24 hours in Austin, TX

This schedule is inspired by the quick trip my roommate and I took to Austin over Spring Break! Feel free to plan your day around this schedule, or just use parts of it as inspiration for your next visit to Texas’s capitol. 

9:30 am — Begin your morning. You’re on vacation, so you shouldn’t be getting up too early, but you also want to have to have enough time to see some of Austin’s greatest spots. 

10:00 am — Make a quick run to the hotel cafe, or to a local Starbucks and buy a coffee to enjoy while you get ready for your day.

11:00 am — Brunch at Tiny Boxwoods. This is one of the most lovely restaurants I have ever had the pleasure of dining at. I recommend the açaí bowl, aptly called the California bowl, the yogurt parfait,  and the cinnamon roll. Be sure to make a reservation a few days before, or if you don’t mind waiting a bit, you can wander around the nearby boutiques until your table is ready. Before you go, be sure to check out Tiny’s Milk and Cookies, the small cafe owned by the restaurant where they sell their famous cookies!

Tiny Boxwood’s unforgettable cinnamon roll and cookies!

1:00 pm —  After brunch head to Zilker Park to take some cute photos or to enjoy a picnic. Be ready to meet a lot of dogs and be sure to bring a blanket and chairs.

2:00 pm — Head to South Congress Street (SOCO) for some shopping. Parking can be a doozy, but the residential neighborhoods just off the main avenue are a great place to snag a spot. This is one of the most famous districts in Austin with live musicians, bustling restaurants, and a host of shops ranging from a local costume store to Aviator Nation. If you want to pick up some cowboy boots?, you’re in the right place— stop by Allen’s Boots if you’re ready to find your perfect pair. 

3:30 pm — Stop in at one of the many restaurants in SOCO for a late lunch. Guero’s Taco Bar, Perla’s, Vespaio, and Home Slice Pizza are local favorites. 

5:00 pm — Drive to Lady Bird Lake and watch the kayakers float by as you stroll along the river walk. 

6:00 pm — Return to the hotel to relax and get ready for dinner 

7:00 pm— Arrive at dinner. North Italia is a trendy Italian restaurant with amazing fresh food and an upscale atmosphere. Each time I’ve eaten here I have been amazed by the quality and flavor of the food. I recommend the White Truffle Garlic Bread or the Caesar for an appetizer. For the main course I suggest the Bolognese (the house speciality), or the Daily Pizza, which the chef changes each night. If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate or casual The Backspace, or DeSano offer incredible Neapolitan pizzas as well. 

9:00 pm— For dessert (if you’re not too full from North Italia), find the nearest Amy’s ice cream, it will not disappoint!

9:30pm — Your call! Head back to the room for a relaxing movie night, or if you’re feeling ready to go out, explore the bars downtown on 6th street (if you’re over 21 of course!). 

Enjoy your time in Austin!