The University of Texas at Austin‘s sprawling campus houses several impressive museums, including the LBJ Presidential Library (temporarily closed), Harry Ransom Center (temporarily closed) and the Blanton Museum of Art (advance tickets required). See live music at Hole in the Wall (temporarily closed), where famous folks like Spoon and Gary Clark Jr. have played the small stage, or Spider House Cafe and Ballroom.

Nestled in the shady hamlet of Hyde Park is the Elisabet Ney Museum, housed in what was once the German-born sculptress’ studio. The museum displays the largest collection of Ney’s work in the world, including portrait sculptures of notable 19th century Texans. Stop in for a homey meal at Hyde Park Bar & Grill (open for dine-in and takeout), situated in a beautiful 1920s home. Or grab a deli sandwich from Avenue B Grocery & Market, the oldest grocery store in Austin.

​

This happening road is lined with must-eat stops. Sample a handcrafted beer and juicy burger at Hopdoddy. Pick up a healthy wrap stuffed with farm-fresh veggies at Baby Greens. Or stop in for an Iced Mojo (the house specialty) and a curried chicken salad sandwich at Epoch Coffee.

Both Burnet and North Loop and are home to fantastic dining and relaxed nightlife options along with several vintage shops selling retro clothing, home decor and mid-century modern furniture. Room Service Vintage and Blue Velvet are good bets for fantastic, affordable finds. Try the incredibly inventive dishes at Barley Swine (open for dine-in and takeout), the brainchild of James Beard Award finalist Bryce Gilmore. Or go for Asian-Southern comfort food at The Peached Tortilla (open for patio, dine-in and takeout). Cap off your night with a craft cocktail at the cozy Tigress Pub.