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|Updated on November,17,2024|

 

Explore Austin’s vibrant culture, music, and cuisine with a three-day itinerary full of live music, delicious BBQ, and outdoor adventures. When I visited Austin, I quickly understood why so many people are drawn to this energetic city. From its thriving music scene and mouthwatering food to its stunning parks and lively events, Austin truly has something for everyone.

 

It’s no wonder this rapidly growing city is becoming a top destination for visitors and new residents, offering endless opportunities and unforgettable experiences.

 

Especially if you are a barbecue and tacos enthusiast, this city is a perfect fit for you!

 

No matter when you visit Austin, you will always find plenty of exciting activities and unique attractions to explore during any season.

 

Have you ever been to Austin, Texas yet? If not, you might be wondering what this city has to offer…Read further to learn more.

 

I have always wanted to visit this city, but kept postponing it. In 2020, I finally made the trip, and I was pleasantly surprised by how different it was from other cities in Texas. Austin is highly diverse, vibrant, and packed with things to do, offering a variety of experiences you won’t find elsewhere in the state. Whether you’re into great food, music, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Austin, you’ll definitely want to make the most of your time there!

 

I was pleasantly surprised by the wide variety of dining options available in Austin, catering to every budget and taste. The city boasts beautiful parks for relaxation, numerous hiking spots, exciting live music events, and breathtaking city views. It is challenging to capture the essence of this city in just a few sentences. To truly understand its charm, you need to experience it with your own eyes.

 

During your visit, there is so much to see and do in Austin, Texas. Ideally, you would want to spend as much time as possible exploring the city. However, I understand that our busy lives can make that difficult. To help you make the most of your trip, I have created this Austin travel guide, featuring free activities, useful tips, the best places to visit, and recommendations on what to eat during your Austin 3-day trip. So let’s embark on our journey to Austin, TX, now.

 

How to Get Around Austin: Transportation Tips

Navigating the city is easy with various transportation options, such as the Capital Metro system, bicycles, or scooters. However, a car rental is necessary if you plan to explore outside the city.

 

For public transportation, a single-ride bus ticket costs $1.25, while a day pass is $2.50. Exact change is required unless you have a pass, which you can purchase at Capital Metro stations, most grocery stores, or by downloading the CapMetro app.

 

Austin also offers a fantastic bike-sharing system, similar to many other US cities. They provide several options, including pay-as-you-ride ($1.09), unlimited 60-minute trips ($12.99), or annual membership ($86.60).

 

Scooters are also a very popular transport these days. They are fast, and you can rent them almost everywhere. The cost starts from a $30 membership fee and $0.15 per ride.

 

While there was a temporary disruption in service by Uber and Lyft before, they are now back in operation. Other ride-sharing options you can consider include Ride Austin or Fasten. Keep in mind that some services may have limited availability or poor service quality.

 

If you require a car rental, you can use platforms like Turo or explore other car rental companies. Daily prices for car rentals start at $10. It is worth noting that traffic in Austin can be challenging, and parking downtown can be problematic. Free parking is available on weekends (Sundays), holidays, and evenings. Metered parking typically starts at $2 per hour.

Where to Stay in Austin: Top Neighborhoods and Hotels

Downtown Austin is the ideal area to stay in as it is home to most of the activities and is easily walkable, eliminating the need for a car and the hassle of parking.

 

There are plenty of hostels and hotels in Downtown Austin, offering a range of accommodation options.

 

For the cheapest options, you can check the Greater Austin area if you have a car.

 

If you celebrate bachelorettes or birthdays or want to be closer to the entertainment, 6th Street is your choice.

 

As someone who frequents Austin for business trips, I’ve stayed at various hotels, and one of my favorites is the Moxy Austin – University. This charming hotel, located in Downtown Austin, is an excellent choice for budget-friendly accommodations for travelers. It’s within walking distance of many cafes, restaurants, and the Capitol, making it convenient for exploring the city.

 

The hotel features a cozy lobby area where you can work, play games, grab a drink, or simply relax. Plus, they offer Zombie Tacos, open 24/7, serving delicious food. While the rooms are slightly smaller compared to other options, the overall experience and prime location make it a great value at an affordable price. I highly recommend staying here if you’re looking for a comfortable and economical option in Austin.

 

Tip: Regardless of the area you choose, ensure it is close to transportation options or within walking distance (if you won’t have a car).

 

Book an apartment with VRBO in Austin here.

 

The Ultimate 3-Day Austin Travel Itinerary

There are numerous Austin attractions to explore, but if you want to make the most of your trip within a limited timeframe, I recommend planning for at least 2-3 days. Here are the main activities you can enjoy.

1. Visit the Texas Capitol

Explore the Texas State Capitol and learn more about a historic part of the city and state. It is located right in downtown Austin, Texas, and if you drive, you can find parking on the major streets and walk to the Capitol. Or you can park in the garage, which should be free for the first two hours (but always double-check as the rules are constantly changing).

 

A FREE tour lasts about 20-30min and operates every day from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm on weekdays. On the weekend, they have different operating hours (check it out upfront).

 

They cover most of the things during the tour but don’t walk you across the whole building. So the tour is a great way to get a better sense of the history, but you might have to self-explore the Capitol before that to make sure you missed nothing.

 

2. Go to Barton Springs Pool

Distance: About 10 minutes from the Texas Capitol by car. This is a must-do in Austin.

The pool is filled with water from nearby natural springs, offering a refreshing swim on hot days. If it’s chilly, you can still enjoy a relaxing walk around the beautiful site.

The pool is public, but swimming requires a small fee ($8 for non-residents and $3 for residents). During peak season (May to September), expect crowds and possible wait times to swim.

 

They have some places to sit and walk, and the site is beautiful. When I was in Austin (in January), it wasn’t too hot outside (though some people were swimming), we just walked around, and even so, I had a fantastic time there.

 

Did you know that there are lots of fantastic events in Austin? Do not miss the opportunity to visit one. Check out this site to see all events in Austin, Texas, in 2024.

3. Take Great Pictures by the “I Love You So Much” Wall

 

Distance: About 7 minutes from the Texas Capitol by car. Head to South Congress to take a fun picture in front of the red graffiti on the green wall. If you wonder about the history behind that sign, it was done by a local artist named Amy Cook in 2010 as a love letter to the coffee shop owner, Liz Lambert.

 

There is usually a line for taking pictures, so be prepared to wait a little. However, if you want to learn more about the place and see more morals, you can book this Electric Bike City Sightseeing Tour here.

 

Did you know that they have a wall with the opposite sign? Which is “I hate you so much.” It is located on a “Bungalow” on Raine Street.

4. Snap a Picture at the Iconic Greetings From Austin Mural

Distance: A 5-minute drive from the “I Love You So Much” Wall. Don’t miss this vibrant and iconic mural, one of the most colorful in Austin, located on South Congress.

 

A little tip. Wear bright clothing to make your photos pop against the mural’s vivid backdrop.

 

5. Watch the Bats From the Bridge

Distance: About 6 minutes from the Texas Capitol by car
From March to October, witness a spectacular natural event as over a million bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge around sunset (typically 8 pm). Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and bring your camera to capture this unforgettable sight.

 

6. Visit the Cathedral of Junk in Austin

 

Distance: Approximately 20 minutes from Downtown Austin. Who wants to see the junk, right? :). Agree, but The Cathedral of Junk is a fascinating art installation created from everyday discarded items. It’s located on private property, so appointments are mandatory to visit. The fee is $5, and they don’t operate on Sundays. While there’s a glimpse available outside the fence, the real experience lies in getting up close.

As I skipped making an appointment and checking the business hours, I was so unlucky when I came there. So the only option I had was to look at it from afar :(.

7. Get the Best Austin View From the Pennybacker Bridge (Austin 360 Bridge)

 

Distance: About 15 minutes from Downtown Austin by car.

The Pennybacker Bridge offers one of the most breathtaking views in the city, making it a top Austin attraction.

A short 10-minute hike takes you to the top, where you’ll enjoy panoramic sights of the Colorado River, the highway, and Austin’s skyline. Parking is free on the north side of the hill. Be sure to watch your step and stay safe near the edges.

 

If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in Austin, spending your day at the Pennybacker Bridge is a must. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the highway, Colorado River, downtown skyline, and verdant landscapes. A short 10-minute hike will lead you to the top for an unparalleled vantage point. Parking is conveniently available on the north side of the hill and is free. Just be cautious and stay far from the edges to ensure your safety.

8. Get Wild at 6th Street

Distance: Central Downtown Location. Known as a vibrant entertainment district, 6th Street is the perfect place for a night out. Explore the numerous bars with affordable drinks, restaurants offering live music, and exciting meeting spots. Note that the street is closed to traffic on weekends (Thursday to Saturday) during the night.

 

TIP: When planning your Austin itinerary, consider the distances between attractions. Many, like the Texas Capitol, “I Love You So Much” Wall, and Barton Springs Pool, are located within a 10-15 minute drive of each other, making it easy to explore multiple sites in one day.

Where to Eat in Austin, TX

After an exciting first day exploring landmarks, it’s time to eat. Eating in Austin is a delightful experience, with options for every budget. Whether you crave delicious tacos, juicy barbeque, or excellent coffee, Austin has it all.

 

1. Torchy’s Tacos

If you’re a taco lover, Torchy’s Tacos is a must-visit spot in Austin. With several locations around the city, you’re never too far from a delicious taco. Their menu is packed with options, ranging from classic to creative flavors. I recommend trying the Mr. Orange for a bit of heat and the Brushfire for a spicy kick.

 

Remember, they charge per taco, so plan to order at least two! Torchy’s has become a beloved local favorite for its quality ingredients and unique taco creations. It’s a great place to fuel up while exploring the city.

 

2. Terry black’s BBQ

For meat lovers, the best BBQ place will be the family restaurant Terry black’s BBQ. The food is excellent, not too pricey, and the lines are not extended.

 

3. Crepe Crazy

If you’re a crepe lover like me, I highly recommend visiting Crepe Crazy. This charming European-style eatery serves a variety of delicious crepe toppings. Don’t be surprised if the kitchen and employees seem quiet. The unique aspect of this place is that all the employees are deaf. They have an extensive visual menu at the register, making it easy to place your order by pointing to the desired item.

 

4. Jo’s Turbo Coffee

 

After taking some great photos by the “I Love You So Much” wall, head over to Jo’s Coffee for a Texas-style turbo coffee. It’s just around the corner, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel. They also serve delicious food if you’re hungry. Parking is easy—across the street or at the AMLI garage with free parking available when you get your ticket validated. Jo’s Coffee is an iconic local favorite, so it’s worth the stop while you’re in the area!

 

Looking for a great day trip from Austin to experience the Texas countryside? I highly recommend visiting San Antonio, just a couple of hours away. This vibrant city offers a variety of attractions that are all close to each other, making it easy to explore in one day. From the historic Alamo to the scenic River Walk, San Antonio is the perfect destination for a quick getaway from Austin. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or beautiful landscapes, San Antonio has something for everyone.

 

Final Thoughts

Austin is a unique, fun, and beautiful city in Texas that I highly recommend visiting. You might ask yourself how many days in Austin should you spend. So, it will depend if you are flexible or tight with your schedule. In general, 3-4 days is plenty of time to see the main sights.

 

With its wide range of activities, attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, you’ll never get bored there. Whether you’re a music lover, a food enthusiast, or someone seeking adventure, Austin has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the charms of this remarkable city.

 

Ready to plan your trip? Use this 3-day Austin itinerary to create unforgettable memories. Let me know about your favorite Austin spots in the comments!

 

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