This article was produced in partnership with Tecovas
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including its wild, weird and wonderful capital city—Austin. Known as The Live Music Capital of the World, Austin is a unique town with a whole lotta Texas swagger and a hint of California cool.
I first moved to Austin in April 2015, and ever since I arrived it’s been one hell of a ride. The final tour of my military career is what brought me here. I was assigned to the University of Texas at Austin Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) as a military instructor and had the privilege of training the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps officers. However, this incredible city and all it has to offer is what kept me here.
As one of the fastest growing cities in America, Austin is a melting pot of individuals from all over the country. But don’t fool yourself—despite the major tech boom and influx of new residents to Austin, the long-time home of Willie Nelson hasn’t been tarnished by Californication. There’s a whole lot of Texas in this town and it offers one of the best weekend getaways in the States.
Whether you’re looking for bars, music, parties on the lake, entertainment, or special events—Austin has it all. Beyond your average weekend destination, Austin boasts unique happenings like SXSW (South by Southwest), ACL (Austin City Limits), F1 and NASCAR racing at Circuit of the Americas, World Golf Championship tournaments, and much more.
So pull up those bootstraps and let’s get this party started. It’s my honor to serve as your personal cicerone to a place I’m proud to call home—Austin, Texas.
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1. Walk Taller in an Authentic Pair of Boots
If you want to make lifelong memories, Austin is primed for you and your crew to do just that. But before hitting the town, outfitting yourself with an authentic pair of cowboy boots is a classic Austin tradition. The iconic Tecovas headquarters offers a memorable sensory experience that can’t be missed.
Open the door and you’ll be greeted with the intoxicating smell of fine leather goods and handcrafted cowboy boots. Once inside, the Tecovas staff will quickly offer you a complimentary craft beer or whiskey. Need we say more? Once you’ve settled into this western-wear sanctuary, the knowledgeable staff will educate you about boots and help you identify the perfect pair to match your style and personality.
Mike’s Local Tip: The in-store Tecovas experience is second-to-none, but their online shopping experience is also great—and ideal for expanding that boot collection once you get back home.
While Austin is decidedly different from other cities in the Lone Star State, our barbeque is still taken very seriously. If you only have time to hit one BBQ joint, make it Franklin BBQ—owned by the award-winning Aaron Franklin.
Regarded as one of the most influential pitmasters in the country, Aaron Franklin even has his own Masterclass program—Aaron Franklin Teaches Texas-Style BBQ. The barbecue at his namesake joint lives up to his reputation and gives literal meaning to “fall off the bone.”
Mike’s Local Tip: Be prepared to wait in line, but don’t fret—lounge chairs and cold beer are offered while waiting.
Zilker Park, the city’s largest park, is home to one of Austin’s biggest music events—the Austin City Limits Music Festival, held on two consecutive weekends in October. The park also serves as a great spot to catch some sun, play frisbee, or take your dog out for some fun.
Mike’s Local Tip: During the summer, head to Zilker Park for Blues on the Green, a free monthly concert hosted by Austin City Limits. Bring your blanket, brews (discreetly), and enjoy the show.
No getting around it, summer days in Austin are toasty. If you’ve got a group of revelers ready to cool down and blow off some steam, a party barge is the call. Hitting the party coves on Lake Austin or Lake Travis, be prepared to get blocked in for an entire day of drinking and boat-hopping.
Mike’s Local Tip: Reserve a party barge early from Lake Austin Party Boat Rentals. Once that Austin sun gets high in the sky, you’ll be late to the party.
Okay, this isn’t for everyone, but Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge is home to 1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed bats—aka the largest urban bat colony in the world. Between March and September, thousands of them pour out of the bridge for their nightly flights—and feasts, consuming anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 pounds of insects, including mosquitoes and harmful agricultural pests. Thank you, bats!
Mike’s Local Tip: Arrive early to score a parking spot and front row views from South Congress Bridge. The nightly bat show can take place anywhere between 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. and take up to 45 minutes.
6. Austin Nightlife Hot spots
Once that Texas sun sinks below the hills, the action really starts to heat up. From live music honky tonks to chic downtown bars, you’re sure to find the right spots to whet your whistle. Here’s my honest rundown of where to go (and avoid).
Dirty 6th Street: While this patch of 6th Street in the heart of downtown used to be a magnet for all ages, it’s currently a prime spot for Gen Zers. Unless you’re still in your early 20s, it’s probably not worth your time.
Rainey Street: An iconic drinking hub in southeastern Austin, Rainey Street’s historic strip of landmark bungalows are now a row of bars that are generally packed-to-the-gills—especially on Sundays. Stop by Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden, featuring over 200 craft beers and the formidable Man-Mosa (beer stein full of mimosa). Note: One Man-Mosa per customer.
South Congress Street: There’s no shortage of bars and restaurants on South Congress, which draws a slightly older crowd, as does West 6th Street. Catch a show at the famed Continental Club, hailed as the premiere live music club of Austin, located on South Congress Street.
East Side: Austin’s East Side (east of Highway 35) has evolved into one of the most rapidly growing and gentrified areas of the city. The bars and restaurants here are all truly unique, featuring live music and craft drinks. Pop into Whisler’s, a local haunt with a quirky vibe and fine cocktails.
7. Where to Stay in Austin
You’ll want to be staying where the action is, so book a room downtown. There’s no shortage of hotels, ranging from the typical big chain guest rooms to more boutique experiences.
