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.
Austin Mural. Courtesy Contiki.
Friday Evening
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.
Saturday
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 Wanderlust 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 Congress Avenue Kayaks or Zilker Park Boat Rentals to explore the glittering waters of Lady Bird Lake, all while getting a body-toning workout.
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 South Congress Café, vintage-inspired Little Barrel and Brown or contemporary (and eco-minded) Hopdoddy Burger Bar. 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 the trendy Domain NORTHSIDE and the Rock Rose district. Shop anchor stores such as Nordstrom and RH Austin; browse must-visit shops like the new Will Leather Goods, Kittsona and Kelly Wynne; and explore locally owned boutiques stocked with emerging designers at Golden Bones or Raven + Lily.
Berry Good For You Frozen Cocktail. Courtesy 77 Degrees.
Evening
When you’re ready to rest after all that shopping, unwind with frozen cocktails and tapas on the three-story rooftop bar at 77 Degrees Rooftop, or grab gourmet street tacos and frozen margaritas at the brand new Velvet Taco.
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 Ballet Austin. 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.
Sunday
Morning
Recover from a night of revelry with a decadent brunch (we're talking English Toffee French Toast, a Croissant BLT and Korean steak and eggs) at the new St. Genevieve, where mimosas and bloody marys will take the edge off. 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.
