For years, Austin called me. He flashed my name in neon lights and begged me to join him for drinks in the basement of a honky-tonk. This summer, I finally had the chance to spend a few days in America’s most wonderful and strange city. You guessed it. Austin, Texas. So, if you’re in the area or heading down south for a trip, here’s how to spend 24 hours in Austin, a truly mature, casually cool city.
24 hours in austin
9am: Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors coffee and pastries.
Tucked away on a corner of Shicon Street, Figure 8 serves some seriously high-quality coffee in a city that’s full of seriously high-quality coffee shops. Opened in 2014, it exudes a cozy atmosphere with an outdoor patio perfect for dreamy, balmy summer mornings.
And if you’re like me and never stop at one coffee shop, do a little coffee shop hopping and wander around other coffee shops so you don’t miss out on a local place.
Where to find the best coffee in Austin:
1. Civil Goat Fine Coffee Roasters
2. Fritch Coffee β Located in an adorable camper!
3. Wright Brothers Brew and Brew
4. Texas French Bread
morning in austin
11am: Shopping/Thrifting at South Congress
Up and down the famous South Congress Avenue, affectionately known as SoCo, are home to some of Austin’s quirkiest and coolest stores. From the Austin Motel to South Congress Books, this area of ββtown is filled with charming shops filled with locally made, eco-friendly, second-hand goods.
My personal favorite spot was Feathers Vintage, where I almost bought a $200 Doobie Brothers concert t-shirt for my mom (but that’s a story for another day). Best of all, this area is completely walkable.
Once you’ve explored the entire street, we recommend going a little further and exploring some of the other top antique/thrift shops.
Best Vintage Stores in Austin:
1. Unusual objects
2. Charm School Vintage
3. Blue Velvet
4. Room Service Vintage
midday in austin
1pm: Lunch at Discada
Is there a word more appetizing than TACOS? Please think about it. When you come to Austin, you have to ride at least one taco truck. Discada is my favorite because they keep it simple. Choose from three, five, or eight beef and pork taquitos and pair them with cold topo chicos.
Pro tip: Arrive early or order online to avoid trucks selling out before you get there. Also check out Instagram for the latest updates.
My taco habit is very similar to my coffee habit, so here are some other recommendations.
Best Tacos in Austin
1. Rosita’s Pastor Al
2. Nyonyo Tacos
3. Granny’s Tacos
3pm: Explore Zilker Botanical Garden
Listen, I love museums as much as the next girl, but if you have limited time in Austin, I recommend staying outdoors as much as possible.
The adorable Zilker Botanical Garden is a great way to do just that. Additionally, once you reach the top of Taniguchi Japanese Garden, you’ll get great views of downtown.
Are there any other fun outdoor activities? Kayaking on Lady Bird Lake!
austin night
6pm: Dinner at Interstellar BBQ
Can we call this a city guide to Austin without mentioning BBQ? There are so many options around town, but Interstellar is truly amazing. This place is so hot that customers have to order online at least 24 hours in advance of pickup (but trust me, it’s worth it). We also have eat-in seats available!
Not in the mood for a barbecue? Try these!
Best BBQ in Austin
1. Elizabeth Street Cafe
2. Picnic
3. DipDipDip Tatsu-Ya (Hint: They also have a great ice cream shop)
8pm: Drinks and live music at the Continental Club
With live music most nights, this spot is an iconic part of Austin’s culture and gives off a big retro vibe that will transport you to another era.
But in a city with such a great nightlife scene, it would be remiss to recommend just one bar.
Best bars in Austin:
1. Friends Bar
2. Elephant Room
3. Nickel City
4. Gin Bar β Located on the rooftop of my recommended hotels below!
Accommodations in Austin:
After doing some research, we decided we wanted to stay in East Austin but wanted to avoid the traffic noise. That’s when I discovered Arrive on E.6.th street. This hotel was the perfect solution. It’s on a quiet corner of the road, but there are great bars and coffee shops within minutes. Moreover, its decoration is divine.