7 days in Austin, United States: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Picture a city that’s the perfect blend of quirkiness, creativity, and a touch of cowboy charm. Now, add a dash of live music, mouth-watering Tex-Mex, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Voila, you’ve got Austin, the capital of Texas! This vibrant city is known for its buzzing food scene, outdoor activities, and captivating street art. In Austin, you can hike to a local favorite watering hole like Barton Springs, or unleash your inner cowboy at a honky-tonk dance hall. For those who love arts and cultural festivals, you won’t be disappointed with events like SXSW and Austin City Limits. Overall, Austin is a fantastic destination waiting for you to explore!
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Austin
Great food scene with a wide variety of options
Active and outdoorsy lifestyle
Occasional traffic congestion in certain areas
Ideal for: Foodies, live music enthusiasts, and nature lovers
What to Bring with You
– Comfortable and casual clothing (Austin is laid-back)
– A swimsuit for swimming in the natural pools
– Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
– Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather, with blooming wildflowers or vibrant foliage. Cooler temperatures and numerous events and festivals make these seasons ideal for exploring Austin.
How to Get into the City
1. By Air: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the main airport, located just 8 miles southeast of downtown Austin. It’s well-connected to major cities across the U.S. and abroad. Catch a taxi, ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, or take the Capital MetroBus (Route 20) to reach downtown.
2. By Car: Austin is accessible via several major highways – the I-35, US 290, and Route 183. If you’re up for a road trip, expect scenic drives and a plethora of stops along the way.
3. By Bus: Several bus companies such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus connect Austin to other U.S. cities. The main bus terminal is located downtown, making it a convenient option for travelers.
7 day city guide trip in Austin, Texas
Day 1 – Exploring Downtown Austin
Start your day at the famous Franklin BBQ for the best barbecue in town. Afterward, walk around Lady Bird Lake and see the bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Visit the State Capitol and check out the Texas State History Museum. End the day with a few drinks and live music at 6th Street.
Day 2 – South Congress and the Barton Springs Pool
Visit the trendy South Congress neighborhood for eclectic shops and street art. Stop in at Torchy’s Tacos for their famous queso. Cool off at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool. End the day with dinner at Uchi, a top-rated sushi restaurant.
Day 3 – Day trip to San Antonio
Take a day trip to the charming city of San Antonio and visit the iconic Alamo. Walk along the River Walk and have lunch at Cured, a farm-to-table restaurant. End the day with a visit to the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Day 4 – Zilker Park and the Austin Nature and Science Center
Explore Zilker Park and kayaking on the Colorado River. Visit the Austin Nature and Science Center to learn about the local flora and fauna. Have lunch at P. Terry’s Burger Stand before enjoying a show at the Zach Theatre.
Day 5 – Food Tour and the Austin Film Society
Embark on a food tour with Austin Eats and try the best of Austin’s eclectic food scene. Visit the Paramount Theatre and see a classic movie with the Austin Film Society. End the day with drinks at The Broken Spoke, a famous honky-tonk bar.
Day 6 – Day trip to Fredericksburg
Take a day trip to the charming town of Fredericksburg and visit the National Museum of the Pacific War. Explore the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and have lunch at August E’s, a top-rated Asian fusion restaurant. Stop by a local winery for a taste of Texas wine before heading back to Austin.
Day 7 – Blanton Museum of Art and the Texas Book Festival
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art and see their impressive collection of European art. End the trip with the Texas Book Festival held annually in October. Hear from famous authors and purchase books from local vendors.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Austin
If you’re looking to explore more of Texas, take a trip to Marfa and experience the quirky art installations and wide-open landscapes. Alternatively, visit the stunning Hill Country and see the breathtaking views of the rolling hills. Both destinations are a few hours’ drive from Austin and offer a unique Texas experience that’s different from the bustling city scene.
