Even when it's hot out, there's nothing better than enjoying a leisurely stroll through Austin. These five charming streets are easily walkable, and they're full of fantastic restaurants, boutiques, and hidden gems. Lace up your tennis shoes and explore these Austin streets. You'll absolutely love walking through these charming spots.
While South Congress Avenue continues throughout the city, the little stretch between Mary St and Barton Springs Road is often referred to as "SoCo." Full of western wear boutiques, coffee shops and music venues, this charming street attracts both locals and tourists. You could easily spend an entire afternoon browsing the shops on SoCo.
Use the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge to cross over the glistening waters of Lady Bird Lake. Just north of the kayakers and paddle boarders sits a lovely district full of unique shops and scrumptious restaurants. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Whole Foods Headquarters before browsing the selection at BookPeople and Waterloo Records. You'll have a relaxing day along North Lamar.
The 2nd Street District makes a three-block square surrounding 3rd street and Cesar Chavez between Colorado and San Antonio streets. This area is full of upscale boutiques and tasty eateries. Check out Toy Joy, a massive toy store that's perfect for kids and adults. Browse through Austin Rocks for that perfect souvenir. This district is also home to ACL Live at the Moody Theater. Just keep a lookout for the Willie Nelson statue. Once you find Willie, you'll be in the right spot for some amazing music.
You'll know you've reached East 11th Street when you see the line of people curling around Franklin Barbecue, but this iconic eatery isn't the only thing E. 11th has going for it. You'll also see the gorgeous Rhapsody mosaic, a stunning piece located on the Dr. Charles E. Urdy Plaza. Check out Charm School Vintage and grab a bite at Blue Dahlia Bistro. There's plenty to see and do on E. 11th.
West of I-35 on East 5th Street sits a lovely little stretch of Austin history. Explore the Susanna Dickinson Museum and learn about the fiercest pioneer woman in Texas' history. Right next door sits the O. Henry Museum where guests can learn about the life of this prolific writer. Continue down this street and stop in at Russian House for a swig of vodka and a bowl of borscht.
There are so many wonderful and weird things to explore in Austin. These hidden gems in Austin are some that most people don't even know exist! Get your GPS and point-and-shoot cameras ready to go on the Austin hidden gems adventure search of your life.
advertisement
1. Castle Hill in Austin is a cool spot to hang out and just chill, take photos, or even add to the graffiti walls if you're an artist.
7. Violet Crown Cinema is right in the middle of downtown Austin, yet so perfectly tucked away for an amazing boutique-style movie and dining experience.
8. The "Writing Barn" owned by Austin author Bethany Hegedus. This space is rented out for writing workshops and overnight stays. A writer's dream spot!
Maybe you've hiked the Greenbelt a million times and visited the Texas State Capitol for the past ten years. Lucky for you, there's still a whole world to discover within Austin's city limits. These are 13 unique things to do in Austin when you feel like you've done just about everything.
This eclectic shop in East Austin will whisk you back to the carefree days of your childhood. The Texas Toy Museum has over 20,000 different toys and offers classes on silk screening, toy casting, and prop-making. This non-profit organization is located on Congress Avenue. Stop by and soak up the sweet nostalgia!
Join David World Toys as they check out the Austin Toy Museum in this video showing off one of our favorite fun and unique places in Austin:
Austin Flea is an ever-changing outdoor crafts market that features goods from tons of local vendors. You'll find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage ceramics to adorable dog collars. To see where the Austin Flea is heading to next, visit the Austin Flea website.
Learn the art of Thai cooking at one of these scrumptiously spicy cooking classes. Thai Fresh offers public cooking classes several times a month, and each session has a different theme. Thai Fresh is located at 909 West Mary St. You can learn more about its upcoming classes by visiting the website.
This beautiful trail, located in Emma Long Park, will surround you in peaceful, verdant bliss. This hiking spot will transport you to another world. You can read our full article about the Turkey Creek Trail here. Be sure to check out AllTrails+ for up-to-date information about this and many more hiking trails.
This park, located along Comanche Trail, has the absolute bluest water in Austin. Soak up the sunshine and munch on a hearty picnic along the shore. For more information, read our feature article about Bob Wentz Park.
6. Embrace your inner diva at Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds
This South Congress costume store isn't just for Halloween; it's open year-round. Explore the colorful wigs and lavish dresses. Who knows? You may discover another side of yourself. For more information, read our feature article about this fun nostalgic shop in Austin.
Note: Unfortunately, Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds has permanently closed. You can still see photos and read all about it at the link above.
7. Indulge in the best food truck food Austin has to offer
When you head to Rainey Street you'll be transported into a culinary wonderland like no other. The ambiance of outdoor patios with lights, live music, and the beautiful Austin vibe will great you with a smile. From the best tacos around with a spicy zest to a magic grilled cheese that will transform your perception of what a grilled cheese should be. You never know what you'll find on the Rainey Street Food Truck Lot. We know one thing, you'll discover some of the best food trucks in Austin that's for sure.
advertisement
One of our favorite hidden gems in Austin is the Rainey Street Food Truck Lot. Take a tour in this video from Adventures of a Traveling Don:
8. Enjoy a few of your favorite things at Lazarus Brewing Co.
Lazarus Brewing specializes in the three things all Austinites love: beer, coffee, and tacos. This glorious trifecta can be found at two locations in Austin. For more information, read our feature article about Lazarus Brewing Co.
Bring some friends and head over to Vigilante Gaming Bar on Easy Wind Drive. With over 200 board games and a plethora of scrumptious gastropub fare, this nerdy bar will soon become your new favorite hangout.
10. Test your wits at one of Austin's 10 exciting escape rooms
Whether you want to escape from zombies or search for buried treasure, there's a panic room that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Learn about Austin's thrilling escape games here.
11. Laugh until you cry at one of Austin's hilarious comedy and improv clubs
No matter what tickles your funny bone, there's a comedy venue in Austin that will make you laugh uncontrollably. From The Hideout Theatre's delightfully witty improv shows to The Velveeta Room's wild stand-up, there's no shortage of places to giggle and guffaw. To learn more about Austin's comedy clubs, read our feature article.
12. Relax with a tasty hot tea at Brentwood Social House
This cozy tea house, located at 1601 West Koenig Lane, will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Order a fresh pastry and read a novel on their adorable patio or enjoy a classic English high tea. No matter what you do, you'll fall in love with Brentwood Social House.
13. Explore the lush surroundings at Green Gate Farms
Green Gate Farms is the perfect place to escape from it all. Their farm stand bursts with freshness and their summer camps are perfect for kids and adults! Visit Green Gate Farms along Canoga Avenue in Austin.
Learn a little more about Green Gate Farms in Austin Texas in this video from Village Farm Austin:
advertisement
Have you done any of these exciting things before? What's your favorite way to shake up your routine? Please share some of your favorite unique things to do in Austin with us in a comment.
