Things to Do in Austin, Texas: A 4-Day Guide
Curated By
Nicole Ciehoski
SHARE
Local Travel
Texas
Austin
Food & Wine
Bachelorette Party Destinations
Downtown
Foodie
Greatest Hits
Curator’s statement
I took a leap of faith by moving to Austin without having even been to Texas before in my early 20's. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made! Every weekend I go through the dilemma of trying a new restaurant or eating at one of my favorite spots. The options are endless! The city's motto is "Keep Austin Weird" which is a sentiment you can feel whether you're lounging on the Zilker lawn or diving right in at the Museum of the Weird. Live music, nightlife, nature, food and culture all come together to make this magical city.
The Fora Difference
Book with Nicole to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Nicole to book your trip.
Day 1: BBQ Fix
Check into your hotel and head straight the hotel pool to relax after a morning of travel. Head to dinner at Terry Black's Barbecue to get your BBQ fix in right away. And all the sides, of course!
After, grab a drink at Kitty Cohen's, a hip bar with a small plunge pool on their patio. If you're looking for a livelier night, walk down Rainey Street to experience the bungalow houses turned into bars.
Day 2: Tacos & Hiking
Try a local favorite for killer tacos at Tacodeli. There is a location that is close to the Museum of Ice Cream if you leave any room for dessert! This fun and interactive museum is the perfect backdrop for all your Instagram shots. You and your girls will have a laugh and plenty of treats.
Work off the food with a short hike up the stairs to Mount Bonnell, a beautiful overlook giving you views of downtown, Lake Austin, and the estates that line it.
Dinner at Patrizi's food truck in East Austin is for the best homemade pasta in a large outdoor venue. If you're looking for a wild night out to celebrate your impending nuptials, try 6th Street, or "Dirty 6th", that has a Bourbon Street atmosphere with the streets blocked off and party-goers hopping from bar to bar. Plenty of dancing opportunities here!
Day 3: Mid-City Swimming Hole
Go on a morning shopping spree down South Congress, which is lined with boutique shops, large brand name stores, and bars and restaurants. Stop at Perla's for lunch, known for great seafood and a fun patio with a large live oak tree growing right out of the middle.
Take a dip in Barton Springs, a 3-acre spring-fed swimming pool at the heart of the city.
For dinner tonight, take your ladies out to Curra's Grill, a laid back Tex-Mex staple with famous avocado margaritas. You can never have too many tacos. In the spirit of Texas, experience a honky tonk by visiting The White Horse for live music and dancing the Two Step!
Day 4: Art & Brunch
Make a reservation at Mattie's for brunch. Order the biscuits or the donuts (or better, both!) for an appetizer. They are truly amazing, as is all the food on this South Austin pasture. Make sure to walk through the historic home and check out the grounds with peacocks milling around.
Before heading to the airport, check out the local art at Austin Art Garage to beautify the walls of your home with a touch of Austin.
Travel Advisor
Nicole Ciehoski
Get in touch with Nicole
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Nicole within a business day or so. You'll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).