Explore Austin's Fun-Filled Day Trip Itinerary

Fall in love with the heart of Texas in Austin.

22 April 2023

Discover the vibrant culture of Austin, known for its live music and delicious food scene. Take a stroll hand in hand along the Lady Bird Lake Trail, or soak up the sunshine at Zilker Metropolitan Park. End your day by indulging in some barbecue and craft beer while enjoying the romantic atmosphere of this charming city.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Austin Adventure

  • Start with breakfast at the iconic South Congress Cafe for Texas-sized pancakes and mimosas
  • Head to Zilker Park for a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens and a dip in the natural spring fed Barton Springs pool
  • Grab lunch at the funky food trailers at South 1st Street, with options ranging from vegan tacos to BBQ brisket sandwiches
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol building for stunning architecture and history
  • Catch a sunset view of downtown Austin from the top of Mount Bonnell
  • For dinner, indulge in steaks and cocktails at the upscale Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in downtown Austin

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.

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