Austin Weekend: Live Music, BBQ & Outdoor Bliss
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$$ Smart Value

Austin

Austin Weekend: Live Music, BBQ & Outdoor Bliss

Live music magic, smoky BBQ, and Hill Country hikes in one weekend

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Discover Austin's vibrant live music scene, world-class BBQ, and stunning natural spots in this smart-value 3-day itinerary. Skip the crowds for local favorites like Barton Springs and South Congress, blending culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventure. Perfect for foodies and music lovers seeking authentic Texas vibes without breaking the bank.

Where to Stay

South Congress Hotel
Stay

South Congress Hotel

Boutique hotel on trendy South Congress with stylish rooms, rooftop pool, and live music lounge.

$250-350/night
Hotel Van Zandt
Stay

Hotel Van Zandt

Modern Rainey Street hotel with pool, music venue, and local art; complimentary bikes available.

$220-320/night

Good to Know

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Know

Rent E-Bikes Downtown

Use apps like Lime or Revel for easy navigation; helmets optional but smart.

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Know

Check Austin Chronicle

Free weekly paper lists daily live music, events, and food trucks.

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Know

Pack Layers and Sunscreen

Days warm quickly, evenings cool; high UV even in spring/fall.

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Know

Arrive Early for BBQ

Top spots sell out by noon; virtual waits via apps where available.

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Know

Tip 20% at Bars

Generous tipping standard for music venues and service.

Your Weekend Itinerary

Franklin Barbecue
Eatmorning

Franklin Barbecue

Legendary brisket and ribs; arrive early for tickets (opens 11am).

1h 30m
$20-35 per person
Texas State Capitol
Doafternoon

Texas State Capitol

Free guided tours of the grand pink granite dome and grounds; learn Texas history.

1h 30m
Free
Torchy's Tacos
Eatevening

Torchy's Tacos

Local chain with creative tacos like Trailer Park; try queso for sharing.

45m
$15-25 per person
Veracruz All Natural
Eatafternoon

Veracruz All Natural

Fresh migas tacos and juices from food truck origins; multiple locations.

45m
$12-20 per person
Barton Springs Pool
Domorning

Barton Springs Pool

Swim in the 68°F natural spring pool within Zilker Park; towels available to rent.

2h
$5-9
Terry Black's Barbecue
Eatafternoon

Terry Black's Barbecue

Smoky brisket, sausage, and sides; spacious with quick lines compared to rivals.

1h 15m
$20-35 per person
South Congress Avenue
Doevening

South Congress Avenue

Walk for murals, shops like Allens Boots, and street performers; photo ops galore.

2h
Free
La Condesa
Eatevening

La Condesa

Modern Mexican with tacos al pastor and mezcal cocktails.

1h 30m
$25-40 per person
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Domorning

Zilker Metropolitan Park

Explore trails, playscape, and fields; launch for canoe rentals nearby.

2h
Free

13 activities across 3 days

Map

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