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Austin

Live-music dives, greenbelt swims & food-truck feasts

Browse Austin

Austin is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include The Flats on Barton Creek Greenbelt, Texas State Capitol and South Congress Avenue. Food lovers should not miss Barbarella and Franklin Barbecue. Below you will find 12 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Austin at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: The Flats on Barton Creek Greenbelt and Texas State Capitol
  • Where to stay: Downtown and SoCo
  • Local picks: 12 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Austin

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Austin

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

East Austin

Austin Food Trucks

★ 4.4
$
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North Loop

BookWoman

Why it matters: opened in 1975 as Common Woman Bookstore by a collective of 13 women, BookWoman turned 50 in January 2026 and is one of fewer than 20 survivors of the original US feminist bookstore wave – owner Susan Post has run it for decades and is now handing the reins to Sarah Schoonhoven. It has never been a museum piece: monthly poetry readings, book groups, LGBTQIA advocacy and a well-stocked banned books table keep the shelves arguing with the present. Browse the Texas feminist writers section, then ask staff what is worth reading right now – they will tell you properly. Note that masks are required in the store, and it is a North Lamar strip-mall storefront, so watch for the angel mural on the windows.
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South Congress

South Congress Shops

★ 4.5
$
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Downtown

Waterloo Records & Book People

★ 4.6
$
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From our home city

Visiting New York City on this trip?

This guide is made by the team behind Like A Local Tours - NYC's award-winning, woman-owned food tour company. If New York is on your route, eat through it with us.

Before you go

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Book your trip to Austin

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

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Austin travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Austin?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Austin at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Austin?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Austin?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Austin guide.

What is the best time to visit Austin?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Austin is worth visiting year-round.

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