Every year, the South by Southwest (SXSW) mega-event turns Austin into a global hub for innovation. However, the city’s charm extends beyond the festival’s stages, blending trendy, sophisticated, and traditional Texan elements throughout its neighborhoods. Visitors can revel not only in presentations but also in Austin’s vibrant music scene, rich culture, diverse cuisine, and unique fashion, making it a must-see destination.
Daniela Graicar, an entrepreneur and co-CEO of the agency PROS, is a regular SXSW attendee and shares her tried and tested recommendations for what to do and where to eat in Austin.
Texas State Capitol
Visiting the Texas State Capitol is a popular activity in Austin. It offers a unique experience that helps visitors understand the complexities of the local political landscape. The Capitol, larger than the U.S. Capitol, boasts impressive architecture and showcases various artworks. Free guided tours are available from Monday to Friday, with the first tour at 9:30 AM and the last at 3:30 PM. Tours are also provided on weekends, starting at 12:30 PM and concluding at 3:30 PM. Self-guided tours are an option too, with the building open from 7 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 6 PM on weekends.
Location: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78701. More information on tours can be found here.
Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar
My favorite spot to end the night is Pete’s on Sixth Street, a key location in Austin. This interactive piano bar features talented musicians offering lively performances. When Brazilians are around, the atmosphere is exuberant as two pianos, microphones, and a drum set invite audiences to sing along.
Location: 421 E. Sixth St., Austin, Texas 78701 / Tel.: +1 (512) 726-7787. Open Thursday from 7:30 PM, Friday and Saturday from 7 PM to 2 AM; Sunday to Wednesday available for private events from 7:30 PM.
Allen’s Boots
For those seeking authentic Texan cowboy boots, Allen’s Boots is a mandatory stop. This iconic local store has been in business since 1977, showcasing hundreds of genuine leather boots along with western fashion items like hats, belts, bags, and leather jackets.
Location: 1522 South Congress, Austin, Texas 78704. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 8 PM; Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM.
Aviator Nation
Aviator Nation offers a throwback to the 1970s with its retro-style Californian streetwear. The shop is renowned for its ultra-soft, stylish sweatpants. Although items are quite pricey, the atmosphere is laid-back, and musical performances on Thursdays add to its charm. Aviator Nation also has locations in Aspen, New York, and Miami.
Location: 1325 S Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78704. Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM.
ByGeorge
ByGeorge is one of Austin’s most sophisticated boutiques, featuring a carefully curated selection of fashion and luxury accessories from brands like The Row, Khaite, and Bode. Fragrances and design items are also available. Founded in 1979, ByGeorge today operates two stores in Austin and one in New Orleans.
Location: 1400 South Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78704. Open Monday to Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM; Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Check other locations and hours here.
Franklin Barbecue
Renowned as Austin’s—and possibly the USA’s—best barbecue, Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit spot attracting daily crowds. The small and rustic venue is a mecca for meat lovers, offering brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage, with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and beans. Order ahead for a quicker experience, as it opens at 11 AM and closes once sold out, usually by 3 PM. No reservations accepted.
Location: 900 E 11th St, Austin, Texas 78702. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM until sold out (between 2 PM and 3 PM); closed on Mondays.
The Peacock
Located on the ground floor of the stylish Proper Hotel, The Peacock is my go-to for a fancy lunch in Austin. This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, influenced by Israeli and Turkish culinary traditions, offers delectable dishes such as wood-fired grilled vegetables and mezzes with warm pita. A waiting bar in the hotel’s lobby is perfect for enjoying the wait, but reservations are advised. The restaurant’s decor is spectacular.
Location: (Ground floor of the Austin Proper Hotel) 600 W 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 / Tel.: +1 (512) 628-1410. Breakfast Monday to Friday from 7 AM to 11 AM; brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 7 AM to 4 PM; lunch Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM; dinner Sunday to Wednesday from 4 PM to 10 PM, Thursday to Saturday from 4 PM to 10:30 PM. Reservations via website.
Aba Austin
Situated in the South Congress area, Aba is a culinary delight for food enthusiasts willing to venture beyond the hotel zone. The sophisticated restaurant features a leafy patio and a pleasant dining room, serving refined Mediterranean cuisine influenced by Turkey, Greece, Israel, and Lebanon, with a Californian twist. Specialty items include smoky garlic hummus, whipped feta, and shawarma with skirt steak and spices. The creative drink menu and excellent service further enhance the dining experience.
Location: 1011 S Congress Avenue, Building 2, Suite 180, Austin, Texas 78704 / Tel.: +1 (737) 273-0199. Lunch Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM; dinner Monday to Thursday from 4 PM to 10 PM, Friday from 4 PM to 11 PM, Saturday from 3 PM to 11 PM, and Sunday from 3 PM to 9 PM; brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Reservations via website.
About Daniela Graicar
Daniela Graicar serves as the co-CEO of PROS and is a passionate entrepreneur. Starting at the age of 19 with her first Public Relations agency, she went on to establish ten more businesses. Currently, she leads a team of 125 professionals and is actively involved with initiatives like Movimento Aladas and MentorEla, which support female entrepreneurship and leadership. Graicar holds a post-MBA in Board of Administration and specializes in Management, Public Relations, and Innovation.
5 Cultural Tours to Explore Austin, Texas
