​

5-Day Exciting Tour Experience in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas

5 days

Bullock Texas State History Museum
The waterfalls in Prehistoric Park in Zilker Botanical Garden
Cowboy Memorial in front of Texas Capitol dome
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum
Texas State Capitol

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.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Downtown Austin

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Texas State Capitol, a stunning piece of architecture and a symbol of Texas history. Take a guided tour to learn about the state's political history.

Lunch

Enjoy a hearty Tex-Mex lunch in a popular local restaurant in the downtown area.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Bullock Texas State History Museum to delve deeper into the state's rich history. The museum features three floors of exhibits and an IMAX theater.

Dinner

Have dinner at a renowned BBQ joint, a must-try when in Austin.

Evening

End your day with a live music show on 6th Street, known as the Live Music Capital of the World.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Zilker Metropolitan Park. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, or rent a kayak to paddle on Lady Bird Lake.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the park with food from a local deli.

Afternoon

Visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum located in the park. The museum features works by American sculptor Charles Umlauf.

Dinner

Dine at a restaurant in South Congress Avenue, known for its eclectic dining scene.

Evening

Stroll along South Congress Avenue and enjoy its vibrant nightlife, including live music venues and unique shops.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, which houses millions of documents related to the 36th president's administration.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a food truck park, a staple of Austin's food scene.

Afternoon

Explore the University of Texas campus, including the UT Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant in the Hyde Park neighborhood, known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets.

Evening

Catch a movie at one of Austin's independent theaters, which often screen indie films and classics.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Austin Zoo, a rescue zoo that houses over 300 animals from more than 100 different species.

Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local café in the Oak Hill neighborhood.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a public botanical garden dedicated to preserving and displaying native plants of Central Texas.

Dinner

Dine at a restaurant in the Circle C Ranch area, a suburban neighborhood with a variety of dining options.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema for a unique movie-watching experience.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Austin Nature & Science Center in Zilker Park, which offers a range of interactive exhibits.

Lunch

Have lunch at a restaurant in the Barton Hills neighborhood, which offers a variety of dining options.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a natural oasis with hiking trails, rock climbing walls, and swimming holes.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Austin at a restaurant in the Downtown area.

Evening

End your trip with a night out on Rainey Street, a historic area known for its bungalow-style bars and food trucks.

Attractions in Itinerary (15)

Texas State Capitol

1
Texas State Capitol

An iconic red granite state capitol building with a large dome, offering guided tours.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Bullock Texas State History Museum

2
Bullock Texas State History Museum

A museum dedicated to telling the story of Texas, with three floors of exhibits and an IMAX theater.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
6th Street

3
6th Street

A historic street and entertainment district in downtown Austin, known for its live music venues, bars, and restaurants.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Tours
Zilker Metropolitan Park

4
Zilker 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.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Barton Springs Pool

5
Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool is a recreational outdoor swimming pool that is filled entirely with water from nearby natural springs. It is located on the grounds of Zilker Park.

Attractions
Parks
Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum

6
Umlauf 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.

Museums
Gardens
Cultural Experiences
South Congress Avenue

7
South Congress Avenue

South Congress Avenue, also known as SoCo, is a vibrant neighborhood in Austin, Texas. It's known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, eateries, music venues, and galleries.

Attractions
Shopping
Neighborhoods
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum

8
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is a presidential library and museum dedicated to the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson. It is one of 14 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
University of Texas campus

9
University of Texas campus

The main campus of the University of Texas, known for its iconic tower and beautiful architecture.

Attractions
Architecture
UT Tower

10
UT Tower

The UT Tower, or University of Texas Tower, is a distinguishing landmark of the University of Texas at Austin. It's a structure that stands at 307 feet and is used for academic and administrative offices.

Landmarks
Architecture
Austin Zoo

11
Austin Zoo

Austin Zoo is a rescue zoo located in Austin, Texas. It provides a sanctuary for a diverse collection of animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and more.

Attractions
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

12
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a botanical garden located in Austin, Texas. It's dedicated to preserving and displaying native plants of North America, with a focus on the flora of Texas.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Austin Nature & Science Center

13
Austin Nature & Science Center

Austin Nature & Science Center is an educational facility located in Austin, Texas. It offers hands-on exhibits and programs focused on nature and science.

Attractions
Museums
Barton Creek Greenbelt

14
Barton Creek Greenbelt

Barton Creek Greenbelt is a must-visit for nature lovers. It offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and swimming in the creek. The park is home to several species of wildlife and is a great place for bird watching.

Parks
Nature
Rainey Street

15
Rainey Street

Rainey Street is a historic district in Austin, Texas, known for its bungalow-style homes converted into bars and restaurants.

Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Barbecue

Barbecue

Austin is famous for its Texas-style barbecue, which is typically slow-cooked and smoked over a wood fire.

Breakfast Tacos

Breakfast Tacos

A popular breakfast item in Austin, these tacos typically include ingredients like eggs, cheese, and bacon wrapped in a tortilla.

Tex-Mex

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

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

Kolaches

Originally a Czech pastry, Texans have put their own spin on kolaches, filling them with ingredients like sausage and cheese.

Migas

Migas

A Tex-Mex breakfast dish made from scrambled eggs mixed with strips of tortillas, onions, peppers, and cheese.

Shiner Bock

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

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 (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Shorts (2 pairs)

  • Jeans (1 pair)

  • Light jacket or sweater (1)

  • Swimsuit (1)

  • Pajamas (1 set)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)

  • Hat or cap (1)

  • Sunglasses (1 pair)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Facial cleanser

  • Moisturizer

  • Contact lens solution (if needed)

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power bank

  • Adapters (if needed)

  • Laptop (if needed)

  • Charger for laptop (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel-size 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!

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Austin, Texas is known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World' due to its high density of live music venues?

1 of 10

Places near by Austin, Texas

San Antonio River Walk

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.

1.3h
123.9 km / 77.0 mi
How to get there
Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg

Known for wineries and its German heritage. Visit the Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche Museum, and the National Museum of the Pacific War.

1.5h
113.7 km / 70.6 mi
How to get there
Waco

Waco

Home to the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos.

1.7h
169.5 km / 105.3 mi
How to get there
Hamilton Pool Preserve

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.

50m
48.3 km / 30.0 mi
How to get there
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

A massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above ground. Popular for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

2h
151.5 km / 94.1 mi
How to get there
Natural Bridge Caverns

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.

1.3h
116.1 km / 72.1 mi
How to get there
Space Center Houston

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.

3.3h
346.6 km / 215.4 mi
How to get there
Galveston Island

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.

3.5h
355.4 km / 220.8 mi
How to get there

Padre Island National Seashore

The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Known for its white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters.

3h
354.1 km / 220.0 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Texas