Austin Texas is a unique city that has been shaped by a variety of influences, including the state's natural beauty, its historic culture, and its eclectic live music scene. As the state capital, Austin is a popular tourist destination and is home to several cultural institutions, including the University of Texas' main campus. The town is also known for its many parks and lakes, where people can hike, bike, swim or boat. South of the city, Formula One's Circuit of the Americas raceway is located.
Austin is a hub of great food and drink in the Lone Star State, with a wide variety of local restaurants. From Tex-Mex to BBQ, breakfast tacos to artisanal coffees, there's something for everyone in Austin.
The Austin food scene is centered on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds, but there are a few places that are on the forefront of this growing trend.
Odd Duck is a food truck that serves up delicious and innovative food made with ingredients from around the Austin area. Their burgers are a must-try and the fried chicken is also fantastic. The restaurant is a favorite of locals and tourists alike for its unique menu and location in West 6th Street.
AGLIFF (Austin Gay & Lesbian Film Festival) is a year-round organization that produces an annual film festival and hosts community screening events that celebrate the diversity of LGBTQ+ stories. It's also a major player in the world of media arts, supporting young filmmakers and creating opportunities for international cultural exchange through the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
Zilker Park is a fun spot to take in the Austin skyline at night or during the day. It's also a popular place for outdoor concerts and performances.
Oakwood Cemetery is another great place to visit when you're in Austin. It's the city's oldest cemetery and has sections that commemorate African-American, Latinx, and Jewish populations.
This is a great place to get a feel for the city's unique history, and it is also the perfect place to grab a midnight picnic. The cemetery is also home to the Zilker holiday "tree" that's lit up with 3,309 lights and spun around by those who wish to participate.
Despite its name, Austin's violet crown isn't actually a color; it's a common atmospheric phenomenon that makes the city look like a pastel purple haze encircles it above the horizon. It's a beautiful and serene sight that is easy to miss, but is a very special and unique part of the Austin experience.
Austin was designated a UNESCO Creative City in 2015 and works with other UNESCO cities to promote creativity and the integration of culture into urban development plans. Its flagship annual festival is held in June and it offers a series of year-round community screening events. It also curates a monthly series that showcases the best in queer cinema.
