Austin, the capital of Texas, is a vibrant city where alternative culture meets lively music scenes and abundant nature. Known for its slogan "Keep Austin Weird," it charms with its relaxed atmosphere, legendary festivals, and Tex-Mex cuisine.

Between modern skyscrapers and preserved green spaces, Austin offers a unique experience for travelers seeking Texan immersion.

The Texas Capitol

Dominating downtown, the Texas State Capitol is a 19th-century emblematic building made of Texas pink granite. Taller than the Capitol in Washington D.C., it embodies the grandeur of the Texas state. Visitors can freely explore much of its interior, where legislative chambers and exhibits on Texas's political history are located. The surrounding gardens, featuring statues and shaded paths, offer a pleasant setting for a stroll.

2nd Street

2nd Street, also known as 2nd Street District, is located a stone's throw from Lady Bird Lake and the Capitol. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of stores, including major clothing brands and jewelry shops. On the culinary side, 2nd Street offers a diverse range of restaurants, from Texas barbecue to traditional Italian cuisine or seafood specialties. The district is also a major cultural hub, hosting shows at ACL Live at The Moody Theater, famous for the "Austin City Limits" television show. Moviegoers can head to the Violet Crown Cinema for a unique cinematic experience with themed cocktails.

Sixth Street and Rainey Street

Austin is the live music capital of the world, and the historic buildings on Sixth Street are its beating heart. This lively street, often closed to traffic on weekend nights, is packed with bars and clubs offering rock, blues, country, and jazz music. For a more intimate atmosphere, head to Rainey Street, where old wooden houses have been transformed into cozy bars.

South Congress Avenue (SoCo)

The SoCo district is the haunt of creatives, vintage shopping enthusiasts, and street art lovers. Lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and food trucks, this wide avenue is full of iconic spots like Allens Boots, where you can buy genuine Texan boots. Don't miss the adorable "I love you so much" mural, a must for photography lovers.

Lady Bird Lake & Zilker Park

This man-made lake in the heart of Austin is an oasis for outdoor activity lovers. You can kayak, paddle, or simply walk along the trails by the water. To the west of the lake, Zilker Park spans over 140 hectares and hosts many events, including the famous Austin City Limits Music Festival. The park also houses the Austin Botanical Garden, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, and the Zilker Hillside Theater, which offers outdoor performances.

Barton Springs Pool

Nestled in Zilker Park, this natural pool is fed by underground springs and maintains a constant temperature of 20°C year-round. Popular with locals and visitors, it offers an ideal spot to cool off in the summer. The pool, 300 meters long, is surrounded by green spaces perfect for picnicking. At night, the site remains open for swimming under the stars.

The Bats of Congress Avenue Bridge

Every evening between March and October, around 1.5 million Mexican bats take flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk. This natural spectacle, the largest of its kind in North America, attracts hundreds of spectators watching from the banks of Lady Bird Lake or by boat. A unique experience that truly showcases Austin's originality!

Austin and its surroundings are a true goldmine for music, history, and nature lovers. Whether you're seeking a lively urban getaway or an outdoor adventure, Texas's capital will charm you with its authenticity and unique energy. A must-visit destination for an authentic Texan experience!

NEARBY

Mount Bonnell (10 km)

Accessible after a short climb of 102 steps, Mount Bonnell offers a breathtaking view of Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. This site, one of the highest points in Austin, is perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset. Photography enthusiasts will find spectacular panoramas here.

Hamilton Pool Preserve (50 km)

This impressive natural site was formed by the collapse of a limestone cave, leaving a turquoise pool topped by a 15-meter waterfall. Hamilton Pool is a magical place for swimming and exploring the surrounding trails that wind through preserved nature. Reservations are mandatory during high season due to its popularity.

Dripping Springs (40 km)

A small town west of Austin, Dripping Springs is famous for its wineries, craft breweries, and distilleries. Among the must-visits, the Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery offers tastings of cocktails made with local vodka, while the nearby Salt Lick BBQ is renowned for its traditional Texan barbecue.

McKinney Falls State Park (18 km)

Just 20 minutes from Austin, this state park is a true nature haven. It offers several hiking trails leading to two picturesque waterfalls, Upper and Lower Falls, where you can swim. The park also houses archaeological sites and spectacular rock formations, perfect for an outdoor excursion.

Natural Bridge Caverns (45 km)

To the northeast, towards San Antonio, these impressive limestone caves are among the largest in Texas and offer spectacular underground formations. Various tours allow you to explore these caverns, with some even offering adventure routes with climbing and zip-lining.

SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST (SXSW)

March
An emblematic Austin festival, SXSW blends music, film, and technological innovation. For ten days, the city becomes a hub of creativity with concerts, conferences, and screenings of independent films.

AUSTIN CITY LIMITS MUSIC FESTIVAL (ACL)

October
This legendary festival takes place over two weekends at Zilker Park and attracts world-renowned artists. With its eight stages and relaxed atmosphere, it offers an eclectic mix of rock, hip-hop, country, and electronic music.