Fall break is an ideal opportunity to step away from life at Tulane and experience something new. Many students travel during this time, exploring the southern states beyond Louisiana. Being from the Northeast, I decided to take this chance to discover the Live Music Capital of the World – Austin, Texas! A mere 3 hours from my doorstep in New Orleans, LA, and after a quick 90-minute flight, I found myself strutting through downtown ATX and looking for an exciting and spontaneous weekend escape. Look no further than Austin: check out these fantastic highlights from my trip that you can’t miss!
Activities
South Congress
South Congress is one of Austin’s most iconic shopping districts. Get ready to explore this vibrant street filled with iconic stores, like Allen’s Boots, and colorful pop-up tents offering an array of boots, hats, and cultural clothing. Take a photo at the famous “I love you so much” mural at Jo’s Coffee and treat yourself to their invigorating Iced Turbo – a delightful mix of espresso, hazelnut, chocolate, and cream. And the excitement doesn’t stop there – head over to Big Top Candy for some mouthwatering fudge to keep the sugar rush going!
6th Street
Known as “Dirty 6th,” this famous Austin street offers a vivacious mix of restaurants and bars, often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re under 21. If you’re of age, I’ve heard of the highly recommend Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. With two pianos at the center, two performers engage the crowd with lively sing-alongs and interactive dancing, hooting, and hollering. While you’re on the 6th, don’t miss Voodoo Donuts, offering an array of creative flavors, from Maple Bacon to the whimsical Voodoo Doll donut—perfect for breakfast or a late-night treat.
The Capitol Building and UT Austin
Just a short walk from the UT Austin campus, the magnificent Texas Capitol Building is an absolute must-see. I didn’t take a formal tour, but the building’s breathtaking inside-and- out architecture is worth a quick visit. Afterward, I strolled to the UT Austin campus and explored Guadalupe Street, an energetic area filled with infectious school spirit. Don’t miss the University Co-op for all your UT Austin merchandise needs, and be sure to check out the nearby coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Exploring this lively campus area gave me a fantastic sense of student life at UT Austin.
Dining
Sammie’s Italian
Sammie’s Italian is a tad boujee, but it is worth every penny for my taste buds. The family-style dishes are unique and perfect for groups. My friends and I shared mozzarella sticks, chicken parmesan, ravioli, and brussels sprouts, all incredibly fresh and flavorful. The vibrant atmosphere further enhanced the overall experience.
Paperboy
When it comes to brunch, Paperboy is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth the journey. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on their mouthwatering sticky buns followed by a scrumptious serving of Texas Hash. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is simply delightful. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a seat on the top deck to soak in the perfect October weather in Austin. Just a heads up, it’s best to make a reservation because this spot gets pretty busy.
Lamberts BBQ
When visiting Austin, it’s essential to savor the authentic barbecue experience. Lamberts is an excellent choice for those looking to avoid the lengthy wait at popular spots like Terry Black’s. I chose the three-meat sampler, which included succulent brisket, flavorful ribs, and tasty sausage. I devoured this meal and would go back time and time again to relish a diverse range of flavors without being daunted by large portion sizes.
Overall Verdict
Austin made for the perfect weekend getaway with its blend of daytime activities, fantastic restaurants, and sparkling nightlife. Whether you’re exploring the quirky streets of South Congress, enjoying the excitement of 6th Street, or indulging in Austin’s food scene, I can affirm that this city has something for everyone. I’m already looking forward to my next visit, and I hope you begin to plan yours, too!
