Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown Austin

Downtown Austin is more exciting than ever, with a dynamic scene that caters to every interest, whether you're a foodie, a music lover, a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast. Get ready to experience the true essence of Austin, where there's always something new to discover. Learn more about things to do, where to go and what to see downtown, from the Warehouse District and 2ND Street District to Congress Avenue, Rainey Street and the Red River Cultural District.

Courtesy of La Condesa.

1. Indulge in Austin's Unmatched Culinary and Nightlife Scene

Austin's reputation as a foodie destination is well-earned, and its downtown area is a testament to that fact. The culinary landscape is a diverse mosaic, from award-winning fine dining to legendary watering holes.

For an unforgettable dining experience, consider a reservation at La Condesa. Helmed by Executive Chef Rick Lopez, the menu features contemporary Mexican dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It also boasts one of the largest collections of 100% blue agave tequila and mezcal in the city, making it a must-visit for cocktail connoisseurs. If Italian is more your style, Red Ash offers a refined, wood-fired culinary experience. Influenced by the traditions of Northern and Southern Italy, this restaurant is known for its custom-built wood-burning grill, which imparts a unique flavor to its handmade pastas, pristine seafood and locally sourced meats. The atmosphere is elegant, making it perfect for a special occasion.

Beyond dining, Austin's nightlife is legendary. No trip to the city is complete without a visit to Antone's, affectionately known as "Austin's Home of the Blues." Established in 1975, this iconic venue has hosted blues and R&B legends like B.B. King, Muddy Waters and James Brown, and was a launching pad for local talents such as Stevie Ray Vaughan. The venue's rich history and dedication to preserving the blues genre make it a soulful experience you won't forget. For a different kind of cocktail experience, head to Roosevelt Room. This regal cocktail bar is housed in a supersized former railroad warehouse and is renowned for having the largest cocktail menu in the state. With its Art Deco decor and air of exclusivity, it’s the perfect spot for a sophisticated night out. For a more casual evening, you can enjoy a margarita with a view on the rooftop at El Cockfight, or for a more raucous party atmosphere, there's always a good time to be had at The Courtyard or Speakeasy.

Nearby Fourth Street is home to several of the city’s LGBTQ+ bars. Dance the night away at Highland Lounge, grab a drink and watch a drag show at Oilcan Harry’s, or lounge on the back patio at Rain.

For those who love a sense of discovery, Downtown Austin is home to a number of "secret" spots. You can spiral up a staircase to find Small Victory, a cozy cocktail bar, or try to locate In Plain Sight, a hidden bar that you'll realize was right in front of you the whole time. Another iconic spot is Garage, which, as the name suggests, is cleverly located in a downtown parking garage. For a truly clandestine experience, you'll need to ask a local for the code to enter Floppy Disk Repair, also known as Red Headed Stepchild. Finally, tucked away in the heart of the Warehouse District, DuMont's Down Low creates the perfect intimate atmosphere for enjoying a carefully curated cocktail.

Courtesy of 2ND Street District.

2. Discover Unique Finds and Local Treasures

Austin is a haven for shoppers who appreciate unique, locally-owned businesses. The downtown area offers several districts where you can find everything from high-end fashion to artisanal goods. Before you start exploring, make a stop at the brand new Austin Visitor Center for locally made souvenirs clean bathrooms, free wifi, luggage storage, guided tours and a coffee shop to fuel up for the day.

The 2ND Street District is lined with boutiques with everything from beautiful baubles to little black dresses and men's threads. It's a great place to spend an afternoon strolling and browsing. The district also offers a mix of national retailers and local favorites, ensuring there's something for every style and budget. For a truly authentic Austin shopping experience, don't miss the SFC Farmers Market at Republic Square on Saturdays. Held year-round in the picturesque Republic Square Park, this market is the "queen bee" of the SFC Farmers' Market system. You'll find dozens of farmers and award-winning food artisans selling fresh produce, baked goods and handcrafted items. It’s a wonderful way to support the local community and get a taste of Austin's vibrant food scene.

Paramount & State Theatres. Courtesy of Paramount Theatre.

3. Immerse Yourself in Arts & Culture

As the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin's cultural offerings extend far beyond its famed music venues. The downtown area is home to a number of historic theaters and contemporary art spaces that showcase the city's creative spirit.

For a classic cultural experience, visit the Paramount Theatre. Built in 1915, this Neoclassical-style landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a venue for live theater, concerts, and classic film screenings. Stepping inside is like taking a step back in time. For a more modern music experience, ACL Live at the Moody Theater is the premier destination. This state-of-the-art venue is the permanent home of the longest-running music series in American television history, Austin City Limits. Don't forget to take a picture with the famous statue of Willie Nelson, the show's most iconic star, right outside.

For a dose of visual art, the Mexic-Arte Museum is a must-see. Designated as the official Mexican and Mexican American Fine Art Museum of Texas, it's dedicated to the presentation and promotion of Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture. The museum features a permanent collection as well as a variety of traveling and curated exhibitions that showcase both traditional and contemporary works. The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center is the city’s leading contemporary art museum, reflecting the full spectrum of contemporary art through its exhibitions, commissions, and educational programs. With its unique architecture and thought-provoking installations, it's a dynamic space for exploring the art of our time.

Austin Skyline. Credit David Aguila.

4. Find Your Escape in the Great Outdoors

Even in the middle of a bustling downtown, Austin makes it easy to connect with nature. The city's crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a scenic 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake. This natural gem is a social hub for runners, walkers, and cyclists, offering stunning views of the downtown skyline. The trail is well-maintained with various surfaces, including crushed granite, boardwalk, and concrete, and provides a peaceful escape from the urban environment. A highlight of the trail is the boardwalk section, which offers spectacular photo opportunities and a memorial at Auditorium Shores to the late bluesman Stevie Ray Vaughan.

5. Explore Austin's Entertainment Districts

Downtown Austin is not a monolith; it's a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality and offerings. Exploring these districts is the best way to get a feel for the city's different vibes.

• The Warehouse District is a vibrant area characterized by its trendy cocktail bars and stylish restaurants housed in refurbished historic warehouses. For dining, consider the highly-regarded French restaurant and absinthe bar Péché. This area is also a great place for a high-energy night out, with DJs spinning house music and venues that host intimate jazz and hip-hop performances.

• Rainey Street is a truly unique destination where historic bungalow-style homes have been converted into lively bars and restaurants, each with its own distinct charm and atmosphere. It's a beloved spot for those looking for a laid-back, social experience. You can grab a craft brew and some famous house-made sausages at Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden, a local favorite with one of the largest beer selections in town.

• The Red River Cultural District is the heart of Austin's live music scene, known for its high concentration of venues that host both local and national acts. You can catch a show at iconic spots like Mohawk, a two-stage venue with a killer outdoor patio, or at Stubb's BBQ, which features an legendary outdoor stage and serves up some of the city's best barbecue. For a more intimate show, check out Empire Control Room & Garage.

• Congress Avenue offers a quintessential Austin view, with a direct line of sight to the Texas State Capitol. After a show at underground jazz bar Elephant Room, you can grab a drink at the historic Driskill Bar, located in the iconic Driskill Hotel.

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