Austin, TX: The Perfect Weekend Getaway!

Austin, Texas, is often described as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” but this city offers so much more than just tunes. Nestled in the heart of Texas, Austin boasts a vibrant blend of technology, art, and culture, making it a hub for foodies, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a bit of urban adventure with a side of Southern hospitality. With its famous motto “Keep Austin Weird”, the city prides itself on its eclectic community, progressive vibes, and an array of unique experiences from its lush greenbelts to its iconic food trucks. Here’s how we spent our weekend exploring this dynamic city!

Day 1: BBQ, Burgers, and Boutiques

In-N-Out Burger – A First Timer’s Delight

Our Austin weekend began with something we’ve both been eagerly anticipating – our first taste of In-N-Out Burger. Located just off I-35, we were greeted by the iconic yellow arrow sign. We ordered the classic Double-Double with onions and animal-style fries. The burger’s freshness, with its soft bun and perfectly melted cheese, was everything we hoped for. The fries, seasoned with the secret sauce, added a delightful twist to the meal. Our first In-N-Out experience was a memorable start to our Austin adventure.

South Congress Street – Shopping and Vibes

Post-lunch, we ventured down South Congress Avenue, where Austin’s eclectic spirit was on full display. We browsed through stores and ended up at the funky Allens Boots for a taste of Texan fashion, though we decided against buying boots this time. The street was alive with street musicians, local artisans, and the sweet scent of food truck cuisine, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Terry Black’s BBQ – Smoky Goodness

For our BBQ fix, we headed to Terry Black’s BBQ, where the aroma of smoked meat welcomed us from blocks away. We opted for a platter of brisket, ribs, sausage, and sides like the creamy mac and cheese and fluffy banana pudding. The meat was tender and juicy and the sides perfectly complemented the smoky flavors. The communal dining tables made for a convivial environment. Afterwards, we chatted with the BBQ Pitmasters and learned a little about their meticulous smoking process.

DrinkWell – A Refreshing Break

After all that meat, we needed something lighter, so we stopped by Drink Well. We opted for a couple of their signature drinks – Poet’s Dream for me and an Acid Jazz for my wife. The interior was moody and intimate, making it feel like a cool hang out spot for locals. We left feeling refreshed and ready for more exploration.

Day 2: Coffee, Culture, and Cocktails

Noble Joe Coffee Co. – Matcha by the River Walk

We started our day with a visit to Noble Joe, known for its matcha. We grabbed their famous matcha latte and walked along the Austin River Walk, where the water reflected the setting sun. It was a peaceful start to a fun day, sipping on our drinks amidst the tranquility of the river.

Palomino Coffee – A Hipster’s Haven

Next we visited Palomino Coffee, a spot we read about for its hipster vibe. The place was filled with locals on laptops and art on the walls, creating a cool, relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed some of the best coffee we’ve had in Austin, with my wife and I trying their signature cappuccino.

Kerlaches – A Food Truck Gem

For lunch, we sought out Kerlaches, a food truck known for its homemade sausage. We found it tucked away in East Austin, serving up what felt like authentic Czech sausages with a Texan twist. The outdoor seating area was simple, but the food was anything but – flavorful and hearty, perfect for our outdoor meal.

The BBQ Quest – From Interstellar to La BBQ

Our BBQ journey took an unexpected turn when we arrived at Interstellar BBQ to find it closed for the day due to being sold out – a testament to its popularity. Not deterred, we made our way to La BBQ, where they were also out of most of their meat! Fortunately they still had pulled pork in stock and were able to make us a pulled pork sandwich. The outdoor setting, with picnic tables under oak trees, added a rustic charm to our meal.

Stroll through Zilker Metropolitan Park

Zilker Metropolitan Park perfectly captures Austin’s outdoor charm. We spent the evening walking through the park and enjoying, its crisp and clear air. Families picnicked under shady oaks, and kayakers glided across Lady Bird Lake was such a relaxing vibe. The trails were alive with wildflowers and a calm energy that made it the perfect escape.

Here Nor There – A Nightcap with a Twist

To wrap up our Austin adventure, we headed to Here Nor There for cocktails. The bar’s speakeasy-like entrance added an air of mystery. Inside, the dimly lit room was cozy, with an intimate vibe. We tried a couple of their signature drinks; mine was a smoky mezcal concoction, and my wife’s was a floral gin-based cocktail. Each drink was like a mini-story, with the bartenders explaining the inspiration behind them.

Conclusion

Our weekend in Austin was a whirlwind of flavors, sights, and sounds that truly captured the city’s soul. From our first In-N-Out to navigating the BBQ scene, each experience added layers to our appreciation of this vibrant city. If you’re planning a trip to Austin, come with an appetite, an open schedule, and a willingness to embrace its unique charm. Until next time, keep exploring!