A Weekend in Austin, Texas
When visiting Austin, you feel like everyone is simply living their most authentic & best self. Austin is great because you feel that Texas-bred southern soul while being surrounded by an influx of youthful creative quirkiness. There’s a perfect balance of everything in Austin - you have the boujee bits, but you also have the true grit of rock, country, and of course, barbecue. I cannot recommend it enough for every & any age, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy themselves. KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD.
*** my extra favorites
To Stay:
In previous guides, I’ve mentioned Bunkhouse Group - a Hospitality Group previously owned by Liz Lambert. My mom and I are deeply obsessed with her & these hotels that we’ve had the privilege to stay in some others on other trips. Liz started Bunkhouse in Austin so a large chunk of her more well-known hotels is based there. If you go to Austin, there is truly no other option than to stay at a Bunkhouse Hotel. An absolute essential.
Hotel Carpenter ***- My parents and I stayed here on our most recent stay & this hotel was truly perfect. It was a great balance of feeling as if you are on a sweet escape while amidst being in all of the Austin culture.
Hotel San Jose - San Jose is located right smack in the middle of South Congress, with free courtyard concerts every weekend with guests from every age. It’s very approachable, comfortable, and cool all at the same time. You can have a good balance of Zen & Crazy Fun.
Hotel Saint Cecilia - Yet another heavenly escape by Liz Lambert, but Saint Cecilia is very different compared to some of the other Bungalow Hotels. An ultra-private hotel that is only accessible by hotel guests, or members. For all of the artists, musicians, writers, and photographers - this is the place for you.
Austin Proper Hotel
To Eat:
La Barbecue *** - Specializing in Central Texas-style barbecue, this will be some, if not the most delicious bbq you will ever taste. It will almost always be crowded so go early to beat the line, and make sure you get all the goods (including all the sides). Look out for LeAnn, and her wife - the powerhouse badass owners who have the sweetest embrace & even funnier stories.
Loro *** - Oh my DELICIOUS. A mix of Thai + Chinese amazingness…so good for ordering all the bits, sitting outside with the crew, and having a communal feast. An adult picnic!
Hillside Farmacy
Juiceland - I mean, you have to.
Terry Blacks Barbecue - You can’t go to Austin & just have bbq once.
Jo’s Coffee *** - Go early before the line starts on South Congress. Right next door to Hotel San Jose - the coffee is incredible & having your morning coffee moment is perfection.
Amy’s Ice Cream
Home Slice Pizza *** - Whether it’s a pre-outing bite, or drunk eats afterward, good vibes & food always.
Bufalina - Some solid Italian - the place is adorable. If you go & have to wait for a table, head out to their backyard and have some Sparkling Rose.
To Drink:
Central Machines Work - A huge open-air brewery with incredible warehouse vibes. It’s the perfect combination of indoor + outdoor where you can sit by the fire outside, or sink into the leather sofas inside while sippin’.
YellowJackets - The most chill place filled with locals. Cannot go wrong if you want to feel like an Austin local.
Armadillo Den *** - Three acres of pure fun. An outdoor bar that’s the perfect meetup to do everything & nothing. Beers, music, and sunshine all in one.
To Shop:
Imogene + Willie *** - Based in Nashville where they specialize in premium denim. For the perfect jean, jumpsuit, or baby tee, a beautifully curated store definitely worth taking a peek in.
Feathers Boutique Vintage - One of Austin’s longest vintage shops with a truly amazing selection of vintage finds for even better prices.
Allens Boots - An Austin landmark.
ByGeorge - For your fancy fix.
An Extra Ode to Austin:
One of the main reasons for my family’s most recent visit to Austin was the Luck Reunion Festival. The festival is held every April at Willie Nelson’s ranch in Spicewood, a suburb right outside of Austin. It’s a place where music, soul, grit, and true liveliness all come alive. Whether you are a die heart Willie fan or a fan of some good old drinkin’, smokin’, doin’ & listen’ - this festival is a true depiction of the freedom, and love that Austin has, and brings to all.
Austin is truly an incredible city for so many reasons & has something for everyone and every age. It’s consistently transforming, and growing where texture is added to the music, dining, and art scene. When you go for one weekend, you’ll want to stay forever, believe me.
X,
Stella Rae