3-Day Austin Itinerary: Nightlife and Sightseeing Extravaganza
Austin, Texas
3 days
About Austin, Texas
Welcome to Austin, Texas, a city that perfectly blends traditional Southern charm with a vibrant arts scene and innovative tech culture. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin offers an array of music festivals, including the famous SXSW and Austin City Limits. Explore the city's rich history at the Texas State Capitol and Bullock Texas State History Museum. Nature lovers can enjoy the Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool. Foodies will love the city's renowned food trucks and BBQ joints. Don't miss the chance to witness the world's largest urban bat colony at the Congress Avenue Bridge. Austin's warm, sunny weather makes it a perfect year-round destination. Come experience the unique blend of Texan hospitality and progressive culture in Austin.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Zilker and its Artistic Side
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Zilker Metropolitan Park. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk or rent a paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake.
Lunch
Have lunch at a food truck park. Austin is known for its food truck culture, offering a wide variety of cuisines.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. This outdoor museum is home to several works by American sculptor Charles Umlauf.
Dinner
Enjoy a dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Austin's food scene is known for its focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Evening
Spend your evening at the Moody Theater, home to the long-running music program, Austin City Limits. Check their schedule for live performances.
Day 3
Historical Journey through University of Texas and Farewell Performance
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the LBJ Presidential Library. This library offers a look into the life and presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson.
Lunch
Have lunch at a popular food court in the university area. This area is known for its diverse food options.
Afternoon
After lunch, take a tour of the University of Texas campus. The campus is home to several architectural and historical landmarks.
Dinner
Enjoy a dinner at a popular seafood restaurant. Austin, being close to the coast, offers a variety of fresh seafood options.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the iconic Austin City Limits Live. This venue hosts a variety of performances, from music to comedy.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Texas State Capitol
An iconic red granite state capitol building with a large dome, offering guided tours.
2Bullock Texas State History Museum
A museum dedicated to telling the story of Texas, with three floors of exhibits and an IMAX theater.
36th Street
A historic street and entertainment district in downtown Austin, known for its live music venues, bars, and restaurants.
4Zilker Metropolitan Park
A large, urban park that offers many recreational activities and is home to several attractions including Zilker Botanical Garden and Barton Springs Pool.
5Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum is a tranquil space featuring the works of American sculptor Charles Umlauf. The garden is beautifully landscaped and the museum hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events.
6Moody Theater
Moody Theater is a live music venue located in Austin, Texas. It's known for hosting the long-running TV show Austin City Limits, as well as a variety of concerts and events.
7LBJ Presidential Library
LBJ Presidential Library is a museum located in Austin, Texas. It's dedicated to the life and career of President Lyndon B. Johnson, featuring a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
8University of Texas
The University of Texas in Austin is not just a place for education, but also a tourist attraction. It's known for its beautiful architecture, cultural experiences, and landmarks.
9Austin City Limits Live
Austin City Limits Live is a popular music program that showcases a variety of artists. It's a cultural experience that offers entertainment for music lovers.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Barbecue
Austin is famous for its Texas-style barbecue, which is typically slow-cooked and smoked over a wood fire.
Breakfast Tacos
A popular breakfast item in Austin, these tacos typically include ingredients like eggs, cheese, and bacon wrapped in a tortilla.
Tex-Mex
A fusion of Mexican and American cuisines, Tex-Mex is a staple in Austin and includes dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and nachos.
Chicken Fried Steak
A classic Texas dish, chicken fried steak is a breaded and fried steak served with gravy.
Chili
Texas-style chili is a meaty stew often made without beans, and is a popular dish in Austin.
Queso
A creamy cheese dip often served with tortilla chips, queso is a favorite appetizer in Austin.
Kolaches
Originally a Czech pastry, Texans have put their own spin on kolaches, filling them with ingredients like sausage and cheese.
Migas
A Tex-Mex breakfast dish made from scrambled eggs mixed with strips of tortillas, onions, peppers, and cheese.
Shiner Bock
A popular Texas beer, Shiner Bock is a smooth, dark lager that's brewed in the small town of Shiner, just outside of Austin.
Sweet Tea
A staple in the South, sweet tea is a popular drink in Austin and is often served iced with a slice of lemon.
Margarita
A popular cocktail in Austin, margaritas are typically made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, and served with salt on the rim of the glass.
Pecan Pie
A classic Southern dessert, pecan pie is a sweet, nutty pie that's particularly popular in Austin due to the abundance of pecan trees in Texas.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Austin, Texas is during the spring and fall, specifically from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is typically mild and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities. Additionally, Austin hosts several popular events during these periods such as the South by Southwest (SXSW) in March and Austin City Limits Music Festival in October. However, please note that these are also peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Austin, especially if you plan on visiting areas outside of the city center. There are numerous car rental companies available at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and throughout the city.
Ridesharing
Austin is served by several ridesharing companies including Uber and Lyft. These services provide a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you don't plan on driving yourself.
Bicycling
Austin is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the city or use the city's bike-sharing program, Austin B-cycle.
Public Transportation
Austin's public transportation system, Capital Metro, offers bus and light rail services throughout the city. The bus system has numerous routes, while the MetroRail has nine stations running from downtown Austin to the city's northern suburbs.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Austin, especially in the downtown area. You can hail a taxi on the street, or call ahead to book one.
Pedicab
Pedicabs, or bicycle taxis, are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around downtown Austin. They're especially popular during festivals and other large events.
Walk
Downtown Austin is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. The city also has several beautiful trails for longer walks or hikes.
Scooter Rental
Electric scooters are a popular way to get around Austin. Several companies, including Bird and Lime, offer scooter rentals throughout the city. Simply download the app, find a nearby scooter, and start your ride.
RideAustin
RideAustin is a local nonprofit ridesharing option available in Austin. It operates much like Uber or Lyft, but with a focus on giving back to the local community.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Austin, Texas as a first time visitor
1
Austin is the capital of Texas, so expect to see a lot of state government buildings and activities.
2
The city is known for its live music scene, with many venues featuring live performances every night.
3
Austin is also known as the 'Silicon Hills' due to the large number of tech companies in the city.
4
The city is very bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and bike rental services available.
5
Austin has a warm climate, with average high temperatures in the summer reaching 96°F (35.5°C) and average lows in the winter around 43°F (6.1°C).
6
The city is home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest universities in the U.S.
7
Austin is known for its food trucks, which can be found all over the city serving a variety of cuisines.
8
The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many green initiatives and eco-friendly businesses.
9
Austin is home to many parks and outdoor spaces, including the Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool.
10
The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs located on 6th Street and Rainey Street.
11
Austin is known for its annual events, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits Music Festival.
12
The city has a diverse population, with a mix of students, professionals, artists, and musicians.
13
Austin is located in Central Texas, so it's a great base for exploring the Texas Hill Country.
14
The city has a strong craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering tours and tastings.
15
Austin is a very pet-friendly city, with many parks, restaurants, and businesses allowing dogs.
16
The city has a laid-back vibe, with a casual dress code prevalent even in upscale restaurants and events.
17
Austin has a strong arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and art events throughout the year.
18
The city is known for its unique 'Keep Austin Weird' culture, which celebrates individuality and creativity.
19
Austin has a strong economy, with a low unemployment rate and a high job growth rate.
20
The city has a good public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and bike-sharing services.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Shorts
Jeans or casual pants
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimsuit
Light jacket or sweater
Pajamas
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Health insurance card
Travel itinerary
Hotel reservation details
Car rental details
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Portable power bank
Camera
Charger for camera
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Adapter (if necessary)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or magazines
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size laundry detergent
Reusable shopping bag
Umbrella
Weather Conditions
Austin, Texas is known for its warm climate, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s (35-37°C) in the summer months. If you're planning a trip during this time, be sure to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget to stay hydrated, as the heat can be intense. The city also experiences mild winters, with temperatures typically ranging from the 40s to 60s (4-15°C). If you're visiting Austin during the winter months, you'll want to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Spring and fall in Austin are quite pleasant, with temperatures usually in the 70s and 80s (21-27°C). These seasons are a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, such as Zilker Park or Lady Bird Lake. Rainfall in Austin is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but the city can experience heavy storms, particularly in the spring. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack an umbrella or rain jacket just in case. Regardless of when you visit, Austin's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and dynamic city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 20° / 4° | January is the coldest month in Austin, Texas, with an average low of 4°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 23° / 6° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with an average high of 23°C. The weather is still cool and comfortable for outdoor activities. |
March | 27° / 10° | March marks the beginning of spring in Austin, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and outdoor festivals. |
April | 30° / 15° | April is a warm month in Austin, with an average high of 30°C. It's a perfect time to explore the city's music scene and enjoy the outdoors. |
May | 34° / 19° | May is the start of the hot season in Austin, with temperatures often reaching 34°C. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. |
June | 37° / 23° | June is one of the hottest months in Austin, with an average high of 37°C. It's a good time to visit the city's swimming holes and indoor attractions. |
July | 39° / 24° | July is the peak of summer in Austin, with temperatures often exceeding 38°C. It's a great time to enjoy water activities and the city's vibrant nightlife. |
August | 39° / 24° | August is another hot month in Austin, with similar temperatures to July. It's a good time to visit the city's museums and indoor attractions. |
September | 36° / 21° | September marks the end of the hot season in Austin, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to enjoy the city's outdoor dining and music festivals. |
October | 31° / 16° | October is a comfortable month in Austin, with an average high of 31°C. It's a perfect time to explore the city's parks and enjoy the fall colors. |
November | 26° / 10° | November is a cool month in Austin, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 26°C. It's a great time to enjoy the city's food scene and cultural attractions. |
December | 22° / 6° | December is a cool and comfortable month in Austin, with an average high of 22°C. It's a good time to enjoy the city's holiday festivities and shopping scene. |
Did you know?
Places near by Austin, Texas
San Antonio River Walk
A network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined by bars, shops, restaurants, nature, and public art.
Fredericksburg
Known for wineries and its German heritage. Visit the Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche Museum, and the National Museum of the Pacific War.
Waco
Home to the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
A natural pool that was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
A massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above ground. Popular for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Natural Bridge Caverns
The largest known commercial caverns in the U.S. state of Texas. The name is derived from the 60 ft natural limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater setting of the cavern's entrance.
Space Center Houston
NASA’s official visitor center and a Smithsonian Affiliate. It offers a glimpse into the space agency's Mars mission and moon landing exhibits.
Galveston Island
A barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast in the United States, about 50 miles southeast of Houston. The entire island, with the exception of the little village of Jamaica Beach, is within the city limits of the City of Galveston.
Padre Island National Seashore
The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Known for its white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters.
