Top things to do and see in Austin in two days
Explore Austin must-see attractions and have the time of your life at the “Live Music Capital of the World”!
Austin, TX
Distance: 135 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas
‘Keep Austin weird” is the city motto and summarizes well what to expect from your trip to Austin!
Austin is quirky, unique and offers abounding options in gastronomy, culture and outdoors, making it the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas.
Austin is also the “Live Music Capital of the World”, with live music every day, everywhere in the over 200 live music venues spread over the city.
You have so many options of things to do in Austin that it is easy to get lost on what to do to make the most of your short visit there. Here you will find my personal faves, must-visit places in Austin that will give you a good glimpse on the city’s life.
Explore the ideas below, make your reservations and experience Austin at its best!
DAY 1
1. Zilker Park and Barton Springs
Start off your day at Barton Springs. Take a dip into this beautiful natural spring fed pool in the heart of the city, at Zilker Park.
Yes, Barton Springs is crowded, especially during the weekends. But yes, it is worth it. And fun. And beautiful! One of the best ways to beat the Texas heat during summer in Austin.
Check here fees, operating hours and other important info before heading there.
Coolers and food in general are not allowed inside Barton Springs. So, if you are planning to do a picnic, do it before or afterwards at Zilker Park. Or head to The Picnic, a food truck park down the road offering great food and treats.
2. Barton Creek and Colorado River
Walk to the nearby Zilker Park Boat Rentals.
Rent a kayak or stand up paddle for an amazing trip down the gorgeous and crystal-clear Barton Creek. It flows into the Colorado River, which is the largest river in Texas and runs through Austin.
From the Colorado River you can enjoy beautiful Downtown views before heading back to Zilker Park and preparing for your next stop.
3. SoCo
Head then to SoCo, the quirkiest part of South Congress Avenue, lined with shops and restaurants.
For a quick bite, try Home Slice Pizza. For a treat, head to Amy’s Ice Cream, an Austin staple. Then just stroll throughout the odd stores and attractions. Don’t forget to stop by the famous “I love you so much mural”, one of Austin’s most instagrammed spots.
For other ideas, check here the top 10 things to do in SoCo.
4. Congress Bridge Bats: Bat Watch Boat Tour
From March to October, walk towards the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch 1.5 million bats emerging from it at sunset.
The largest urban colony of bats in North America lives under this bridge and every day at dusk, at this time of the year, they leave their nests in search of food.
You can watch this amazing and unique spectacle from the top of the bridge or on the nearby lawn for free.
But for the best views, take a bat watching boat tour, it is an amazing experience that I highly recommend (make reservations in advance).
5. Austin's Nightlife
6th Street is Austin’s most known and explored nightlife hub. Whether you love it or hate it, it is the most iconic street in Austin and the perfect place to understand why Austin is on the map as the “Live Music Capital of the World”.
For live music, head to The Parish or Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. To taste a drink in the early hours of the evening, Parkside is your best bet. And make sure to stop by the emblematic Driskill Hotel’s bar for a cocktail.
If 6th St is not your style – I admit it is not mine – you might want to check on Rainey Street, one of Austin’s trendiest entertainment areas.
Rainey is a historic street lined with cute remodeled cottages converted into awesome bars and restaurants. You might want to check on the charming Lucille Lounge Patio or the laid-back Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden. But there are tons of options for every taste, so just stroll around and pick your favorite one. Take a look into this article for other ideas on bars and restaurants at Rainey Street.
DAY 2
1. Gospel Brunch
On Sundays, indulge yourself in an authentic Gospel Brunch at Stubbs Bar-B-Q.
A legitimate southern experience that will make you stand on your feet and put a smile on your face. The music and energy are amazing, making it a unique and once in a lifetime experience.
Reservations are required. If available, make sure to reserve a seat with view of the band. It is slightly more expensive but really makes the difference.
Another option, if you can’t get a table at Stubbs, is to have Sunday Brunch at Rainey Street instead, which is also a lot of fun! Banger’s is the most popular brunch spot on Rainey’s – and lines tend to be huge – but there are also tons of other charming options around, with a cool atmosphere. Just stroll down the street and choose your favorite.
2. Texas State Capitol
Explore the majestic Texas State Capitol building and grounds. Access is free to the public.
Tours can be self-guided (leaflets available at the entrance) but the Texas Capitol offers free guided-tours as well. A great and interesting way to learn more about politics and dive into the Texas history.
Take a step into the Texas Senate and House of Representative Chambers, among another important Capitol rooms.
Observe the beautiful and rich architecture and art collection and relax at the immaculate gardens.
3. Last but not least...
Top off your Austin weekend getaway with a late lunch/ early dinner before hitting the road back to Dallas.
For a quick but superb bite, head to Black’s Barbecue, an authentic and laid-back barbecue joint. Try their mouthwatering brisket and sides such as the potato salad, baked beans and mac’n cheese. You’re welcome.
Or, if you are not in a rush, take a 30 minutes side trip and head to Oasis on Lake Travis. Take in the lake views and finish your weekend watching a stunning sunset (for the brave ones, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is a short drive away and offers the longest and fastest zipline in Texas).
Franklin Barbecue is also in town and considered the best barbecue joint in Texas. But it has the disadvantage of closing its doors at 3:00 pm, so it is not suitable for late lunch/dinner… Anyhow if you can squeeze Franklin’s for lunch in your itinerary somehow, go for it!
Summing Up
Austin is one of the most amazing trips you can take from Dallas, year-round.
It’s a lively city which offers tons of options. This 2-day itinerary covers all of Austin’s must-sees and is perfect when you have one weekend to spend in the city.
Experience the Austin amazing outdoors at Zilker Park, Barton Springs, Barton Creek and Colorado River. Spoil your eccentric inner self exploring SoCo and topping off with a bat watch experience. Enjoy Austin’s vibrant nightlife at 6th and Rainey Street. Attend an authentic Gospel Brunch at Stubbs BBQ. Visit the Texas State Capitol and step onto the real Texas Senate and House of Representatives Chamber. Try the delectable Texas barbecue at Black’s Barbecue or Franklin or watch the sunset from Oasis on Lake Travis. And, maybe, ride the longest and fastest zipline in Texas at Lake Travis.
Hit the road, head to Austin and have a blast this very next weekend!
And get back here to leave a comment and let me know how it was. I hope you fall in love with Austin as a did and as I do every time that I visit the city.
If you know of any amazing place in Austin I’m missing out, please leave a comment bellow. I’ll be more than happy to check it out on my next trip to the “Live Music Capital of the World”.
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