With an average of 300 days of sunshine, the booming metropolis of Austin is home to more than 250 live music venues and boasts some of the most interactive city activities and tours in the US, according to Kennedy DMC Austin. And whether you’re new to the city or want to experience it like a local, the DMC Network Company gives its inside guide on how to make the most of 48 hours in the Texan capital…

DAY 1:

Morning
First Timer:  Start your day with a refreshing guided run around Lady Bird Lake to check out the sites and get acquainted with the city. Not a runner? Practice your technique with a scenic yoga class organised in a nearby park! The city of Austin is home to some of the largest greenbelts in Texas and offers unique views for miles. With a park or trail on every corner, there’s always an opportunity to appreciate the active culture in Austin.

Like a Local: There’s nothing better than starting your morning with a freshly brewed Cup of Joe. Head over to the East side to check out Wright Bros Brew & Brew or one of the five Houndstooth Coffee locations. These local stops focus on simple yet elegant menus that feature locally sourced beans and friendly baristas that will enchant you with their coffee wisdom! Take a stroll to a local food truck for some authentically Texas, breakfast tacos! If you’re on the hunt for a truly mouth-watering experience, venture up to Vaquero Taquero in Hyde Park.

Afternoon
First Timer: Venture into the city for a memorable brunch at one of Austin’s local hot spots. We can’t rave enough about the Croissant Loaf French Toast at Odd Duck or Kristen Kish’s modern spin on classics at Arlo Grey downtown! The atmosphere is captivating, and the cuisine is even better. After you’ve treated yourself, hit the town for a day of shopping or dive in to one of Austin’s iconic city tours. Some of our favourite activities include:

Shopping on South Congress or “SoCo”
Capturing Instagramable Moments against some of Austin’s famous murals
Playing a round of golf in the rolling hills of Austin Hill Country
Street Art & Food Truck Tour through Austin
Antonelli’s Wine & Cheese Hill Country Tour
Texas BBQ Sampling & Two Stepping Lessons

Like a Local: Zip around on one of Austin’s many means of transportation. Hop on an electric scooter or motorised bike! Just an app download away, you could be at your next stop in just a few short minutes. If the smiles on rider’s faces aren’t convincing enough, you’ve got to try it for yourself!

Evening
First Timer: Enjoy the perfect ending to a perfect day! Close the night out with some live music and entertainment. After all, Austin is the live music capital of the world!  To top it off, grab a nightcap on Rainey Street and admire the quaint bungalow style restaurants and bars.

Like a Local: What’s more local than a secret bar and lounge? Speakeasy styled bars are one of Austin’s hidden gems and the city is full of them! Sneak over to Garage Bar for a perfectly balanced cocktail and a truly memorable experience. These guys know what they’re doing!

DAY 2:

Morning
First Timer:  Everything is truly bigger in Texas. Spend the morning at the Texas State Capital. This massive architectural structure is the largest state capital in the United States! The facility offers free guided tours daily and welcomes guests to enjoy the massive lawn.

Like a Local: Beat the crowds and the heat by getting an early start at a local Farmer’s Market. Enjoy local mercantile and produce all while supporting local Austin businesses! Head over to Barton Creek Farmer’s Market to capture one of the city’s best skyline views.

Afternoon
First Timer:  See the city from a different perspective. The University of Texas is home to one of the top ten architecture programs in the country and impacts the city in big ways. Embark on a guided tour through Austin that focuses specifically on the city’s unique framework and fabrication.

Experience the need for speed at Circuit of The Americas! Round up your group for a “COTA Karting” experience together or get behind the wheel of some of the most exclusive car models from the Audi lineup.

Like a Local: Catch a late brunch at Magnolia’s or enjoy a picnic at Zilker park! Afterwards, head over to Barton Springs Pool or Lady Bird Lake for a quick swim or stand up paddle board lesson.

Evening
First Timer: Here in Bat City, we like to keep things weird! You can’t visit Austin without seeing an unforgettable bat filled sunset first. The iconic Congress Avenue bridge is home to roughly 1.5 million bats that swarm the city sky at dusk. Don’t miss your chance to catch a glimpse of this surreal site. Arrive early to secure a spot on the bridge or watch the show up close from a nearby rooftop bar or restaurant. You can also turn this experience into a group activity – schedule an evening bat cruise to truly dive in!

Like a Local: Catch a different kind of show at Zach Theatre or The Paramount! Live entertainment is our specialty in Austin. Grab dinner and a show to end your night right.