36 Hours in Austin

The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing the Best of Austin

With only 36 hours to explore the vibrant city of Austin, every minute counts! Whether you're in town for a quick getaway or just looking to maximize your time during a longer stay, our curated 36-hour itinerary will ensure you experience the best Austin has to offer.

Before diving into our action-packed guide, let's cover some essential tips to make your Austin adventure smooth and enjoyable:

Protect yourself from the sun: With over 300 sunny days a year, always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Texas sun.
Book ahead: Austin is a bustling city that attracts more than 30 million visitors annually. To avoid disappointment, plan ahead and make reservations for popular attractions, restaurants, and events.
Utilize helpful apps: To make your visit seamless, download the following apps before you arrive:
- Uber and Lyft: The leading rideshare services in Austin. [Insert referral codes]
- Lime and Bird: The top two scooter share companies in the city. Note that Bird scooters are typically more powerful, making them better suited for carrying two passengers (though not recommended).
- Park ATX: Simplify street parking by using this app, which offers two complimentary 15-minute parking sessions daily. Use the codes: FREE15ATX1 and FREE15ATX2
- Google Maps: Stay on track with this essential navigation app. Click on the map below to bring it up in Google Maps.
Consider alternative transportation: Parking in downtown Austin can be challenging, so we recommend using rideshares, scooters, or public transportation like the MetroRail, especially during busy events like SXSW or ACL. If driving is your preference, consider parking at the Austin Central Library.

Now, without further ado, let's dive into your unforgettable 36 hours in Austin!

Here are two itinerary options based on the map locations, offering a perfect blend of activities, dining, and entertainment. One itinerary runs from north to south, while the other goes from south to north.

North to South Itinerary:

Evening of your arrival:

Discover Austin's vibrant nightlife by taking a stroll down 6th Street, stopping by Midnight Cowboy for a cocktail.
Explore Rainey Street for more bars and entertainment options.
Unwind with a free swim at Barton Springs (location 14).

Morning:

Kick off your day with breakfast tacos at Torchy's Tacos (location 16) for some of Austin's best tacos and don't forget to try their famous queso. Check out their secret menu.
Grab a coffee from one of the nearby coffee shops, such as Mañana (near location 3), Intelligentsia (near location 2), ~~CookBook Cafe~~, or Merit Coffee (near location 1), to fuel up for the day ahead.
After a visit to the Austin Central Public Library (location 3, A), one of TIME's Greatest Places, take a scenic walk along the Austin Hike and Bike trail across the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge (location 5). Make sure to look Northeast when you are in the middle of the bridge to get a great sight line on the Texas Capitol building. Continue on down the trail to the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue (location 6).

Afternoon:

Head to Peter Pan Mini-Golf (location 10, F) for a fun-filled round of mini-golf. Remember to bring cash and stop by Thom's Market (location 9) to pick up some cold drinks before you go. On the walk there you'll go through Children's Alliance Park, which includes a splash pad if you're already getting too hot!
Wrap up your afternoon with a mouth-watering meal at Terry Black's Barbecue (location 11, E).

Evening:

Morning of your depature:

Start your day with a coffee from Radio Coffee or Cosmic Coffee.
Treat yourself to a classic Austin brunch at one of the city's popular spots.

South to North Itinerary:

Afternoon:

Begin your adventure with a Capital Cruise or watch the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats (location 7) at dusk.
Walk along the path connecting Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue (location 6), Doug Sahm Hill Summit (location 13), Peter Pan Mini-Golf (location 10), and Terry Black's Barbecue (location 11).
Make reservations at Hestia (location 2) for a memorable dinner or enjoy a pincho and drink at Kalimotxo. Alternatively, opt for a meal at True Food Kitchen (location 1).

Throughout your stay, consider using a scooter to explore downtown Austin—it's a fast and exhilarating way to get around. Also, don't forget to check out ACL Live (location 4) and snap a photo with the Willie Nelson Statue in front of the venue.

These itineraries offer a mix of the best Austin has to offer, ensuring an unforgettable 36-hour experience. Feel free to mix and match activities from both itineraries to create your ideal Austin adventure!

Map of Best Spots to Visit in Austin in 36 Hours

True Food Kitchen: A health-conscious eatery offering a variety of delicious, wholesome dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Hestia: A contemporary live-fire restaurant serving creative, flavor-forward dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Austin Central Public Library: Visit the rooftop butterfly garden and don't forget to check out the innovative features such as the rainwater bathrooms, technology petting zoo, and café. You can park here (see site for rates). Named one of TIME's Greatest Places in 2018.
ACL Live: Catch a live show at this iconic venue and snap a photo with the bronze Willie Nelson sculpture out front. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge: Capture stunning photos and enjoy picturesque views of the Texas Capitol building. Don't miss the live music and stop by Mañana for a delicious coffee.
Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue: Pay tribute to the legendary musician at this iconic statue located along the shores of Lady Bird Lake.
Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: Witness the fascinating spectacle of over a million bats emerging from under the bridge at dusk.
The Picnic - Food Truck Park: Sample a variety of local cuisines at this vibrant food truck park featuring some of Austin's best mobile eateries.
Thom's Market: A local market where you can grab some cold beer or snacks for your visit to Peter Pan Mini-Golf.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf: Established in 1946, this cash-only, BYOB mini-golf course is a fun activity for all ages. For a different golf experience, try Pitch & Putt (reservations required).
Terry Black's Barbecue: While not Franklin's BBQ, Terry Black's offers delicious Texas-style barbecue with a fast-moving line.
Zilker Park: A sprawling urban park perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and exploring.
Doug Sahm Hill Summit: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Austin skyline and a unique map of Texas at the top. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
Barton Springs: Cool off with a refreshing dip in this natural spring-fed pool. Entry is free from 5-8 AM and 9-10 PM.
Concerts in the Park: Enjoy free live music under the stars at this popular summer event series.
Torchy's Tacos: Indulge in some of Austin's best tacos at this legendary eatery, known for its creative combinations and bold flavors. Don't miss their famous queso and monthly taco specials!

In summary, Austin truly lives up to its reputation as a wonderfully weird and vibrant city, offering a unique blend of experiences for visitors. With our carefully curated 36-hour itineraries, you'll get to explore the best of what Austin has to offer, from iconic landmarks and delicious dining options to lively entertainment and picturesque scenery. The city's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly merge various aspects of our culture, creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

So, whether you're here for just 36 hours or considering a move to this eclectic city, embrace Austin's distinct character and spirit. Dive into its rich offerings and, in return, contribute your own unique qualities to the community. Enjoy your time in Austin, and remember to have fun while exploring this exceptional city!