South Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide for South, Austin will give you all the insider details about the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, local customs, and much more.


Introduction to South

Located in Central Hill Country, South Austin’s vibrant scene and plethora of attractions make it a must-visit destination for travelers. From museums to recreational parks, stunning outdoor adventures, top-rated restaurants, great shopping options, and a vibrant nightlife, South Austin’s got it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll share with you the best things to do in South and everything you need to know to have a fantastic trip.

List of Places to Visit in South

Whether you’re visiting South for the first time or returning to discover more, this travel guide will help you curate a list of attractions and experiences that will make your time in the city remarkable.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a mesmerizing museum that tells the rich history of Texas through three floors of interactive exhibits and artifacts.

  2. The Texas State Capitol, one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, offers a chance to explore the ornate rotunda and chambers of the State Congress and the Governor’s office.

  3. The LBJ Presidential Library is a must-visit attraction to learn about the life and presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson. The museum has an extensive collection of archives, exhibits, and multimedia displays.

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Zilker Metropolitan Park is a 351-acre park in the heart of downtown Austin which includes Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Botanical Garden, Umlauf Sculpture Garden, and Nature Center.

  2. The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail offers an exciting recreational opportunity for hikers, bikers, joggers, and walkers, featuring 11 miles of trails around the lake.

  3. Mount Bonnell, the highest point in Austin, offering unparalleled views of the entire city and the surrounding hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

For a great way to explore the outdoors, South Austin offers an abundance of hiking and biking trails.

  1. The Barton Creek Greenbelt, comprising 12.68 miles of hiking, biking, and rock climbing trails.

  2. The Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park combines hiking and biking trails with picnic areas and fishing spots for a scenic and relaxing day out.

  3. The Hill of Life Trail is a slightly-challenging hike with breathtaking views at the top.

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

  1. Experience the iconic South Congress Avenue where you’ll find quirky shops, delicious eateries, and live music venues

  2. Visit the Austin Zoo, a quaint sanctuary home to over 300 animals from around the world.

  3. Experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing at the Circuit of The Americas.

Week-Long Itinerary for South

Day 1: Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum, followed by lunch at the Salt Lick BBQ, and spend the afternoon exploring Zilker Metropolitan Park.

Day 2: Visit the LBJ Presidential Library, then hike the Mount Bonnell Trail, and end your day with a romantic dinner at Uchi Austin, one of the best Japanese restaurants in the city.

Day 3: Hike and bike the Roy G. Guerrero Park, followed by lunch at The Oasis on Lake Travis, then spend the afternoon at Lake Travis Beach.

Day 4: Visit the Austin Zoo, followed by an immersive escape to the Austin Panic Room.

Day 5: Go shopping and experience the soul of South Congress Avenue, then head to downtown to walk around 6th Street and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 6: Visit the Circuit of the Americas, then embark on a food tour of Austin’s finest tacos, burgers, and craft beers.

Day 7: Enjoy a stress-free day at the Barton Creek Greenbelt, then cap off your dream trip by watching the sunset at the Lady Bird Lake.

Food and Drink Scene of South

Austin’s culinary scene is buzzing with mouthwatering cuisine, craft beer, and various culinary events all year-round.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chicken-fried steak from Threadgill’s.

  2. Breakfast tacos from Torchy’s Tacos.

  3. Franklin Barbecue: finger-licking-smoked brisket.

Local Beverages

  1. A good, cold local beer from Austin Beerworks or Live Oak Brewing Company.

  2. A glass of sweet iced tea from the historic Threadgill’s restaurant.

  3. A margarita on the rocks at Matt’s Famous El Rancho.

Where to Stay in South: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Austin is home to various accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

  1. Hotel San Jose: a small and stylish boutique hotel with a great location and laidback atmosphere.

  2. Austin Motel: an affordable and trendy motel situated near the heart of South Congress.

  3. Lone Star Court: A ranch-style boutique hotel with a vintage vibe and modern amenities.

What to Buy in South: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Unique antiques and quirky stuff from Uncommon Objects on South Congress Avenue.

  2. Cowboy boots and hats from Allen’s Boots, an iconic store since 1977.

  3. Handmade crafts and gifts from Armadillo Christmas Bazaar.

Local Culture and Customs of South

  1. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation or give you a friendly smile and wave.

  2. Tipping is a standard practice everywhere from restaurants to salons, and usually ranges from 15-20%.

  3. Dress comfortably as casual, understated clothing is the norm in Austin.

Best Time to Visit South

The best seasons to visit South Austin are April to May and September to November, which offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Do:

  1. Rent a bike to explore the city.

  2. Visit as many food trucks as possible.

  3. Explore the hiking trails and swimming holes around the city.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t leave without trying queso, curiously addictive melted cheese dip.

  2. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen.

  3. Don’t expect to accomplish too much in a single day as there’s so much to do in South Austin.

Safety and Health

Safety in South

  1. Austin is a relatively safe city; however, be cautious in tourist areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

  2. Keep valuable items in your hotel or apartment safe.

Health in South

  1. Texas is known for its hot climate; make sure to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

  2. Be aware of ticks and mosquitoes, especially while hiking or spending time outdoors.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South

  1. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

  2. San Antonio International Airport (SAT)

Bus Stations Near South

  1. Greyhound Bus Station

  2. Megabus Stop

Other Options

  1. Amtrak Train Station

  2. Rental Car

How to Get Around in South

Bike Rentals

  1. Austin B-Cycle

  2. Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop

Public Transit

  1. Capital Metro Bus and Rail System

  2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services (Uber, Lyft)

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. San Antonio, the third-largest city in Texas, is just an hour away from South Austin, and it’s known for its rich cultural heritage, cuisine, and sights such as the Alamo Mission, River Walk, and the Tower of Americas.

  2. Fredericksburg: A charming German town with vineyards, amazing food, and a rich history just 90 minutes from South Austin.

Conclusion

South Austin is a vibrant destination with something for every travel style, budget, and interest. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know – from the best places to visit, eat, and stay to local customs and hidden gems. Start planning your trip today and get ready to have the time of your life!