Austin Travel Guide
Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore in Austin
View of Austin's downtown skyline from Lady Bird Lake
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September 09, 2026
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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 venues throughout the city.
The Texas state capital gets ample sunshine and has plenty of green space like Zilker Park where locals and visitors can bike, hike, play, and cool off in the natural waters of Barton Springs Pool. The variety of things to do in Austin also includes shopping for vintage finds, vinyl records, and authentic Western wear—and eating your weight in barbecue and street tacos, some of the best you’ll find north of Mexico.
Getting to and from Austin is becoming easier, too. Delta, the leading global carrier at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, serves more than 30 destinations from the city, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York (JFK), and Seattle. Before departure, travelers can fuel up and relax at one of the most popular Delta Sky Clubs in the airline’s global network.
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 temperatures are more comfortable—and you can attend major events like Austin City Limits and Formula 1®, both of which take place in October.
Getting There
Enjoy savings on select economy tickets with Delta Air Lines on designated domestic flights through Amex Travel™ with Platinum Member Airfares™* when booked through American Express Travel®. Platinum Card and Centurion Members receive reduced fares compared to fares available for other American Express® Card Members through Amex Travel™. 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 toward 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 toward eligible charges2
4pm 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 seasonal ingredient-driven Texas cuisine, 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 a 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.
Miraval Austin
In the hills overlooking Lake Travis, Miraval Austin is an all-inclusive resort devoted to wellness. Spa-inspired rooms feature meditation pillows and Himalayan singing bowls, and guests can fill their days with yoga, hiking, culinary classes, equine experiences, and treatments at the Life in Balance Spa. Seasonal, health-focused menus highlight locally sourced ingredients.
LINE Austin
Where downtown meets Lady Bird Lake, LINE Austin reflects the city’s creative side with bold design, local art, and plenty happening on property. Rooms overlook the lake, skyline, or Congress Avenue Bridge, and dining ranges from Veracruz All Natural tacos to drinks at rooftop P6. The Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and South Congress are also close by.
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, with views over downtown Austin and Republic Square Park; 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 2-4 and 9-11, 2026, and American Express® Card Members have access to exclusive perks on-site. Card Members can register for ACL Fest Cashless payments with their Amex® Card and get a $10 spend credit to use on purchases made at the Festival. Platinum® Card Members can enjoy the Amex Side Stage lounge where they can cool off, purchase a drink, and enjoy complimentary treats. Plus, Card Members can access dedicated lanes at main merch and artist merch locations, helping you get back to the music faster. 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 2026, now expanding to four days, October 22-25. Experience a weekend of entertainment including thrilling on-track action and three incredible performances by international music superstars. Fans can choose from a range of ticket types, including general admission, grandstand, and hospitality experiences, 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 to check out the remaining bungalow bars set inside historic houses, along with newer cocktail spots, restaurants, and nightlife venues throughout the district.
Book your Austin walking tour with GetYourGuide.com
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 rotating exhibitions by contemporary artists. Depending on when you visit, the museum offers programming that includes family days, guided garden and gallery tours, and UMLAUF After Dark. (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, apparel, and other Texas staples since 1977. (allensboots.com)
The Contemporary Austin
This modern art space spans two locations: the downtown Jones Center and Laguna Gloria, a 14-acre sculpture park overlooking Lake Austin. Both feature boundary-pushing contemporary works, along with tours, workshops, family programming, and other events. (thecontemporaryaustin.org)
Zilker Park
Just a couple miles from downtown Austin, Zilker is the city's oldest metropolitan park. 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 home to an endangered species of salamander found only in this area.
Book your kayaking tour through Barton Springs with GetYourGuide.com
Photos courtesy of Waterloo Records
Waterloo Records
Waterloo has been a mainstay for music buffs in Austin since opening its doors in 1982. Now located on North Lamar Boulevard, the famed indie record shop has an impressive selection of vinyl, books, posters, and music memorabilia, and regularly hosts live performances and signings. (waterloorecords.com)
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Get in your steps or pedals along this winding 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake. The scenic urban path, surrounded by more than 200 acres of parkland and downtown views, offers a prime way to explore Austin by foot or on wheels.
Uncommon Objects
Uncommon Objects is a longtime Austin emporium specializing in unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind objects that include antiques, old toys, vintage décor, taxidermy, and much more. (uncommonobjects.com)
Congress Avenue Bridge
From spring through early fall, head to the Congress Avenue Bridge around sunset to watch Austin’s famous Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from beneath the bridge. The massive colony takes flight over Lady Bird Lake in search of its nightly meal, creating one of the city’s most memorable spectacles (austinbats.org).
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 regularly canging prix fixe menu incorporating local, seasonal ingredients. (birdiesaustin.com)
Restaurant François
Dress up for dinner at Restaurant François, a downtown newcomer serving French classics with a modern American touch. Comté popovers, Dover sole, and dry-aged steaks headline the menu, with tableside preparations adding a bit of drama. Save room for the soufflé du jour, then stop by adjoining Bar Rouge for an ice-cold martini or French wine.
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 French pastries, bánh mì, noodle dishes, and more. The pastel-colored space and shaded garden patio make it a great hangout from brunch to dinner and drinks. (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 Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue
Franklin has garnered national buzz for its always reliable menu of smoked meats and other traditional ’cue, so expect a crowd. Lines can be lengthy, so arriving early is your best bet. However, visitors and regulars will tell you it’s worth it the legendary brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and other smoked meats. (franklinbbq.com)
Restaurant photos courtesy of Dai Due
Dai Due
Dai Due celebrates the flavors of the Lone Star State with a hyper-seasonal menu built almost entirely around Texas-sourced ingredients. Expect house-butchered meats, wild game, fresh produce from local farms, and dishes that change with the seasons, served in a rustic East Austin dining room with an open kitchen and a butcher counter.
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 a rotating selection of seafood inspired by Mexico’s coastal regions. Be sure to pop into sister spot Bar Toti, which takes inspiration from Spanish bar culture, for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail (esteatx.com).
For more restaurants that should be on your radar, check out the Resy Hit List for Austin.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Enjoy savings on select economy tickets with Delta Air Lines on designated domestic flights through Amex Travel™ with Platinum Member Airfares™*. Platinum Card and Centurion Members receive reduced fares compared to fares available for other American Express Card Members through Amex Travel™. Plus, earn 5X Membership Rewards® points* on flights purchased directly from airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year) while also earning airline miles on these bookings as you typically would. Must provide airline loyalty number when booking through Amex Travel™. Airline loyalty program rules apply and are subject to change.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market.1
1As of 01/2026.
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Make your trip unforgettable through unique tours and activities booked at gyg.me/amex. Terms apply.
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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.
