10 Things Not to Miss in Austin, Texas

One of the most popular events in the Texas Hill Country is Balloons over Horseshoe Bay Resort festival, taking place just 54 miles (87 km) from Austin each spring.
One of the most popular events in the Texas Hill Country is Balloons over Horseshoe Bay Resort festival, taking place just 54 miles (87 km) from Austin each spring.
One of the most popular events in the Texas Hill Country is “Balloons over Horseshoe Bay Resort” festival, taking place just 54 miles (87 km) from Austin each spring. (Photo Courtesy of Joe Purvis)

Quirky, indie, exciting, beautiful – there are countless ways to describe Austin. The state capital of Texas is a perfect escape for anyone looking for live music, unique art, delicious food, and lush nature. Read on for ten must-sees in this colorful city.

The Oasis on Lake Travis

The Oasis on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas.
Photo by Katerina Papathanasiou/The Vale Magazine

For one of the best views in Austin, head over to The Oasis on Lake Travis, also known as the “Sunset Capital of Texas,” to enjoy spectacular sunset views while dining.

Hey Cupcake!

Hey Cupcake!’s sleek Airstream trailer in Austin, Texas.
Photo by Katerina Papathanasiou/The Vale Magazine

While food trucks are common in most cities these days, Hey Cupcake!’s sleek Airstream trailer is one of the originals. Visitors and Austinites alike line up to try some of its creamy, fluffy and yummy treats.

Franklin Barbecue

Delicious food served at Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas.
Be prepared to queue early for Franklin Barbecue’s mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, and other smoked meats. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch only.

Sixth Street

Dirty Sixth Street in Austin, Texas, drawing massive young crowds.
No visit to the “Live Music Capital of the World” is complete without a visit to Sixth Street also know as “Dirty Sixth.” The area has countless colorful bars, restaurants, performers and music venues. On weekends, Dirty Sixth becomes pedestrian-only after 10:30 p.m.

Congress Avenue Bridge

People watching 1.5 million bats emerging from their dwelling under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas.
Every night, crowds gather to watch a swarm of 1.5 million bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge to fly across Lady Bird Lake in search of food.

The Shady Grove

The Shady Grove restaurant in Austin, Texas.
For some of the best home-cooking in Austin, head to The Shady Grove, a restaurant tucked underneath the shade of a tall pecan grove. Visit on a Thursday evening to hear great local bands perform.

Broken Spoke

The exterior of Broken Spoke dancehall in Austin, Texas.
New and experienced dancers love this dance hall. One of the last of its kind, the Broken Spoke offers live music, dance lessons, chicken-fried steak and beer (to help with the dancing) every Tuesday to Saturday.

South Congress Avenue

South Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas.
As visitors stroll down South Congress Avenue, they can scoop up curiosities from shops such as “Monkey See Monkey Do,” “Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds,” “Yard Dog,” “Big Top Candy Shop” and more.

Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon

Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon in Austin, Texas.
Go for the beer, live music or bingo. Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon is a classic honky-tonk that has been drawing large crowds for more than four decades.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Hamilton Pool Preserve in Austin, Texas.
Photo by Katerina Papathanasiou/The Vale Magazine

About 45 minutes outside the city, there is a collapsed grotto that is one of Austin’s most beautiful and best-kept secrets. At Hamilton Pool Preserve, visitors can swim in a natural pool surrounded by pristine, lush nature.