What To Do With Your Free Time in Austin
Austin has something special waiting around every corner. From world-renowned food trucks and Michelin-star restaurants to legendary live music venues, stunning outdoor spaces and quirky local attractions, there is simply no shortage of things to do and see.
Joining us in Austin this coming spring for the AFP FP&A Forum will be an amazing opportunity to connect, learn and grow. Before or after the event's sessions and networking, check out some ideas for how to spend your free time in this amazing spot in the heart of Texas.
Day 1
The true experience of an Austinite begins with breakfast tacos, and it just so happens than an award-winning establishment is located a short walk from the hotel: Vera Cruz All Natural (the Line Hotel location at 111 E. Cesar Chavez). From there, wander down to Lady Bird Lake where you can take a scenic walk along the Ann and Roy Butler trail and boardwalk.
Happy hour couldn’t be happier than it is at the iconic Donn’s Depot. A former train depot turned piano bar with Christmas lights and ruby-red carpeting, this welcoming spot transports you to another time in Austin.
Is it legal to visit Texas and not get a steak? Just to be safe, take your pick from the best steakhouses in Austin for a truly memorable dinner. Or find one of the city’s ~2,000 food trucks. The Arbor Food Park is well-known among locals and offers a wide range of options, as well as outdoor seating.
Did you know that Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World®? You simply cannot visit without taking advantage of the fantastic music scene. A few venues to check out include Moody’s Theater, home to Austin City Limits, and The Saxon Pub, a haven for singer-songwriters.
Day 2
On the menu for breakfast today is Josephine House — the little blue cottage located in the charming Clarksville neighborhood just west of downtown. Many describe it as “inviting as dining at a friend’s (very nice) house.” The options are lighter and include lemon ricotta pancakes, citrus cured lox, buttery croissants and shrimp and grits.
Refuel at the end of your day with some good ol’ Texas barbeque. One of the most well-known and popular spots (#2 in Texas) is InterStellar BBQ. The line starts forming early, so order ahead of time online.
They don’t call it “bat city” for nothing … At sunset, be sure to have your spot set near or on the Congress Avenue Bridge for an only-in-Austin happening. From about mid-March to October, a colony of Mexican free-tailed bats (1.5 million, the largest in a North American urban environment) take flight each night to feed on pesky bugs like mosquitoes. You can see if they’re expected during your visit by checking this page: bat flight.
Here’s the real highlight of the day: If it’s Tuesday night, then it’s time to soak up some more live music at The Cactus Café. Many internationally known artists got their start here, including Lyle Lovett, Lucinda Williams and Townes Van Zandt. (Though if Bourbon Street is more your speed, you’ll want to head over to “Dirty Sixth Street” — the 6th Street corridor.)
Day 3
Whether you’re in the mood for the crispiest bacon (a technique that’s been hacked all over the internet) from Joe’s Bakery — an Austin institution spanning four generations — or something more Forthright, say a waffle trio (churro with caramel drizzle, maple peanut butter and chocolate and cream cheese with mixed berries), Austin has you covered this morning.
After the AFP FP&A Forum Closing Keynote, head to South Congress — the best place for boutique shopping in Austin. Here you’ll find everything from cowboy hats and boots to jewelry, home goods, handcrafted paper goods, art and fun gifts. Before you leave the shopping district, be sure to stop into the Teal House to get some of Austin’s #1-rated cinnamon rolls for the road!
Finally, because the American love for tacos is real, we have to close out our itinerary with a stop at one of the top taco trucks in the city: Asador (405 E. 7th Street). The brisket with smoked chile morita and black sesame is a fan favorite.
If you’re staying in Austin beyond our itinerary, be sure to check out our visitor page for more information and inspiration.
