Gather your girlfriends and get ready for a weekend escape that’s packed with trendsetting shopping, hot new restaurants, exciting nightlife and outdoor fun in Austin.

Grizz Mizz Margarita from Grizzeldas
Courtesy of Grizzelda's.

Day 1

Once you arrive in Austin, kick off your weekend with happy hour drinks. Catch up with the girls over glasses of wine and fresh Italian small plates at Red Ash Italia, nosh on chips, guacamole and Mexican beers at the bright and airy Grizzelda’s or enjoy the chic farmhouse-style setting at Lenoir's wine garden.

For dinner, dress to impress and head over to Eberly, a trendsetting contemporary American restaurant boasting gorgeous vintage design that evokes a sophisticated library-meets-solarium vibe. After filling up on farm-to-fork appetizers, artisanal meats and fresh seafood, head upstairs to the rooftop bar for drinks under the stars, or enjoy a classic cocktail at the iconic Cedar Tavern bar.

Two Women Stand up paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake In Austin, TX
Lady Bird Lake. Credit Nick Simonite.

Day 2

Morning
Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Picnik, where you can fuel up with gluten-free breakfast dishes, bone broth and grass-fed butter coffee. Then get active with a yoga class at Black Swan Yoga, or try a yoga-and-hike session at Barton Springs with Sanctuary Yoga. Want to get on the water instead of a yoga mat? Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the Rowing Dock or Zilker Park Boat Rentals to explore the glittering waters of Lady Bird Lake along the Downtown skyline.

Midday
After a morning of active adventures, freshen up and head over to South Congress Avenue to experience Austin’s signature “weirdness.” Order lunch at one of the many unique eateries lining the street, such as the retro-modern Joann’s Fine Foods, a fresh take on the American diner connected to the iconic Austin Motel or Perla’s, a contemporary oyster bar with a hopping oak tree-shaded patio. Then stroll the eclectic shops where you can unearth vintage finds, score authentic Western wear and browse funky jewelry by indie designers. For label lovers, there’s no better place to stock up on beloved brands than on South Congress’ new Music Lane. Shop stores like Everlane, Lululemon, and Madewell and browse must-visit shops like LoveShackFancy and LeLabo.

exterior corner view of ACL Live at the Moody Theater in Austin Texas
ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Credit Jonathan Jackson.

Evening
When you’re ready to rest after all that shopping, unwind with cocktails on the scenic and wildly popular rooftop patio at Aba. Order a “groupie” for the table - a shareable drink that’s enough for 4-5 people. Another instagram-worthy dinner spot is the Summer House on Music Lane. Located at Hotel Magdalena, this restaurant’s vibes are both sophisticated and simple with fresh decor and inventive menu items.

Once the sun goes down, take your pick from exciting nightlife options. Looking for upscale entertainment or headlining acts? Attend a show at ACL Live at The Moody Theater or bar hop among the converted bungalow bars on Rainey Street. Wishing for a chic cocktail lounge with beautiful decor? Try cabana-style patio lounge Kitty Cohen's or secret speakeasy Midnight Cowboy (if you can find it!). Searching for that low-key honky-tonk with incredible live music? Boot scoot the night away at Broken Spoke.

Brunch at Josephine House in west austin texas with pancakes waffles coffee muffins and juice
​Courtesy of Josephine House.

Day 3

Morning
Recover from a night of revelry with a decadent brunch (we're talking bananas foster beignets, a fried chicken benedict with buttermilk biscuits and creamy hollandaise) at Mattie’s at Green Pastures. Or let the mimosas and bloody Marys take the edge off at picture-perfect Josephine House. Then indulge in some much-needed pampering with a full-body massage or facial at Away Austin Spa or Massage Sway.

Midday
Before heading back home, make the most of your last afternoon in Austin with a leisurely stroll through the city’s inspiring art museums, such as the Blanton Museum of Art or The Contemporary Austin at the Jones Center, which just reopened after a $3 million renovation. Or explore the colorful galleries showcasing local artwork, such as Art on 5th and Austin Art Garage, and bring back a unique piece to remember your trip.

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