Top 10 Reasons to Visit Austin Texas That Even The Locals Love

We all know Austin is known as the Music Capital of the World. And that we have amazing barbeque. And that you can find a honky-tonk any night of the week. Everyone knows these things about Austin.

But we’re here to talk about the lesser-known reasons to visit this awesome city. The real local attractions that keep people coming back year after year.

If you look at any list about Austin, you’re sure to find some really amazing things to do like visit the state capitol, wait in line for some delicious juicy brisket at Franklin’s Barbeque, or rent a party boat on Lake Travis.

But there are so many reasons to visit Austin beyond the typical tourist places. As the heart of Texas, Austin offers things to do for everyone. From beautiful limestone rock climbing at the Barton Creek Greenbelt or grabbing mouth-watering food along the famous South Congress strip, Austin remains one of the top tourist destinations in the country.

So if you needed any more convincing, here are ten reasons to visit Austin.

2. Vera Cruz Food Truck at Radio Coffee & Beer

As Texas borders Mexico, the state is known for having some really amazing, authentic Mexican food. There’s none that compares with Vera Cruz Tacos. What began as a small trailer in a food truck park on the East Side, has now become a local Austin favorite with multiple locations.

While they have many spots around town, their food truck at Radio Coffee & Beer is a great stop if you’re looking for some delicious tacos and a cold brew or beer to pair them with. 

3. Lake Travis Boat Parties

Looking for a day to escape on the water and party with friends? A great option for bachelor, bachelorette, or birthday parties is to rent a boat on Lake Travis and chill out. You and your guests will leave with an experience and memories to last a lifetime.

Unique to the Austin area, boat parties and barges are a one-of-a-kind experience for newcomers to enjoy. Relax, drink, and connect with your friends and celebrate on Lake Travis.

4. Jester King Brewery

A town over from Austin in Dripping Springs sits a sprawling brewery with cold beers and delicious wood-fired pizza. The drive alone is worth the trip, as you pass through the small town and see the ranches and Live Oaks, you’ll be reminded that you’re in the middle of the Lone Star State.

Jester King offers its guests a selection of locally brewed beers on tap and bottled. They also have options from other breweries, because we’re all about sharing and supporting fellow Austinites in this city. 

5. The Domain

If you’re looking for a day trip of shopping and dining, then North Austin’s Domain is your go-to spot. With dozens of eateries and shopping experiences, you can find something for everyone to enjoy. 

6. Guadalupe River

Floatin’ the river is one summer activity locals love. There are several rivers you can float in the Austin area, but there’s none as fun -- or as relaxingly long -- as the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels.

Just a 45-minute drive south and you can choose from different tubing starting points. The river doesn’t loop, so you’ll finish and have a bus drop you off at your starting point at the end. It’s a long float, with nearly four hours of luxury and relaxation. You’re allowed to bring food and drinks along the river as well, just remember, don’t mess with Texas waters -- don’t litter. 

7. The White Horse

Some lists will tell you to go to the Continental Club. And that’s a solid choice. But The White Horse is increasingly becoming a hot spot for Austin’s country music scene. With two-stepping every night of the week, this East Side bar attracts bachelorette parties as well as visitors looking to get acclimated to a bit of that true Texas culture.

You can always find a tall gentleman to help you learn the two-step, or you can also take lessons. They offer them on select nights. So get your cowboy boots ready and dance the night away. They’ve also got a food truck onsite for late-night munchies after a night full of dancing. 

8. The Blanton Museum

If you love a good art museum, then The Blanton Museum on the University of Texas campus is a must-see. Its gorgeous blue and gray mural wall will welcome you in and the modern art in its galleries will keep you exploring for hours.

You can also take a stroll through the UT campus. See the famous UT Tower or stop for some lunch in one of the on-campus restaurants or coffee shops. 

9. Laguna Gloria

Pack a picnic and bring the fam to Laguna Gloria. With its miles of walking trails and modern art sculptures, the outdoor contemporary art museum boasts Austin’s beauty. With gorgeous views of the lake, you can make a romantic day trip to this part of town.

Famous for engagement photos and weddings, Laguna Gloria is one of Austin’s most treasured museums and parks. 

10. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ

Austin’s culture is a little bit Texas, a little bit Mexican. This is why Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ is a local and tourist favorite. The South Austin food truck originally started in the parking lot of a gas station on Brodie Lane and folks quickly caught on to the chef and pitmaster Miguel Vidal’s talent.

Like Franklin BBQ, you have to order yours early. They sell out fast. Pairing Texas-style BBQ with scratch-made flour tortillas and charro beans is the food fusion we all need in our lives. 

Book Your Trip to Austin

These ten things to do in Austin aren’t the only reasons you should visit the city. With its sunny weather and good vibes, Austin remains one of the best places to travel any time of year.