What is the best way to get to Austin?
- Alex Skjong
- Forbes Travel Guide Editor
- Atlanta, GA
A great way to travel to Austin is to reserve your own private jet from NetJets, a service that lets you buy a fractional ownership of an aircraft, giving you access to a worldwide fleet of planes ready at your beck and call. No sense waiting in line at the airport, baggage in tow, wondering if you’ll make it through security on time, only to find out your flight’s been delayed. Instead, fly to the Live Music Capital of the World in speedy style. NetJets offers three sizes of aircraft, light, mid-size and large cabin, which can accommodate seven to 14 passengers. Feast on gourmet platters of artisan cheese and seafood and sip some bubbly while you wait to touch down in Hill Country. By using NetJets you can cut your travel time in half — which leaves more time to see a music festival, catch a football game at UT-Austin or explore the renowned Austin food truck scene.
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On April 17Hayley Bosch answered the question:
What are the best Austin food experiences?
There's a lot more to Austin's food scene than barbecue. Admittedly, the Texas barbecue is killer, but the city offers everything from organic meals to food truck fare. Here’s our list of the five best Austin food experiences:
1. Venture to the trailer park. This is a trailer park full of fantastic food. As one of the originators of the food truck phenomena, Austin has quite a few parks that overflow with these food trailers. A couple of our favorite parks are South Austin Trailer Park and Eatery, which is home to the famous Torchy’s Tacos, and the park on South Congress Avenue, where you’ll find the Mighty Cone and Hey Cupcake! Odd Duck Farm to Trailer on South Lamar Boulevard is also worth a visit with its goat cheese grits and pork belly sliders. No matter which park you go to, it’s worth the trip.
2. Lick-your-fingers-good barbecue. It is Texas, after all. Make your way to one of the three Salt Lick Bar-B-Ques in the Austin area, known for their mouthwatering sauce. Not only will you be engulfed by a great atmosphere, you’ll also chow down on some of the best barbecue in the capital city. Whether you get the brisket or the spare ribs, you’ll lick the legendary sauce off your fingers just to get one more taste.
3. Grab a scoop. Head to one of the various Amy’s Ice Creams locations around town. Though you can find this stellar creamery in other Texas cities, it is an Austin institution. After you choose among flavors like Mexican vanilla (they change every day), pick your toppings. Then the magic begins: Slapped on stone, your ice cream gets mixed with delicious toppings to make a new flavor unique to your order.
4. Stroll through the flagship Whole Foods. We know this is a national chain, but Austin is where Whole Foods started. The organic grocery store first opened here in 1980. Now, you can stroll through the 80,000-square-foot organic-centric market and create your own eclectically healthy meal to make up for all that ice cream you devoured at Amy's.
5. Music and food in one. Austin City Limits is just one weekend a year (in September or October), but it is definitely one of the best times to be in Austin, especially when it comes to food and music. As you groove to the tunes of the headliners and indie bands alike, make your way to the food row. You’ll find the best of Austin's eats. Past food tents have included Sandra Bullock’s Bess Bistro on Pecan, the Mighty Cone and Sweet Leaf Tea, which started in Austin in 1998. -
On April 17Hayley Bosch answered the question:
Where are the best places to hear live music in Austin?
It isn't hard to find a great place to hear live music in Austin. As the self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin offers everything from festivals overflowing with well-known bands to dueling piano bars — all within a few miles of each other.
Thanks to Austin’s plethora of outdoor space, numerous music festivals call this laid-back city home. In the fall, don’t miss the amazing performances at the three-day Austin City Limits music festival. With headliners such as Stevie Wonder, Kanye West and Coldplay, it’s no wonder the tickets sell out so quickly. Not only can you dance in the great outdoors to live music from the biggest names in the industry, but you also get to discover new bands that are getting their start at ACL. If you can’t make it to this one, catch the big music and film festival in the spring: South by Southwest. Jam to the tunes of bands you likely haven’t heard of — that is, unless you are into the indie music scene. SXSW also showcases film and interactive festivals.
If you can't plan your trip around the two big music festivals, you still can get your fill of live music. In Austin, you can find live music pretty much every night, no matter where your ears take you. Venture to West Fifth Street for the likes of Antones, which was once a blues club on Sixth Street, but now features everyone from Eric Clapton to Bono and the Edge of U2. Or mosey on down Sixth Street until you hear something that your heart desires. Try Dizzy Rooster on East Sixth Street or Momo’s on West Sixth. -
On April 17Hayley Bosch answered the question:
What is the best Austin nightlife?
As the home of the largest university in one of the largest states, it’s no wonder that Austin has a vibrant nightlife. That being said, it’s not just the 50,000 University of Texas students that crawl through the bars. Sure, the main nightlife is concentrated in one area; but there is quite a mix of crowds, if we do say so ourselves. Austin is (according to Austin) the "Live Music Capital of the World," so you can imagine that a lot of the nightlife includes some sort of music. Whether you are interested in a traditional sports bar or a trendy new nightclub, Sixth Street in Downtown Austin has a spot for you.
The college and post-grad kids flock to East Sixth Street, where the street closes to traffic on Friday and Saturday nights for an all out street party (think Bourbon Street in New Orleans). You’ll find everything from the Dizzy Rooster packed with college kids dancing on the bar to Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar where you can sing along as the two pianists go head to head. Of course, we all like to go back to the glory days every once in a while and for us, we head to the Library. At this Sixth Street bar, you’ll find a high-ceilinged room that looks like — yep you guessed it — a library; though extremely strong, the Library serves up the best Long Island Iced Teas in town. East Sixth can get pretty dirty, pretty quickly, so if you aren’t looking to relive your college days, head to West Sixth Street.
On the west side of this bar-filled street, you’ll find rooftop terraces overflowing with the classier yuppies alongside good old Texas beer joints. Considering its older crowd, this is the part of town you’ll want to be in if you are looking for fun without recreating Mardi Gras every Friday and Saturday night. We love the rooftop terrace at Molotov; it’s the perfect place to enjoy one of the perfect Austin evenings (as long as it’s not too hot). As for the dancers in the group, head over to the Ranch for a fabulous dance floor with the music pumping; here, there is another rooftop waiting for you, perfect for cooling off post-dancing. -
On April 17Hayley Bosch answered the question:
What’s the best time to visit Austin?
With other cities, this can be a tough question to answer; but when it comes to Austin, there really is a best time to visit. The summer is brutally hot with heat records constantly being broken, so you will want to avoid visiting then. The winter is rather boring, considering there isn’t a real season change with the exception of gloomy days and some rain. Spring is one of the prettier seasons with the blooming of Texas bluebonnets. But we have to say that fall is our favorite time of year to visit this college town.
Nevermind the great weather, Austin holds some of its best events during the autumn, namely football. University of Texas has been a college football powerhouse for years. Despite the 100,000-plus seats in the gigantic stadium, UT football tickets are hard to come by. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t watch the game and relish in the same school spirit that you’d find in the stadium. Texans are divided between two schools when it comes to sports: University of Texas and Texas A&M University. So chances are, you’ll stumble upon a few (or a few hundred) groups of Longhorn fans.
Another great part of fall in this laid-back city is that it gets to show why it's the Live Music Capital of the World. While that title is self-proclaimed, many music lovers agree. The city hosts music festivals year round, but the best one is in the fall. Austin City Limits pulls in more than $70 million during the weekend (which falls in September or October). With past headliners such as Coldplay, Kanye West and Stevie Wonder, music fans flock from all over to make it to ACL.
Bottom line: Plan your trip during the autumn months if you want a true Austin experience. -
On April 17Hayley Bosch answered the question:
What are the best free things to do in Austin?
Courtesy of its mild climate, there are amazing activities to do year round in Austin — even free ones. As the capital of Texas, this laid-back city has made a name for itself in both the music and culinary worlds. But Austinites are proud of everything that their city has to offer, from its many lakes to the legendary bat colony. The best part about this vibrant college town is that a lot of the main attractions are free. Here’s are list of the best things to do in Austin without spending a dime:
1. Take a hike. It sounds bizarre to go on a hike in Texas, but Austin is in the middle of the good old Texas Hill Country. You will find plenty of hiking trails; we suggest the 7.9-mile Barton Creek Greenbelt, which will take you throughout more than 800 acres of lush forest — assuming that the area has gotten rain in the past month or so.
2. Run the lake. Affectionately known by Austinites as "Town Lake," Lady Bird Lake sits at the south end of downtown. With a dirt trail looping the lake, you can join the locals for a leisurely walk or jog in the great outdoors. Of course, we don’t recommend that you do this in the scorching heat during the summer (if you do, there are some water pit stops along the way). But any other time of year, you will feel oh so healthy jogging here, and you just might spot fellow Austinite (and major Longhorns fan) Matthew McConaughey.
3. Watch the bats soar. With the largest urban bat colony in North America, Congress Avenue Bridge is quite a sight between March and November. As the sun sets, more than a million bats take flight to find their dinner. Though it is quite noisy and certainly not for those terrified of birds or bats, the nightly exit is a vision. While we prefer to watch the tiny mammals scatter from the safety of our window, enjoy the flutter as close as you want.
4. Step into the State Capitol. As one of the most famous buildings in Austin, and Texas, for that matter, the state capitol is definitely worth a visit. Donning a chocolate-milk brown exterior, the Renaissance Revival building is picturesque come sunset. But you don’t just have to admire from afar; tour the legislative building for free. Our favorite view of the capitol is from the south end of downtown right as the sun is setting — it’s breathtaking.
5. Hook ’em Horns. Not only is Austin home to a top-notch university, but it is home to the University of Texas. With a long history of football, Greek life and highly ranked academics, UT is worth a trip through campus. As you pass by the famous clock tower and spot the humongous football stadium in the distance, you’ll know why it’s many little Texans’ dream to be a UT Longhorn. -
On February 15Caroline Patek answered the question:
What are the best things to do during South by Southwest Film?
The film festival, now in its 20th year at SXSW, is filled with premieres and screenings, draws all types of people in the entertainment business, from Hollywood actors and directors to film critics. Premieres at the historic Paramount Theatre and big celebrity panels are always popular, and this year actor Matthew McConaughey and director Danny Boyle are on the schedule for discussions. One new element to the film portion is the Come & Capture Film Factory, which allows attendees to try out new filmmaking products. The opening night film for the festival is the world premiere of The Incredible Burt Wonderstone starring Steve Carell and Steve Buscemi, and the flick Spring Breakers will make its U.S. premiere.
Don’t miss: Digital Domain. For the second year, you’ll find hour-long panels on topics such as interactive documentaries, web series and digital storytelling. March 9-12.
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On February 15Caroline Patek answered the question:
What are the best things to do during South by Southwest Music?
The music portion began in 1987 with just 700 registrants and has grown into what is often referred to as “the world’s largest music festival of its kind” with more than 2,000 acts performing at 100 different venues — including bars, clubs, churches and parks — around Austin from March 12 to 17.
You’ll find everyone from agents to label execs to bloggers trolling the grounds, listening to the sounds of bands representing more than 49 different countries. Musician Steve Grohl — of Nirvana and Foo Fighters — will serve as the keynote speaker for the festival, now in its 27th year. If it’s any indication of keynotes from past years, you can expect Grohl to show up and perform in a showcase at some point during the event. Bands who have taken the stage in previous years include Alabama Shakes, The Shins, Counting Crows and The Strokes. And parties are also a huge part of the music festival. The FADER Fort party’s lineup has been stellar year after year, so keep your eye out for when tickets go on sale because it will sell out fast.
Don’t miss: Auditorium Shores concerts. Each year, big musical acts grace the stage on Lady Bird Lake for three nights of free concerts. Although the lineups haven’t been released, She & Him, Bright Eyes and The Cult have all appeared at past SXSW festivals. March 14-16.
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On February 15Caroline Patek answered the question:
What should I know about South by Southwest?
As huge as SXSW is — 10 days of music, interactive sessions and films — it can be overwhelming, especially for first timers. But your trip can go smoothly if you plan ahead. Whether you’re just attending one session or all 10 days, our Forbes Travel Guide editors have a few simple tips for you:
1. Make a schedule. The best way to tackle the 10-day festival is to make an itinerary of the concerts, panels, parties and screenings you want to attend. Whether you actually adhere to it is another story, but at least you’ll have an idea of what you want to do. And go social. You can find updated info on SXSW on Facebook, Twitter, SXsocial (a tool created to allow participants to message other attendees) and tons of other social media sites, so use them. And you can also get details about Austin, too.
2. Register online. Registration badges are required for access to all of the conferences, festivals and trade shows. You can select single events (music, film or interactive) or a combination of events (platinum badges include access to music, film and interactive). If you can’t snag a badge, don’t worry — there are plenty of “unofficial” events around Austin that don’t require them. But be proactive and register for as many events as possible so you can easily hop from one to the other.
3. There’s plenty of food. No massive festival would be complete without a bevy of eats, and you certainly won’t be disappointed with the spread at SXSW. Between food trucks, sit-down areas and Austin’s impressive dining scene, there’s plenty to go around. Be on the lookout for the popular BBQ and Tex-Mex dishes — after all, you are in Texas. And this year, Top Chef and James Beard Award winner Paul Qui of Uchi fame has partnered with the festival to ensure there’s a fleet of gourmet food trucks for attendees.
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On November 12, 2011Forbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
Where are the best places to hear live music in Austin?
It isn't hard to find a great place to hear live music in Austin. As the self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin offers everything from festivals overflowing with well-known bands to dueling piano bars — all within a few miles of each other.
Thanks to Austin’s plethora of outdoor space, numerous music festivals call this laid-back city home. In the fall, don’t miss the amazing performances at the three-day Austin City Limits music festival. With headliners such as Stevie Wonder, Kanye West and Coldplay, it’s no wonder the tickets sell out so quickly. Not only can you dance in the great outdoors to live music from the biggest names in the industry, but you also get to discover new bands that are getting their start at ACL. If you can’t make it to this one, catch the big music and film festival in the spring: South by Southwest. Jam to the tunes of bands you likely haven’t heard of — that is, unless you are into the indie music scene. SXSW also showcases film and interactive festivals.
If you can't plan your trip around the two big music festivals, you still can get your fill of live music. In Austin, you can find live music pretty much every night, no matter where your ears take you. Venture to West Fifth Street for the likes of Antones, which was once a blues club on Sixth Street, but now features everyone from Eric Clapton to Bono and the Edge of U2. Or mosey on down Sixth Street until you hear something that your heart desires. Try Dizzy Rooster on East Sixth Street or Momo’s on West Sixth. -
On November 12, 2011Forbes Travel Guide Inspector answered the question:
What’s the best time to visit Austin?
With other cities, this can be a tough question to answer; but when it comes to Austin, there really is a best time to visit. The summer is brutally hot with heat records constantly being broken, so you will want to avoid visiting then. The winter is rather boring, considering there isn’t a real season change with the exception of gloomy days and some rain. Spring is one of the prettier seasons with the blooming of Texas bluebonnets. But we have to say that fall is our favorite time of year to visit this college town.
Nevermind the great weather, Austin holds some of its best events during the autumn, namely football. University of Texas has been a college football powerhouse for years. Despite the 100,000-plus seats in the gigantic stadium, UT football tickets are hard to come by. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t watch the game and relish in the same school spirit that you’d find in the stadium. Texans are divided between two schools when it comes to sports: University of Texas and Texas A&M University. So chances are, you’ll stumble upon a few (or a few hundred) groups of Longhorn fans.
Another great part of fall in this laid-back city is that it gets to show why it's the Live Music Capital of the World. While that title is self-proclaimed, many music lovers agree. The city hosts music festivals year round, but the best one is in the fall. Austin City Limits pulls in more than $70 million during the weekend (which falls in September or October). With headliners such as Coldplay, Kanye West and Stevie Wonder, music fans flock from all over to make it to ACL.
Bottom line: Plan your trip during the autumn months if you want a true Austin experience.
