Paul surprised me with a trip to The Silos at Magnolia in Waco, Texas for my 26th birthday. Since Waco is so small, he chose for us to stay the weekend in Austin Texas simply because it would provide us with more opportunities of things to do. This is a guide for what we recommend as the best things to do in Austin Texas.
Our trip consisted of a short, weekend getaway and only one day was spent in the city. Make sure to visit Trip Advisor when visiting if you are planning a longer getaway and are in need of more suggestions.
Little did we know what fun was ahead of us in this thriving, hipster town! Keep reading to find out! 🙂
Our favorite things in Austin, Texas:
- The South Congress bat bridge
- Visit the SoCo District
- Popular photo-worthy murals
- The best food
1. The South Congress bat bridge
We had honestly never heard of the bats in Austin, Texas before arriving to the city. We discovered the South Congress Bridge with the Mexican Free-Tailed Bats when researching things we should do as this is apparently something that is a huge thing. (who knew?!)
The bats are a part of the largest North American bat colony and they fly out every night around sunset. Watch them during the months of March-November before they begin to migrate for the winter.
You can either stand on the bridge, under the bridge, ride a boat, kayak, or even watch from the Lady Bird Lake trail. Make sure to get there early as this place gets packed quick!
The Austin Bat Fest takes place each year and has become a huge tourist attraction. This is a perfect opportunity to see the bats as well as take part in all of the fun events that the festival holds – arts and crafts, children’s activities, live music, local food and drink, and lots more!
When you are finished, stop by the Yeti Flagship Store and enjoy a beer sitting outside on furniture made of Yeti’s…something you have to see for yourself 😉
2. Visit the SoCo District
This area has tons of stuff featuring the best food and shopping around! Check out this post for all of the best things in South Congress District.
I had to check out the Kendra Scott flagship store as it is stunningly gorgeous. If you are an avid Kendra Scott fan, you can check out her very first store that is located on South Congress as well.
I love supporting like-minded people with huge dreams and determination – Kendra Scott is one of those people! She started her journey in 2002 with only $500 and now has a net worth of over $500 million! Her first store opened in 2010. (proof that good things take time!)
If you sign up for the Kendra Scott emails, you will receive coupons in your inbox, including a 50% birthday coupon…you’re welcome!! 🙂
3. Popular photo-worthy murals
Austin, Texas has plenty of beautifully designed murals. In fact, check out this post on the top 24 most instagrammable ones.
Also, girl tip 101 coming at ya – make sure to find a man who isn’t afraid of taking your photos in front of everything you love… like a sign with your name on it. 🙂 (thanks, babe! I appreciate you!)
4. The best food
As I mentioned previously, we only spent one day in the city so only a short amount of time to eat foods. These are the restaurants we ate at and they were all nothing but short of perfection.
If looking for more food recommendations, visit Trip Advisor for the best restaurants in Austin, Texas.
Best Things To Do In Austin Texas
Austin, Texas is the state capital and it was a pleasure being a guest for the day. With plenty of things to do, places to eat, music to hear, and so on, this town makes for a great family vacation destination, girl’s trip, or a couple’s weekend retreat.
Have you been to Austin, Texas? If so, what are your favorite things to do? Let us know by commenting on this post! 🙂
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Wow! Austin is so beautiful! My husband and I were looking at maybe moving down there maybe next year so this is very helpful!
Austin sounds so cool!!
I love Texas! Thanks for the tips.