3 Days of Fun in Austin: Tacos, Trails, and Music!

Discover the Texan charm of Austin without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Austin, United States on a limited budget can be a unique and exciting experience. You can explore the vibrant city's rich culture, indulge in delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. With economical lodging options and free attractions like the Texas State Capitol and the Barton Springs Pool, you can make the most out of your stay in Austin while saving money.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Downtown Austin

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast from Juan in a Million, a local favorite.
  • Walk from the Texas State Capitol building to the University of Texas campus and check out the iconic tower.
  • Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum for an interactive experience on the state's history.
  • Take a stroll or rent a bike along Lady Bird Lake for scenic views of the city skyline.
  • Savor a unique dining experience at Hopdoddy Burger Bar for mouthwatering burgers and craft beer.
  • Stay: The Driskill Hotel, a historic landmark that offers elegant accommodations at a reasonable price.
Day 2

Texas Culture and Outdoor Adventure

  • Experience the authentic Texan cowboy culture at the Broken Spoke, where you can learn how to two-step and enjoy live music.
  • Visit the Blanton Museum of Art for a collection of modern and contemporary art, and the Mexic-Arte Museum for a glimpse into the Latino arts.
  • Hike or paddle the scenic trails of McKinney Falls State Park for an outdoor adventure.
  • Unwind at the legendary Stubb's Bar-B-Q with delicious smoked meats and music shows.
  • Head to Rainey Street for a nightcap at a funky bar like Container Bar or Icenhauer's.
  • Stay: The Carpenter Hotel, a trendy and affordable boutique hotel with a pool and restaurant onsite.
Day 3

Foodie Excursion and Live Music Scene

  • Start the day at Kerbey Lane Cafe for their famous breakfast tacos and pancakes.
  • Tour the famous graffiti and street art murals at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery.
  • Check out the eclectic vendors at the iconic South Congress Avenue shopping district.
  • Enjoy a late lunch of Texas-style fried chicken at Lucy's Fried Chicken.
  • End the trip with a night of live music at the legendary Continental Club, Antone's, or Mohawk.
  • Stay: The LINE Austin, a stylish and vibrant hotel with a rooftop pool, locally inspired cuisine and live music events.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Austin by plane is to fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which is located just 5 miles outside of the city. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United all fly into this airport from various cities across the United States.

Car

Driving to Austin is a popular option, especially if you are coming from within Texas or a neighboring state. Major highways such as I-35 and US-183 connect to Austin, and there are several car rental agencies at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Austin. The closest Amtrak station is in San Marcos, about 30 miles south of Austin. From there, you would need to take a bus or taxi to reach Austin.

Boat

Since Austin is located in the center of Texas, there are no direct boat routes to the city. However, there are several nearby lakes and rivers that you can explore by boat, including Lake Travis and the Colorado River.

Bus

Taking a bus is a great option for getting to Austin from other major Texas cities such as Houston or Dallas. Greyhound and Megabus both operate in Austin, with a station located in the heart of downtown.

More travel plans

Discover Hipster Austin in a Long Weekend

A romantic trip to Austin, United States offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and contemporary urban vibes. You can stroll hand in hand through the beautiful Zilker Park or soak in the stunning sunset at Mount Bonnell. Add some spice to your trip by exploring the local music scene and savoring some delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.

5 Days of Fun: Explore Austin on a Budget!

A trip to Austin, United States on a limited budget can still be filled with fun experiences. Take a stroll through the vibrant streets, admiring the colorful street art and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this lively city. Enjoy some local Tex-Mex cuisine, explore the numerous parks and hiking trails, and catch a show at one of the many music venues.

Romantic Weekend Getaway: Austin, United States

Experience the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Austin with your significant other. Stroll hand-in-hand through the picturesque Lady Bird Lake and enjoy a picnic with a stunning view of the Austin skyline. Indulge in the city's famous live music scene while sipping on craft beers and enjoying delicious Texas cuisine.

Austin Awesomeness: The Ultimate Family Day Trip

Explore the lively city of Austin, known for its vibrant music scene and family-friendly activities. Take a journey through the beautiful Zilker Park, where you can rent kayaks or paddle boards, enjoy a relaxing picnic, or take a dip in Barton Springs Pool. Discover the wonders of the Austin Children's Museum, where your little ones can engage in hands-on learning experiences and interactive exhibits.