The Best Spots to See in Austin Texas
Thinking of visiting Austin, Texas for the first time? Want to know the best spots to see in Austin as a first-time visitor?
After returning from an epic weekend trip in Austin, it’s already back on my list of places to visit.
There is so much to see in Austin!
The food is fantastic, the street art is spectacular and the people are almost as wonderful as Buffalonians. (really!)
I visited Austin alongside my childhood best friend, Jen Halper. (and you bet we vlogged the entire thing for your viewing pleasure!)
You see, Austin had been high on both of our lists for places and to travel and when we realized that we’d never taken a trip together, we booked one for the winter.
Austin made for a nice place to escape to during the winter in Buffalo.
The Best Spots in Austin:
We arrived mid-day Friday and left around the same time on Sunday, making it a whirlwind of a weekend.
Despite the short time, we didn’t shy away from filling the weekend with some amazing adventures.
If you’re going to make your first trip to Austin, we highly suggest scoping out the following spots:
- Airbnb: The Hideaway was a fantastic place to stay. (See below for our video showing you a house tour.) It was located in the Travis Heights neighborhood, making it an easy walk to South Congress Street which is home to some of the best restaurants and shops, including Torchy’s Tacos and Guero’s.
- Whole Foods Austin: the first (ever!) Whole Foods opened in Austin, Texas and it does not disappoint. We were impressed by the quality of the produce, the friendliness of the staff and the variety of options at the hot bar. Did I mention they’ve got a special section *just* for BBQ? …yea, it’s worth a stop for sure.
- Greetings From Austin mural: After grabbing some grub at Whole Foods, we dropped our stuff off at the Airbnb and then walked over to this famous mural. Located on the corner of 1st and Annie, it was about a 10-minute walk from our Airbnb. We snapped some photos and then headed to South Congress Street for dinner. No trip to Austin is complete without a photo snapped in front of this famous mural.
- Guero’s: We had phenomenal tacos, and even better service, here for our first meal in the city. This authentic Mexican spot is a must-visit if you’re staying in the Travis Heights neighborhood.
- Counter Cafe: If you’re a vegetarian or gluten-free eater, you’ll want to have brunch at this adorable spot. The service was fantastic and the food was delicious. It was a nice place to eat before exploring 6th street in the city, which you’ve got to see in Austin!
- Texas State Capitol: The State Capitol building is a must if you love architecture. The second I spotted this building from all the way across Congress Street, I knew we had to see inside. I recommend booking a tour if you’re a history buff. If you just love architecture like me, walk right in and marvel at the beauty of the building!
- Graffiti Park: After exploring the Capitol, we took an Uber to Graffiti Park just a few miles away. This might have been our favorite spot in the city. It was SO fun to tag our names and see all of the other amazing artwork in this outdoor gallery. This is something you have to see in Austin because it’s just so unique!
- G’Raj Mahal: For our last dinner, went to Rainey Street to because nightlife is something to see in Austin. There is a big live music and drinking scene that we wanted to scope out so we went for dinner in the area at this amazing Indian place. We had the Chana Saag and the Chicken Mahkani which didn’t disappoint. Bonus tip: order the mild if you’re sensitive to spice. We made the mistake of getting the medium for the Mahkani, and I could only tolerate a few bites because the kick was so strong!
- Torchy’s Tacos: Probably the most well-known of the taco places in the city, Torchy’s is fantastic! We went here for our last meal in Austin on Sunday. Let me tell you, one taco was not enough. I probably could’ve eaten seven but out of respect for Jen (who would be flying back sitting next to me,) I had self-restraint.
Regardless of how long your trip is, you’re going to want more time in Austin.
There is so much to see in Austin from the different neighborhoods to the various live music venues and taco joints.
My biggest tip: travel with somebody who loves food and fun, because you’re going to find ample amounts of it wherever you go in the city!
What’s your favorite spot in Austin, Texas?
Share it in the comments below!