True Austin
By Mariella KrauseTee–shirts and bumper stickers vow to “Keep Austin Weird.” And you won’t find much argument from the locals, who cherish Austin’s quirky individuality. Despite a population spurt, a riverfront lined with new condo towers and congested freeways at rush hour, Texas’ state capital and self–professed “Live Music Capital of the World” has held on to its identity as a college town with a hippy soul, where creativity and individual expression rule.
Thread Count
Built in the 1800s by a wealthy cattle baron, the historic Driskill Hotel (800–252–9367) is a downtown landmark with vintage Texas flair, including such touches as rich leather furniture, wood beams and a longhorn steer head over the fireplace. Mansion at Judge’s Hill (512–495–1800) truly is a mansion, and a fine one at that. If impeccable linens, décor and service are your style, you’ll feel right at home. The sleek Hotel San Jose (512–852–2350) is hip, modern and minimalist, but utterly without pretense. Touring musicians treasure the Austin Motel (512–441–1157) for its funky, individually decorated rooms.
Food Fix
Located in a former feed store, Tex–Mex staple Guero’s (512–707–8232) has soaring ceilings, rustic wood floors and an authentic atmosphere that’s pure Austin. Barbecue is a must; try local favorite Stubb’s (512–480–8341), and, for extra points, go on a Sunday for gospel brunch. Nice weather calls for the patio at Shady Grove (512–474–9991), especially if you like a little bit of camp with your meal. And Threadgill’s (512–451–5440) serves ridiculously large portions of home–style comfort food. Save room for dessert at Amy’s Ice Cream (512–480–0673), with toppings crushed into the ice cream by the playful (and muscular) staff.
Night Out
Live music is the foundation of Austin nightlife. Check out local talent at the Continental Club (512–441–0202), or catch the next big thing at Antone’s (512–320–8424), a larger venue that’s launched more than a few careers. The Broken Spoke (512–442–6189) is a classic honkytonk with live music where you can perfect your Texas two–step. Or, enjoy drinks, dinner and a movie all at the same time at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (512–707–8262). Whatever you want is delivered to your table during the movie, which could be anything from a new release to a kung–fu classic to a night of zombie shorts.
Don’t Miss
South Congress Avenue has a little bit of everything we love about Austin, including funky stores, restaurants and bars, with nary a chain in site. During the summer, North America’s largest bat colony puts on a show every night at dusk as they swarm from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in search of dinner. Take an icy–cold plunge in the waters of Barton Springs (512–476–9044), a natural cold–water spring that will wake you up and cool you off. And bone up on your Texas history at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum (512–936–4639), with interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Lone Star State.
Stone’s Throw
Just 45 minutes south, the tiny town of Gruene (“Gently resisting change since 1872”) is a worthwhile daytrip, offering antiques, riverfront dining at the Gristmill (830–625–0684) and Texas’ oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall (830–606–1281). Willing to get wet? Head a few miles downstream to New Braunfels, where you can plant yourself in a rented inner tube for the afternoon and float down the Guadalupe River. Beer aficionados can visit the Spoetzl Brewery (361–594–3383) in Shiner, Texas, to see where Texas’ favorite microbrew, Shiner Bock, is brewed. Or, stick closer to home with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (512–292–4100), just 12 miles south of town, where the former first lady left a colorful legacy of Bluebonnets, Black–Eyed Susans and Indian Paintbrushes.
The Lowdown
The Highball: The snazzy, 1950s atmosphere of this bar/restaurant/bowling alley makes me want to put on a suit, go bowling, then sing heavy metal in one of the themed karaoke rooms.
Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse: This is one of my favorite places to write and people watch. It attracts an eclectic crowd that really captures the essence of South Austin.
Whip–In: The Whip–In is a hidden gem. They transformed a convenience store into an Indian restaurant with a great bar and a stage for live music. And, yes, you can still buy milk.
- A pair of leather cowboy boots from Allens Boots on South Congress.
- A six–CD changer’s worth of music by local Austin artists from the independent music store Waterloo Records.
- A head–to–toe outfit in burnt orange from the University Coop, perfect for cheering on the University of Texas Longhorns.
- Four tickets to Esther’s Follies, a fun comedy variety show that’s been combining music, juggling and magic for over 30 years.
- A cool piece of local art from the local un–gallery, the Austin Art Garage.
Tagged: Austin, hotels, restaurants, Driskill, Gueros, Gruene, Congress Avenue, Antone’s, Broken Spoke, Hotel San Jose, Threadgills
