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Austin, Texas is known for live music, incredible food, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable culture. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, business trip, or vacation with friends, Austin in 2026 offers something for everyone. From iconic festivals to hidden local spots, this guide covers the best things to do in Austin in 2026—and where to stay to make the most of your trip. 🎵 Enjoy Austin’s Live Music Scene Austin isn’t called the Live Music Capital of the World for nothing. Music is everywhere—bars, parks, patios, and world-famous venues. 🎸 Live Music & Entertainment Spots Live Music Districts: Red River Cultural District – a nightlife and music hub with venues like Stubb’s BBQ (music venue) and Beerland. 🥁 Music Venues: ACL Live at The Moody Theater – major live music shows downtown. Continental Club – iconic Austin live music spot on South Congress. Top Food & Drink Spots🥃🍔 🍗 BBQ Franklin Barbecue – legendary Texas BBQ (long lines but worth it). Good BBQ Company – Food trailer where you're . Terry Black’s BBQ – recommended if you want BBQ with shorter wait times. 🍕South Congress (SoCo) Dining Jo’s Coffee & “I Love You So Much” Mural – must-see photo spot + coffee. Home Slice Pizza – classic New York–style pizza. Hopdoddy Burger Bar – gourmet burgers and shakes. Maie Day – steak dinner at South Congress Hotel. Aba – Mediterranean dining. Habana SoCo – Cuban cuisine and outdoor seating. 🌮 Tacos Taqueria De Diez (D/10) – Hidden spot with authentic mouth watering tacos. Tacos la Catrina – Taco truck that specializes serving birria tacos with fast service. Regios Tacos a Vapor – Hot Mexican taco truck with a selection of different menu options. 😋 A little bit of everything All Day Pizza - NYC-style slices, crispy crust, gooey cheese (Serves delicious desert) Nido at Lady Bird Lake - where glam meets seasonal cuisine—think French‑American plates dotted with Hill Country ingredients, served on a rooftop with sweeping lake and skyline views. Jack Allen's Kitchen - where Southern comfort meets fresh Texas flavor—with fan-favorite plates like chicken-fried anything, brisket sweet potatoes, and shrimp & grits that locals swear by. Bussin's Buns - craving hot chicken? A Halal, Nashville-style twist to Austin via fresh food trucks. (call ahead to place order) Domo Alley- Gato Tatsu- Ya - Dog-friendly stop with late hours & outdoor seating focusing on creative highballs & Japanese curry. (No reservations, very instagramable) 🍧 Sweet Treats Mañana Coffee - craft brews, flaky pastries, and a cozy corner inside the South Congress Hotel. CaPhe.in Coffee - on Guadalupe is a student go-to for bold Vietnamese coffee & colorful boba creations. Perfect study fuel, post-class treat. The Baked Bear - takes ice cream sandwiches to a whole new level—think warm cookies, gooey brownies, craft ice cream, and all the toppings. Zed's Ice Cream - it’s an experience. From wild rotating flavors to over-the-top sundaes and shakes, this spot will cool you down + blow your taste buds away. ( long lines) Los Manguitos Paleteria - Mexican‑style frozen treats and snack bites. Think vibrant paletas, icy mangonadas, raspas, elotes and more. JP'S Pancakes Company - a gourmet dessert company specializes in fluffy wobbly pancakes in the heart of Austin, TX! 🥃🌃 Bars & Nightlife Nickel City – one of Austin’s top bar experiences with creative drinks. Rainey Street Historic District – fun cluster of bars and food trucks. Hotel San José Courtyard Lounge – cocktails & relaxing vibe. Edge Rooftop - Chic rooftop lounge at the JW Marriott Austin pairing bar bites & craft cocktails with city views. 6Th Street - all your popular bars and clubs. Shopping & Boutique Experiences🛍️ 🛍️ Shopping Districts: South Congress Avenue (SoCo) – unique boutiques, vintage shops, and artisan stores like Allens Boots and Kendra Scott. 2nd Street District (Downtown) – local shops and designer brands. The Domain – high-end shopping destination north of downtown. 🛍️ Boutique Stores to Highlight: Allens Boots – classic Western boots and apparel. Big Top Candy Shop – huge selection of sweets. South Congress Books – indie bookstore. Outdoor Activities & Parks🚴‍♀️🌷 🪷🌊 Nature & Water Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk – scenic walking/biking path with skyline views. Barton Springs Pool – refreshing spring-fed pool. Zilker Botanical Garden – tranquil gardens within Zilker Park. 🌳🚵‍♀️ Parks & Trails Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park – popular urban park with lake views. 🌎 Cultural & Unique Experiences ZACH Theatre – professional theater productions year-round. Bullock Texas State History Museum – learn Texas history with exhibits and IMAX films.