Welcome to Austin, Texas, the hip music capital of the world! Austin’s bustling metro area houses over two-million people and is the fourth largest city in Texas succeeding Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas. Amongst the concert halls and museums, there is a myriad of things to do. Austin is famous for live music venues, magnificent food, and amazing culture. “Where do I start,” you ask? Not to worry! Your friends at DriveShare curated a list of favorites to give your ultimate Austin adventure planning a kick-start.
Adventures
Rent a cool car from DriveShare
Before you hit the road to see what Austin, Texas has to offer, enhance your experience and book a dream car rental through DriveShare. Vehicle owners like Lee Little from ATX Classic Cars offer unforgettable rides, from a vintage and classy 1955 Rolls-Royce to a modern BMW Z3 Roadster and everything in-between, including classic muscle cars. You can opt to get behind the wheel or be chauffeured to enjoy the views. Lee Little recommends taking a day to drive the breathtaking scenery of Texas Hill Country.
Austin Rock and Roll Car Museum
They say the best things in life are free; and the Austin Rock and Roll Car Museum is exactly that! Bring the whole family and tour Austin’s largest collection of rock and roll memorabilia and automobiles. Tour an eclectic collection of cars ranging from Jon Lennon’s Rolls-Royce to modern-day exotics. The Austin Rock and Roll Car Museum is open on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Circuit of The Americas
Catch a race at the toughest track in the United States! The Circuit of America‘s course has 20 challenging turns and two adrenaline-pumping straightaways. Best known for hosting the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, today COTA also hosts races for Moto-GP, NASCAR, and INDYCAR. Want to get in on the high-speed action? COTA has a go-kart track where you can take on your friends through 15 turns at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. COTA Karting is open Monday through Friday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 to 9:00 PM.
Mount Bonnell Park
After your cruise through the Texas Hill Country, stop here and stretch your legs. Mount Bonnell Park has been a popular hiking destination since the late 1800s. Walk up steps carved right out of the limestone. Once you reach the top, you will be standing 775 feet above sea level,; Austin’s highest point. Don’t forget your camera; the views are breathtaking! Mount Bonnell Park is open every day from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The Continental Club
Catch a show at the Continental Club! This live music venue is deeply rooted in hot rod culture and has been rocking south Austin since 1955. Over the years, Stevie Ray Vaughn and many renowned artists have called the Continental club home. If you love street rods and live music, this is your calling card.
Good eats
Franklin BBQ
No visit to Texas is complete without meal from a traditional Barbecue. Make your meat dreams come true at this Austin main stay. Franklin BBQ has been serving slow-roasted goodness since 2009. In that time, they have made such a name for themselves, that customers often line up early in the morning. Hurry in! Franklin BBQ serves lunch exclusively from 11am to sold out!
Fonda San Miguel
In a sea of Tex-Mex restaurants, Fonda San Miguel stands out as Texas’s first restaurant to focus on regional Mexican cuisine. Walk into the hacienda and immerse yourself in a cultural celebration of all things Mexico with exotic plants and beautiful artwork complimenting your meal. Come in early for happy hour and indulge in craft cocktails and stay for the Ceviche! Fonda San Miguel is open from dinner on Monday through Thursday between 5:00 and 9:30 PM and Friday through Saturday 5:00 to 10:30 PM.
Fareground
Can’t settle on what food you are in the mood for? We got you! Fareground offers six unique eateries, from mouthwatering burgers to Israeli street food. After you have filled your plate, sit back and enjoy live music from local musicians. Staying on track with your health while traveling is tough: Offset the calorie intake with complimentary fitness and wellness classes held every Tuesday and Sunday. Fareground is open seven days a week from 11 AM– to 9 PM.
Bouldin Creek Café
Locally acclaimed as the best vegan/vegetarian restaurant in Austin, Bouldin Creek Café offers a plethora of plant-based entrees made with love. Come in and indulge in delicious breakfast favorites served all day or have a savory sandwich with a craft coffee. Dine guilt-free: Bouldin Creek Cafe supports living wages for their staff, and their food is created with locally sourced ingredients. Bouldin Creek Cafe is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM seven days a week.
Biscuits + Groovy
Get down with Biscuits + Groovy and start your day on the right foot at a restaurant that dishes out biscuits and gravy with a disco twist! The groovy biscuit craze hit Austin in 2010 and has been a local breakfast favorite ever since. Don’t forget the fresh-squeezed orange juice! Biscuits + Groovy is open from Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM Saturday and Sunday.
Hotel accommodations
Hotel Ella
Treat yourself to a stay at a historic mansion, Hotel Ella is a stylish hotel where southern hospitality and modern amenities meet. Kick back and relax in spacious rooms complimented with custom-designed furniture. On the weekends, indulge in their signature afternoon tea service. Hotel Ella’s location is conveniently within walking distance of the University of Texas campus.
Fairmount Hotel Austin
Stay and play at the ultimate home away from home. The Fairmount Austin offers beautifully appointed modern rooms. After a day of urban exploration, retreat and cool off at The Fairmount’s rooftop cabana or treat yourself to a pamper session at their on-site spa. Take the drama out of parking with their onsite parking deck.
The Driskill Hotel
Reside in history at one of Austin’s most storied hotels, The Driskill. In Driskill’s 135-year history, they have been the chosen retreat of Presidents and notable figures alike. This landmark of a hotel has charming guest rooms harkening back to a simpler time. Don’t let the vintage looks fool you, this hotel has all the modern amenities: WIFI, a 24-hour fitness center, and same-day laundry service to name a few.
The Seasons Austin
Splurge and stay right on the Colorado River; relish in the most luxurious accommodations that Austin has to offer. Sit back and take in breathtaking city views from your room. Enjoy an incredible Texas-style margarita poolside. The sky is the limit at the Four Seasons!
Hotel Saint Cecillia
The Hotel Saint Cecilia is true to its namesake. Honoring the patron saint of poetry and music, one stay at a time. Each room has handmade organic beds, a mini-bar, and a premium sound system complete with a Turntable. Forgot your record collection at home? No problem, the lobby has an extensive record library.
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