewers and the pho. The pork bun is a must-try.
Perla’s – Perfect for oysters and cocktails on South Congress. My favorite way to enjoy Perla’s is a mid-afternoon snack: a tray of oysters, ceviche, and a Mexican martini while people-watching. It’s relaxed, lively, and reliably delicious.
South Congress Cafe – My go-to for brunch in Austin. Their bloody marys are legendary and the menu is full of standout dishes. Favorites include the gumbo, blackened tuna tacos, and the steak and migas eggs benedict. If there’s a wait, put your name on the list and browse nearby shops; it’s worth the patience.
Emmer & Rye – One of my absolute favorites on Rainey Street. The restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience with small plates and rotating dim-sum-style carts that circulate during service. Share plates and try the cacio e pepe if it’s on the menu. The staff are exceptional and the food is creative and memorable.
Franklin Barbecue – A pilgrimage for BBQ lovers. Be prepared to queue early—arrive well before opening to secure brisket and ribs, which sell out. Bring coffee and enjoy the anticipation; the payoff is exceptional barbecue.
Launderette – A charming spot ideal for lunch or dinner. Consistently tasty and approachable, it’s a great casual choice.
Bufalina – A tiny, delightful pizza place with excellent pies—cute and casual with authentic flavor.
Polvos Tex Mex – Classic, no-frills Tex-Mex with an emphasis on bold flavor. Their salsa bar is a highlight and keeps us coming back.
Blue Dahlia Bistro – A European-style bistro serving organic, locally sourced dishes. It’s a lovely lunch spot that feels like a little escape to Europe.
The Odd Duck – Inventive, seasonal dishes designed for adventurous diners. The menu changes frequently and the creative preparations are consistently delicious.
Qui – Located in East Austin and helmed by Top Chef winner Paul Qui, this restaurant is for adventurous food lovers. Dishes are inventive and shareable; expect unique flavor combinations that can surprise and delight.
Justine’s Brasserie – A romantic French brasserie in East Austin with outdoor seating and festive lights. The escargot and cheese plate are favorites—perfect for a dreamy evening.
Uchi – For exceptional sushi, Uchi is worth booking in advance. Expect creative, high-quality pieces that are best experienced by ordering a variety of menu items to share.
Lenoir – A romantic, intimate restaurant with a seasonally driven, Mediterranean-inspired prix fixe menu. It’s perfect for a special occasion.
Clark’s Oyster Bar – A West 6th spot that excels at oysters and seafood. Their cioppino is highly recommended for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
To Do:
Austin Greenbelt – A favorite outdoor escape for hiking, swimming, and exploring natural scenery. Trails vary in difficulty and the area offers refreshing creek access if you want to cool off.
Barton Springs Pool – A large spring-fed pool that’s perfect for escaping Texas heat. It’s a true Austin experience and a popular place for locals and visitors alike.
Zilker Park – Ideal for walking, picnicking, and enjoying outdoor activities. Pack a frisbee or a picnic and spend an afternoon relaxing on the lawn or exploring nearby trails.
Live Music Venues – Check schedules for ACL Live, Stubbs, and Mohawk to see who’s playing during your visit. Austin’s live music scene is a major draw and each venue has its own vibe and history.
Rainey Street – A lively corridor of renovated houses now hosting bars and restaurants. It’s a great place for bar hopping or trying unique drinks like a pickle martini at a local favorite. The street also features diverse food options including Indian-inspired G’raj Mahal Café.
West Sixth – Another popular area for nightlife and bar hopping with a range of options for different moods and crowds.
To Note:
Before you go, I like to check local event listings and city guides for festivals, concerts, and special events to make the most of an Austin visit. The city frequently hosts pop-ups and weekend happenings that add to the experience.
Shop:
Tesoros – A South Congress shop filled with unique global finds and home goods. It’s a great stop if you’re browsing after brunch.
Uncommon Objects – An antique and curiosity shop on South Congress with truly distinctive items. It’s easy to spend time uncovering memorable pieces here.
Goorin Bros Hat Shop – A standout hat shop on South Congress with fun styles and a memorable shopping experience.
Wildflower – Located on Lamar, this store features high-end furniture and organic bedding. Even window-shopping here is inspiring, and occasional splurges on bedding or towels have been worth it.
The Domain – An open-air shopping district a bit outside central Austin. It offers a pleasant shopping experience with a mix of luxury and mainstream retailers and a variety of dining options.
Whether you’re planning a food-focused weekend, a live music escape, or an outdoor adventure, Austin delivers—with memorable restaurants, boutique hotels, and plenty of local flavor. Enjoy exploring the city and discovering your own favorites.