Austin, Texas, USA 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Austin Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on the highlights of Austin for a first-time visitor.

Day 1: Music & Food in the Heart of the City

  • Morning: Arrive in Austin and check into your hotel. Explore the vibrant South Congress Avenue (SoCo), grabbing breakfast tacos from a local favorite like Torchy’s Tacos or Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ. Browse the eclectic shops, vintage stores, and art galleries along this iconic street.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Austin’s music scene with a visit to South by Southwest (SXSW) for some live music inspiration. Enjoy lunch at Hopdoddy Burger Bar for delicious burgers and local brews.

Things to know:

  • You’ll likely be exploring downtown, so this itinerary assumes you are staying in the central area of Austin.
  • This is a suggested itinerary, feel free to adjust it based on your interests and pace.

Day 2: Batty for Bats! & Rooftop Views

  • Evening: Head to the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (around 7:30 pm) to witness the spectacular emergence of the Congress Avenue Bridge bats.
  • Daytime: Explore the Texas State Capitol, a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire the beautiful interior. Enjoy lunch in the heart of the city at Matt’s El Rancho for a taste of classic Texan cuisine with a view.

Things to do:

  • Find your spot on the bridge early. It’s a popular viewing location, so arrive an hour or two before sunset to get a good spot and a chance to see the bats up close.
  • Catch a live music show at a local venue. Check out the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats website for information on upcoming events and locations.
  • Explore Zilker Park, a beloved green space with trails, gardens, and access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Day 3: Art & Nature

  • Morning: Visit the Blanton Museum of Art, home to a vast collection spanning centuries and cultures. Enjoy brunch at Odd Duck, known for its innovative farm-to-table dishes.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll through the Zilker Park Botanical Garden and admire the diverse flora.

Day 3: (cont.)

  • Afternoon (cont.): Relax on the lawn of Zilker Park and enjoy the nightly sunset events at the Zilker Park Playscape, a whimsical playground for all ages.
  • Evening: Grab dinner at Odd Duck and watch the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Day 4: Quirky Charm & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Explore the vibrant murals of South Austin. Check out Torchy’s Tacos (various locations) for a casual breakfast or lunch.
  • Afternoon: Visit The Contemporary Austin, a museum dedicated to contemporary art and explore their “Creative Spaces’ program to learn about local artists and studios.

Day 4: (cont.)

  • Enjoy the afternoon exploring the unique shops in the South Congress district, grabbing lunch at one of the many quirky restaurants.

Day 3: (cont.)

  • Enjoy a relaxing evening with a live music performance. You can find everything from blues and jazz to rock and country.

  • For the evening, enjoy:

    • Dinner & Drinks:

Try one of the local breweries like Live Oak Brewing Company, Austin Beerworks, or Jester King Brewery for a delicious Texan experience.

Day 4: (cont.)

  • Afternoon (cont.): Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the unique shops and eateries in the South Austin neighborhood.

Things to do:

  • Explore the South Congress (SOCO) area, known for its quirky shops, music venues, bars, and restaurants.
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol grounds and enjoy a picnic while observing the bats emerge.
  • Catch a glimpse of the “I love you so much” mural on the side of a building at 21st & Guadalupe.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Zilker Park Botanical Garden, a serene oasis with beautiful native plant collections and serene walking paths.
  • Enjoy a picnic amongst the wildflowers on the Zilker Park Hillside: A popular spot for enjoying the sunset, the hillside offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the surrounding landscape.

Day 4:

  • Afternoon (cont.):
  • Catching the bats at dusk can be a competitive event!

Evening:

  • Enjoy a unique experience:

    • Visit:

  • The Congress Avenue Bridge: Every evening, thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the bridge.

For a more enjoyable visit:

  • Check out:
  • Zilker Park’s Zilker Hillside Theater: This outdoor theater is a great place to experience an Austin performance.
  • Grab dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating and live music, like the Continental Club or the Saxon Pub.

Day 4:

  • For the evening:
  • Check out:

Enjoy the sunset from the Zilker Park Hillside, the best spot for viewing the bats is on the east side of the bridge.

  • In the evening, enjoy:

    • Dinner & a Show: Check out one of the many restaurants with live music in the South Congress area.
    • Live Music Clubs:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and nightlife culture:

  • For the evening:

Enjoy the “Zilker Sunset Celebration” at Zilker Park, a monthly event where local vendors showcase their work.

Day 4:

  • Enjoy a picnic on the grassy hillside behind the bridge and watch the bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge (the “Congress Bridge Bats” are a popular draw for tourists).
  • Visit the Broken Spoke: Experience the iconic dance hall and see if you can catch a glimpse of a local two-step dancing lesson.

Day 4:

  • Enjoy the sunset at the Zilker Park Clubhouse: Relax with a drink on the patio while enjoying the stunning views.

  • Daytime:

    • Check out the Zilker Park Botanical Garden’s beautiful displays of plants and flowers.

Day 5: Explore the Music Scene

  • Daytime:

Take a stroll down 6th Street, the heart of Austin’s nightlife, and explore the vibrant music scene.

  • Check out the Continental Club, a legendary venue that has hosted countless iconic musicians.

Must-Do:

  • Enjoy a live music performance at the Cactus Cafe. This intimate venue inside a University of Texas building is known for its “folk” atmosphere and famous alumni like Lyle Lovett and Townes Van Zandt.
  • Explore the Broken Spoke’s:

The iconic honky-tonk bar/restaurant on 6th Street.

Enjoy the evening with:

  • Live music: Catch a show at one of the many local venues.
  • Texas Cuisine: Experience the “real” Austin experience at the Cactus Cafe, known for its authentic Texas atmosphere and live music.

Day 3: (continued)

  • Visit:

  • The Saxon Pub on the north side of town for a more intimate setting with great food and local musicians.

  • Enjoy:

  • Live music: Check out the schedule at the Cactus Cafe, or explore other venues in Austin’s renowned music scene.

  • Live Music & Food Trucks:

Austin is known for its vibrant live music scene and delicious food trucks.

Day 5: (continued)

  • Explore:

  • The Continental Club’s iconic status, with its diverse lineup of local musicians and the chance to enjoy a cold beer and some Texas-style tunes.

  • Try:

  • Food Trucks:

  • A variety of cuisines are available on 6th Street and other areas.

Enjoy the night:

  • Enjoying the live music scene is a great way to spend your day and explore the nightlife, but remember to eat dinner before you head out!

Day 4: (continued)

  • The Texas Music Scene:

  • 6th Street: Catch the essence of Austin’s music scene on 6th Street, with its vibrant atmosphere and a variety of venues.

  • Live Music Venue:

  • Austin is known for its live music scene.

Enjoy the nightlife and explore the “South by Southwest” (SXSW) schedule at the venue to experience different genres like “folk”, “country”, “blues” and “rock & roll”.

Remember, this is just a starting point. You can customize your itinerary based on your interests!

Day 5: Explore Austin’s History

  • Visit the Texas Military Forces Museum for a deep dive into Texas military history.
  • Enjoy the vibrant South Congress scene:

For the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many food trucks and restaurants on the street.

  • Enjoy a local band playing at a bar or club like “The Saxon Pub” or “Continental Club**.

6th & Guadalupe:

Day 4: Enjoy the live music scene and try:

  • The live music venues near the Zilker Park Clubhouse.

Day 6: Explore Austin’s Culture

  • Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the food trucks on 6th Street, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol, a symbol of Texas history and politics. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and learn about the state’s government.

For a more enjoyable visit:

  • Grab dinner from a food truck with a view of the sunset.
  • Try heading to a venue like the Cactus Cafe for an intimate setting.

Day 6: (continued)

Explore:

  • The Texas State History Museum: Learn about the history of Austin and the state.

Enjoy:

  • Live Music: Enjoy the “live music scene” at the Broken Spoke, a legendary venue on 6th Street, or explore the vibrant music venues along South Congress.

Day 5 (cont):

For the evening, you can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants on 6th Street.

Enjoy a traditional Texan BBQ:

  • Franklin Barbecue: Enjoy a delicious and traditional meal at this iconic spot.

Day 6: (cont) Enjoying the “Live Music Capital of the World”

  • The Broken Spoke: Enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch, enjoy the live music they are known for.
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and atmosphere of 6th Street**:

Catch a show at The Cactus Cafe, a legendary Austin venue known for its intimate setting and traditional “Texas music” vibe.

To experience the full range of Austin’s culinary scene, try exploring other popular areas like:

  • Rainey Street: Enjoy food trucks, bars, and restaurants with unique menus and a focus on local flavor.
  • Enjoy a variety of cuisines, including Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Southern comfort food.
  • Try the “food truck scene” and check out the many different options for food.

Day 6: (cont) - Enjoying a live music:

  • Catch the excitement: Enjoy the vibrant energy of the live music scene.
  • Enjoy a variety of cuisines, including a “visit to a food truck park” for a delicious and fun experience.

Remember, this is just a suggestion. You can adjust the schedule and activities based on your preference!

For a truly unique Austin experience:

  • 6th Street: This is a great place to enjoy a variety of live music venues, including:
  • The Continental Club: Check out their calendar for upcoming shows.
  • Enjoy the “live music scene” and explore the diverse offerings in different genres like blues, rock & roll, country, and more.

Enjoy:

  • A delicious meal:

Try a local brewery on South Congress.

  • Explore the “Sixth Street nightlife”, a popular area known for its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants.

Enjoy the music by exploring the Texas Music Scene’s website and finding upcoming events in your desired genre.

For the food truck:

  • Experience

Enjoy the variety of local foods available on the “Rainey Street”

scene, a fun and vibrant experience for all.

The best part:

  • 6th Street: This is a great place to enjoy the “live music scene”, with its many bars and live music venues featuring local artists.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere:

Explore the menu options for different locations in Austin.

Enjoy:

  • The “live music” scene

Enjoy the food truck:

  • A popular choice for “delicious and affordable bites”.

Enjoy a variety of cuisines, including some “deliciously quirky” options like:

  • The Violet Crown: Enjoying “live music” (a variety of genres) is a must-do in Austin.

  • Enjoy the local vibe and explore the vibrant nightlife.

  • Enjoy live music and experience the “unique and diverse” atmosphere of the city’s live music culture.

“Remember to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.” Enjoying a delicious meal at a local brewery

For a truly unique Austin experience:

  • Consider a visit to the Broken Spoke, a legendary honky-tonk known for its authentic Texan atmosphere and “live music”**
  • Enjoy a “taste of the local scene” by enjoying a variety of musical genres.

Enjoy:

  • The “live music” scene in Austin is renowned for its diverse offerings.

Enjoy the vibrant murals, artwork, and street art:

  • Enjoy the city’s “artsy vibes” at a place like the “Hope Outdoor Gallery” on South Congress.

  • Enjoy the variety of musical genres:

Enjoy the unique experience

  • enjoying the vibrant murals and enjoy a delicious meal

Enjoy a variety of local food trucks and restaurants.

  • Enjoy the “vibe” of Austin’s culinary scene, which is equally as diverse as its music scene.
  • The city’s live music culture

and enjoy the unique atmosphere:

  • Live music:

For a more unique experience:

  • Check out a local venue and enjoy the “live music”

Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant, and explore the “unique and diverse”

  • Enjoy a variety of foods:

  • Try a food truck park and enjoy a

delicious assortment of cuisines.

  • You can find everything from tacos to

vegan cupcakes at Austin’s unique eateries.

  • A vibrant scene:

Enjoy the experience with a local flavor, like “The Broken Rainey Street” is known for its “live music”

and diverse crowd.

  • Live music:

For a delicious and diverse experience, you can explore:

  • Enjoy a variety of cuisines**
  • Enjoy the atmosphere

Try a food truck featuring a

variety of cuisines.

  • Enjoying a local brewery,

This itinerary is just a starting point.

Remember to:

  • Be sure to check out the schedule for each venue to plan your “Live music” experience accordingly!

  • Check out the local breweries:

Enjoy a delicious meal and enjoy a variety of cuisines available in Austin’s diverse culinary scene.

  • Enjoy the vibrant “craft beer” culture:

The “South Congress” area is known for its unique breweries and a wide range of beers. *

Remember to check out:

  • “Local food trucks” and enjoy the variety of cuisines:

Explore the vibrant 6th Street scene, with its variety of live music venues and local restaurants.

Enjoy the experience:

  • This is just a suggestion. You can find a list of Austin’s breweries and a variety of restaurants on the “Sixth Street website”

that showcases the local flavors. ** *

Remember to check out the local eateries and food truck parks for events and live music.

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere:

Enjoy a variety of local cuisines in a fun and vibrant environment.

Enjoy the experience:

  • Enjoy the atmosphere

of the “live music” scene.

Enjoy the local art scene:

  • Check out the “South Congress” website for information on local artists and events.

Other tips:

  • Visit 6th Street during the day:

Enjoy a delicious meal

The “Sixth Street” is known for its vibrant nightlife, but it’s worth exploring during the day to enjoy the variety of eateries and restaurants.

Enjoy:

  • The diverse local breweries on Sixth Street.

Remember:

Enjoy the local food scene:

  • Explore the eclectic mix of restaurants and bars along 6th Street.

For the music:

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the “live music” scene, and enjoy the variety

of genres:

  • A great place to start:

Explore

the “local music scene”:

Enjoy local breweries:

  • The majority of Austin’s eateries are open during the day!**

Find a local brewery or two and enjoy the unique and delicious atmosphere.

  • Enjoy the diverse atmosphere:

The “Sixth Street” website can help you find:

  • A variety of food trucks and restaurants

that offer live music along with their delicious cuisine.

Enjoy a Variety of Cuisine:

  • You can explore the local food scene by enjoying a delicious meal from a local food truck or eatery.

Enjoy a variety of cuisines and enjoy a delicious, affordable experience.**

Other important details:

  • Check out the “Sixth Street” website:

It’s a great resource for finding out about local events and live music venues.

  • Remember to

Explore:

Enjoy a variety of cuisine, such as tacos from various food trucks, and enjoy the unique flavors.

Important:

This is just an example of what you can find on the “Sixth Street” website:

Enjoy: *

Try a delicious meal:

The “Sixth Street” website provides details on local restaurants and their offerings, including music schedules.

You can also check out the “Austin’s food scene” section for information on local cuisine types.

Remember to check the