Austin

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025

$19.99

Overview

Texas' state capital has kept its small-town heart, earning the love with great music, culinary prowess, whip-smart locals and a sociable streak impossible to resist.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Bat Colony Under Congress Avenue Bridge
Austin
Austin is known as the capital of Texas quirk, so it shouldn't be surprising that it's a city tradition to sit on the grassy banks of Lady Bird Lake and…
Texas State Capitol
Austin
Completed in 1888 using sunset-red granite, Texas’ state capitol is the largest in the US, backing up the familiar claim that everything’s bigger…
University of Texas at Austin
Austin
Whatever you do, don't call it 'Texas University' – them's fightin' words, usually used derisively by Texas A&M students to take their rivals down a notch…
Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Austin
Big, glitzy and bursting with high-tech interactive exhibits, this showcase museum celebrates the story of the Lone Star State, from its earliest…
Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ) Library & Museum
Austin
Devoted to the 36th US president, who launched his political career in Austin, this museum is still attracting the crowds more than 50 years since he left…
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Austin
Anyone with an interest in Texas' flora and fauna should make the 20-minute drive to the wonderful gardens of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center,…
Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail & Boardwalk
Austin
You can gaze at the downtown skyline from a series of photogenic boardwalks on this scenic 10-mile trail, which loops around Lady Bird Lake. Shorten the…
Blanton Museum of Art
Austin
A big university with a big endowment is bound to have a big art collection, and now, finally, it has a suitable building to show it off properly. With…

View more attractions

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Legendary live music, bouncing bars, epic hikes and delicious BBQ – here's our list of the top things to do in Austin right now.

Read article

Best Time to Visit

The self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World, Austin is great year-round, with an inventive food scene and plenty of space to play outdoors.

Read article

Transportation

Though the car may be king in Texas, Austin is doing its best to provide sustainable options to travelers. Here's how to get around Austin.

Read article

Free Things to Do

Austin's popularity has made it more expensive but there are still free delights to be had. Here are 10 of our favorites.

Read article

Best Neighborhoods

Each of Austin's neighborhoods showcases a different aspect of Austin's character – the political, historical, academic, techy and funky.

Read article

Day Trips

Austin may have an incredible wealth of attractions but don't sleep on what's beyond the city limits. These are 10 of our top picks for day trips.

Read article

Traveling with Kids

Though known more for music than being a family-friendly destination, the joyful city of Austin is an exciting and enjoyable place for kids of all ages.

Read article

5 Shops

From unique handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind artworks, explore Austin's diverse and inclusive shops that support local talent.

Read article

LGBTIQ+ Travel

Austin’s progressive and artsy vibe make the city perfect for LGBTIQ+ travelers. Here are the best places to go for an unforgettable visit.

Read article