Central business district with high-rise buildings, Downtown Austin offers shopping at Second Street District and Sixth Street, art at Contemporary Austin Jones Center, and sights like Texas State Capitol. Accessible via Capital MetroRail.
Eclectic small retailers, diverse dining options, and vibrant music and art venues define this shopping and cultural district. Hop on MetroRapid Route 801 for easy city access, or explore the square's food trucks for tasty treats.
Central East Austin blends rich cultural heritage with contemporary creativity in this evolving neighborhood. Historic venues like the George Washington Carver Museum and Victory Grill showcase the area's Black and Latino roots. Colorful murals splash across converted warehouses while local music spills from intimate venues.
The neighborhood buzzes with authentic taquerias, craft breweries, and hip coffee shops. Former industrial spaces now house art galleries and creative businesses that reflect Austin's artistic spirit. Visitors can easily explore the area on foot or connect to downtown via public transportation.
Austin's Zilker neighborhood surrounds the crown jewel of the city's park system. This 351-acre green oasis offers everything from the refreshing Barton Springs Pool to peaceful botanical gardens and miles of hiking trails. Lady Bird Lake borders the area, providing scenic kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities.
The neighborhood hosts major events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival while maintaining its laid-back residential charm. Tree-lined streets feature a mix of 1920s bungalows and modern homes. South Lamar and South Congress are just minutes away, making this the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts.
Georgetown's historic downtown square captivates visitors with its 19th-century Victorian charm and limestone courthouse centerpiece. The Palace Theatre hosts live performances while local shops offer unique Texas-made crafts and antiques. San Gabriel River provides a natural retreat just minutes away.
Stroll brick sidewalks under mature oaks and discover art galleries tucked into preserved buildings. The Williamson Museum showcases local history while seasonal events like the Red Poppy Festival celebrate Georgetown's cultural heritage. Blue Hole Park offers a refreshing swimming spot during warmer months.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Austin
Sixth Street
8.4/10 (10,450 reviews)
Austin's legendary Sixth Street pulses with live music and vibrant nightlife across its historic thoroughfare. Explore diverse bars and restaurants during evening pedestrian-only hours when the district comes alive.
Zilker Park
9.0/10 (5,278 reviews)
Austin's crown jewel, Zilker Park offers 350 acres of outdoor bliss with the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool at its heart. Enjoy panoramic city skyline views while picnicking or catch performances at the Hillside Theater.
Austin Convention Center
8.4/10 (2,984 reviews)
This expansive downtown venue hosts major events like SXSW across its six city blocks. Enjoy complimentary high-density Wi-Fi while exploring nearby entertainment districts between conference sessions.
Moody Center
9.6/10 (63 reviews)
Austin's newest entertainment venue offers cutting-edge acoustics in an intimate setting for up to 15,000 concert-goers. Reserve seats early for premier performances at this sleek University of Texas campus landmark.
Lake Austin
9.0/10 (3,767 reviews)
Lake Austin's clear waters offer a serene escape within the city for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. Visit waterfront restaurants for scenic dining or rent equipment for a day of refreshing water recreation.
Lady Bird Lake
9.0/10 (5,386 reviews)
This downtown Austin reservoir offers a peaceful escape with the city skyline as your backdrop. Paddle the calm waters or cycle the Butler Trail while spotting local wildlife in this urban oasis.
Kalahari Indoor Water Park
8.8/10 (108 reviews)
America's largest indoor waterpark features 30+ water slides in an African-themed setting. Resort guests enjoy unlimited access, while day visitors can purchase passes for this year-round attraction.
"Hotel location was great. Walkable to restaurants, shops and Rainey street. Hotel was super clean, rooms were clean and comfortable
AC worked great. Floors were quiet so you could sleep in. I will stay here again."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Austin offers a vibrant shopping scene. Lakeline Mall features a variety of shops and entertainment options, perfect for families. For outlet shopping, Round Rock Premium Outlets has great deals. Don’t forget to visit the Apple Store for the latest tech gadgets.
Recreation
Zilker Park offers a serene environment for relaxation and wellness activities, perfect for yoga or leisurely strolls. Barton Springs Pool provides a refreshing outdoor swim experience, ideal for families and sports enthusiasts. The historic Paramount Theatre presents a cultural retreat with captivating performances for a delightful family outing.
Adventure
At Volente Beach Water Park, experience thrilling water slides and relaxing pools perfect for family fun. Main Event Entertainment offers an exciting arcade and adventure zone, ideal for friendly competitions. For adrenaline seekers, Austin Raceway Park provides high-speed motor racing, delivering an exhilarating sports atmosphere.
Nightlife
Austin's nightlife is vibrant and eclectic. Visit Sixth Street for lively bars and live music, or explore the Rainey Street Historic District for food trucks and craft cocktails. Don’t miss the energetic atmosphere at the Domain, with upscale venues and outdoor scenes perfect for socializing.
Find the best attractions in Austin
Austin, Texas, is a fantastic destination for outdoor, romantic, and family vacations, offering a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, vibrant streets, and event venues that highlight the city's rich culture and outdoor experiences. With a blend of activities suitable for families and adventure seekers alike, Austin promises unforgettable memories for every type of traveler.
University of Texas at Austin: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of the largest universities in the United States. Explore its stunning architecture, expansive campus, and engaging museums, including the Blanton Museum of Art.
Sixth Street: Dive into the energetic nightlife of Austin on Sixth Street, known for its live music, eclectic bars, and unique shops. Stroll down this iconic street to soak in the lively atmosphere and local culture.
Texas State Capitol: Visit the impressive Texas State Capitol, a historic symbol of Texas' rich history. Take a guided tour to uncover fascinating stories and marvel at the stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.
Best time to go to Austin
The best time to visit Austin is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Austin
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Austin.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically August and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Austin.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.