Hi friends! We just returned from a whirlwind 48-hour trip to Austin, and I already can’t wait to plan the next one. There’s something about that city—the energy, the food, the music—that always leaves me buzzing with inspiration. Of course, I’ll probably hold off until after the South by Southwest madness dies down (because, let’s be real, that’s when Austin turns into its own little universe). But the moment it quiets down again? You can bet I’ll be there.
Every time I visit, I’m struck by how quickly Austin is changing. Blink once, and there’s a new restaurant, a funky boutique, or a mural that wasn’t there the last time. Yet somehow, even as the city grows, it manages to hang on to its quirky, free-spirited heart. That mix of old and new is what keeps me falling in love with it all over again.
I had so many requests for a quick Austin guide, so I’ve pulled together some of my favorite stops. Think of this as your starter pack for 48 hours in ATX—a little food, a little shopping, and a whole lot of vibe.
Where to Eat and Drink
Austin has no shortage of incredible places to eat, and narrowing them down is basically impossible. But these are the ones I find myself coming back to (or dreaming about until my next trip).
- Breakfast Tacos (Everywhere, but Especially Veracruz All Natural): If you don’t start a morning in Austin with a breakfast taco, did you even go? My go-to is Veracruz All Natural—their migas taco is the stuff of legends.
- Coffee at Jo’s: You’ve probably seen the “I love you so much” mural outside Jo’s Coffee plastered all over Instagram. But beyond the photo op, it’s genuinely a great place to grab a latte and people-watch.
- BBQ at Franklin’s (If You’re Brave): Yes, the line is insane. Yes, it’s worth it at least once. If you don’t have the time or patience, there are plenty of other fantastic BBQ joints (Terry Black’s is another favorite).
- Dinner at Launderette: A chic little spot tucked into a converted laundromat, Launderette nails that mix of neighborhood cozy and foodie-worthy creative. Their roasted chicken and veggie sides are perfection.
- Drinks on Rainey Street: Rainey is a whole vibe—historic bungalows turned into cocktail bars and beer gardens. It’s lively, a little quirky, and the best place to kick off an evening.
Where to Shop
Austin has such a fun shopping scene, equal parts vintage treasures and modern design. Even if you’re not in the mood to buy, browsing is half the fun.
- ByGeorge: This is where Austin does chic. Think curated racks of high-end fashion and beautifully styled interiors. It’s aspirational but still feels accessible.
- Feathers Boutique: Vintage lovers, this one’s for you. From 70s sundresses to 90s denim, Feathers is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind finds.
- Austin Motel Gift Shop: I always love popping into hotel gift shops, and the Austin Motel’s is such a good one. Quirky prints, playful souvenirs, and things you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.
- South Congress Avenue: Honestly, you can spend an entire afternoon just wandering South Congress. It’s lined with boutiques, vintage stores, and local gems—it’s retail therapy with a side of people-watching.
Things to Do
Of course, no trip to Austin is complete without soaking in some of what makes the city famous: live music, outdoor fun, and that signature “Keep Austin Weird” charm.
- Catch Live Music: Austin isn’t called the Live Music Capital of the World for nothing. Even if you’re not aiming for a major concert, you can wander into any bar on Sixth Street or a smaller venue and find incredible musicians.
- Stroll Lady Bird Lake: If you need a break from the buzz, head to Lady Bird Lake. The walking trails are beautiful, and it’s the perfect place to reset with fresh air.
- Mural Hopping: Austin is basically an outdoor gallery. From “Greetings from Austin” to hidden gems tucked into neighborhoods, the murals are endlessly fun to track down.
- Swim at Barton Springs: If you’re there in warmer months, nothing beats a dip in Barton Springs Pool. Cold, refreshing, and surrounded by locals—it’s a true slice of Austin life.
Why Austin Sticks With You
What I love most about Austin is how it manages to be so many things at once. It’s a big city with a thriving food and music scene, but it still feels approachable and laid back. It’s modern, but you’ll stumble into vintage shops that feel like stepping back in time. It’s bustling with energy, but there are pockets of calm where you can slow down and just enjoy the moment.
No matter how many times I go, I always discover something new—a restaurant tucked away on a side street, a shop I hadn’t noticed before, a band I’ve never heard playing their heart out on a tiny stage. That’s the magic of Austin: it keeps surprising you.
If you have a trip planned, I hope this little guide helps you map out your days. And if you’re an Austin local or a frequent visitor, I’d love to hear your recommendations too. The city is constantly evolving, and I’m always looking for new places to add to my list.
Until the next trip, I’ll be dreaming of migas tacos, late-night music, and the unmistakable hum of a city that knows how to live.
