Take a quick stroll through the streets of Austin, Texas, and you’re guaranteed to find the city’s slogan “Keep Austin Weird” plastered across storefront windows and bumper stickers. While the saying was first coined by the Austin Independent Business Alliance to promote small businesses, it has since become a full-blown lifestyle for locals and visitors alike. Of course, Austin is weird in the best possible way, with an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, kitschy stores, elegant hotels and a renowned live music scene. The city is also home to some of the biggest events nationwide, drawing thousands of guests across state and national borders for festivals including South by Southwest, Austin City Limits and the Texas Book Festival. For your reading pleasure, we have compiled these spots into a guide to having fun—and, of course, keeping it weird—in the heart of the South. Enjoy!

 

What to See

Did you even go to Austin if you didn’t post about it? For a grid-worthy Instagram moment, stop by this colourful wall mural at 1720 South 1st Street inspired by a postcard from the 1940s. Snap a pic and then quiz yourself on whether you can ID famous Austin landmarks in the painting: Keep an eye out for the Texas State Capitol and the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Austin gets hot in more ways than one, and chances are at some point on your journey you’ll take any opportunity to cool down. The locals love to swim, and when they do, they go to Barton Springs. The 270-metre-long outdoor swimming pool located in Zilker Park (where Austin City Limits is held each year) is filled with water from several underground springs. It’s an ideal place to unwind after dancing all day under the blazing Texas sun.

South of Lady Bird Lake is South Congress Avenue, a buzzy neighbourhood better known as “SoCo” to locals. A walk through this area is mandatory for some of the best shopping, live music and sightseeing that Austin has to offer. Snap a photo in front of the iconic “I Love You So Much” mural, catch performances at Guero’s Oak Garden or succumb to the Western trend and buy a pair of real-deal Lucchese cowboy boots at Allens Boots. (You know you want to.)

 

Where to Eat

An umbrella-shaded, fairy light-adorned patio makes Perla’s a must-see spot—day or night. Located on South Congress, the seafood restaurant is known for its raw bar and decadent lobster rolls. We recommend stopping in during happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. to beat the evening crowd and cash in on deals (like oysters on a half shell for $4).

You’ll find classic Tex-Mex fare and delicious cocktails at this low-key, no-frills eatery that’s been an Austin staple for 70-plus years. If you’re overwhelmed by the plethora of menu options at Matt’s El Rancho, order one of the combination plates, a Matt’s Knockout Martini (tequila, Cointreau and fresh lime juice in an ice-filled shaker) and the signature Bob Armstrong queso dip for the table.

If you’re looking for some of the best BBQ in Texas, locals will say this is it. Owned by twin brothers and fourth-generation pitmasters, Terry Black’s serves up some mean brisket, giant beef ribs, mac and cheese and, for the grand finale, banana pudding. Warning: Like most BBQ, this stuff is more filling than it looks.

 

Where to Drink

When a Soho House opens in a city, you know it’s having a moment. Although Austin has been gaining popularity for years, the latest addition to the cult chain of private members clubs, situated in the Music Lane shopping mall just off South Congress Avenue, has all the essentials: an elaborate wood-carved bar, a rooftop pool and live music from local and visiting artists courtesy of its new concept, Dante’s Hi-Fi.

Located on the nightlife mecca that is Rainey Street, Clive Bar is casual yet scene-y, serving up local beer and cocktails on a sweeping outdoor patio and upper deck against the backdrop of live music.

If you’re looking for decadent craft cocktails in an opulent setting, stop by Goldie’s in the Austin Proper Hotel. Maybe it’s the sunken marble bar and velvet chairs talking, but something about it screams fancy.

 

Where to Stay

Situated in downtown Austin, the sophisticated Austin Proper Hotel offers a host of amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay. Boasting views of the Colorado River and within walking distance of the famous 6th Street, the hotel’s prime location is perfect for exploring the city on foot. The property features multiple restaurants and bars; we recommend the Crispy Shallot Hummus at the Mediterranean-inspired Peacock. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the hotel’s fitness centre, rooftop pool and indulgent full-service Verbena Spa. (The spa staff’s commitment to their clientele shows as they offer treatments using natural beauty brand Monastery, which prides itself on using organic and wild-crafted ingredients chosen for their ability to deliver the best results. Not to mention, the products’ scents are heavenly.) After a night out on the town, unwind with the spa’s signature Gua Sha Facial or Proper Massage, which will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and ready for your next adventure.

Located at the crossroads of Lady Bird Lake and downtown, this fun and trendy hotel attracts young crowds for its poolside DJ and bustling brunch at P6. Suites feature lakeside views and a stacked mini-bar. For more to snack on, stop by Veracruz All Natural for authentic tacos and queso.

A soothing retreat from the bustle of downtown, the gorgeous Miraval Austin property is nestled in the surrounding Texas hills, outfitted with sweeping rock formations and lush walking paths. The digital-, device-free resort (don’t fret—designated areas allow the use of your cellphone) promotes rest and rejuvenation via fitness and yoga sessions; pools, trails and climbing gym courses; guided meditation classes; and a full menu of massage, facial and body-care offerings at the Life in Balance spa. Nutritious meals, including smoothies and snacks, are included in the cost of your stay, and a nightly resort credit can be applied to spa services and fee-based activities. To make the most of the inclusive packages, get up early to attend one of the morning sessions in the Yoga Barn or Solidago buildings and then peruse the Sophia or Serenity labyrinths before snagging a spot by the pool. Don’t forget to reserve a dinner slot at the Hilltop Crossings Kitchen—you won’t want to miss anything on the ever-changing menu.