The Ultimate 3-Day
Guide to Austin
Words by James Wong
Howdy y’all! A warm, sun-drenched welcome to Austin, a city where food trucks, live music and creative energy collide. Equal parts outdoor playground and cultural hotbed, Austin was made for epic weekend breaks. Just stay three days and see for yourself! That’s plenty time to soak up the vibe: a hearty helping of laid-back attitude and late-night energy.
During the day, expect to kick back at some of ATX’s breezy patios or lakeside trails, or do a spot of vintage shopping on the Eastside, and when dusk sets in and those bats flutter out, strap on your dancing boots and boogie down at legendary live music venues, pre- or post-gaming at Cantero Bar in The LINE Austin before the gig.
To be sure you don’t miss a thing, our expertly curated three-day guide ticks off all Austin’s headline moments, plus a few under-the-radar favorites so you have local intel for pals back home. It’s all easy as pecan pie when based in our centrally-located hotel, so come check in and let’s rock out together in Bat City!
Day One: Nature, shopping and live music
Spend your first morning embracing Austin’s outdoors with a dip at Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed spot tucked inside the leafy expanse of Zilker Park. Locals swear by its icy-clear water, and there’s no better way to reset after a flight. After your swim, wander through the surrounding trails and open lawns, aka a front-row seat to everyday Austin life.
Next, head toward South Congress Avenue, one of Austin’s most charismatic streets. Browse independent boutiques, snap photos of colorful murals and grab a coffee from Jo’s. Lunch today is non-negotiable in Texas: BBQ! Now, you could join tourists at Franklin Barbecue, but we locals much prefer La Barbecue, helmed by one of America’s top female pitmasters. Trust us, her melt-in-your-mouth brisket is unbeatable.
In the evening, clean up and head out to experience Austin’s live music scene at The Continental Club. This intimate, old-school venue hosts blues, rock and roots acts almost nightly, delivering an authentic local sound in a no-frills, high-energy setting. Grab a drink, claim a spot by the stage and let the music do its thing. You might be knackered by the time you get back to the hotel, so good thing dinner can be delivered straight to your room from Arlo Grey or P6.
Day Two: Trails, culture, and nightlife
Who needs the gym when you have the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail right next to your hotel? Here, shaded trails wrap around Lady Bird Lake, and it’s one of the most popular spots in town for joggers, especially before the lunchtime heat sets in.
From the lake, make your way to the grand dome of the Texas State Capitol. Free guided tours reveal the state’s political history, while the surrounding grounds are perfect for a midday respite. Close by, dive into contemporary and classical works at the Blanton Museum of Art.
Ready for a taco feast? Torchy’s Tacos and Tacodeli are some of the state’s beloved spots, but Veracruz All Natural reigns supreme in Austin and is conveniently located back at the hotel if you want to get changed before the evening portion of your itinerary.
Spend the afternoon in downtown’s stores and galleries, perusing vinyl at Waterloo Records. You might be in luck and visit in time for a store event, which will get you itchy to dance on nearby Sixth Street.
We’re not going to lie: Sixth Street is a lot to take in. Bodies spill from bars on either side, and there is bach party mayhem every night of the week. If that’s your thing, then great, but if you simply want to wander and see what it’s all about before a quiet glass of wine, then make a beeline through the crowd over to sultry lounge, Devil May Care, where the live jazz sets the mood. When you’re ready, it’s an easy stroll back to the LINE Austin.
Day Three: Viewpoints, pool time, and farewell drinks
Go west in the morning to Mount Bonnell, where a steep climb is rewarded with a gorgeous lookout of the rolling hills and city skyline. As for further reward for your efforts, how about brunch at Josephine House en route back downtown? Those pancakes couldn’t be more satisfying after a hike.
Your afternoon deserves some R&R, and here at the LINE Austin, we’ve got just the pool. Situated on the ground floor, our infinity dream overlooks the lake and Congress Avenue Bridge, so you might as well park, cocktails in hand, right through till when the famous bats flutter out at sunset.
As for the farewell evening, Rainey Street’s a quick stroll away, lined with historic houses transformed into laid-back bars and casual restaurants. Alternatively, hit the colorful LGBTQ+ scene on Fourth Street, proving that in Austin, Texas, at least, y’all certainly means all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:
What are the best live music venues in Austin?
A:
Antone’s Nightclub, Mohawk Austin, The Continental Club, and ACL Live are just some of Austin’s top live music venues. Check out our Neighborhood page to learn more.
Q:
What can I do in 3 days in Austin?
A:
Explore downtown and Lady Bird Lake, visit food trucks and murals, catch live music on South Congress Avenue, visit the Texas State Capitol, and relax at Zilker Park.
Q:
Where is 6th Street Austin and what’s happening there?
A:
Sixth Street is downtown and Austin’s party destination, with bars, clubs, street performers, and live music.
Q:
How do I visit Lady Bird Lake and nearby attractions?
A:
From the LINE Austin, you can walk or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake.
Q:
Is the LINE Austin conveniently located for music and food experiences?
A:
The LINE Austin sits downtown right by Lady Bird Lake and within walking distance of major music venues and restaurants
Q:
What neighborhoods are must-visits for Austin culture and dining?
A:
South Congress, East Austin, Rainey Street Historic District, and Downtown Austin are musts for culture and dining in the capital.
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