Watch 1.5 million bats take flight at sunset, forming a surreal cloud in the night sky. Best seen from March to October, with peak swarms in late summer.

Joe Rogan's comedy club bringing top-tier stand-up acts to Austin.

Kayak or Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake – Rent from Rowing Dock or The Expedition School.

A natural spring-fed pool with crystal-clear waters that stay 68-70°F year-round. Perfect for a refreshing swim, even in winter.

Best indie/rock venue: multi-level stages on Red River with great sound. Touring acts and local bands. Indoor/outdoor layout lets you escape when ears need a break.

Best traditional Austin vibe: classic club with consistently good country, blues, and roots acts. The answer to "I want real Austin, not touristy."

Best group night out: dueling pianos, crowd requests, and full-room singalongs. Perfect for birthdays and anyone who wants interactive chaos.

Best jazz bar: underground club with intimate seating and live jazz every night. A real speakeasy vibe, not just background music.

Super pretty outdoor sculpture park right on the lake. Do a little "sculpture stroll" through the trees — giant iron flowers and random hidden art pieces.

Austin's biggest art museum, on the UT campus. You have to see the "rainbow chapel" — it's the star of the place.

Big graffiti spot near the airport. If you're lucky, you'll catch artists painting new murals in real time.

A local Austin coffee chain with high-quality espresso and creative drinks. The Webberville Rd spot is next to amazing tacos.

Top-notch specialty coffee with a wide variety of beans, deluxe pourowers, and espresso. Bonus: Great breakfast!

A well-known local chain with a great vibe and consistently solid coffee.

Lakeside café with beautiful views – great for relaxing, but the coffee is just okay.

Iconic brisket, legendary long lines - worth the wait if you have time.

Family recipe, expertly smoked meats, and one of Austin's most popular BBQ spots.

Mouthwatering brisket, juicy ribs, and incredible sausage -BBQ at its finest. Michelin-recognized! ⭐

Legendary for both its BBQ and live music — a must-visit venue for food and tunes.

Fresh, flavorful tacos—home of the famous migas taco.

Tiny, street-style tacos packed with bold flavors.

Gourmet tacos on handmade heirloom corn tortillas.

Savory, slow-cooked Mexico City-style discada tacos.

Retro diner serving up signature chicken & waffles.

Classic Tex-Mex diner, migas with biscuits are a must.

Eclectic vegetarian café, try the hearty potato-leek omelet.

Always booked, so plan ahead! Modern brunch with the famous Texas Hash.

Iconic Austin taco truck with fresh juices and legendary Migas Breakfast Taco — a Food Network Top 5 Taco in America.

Award-winning East Austin BBQ trailer with top-tier smoked meats. Must-try: Smoked Brisket.

Thai-inspired crispy chicken sandwiches with bold flavors. Must-try: OG Fried Chicken Sandwich.

Detroit-style pizza with a thick, cheesy, caramelized crust. Must-try: The Detroiter.

Classic New York-style pizza with a perfect foldable crust and bold flavors. Must-try: The Margherita.

A brewpub serving craft beer alongside hand-tossed, flavorful pizzas. Must-try: The Armadillo.

Detroit-style pizza with a thick, cheesy, caramelized crust. Must-try: The Detroiter.

Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a charred, bubbly crust. Must-try: The Bianca.