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Austin, Texas Travel Information

Did you know that Austin has been lauded by Travel + Leisure, National Geographic Traveler and Condé Nast Traveler as one of the nation’s coolest, friendliest and most accessible cities? Get to know Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World®, before you go. Find all of the information your groups, FITs and travelers need before they arrive — from visa requirements and local customs to getting around the city.

Austin is the Texas state capital and fourth-largest city in Texas, located in the heart of Central Texas and home to more than 2 million people in the greater metro area. The city sits on Central Time (UTC−6, UTC−5 during daylight saving), enjoys nearly 300 sunny days a year, and sees mild winters in the 50–60°F range and warm summers in the 80–90s°F.

Local Norms & Regulations

  • Tipping: 15% standard for restaurants, taxis and bars. Hotel housekeeping $1–$5/night, bellhops $1–$5/bag, valet   $1–$5
  • Drinking age: 21 years old — photo ID or passport required
  • Smoking: Prohibited indoors and in all public places including parks, buses and within 15 feet of building entrances
  • Car Rental: Minimum age 25
  • Driving age: Minimum age 16 with valid license

Visitor Services

  • Accessibility Services: Austin provides telephone referrals and information about accessibility and services for the disabled. Call 512-478-9647. Hearing-impaired persons with a TDD/TTY machine may call 512-385-5872.
  • Austin Visitor Center: Let our friendly staff guide your stay in Austin. Stop by our downtown Visitor Center for information on tours of the city, events, can't-miss dining, attractions and live music suggestions. While you're there, browse around Austin's official gift shop. Open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except for major holidays). Call 512-478-0098.

International Documents

  • A valid passport is required for travel into the United States from all international destinations (including Mexico & Canada).
  • Travelers from 40 qualifying countries may visit for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. Visit the US Department of State to check eligibility.
  • Customs and immigration must be completed at your first US port of entry, even if Austin is not your final stop. 
  • Travel and health insurance is strongly reccomended—there is no government helath plan in the US. 
  • For current information on USA border and customs requirements, visit the Department of State website.

Getting Here

Austin is easily accessible by air, with direct connections from across the US and internationally. For travelers arriving by other means, Greyhound and Amtrak both serve Austin with connections to other major Texas cities.

Transportation options

Questions?

Our Travel Trade team is here to help you build out the perfect Austin package.

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