Austin Travel Guide
How to Make the Most of Your Austin Trip with American Express Travel®
View of Lady Bird Lake and Austin's downtown skyline
Link copied!
September 18, 2025
Link copied!
Austin, Texas has boomed in recent years, with the arrival of tech companies and travelers of all types, from friends to families to Formula 1® fans. The vibe is still laidback, though, and the live music scene is going strong, with major events like South by Southwest and Austin City Limits, plus regular shows at The Continental Club and the Rainey Street Historic District venues.
The Texas state capital gets ample sunshine and has enviable acres of green space like Zilker Park where locals and visitors can bike, hike, play, and bask in the hot springs. The variety of things to do in Austin also includes shopping for vintage finds, vinyl records, and authentic western wear downtown – and eating your weight in barbecue and street tacos, some of the best you’ll find on this side of Mexico.
When you’re ready to plan an Austin trip, turn to American Express Travel for a more rewarding stay.
Starting September 18, 2025, get up to $300 back in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or prepaid The Hotel Collection bookings (of two-nights or more) through Amex Travel™ when you pay with your Platinum Card*.
Read on for some of our favorite hotels, things to do, and restaurants in Austin.
Best Time to Visit
It’s Texas, so summers in Austin can be very hot. Plan your visit during the fall, when the weather can be more temperate – and you can attend events like Austin City Limits and F1 racing, both of which take place in October.
Getting There
Recommended Flights offers Platinum Card® Members access to lower fares on select routes with Delta.* Plus, Platinum Card Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked through American Express Travel® or flights purchased directly from airlines.*
*
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
Daily breakfast for two
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Guaranteed 4pm check-out
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3,*
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Late check-out, when available
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Collection
This elegant estate feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin. The striking Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Collection features Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, suites decorated with custom heirloom art pieces, and 10 acres of lush gardens and courtyards to explore. Your $100 credit can go towards a meal at Lutie’s Garden Restaurant, which serves elevated American fare with Texas flair, or a cocktail at the estate’s poolside bar. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the proximity to Hancock Golf Course, a nine-hole course near scenic Waller Creek.
Thompson Austin
Thompson Austin sits in the heart of Austin’s downtown music scene – and is within walking distance of iconic barbecue spots Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que and Franklin BBQ. The upscale boutique hotel goes bold with its design: geode-inspired architecture, sculptural lighting, black and white terrazzo floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the lively downtown scene. Toast your visit over cocktails at rooftop bar Arriba Abajo and take advantage of guaranteed 4pm check-out to spend your last afternoon lounging by the outdoor pool, which has three private cabanas along with lounge chairs and umbrellas.
The Loren Hotel Austin
Floor-to-ceiling windows and plant-filled spaces make The Loren Hotel Austin feel like a cozy greenhouse, complete with views of shimmering Lady Bird Lake and surrounding parkland. Butler Pitch & Putt, a 9-hole course and gathering space, is directly across from the hotel, and Barton Springs is just down the road. Follow up urban adventures with a sunset dinner at Nido, the rooftop restaurant known for seasonal dishes with Hill Country flair, or a treatment at the hotel's Milk and Honey spa and wellness center. With guaranteed 4pm check-out, you can savor the easy pace right through your last afternoon.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
Shaded by ancient oaks in Austin's South Congress district, just steps from live music venues and eclectic shops, Hotel Saint Cecilia is named for the patron of music and poetry—and embraces an appropriately bohemian spirit. Stylish rooms are stocked with Rega turntables, vinyl selections, and custom indigo-dyed batik kimono robes, while select suites open to patios or the boutique hotel's 24-hour heated lap pool. You can put the $100 credit towards charcuterie and cocktails at the Saint Cecilia Lounge, a secluded indoor-outdoor gathering place.
Hotel ZaZa
With their funky patterns, suites in the hip Hotel ZaZa channel the vibe of the surrounding Warehouse District neighborhood. Beat the heat at the hotel’s rooftop pool, a destination for visitors and locals; your $100 credit can be applied towards a piña colada or frosé at the pool’s Cabana Bar, which offers a menu of tasty bites and sandwiches along with a selection of beer, wine, and handcrafted cocktails.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
ACL Music Festival is taking place October 3-5 and 10-12, 2025, and American Express® Card Members have access to exclusive perks on-site. Card Members can enjoy the Amex Experience, limited-edition Festival merch, a Card Member Lane at the main merch store, and more. Card Members can also register their Card for Cashless payments at the Festival to have a $5 spend credit applied to their Festival wristband for use on-site. All perks available while supplies last. Capacity limitations and other terms apply. Learn more.
Formula 1
Austin is home to one of the most iconic Formula 1® races on the calendar, the Formula 1 MSC Cruises United States Grand Prix 2025, which unfolds across October 17-19, 2025. Witness 36 hours of entertainment including thrilling racing and two incredible performances by global music superstars. There are a range of ticket types available across the weekend including general admission, grandstand, and hospitality passes which are on sale now, while supplies last. Eligible American Express® Card Members can also get access to exclusive at-race perks to elevate their fan experience. All perks available while supplies last. Capacity limitations and other terms apply. Learn More.
The Continental Club
This South Congress music venue, recognized as a historic landmark, hosts both local and national acts across rock, country, blues, jazz, and more. (continentalclub.com)
Rainey Street Historic District
If you’re looking for a hotspot with live music, look no further than Rainey Street. Sure, you’re likely to run into a bachelorette party or two but it’s all part of the fun. It’s worth a stroll alone to check out the bungalow bars set inside historic houses and sample fare from some of the many food trucks that populate the district.
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Take time to stroll through this 6-acre outdoor sculpture garden, which houses the works of American sculptor Charles Umlauf alongside other contemporary artists. Depending on when you visit, the museum offers programming that includes a fall festival, free lectures, and gallery tours. (umlaufsculpture.org)
Allen’s Boots
It wouldn’t be a trip to Texas without at least trying on a pair of authentic cowboy boots. Allen’s is the go-to destination for western wear – the South Congress shop has been selling custom leather boots, cowboy hats, and other Texas staples since 1977. (allensboots.com)
The Contemporary Austin
This modern art space on Lake Austin specializes in vibrant boundary-pushing contemporary works. The Contemporary, which includes two museums (the Laguna Gloria and the Jones Center) also hosts workshops, family events, and more. (thecontemporaryaustin.org)
Zilker Park
Just a couple miles from downtown Austin, Zilker is the oldest metropolitan park in Austin. The sprawling greenspace and woodland sanctuary counts more than 600 species of plants and animals – and offers sports fields, a children’s playscape, space for picnicking, and of course, Barton Springs. (zilker351.org)
Barton Springs Pool & Park
Whatever the season, locals and visitors alike flock to this natural, 3-acre outdoor pool filled entirely with water from nearby springs. A federally protected habitat within Zilker Park, Barton Springs is also the home of an endangered species of salamander that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
Book your kayaking tour through Barton Springs with GetYourGuide
Photos courtesy of Waterloo Records
Waterloo Records
Waterloo has been a mainstay for music buffs in Austin since opening its doors in the early ‘80s. The famed indie record shop has an impressive selection of vinyl, books, posters, and other memorabilia and regularly hosts live performances and signings. (waterloorecords.com)
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Get in your steps or pedals touring this winding 10-mile loop along Lady Bird Lake. The scenic urban path, surrounded by both 200 acres of parkland and the city skyline, offers a prime way to tour the city by foot, bike, or skate.
Uncommon Objects
Shop Small® at Uncommon Objects, a longtime Austin emporium specializing in unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind objects that include taxidermy, antiques, old toys, and much more. (uncommonobjects.com)
Restaurant photos courtesy of Birdie's
Birdie's
Birdie’s is a reminder that good things come to those who wait, which is often the case here, as it doesn't take reservations. The husband-and-wife team describe their concept as “fine-casual” – the quality of the food and wine taste like fine dining, yet it feels like a casual neighborhood joint. You can expect a fantastic, approachable wine list and a dynamic menu usually featuring fresh pasta and incorporating local, seasonal ingredients. (birdiesaustin.com)
Restaurant photo courtesy of La Barbecue
La Barbecue
This woman-owned BBQ joint debuted as a food truck and was so popular it’s since expanded into a full restaurant (no reservations accepted). La Barbecue’s menu favorites include a savory brisket and signature jalapeno sausage, both of which you’ll dig into while enjoying the convivial atmosphere and live music. (labarbecue.com)
Elizabeth Street Café
This cozy French-Vietnamese café is located a few blocks from the popular “I love you so much” mural and serves up an eclectic menu of bánh mì, noodle dishes, French pastries, house-made ice cream, and more. (elizabethstreetcafe.com/austin)
Restaurant photos courtesy of Odd Duck
Odd Duck
Another food truck that went brick-and-mortar due to its immense popularity, Odd Duck serves up an oft-evolving menu of elevated American fare in casual, welcoming digs. Depending on when you visit, the offerings will be wildly different – though always excellent – their cast iron cornbread and signature burger are mainstays.
Restaurant photo courtesy of Franklin’s Barbecue
Franklin's Barbecue
Franklin’s has garnered national buzz for its always reliable menu of smoked meats and other traditional ‘cue, so expect a crowd. (Word is Wednesdays and Thursdays are the best days to stop by to avoid a line.) However, visitors and regulars will tell you it’s worth it for their pulled pork, brisket, and lively atmosphere. (franklinbbq.com)
Casa de Luz
In a barbecue-heavy city, it can be a bit tricky to find vegan options. Head to Casa de Luz, a community wellness center that runs yoga classes and meditation workshops, as well as a casual dining room with a seasonal whole-plant menu of dark leafy salads, soups, and whole grains and beans. (casadeluz.org)
Restaurant photos courtesy of Este
Este
You might not think of seafood when it comes to Texas, but when it comes to Este, think again. This buzzy seafood restaurant puts a Mexican twist on dishes like fried fish tacos on house-made tortillas and camarones “el ricas” – shell-on shrimp with lime, cilantro, and chile costeño garlic butter. Be sure to pop into sister spot Bar Toti, which takes inspiration from Spanish bar culture, for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail.
Get more out of your Austin getaway with American Express
Make your trip unforgettable through unique tours and activities booked at gyg.me/amex. Terms apply.
Get more out of your Austin getaway with American Express
Recommended Flights offers Platinum Card® Members access to lower fares on select routes with Delta.* Plus, Platinum Card Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points* on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked through American Express Travel® or flights purchased directly from airlines.
Get more out of your Austin getaway with American Express
With the American Express Global Lounge Collection® get access to 1,550+ airport lounges in over 500 airports around the world, including The Centurion® Lounge. Enjoy exclusive Centurion Member perks like priority check-in, complimentary premium drinks, and dedicated seating at select Centurion Lounges. Terms apply.
Get more out of your Austin getaway with American Express Travel
Global Dining Access by Resy* gives you special access to sought-after restaurants across the globe when you add your eligible Card to your Resy profile*. Access to exclusive reservations, premium dining experiences, Priority Notify, and more, all from the Resy app.
Get more out of your Austin getaway with American Express
When you Shop Small®, you’re not just supporting neighborhood favorites – you’re investing in the community. Whether you’re a local or visiting, explore our map to find small businesses near you.
Enjoy more of the events you love with Amex Experiences™
Card Members enjoy special ticket access to select can’t-miss moments and events across sports, music and more1. Plus, access additional benefits like Card Member Exclusive Experiences, and exclusive offers when you attend select events. Terms apply.
1While supplies last, not all seats may be offered.
