Millions of vacation days go unused every year by Americans. Millions! Why is that? You did earn it after all. Consider getting that vacation time on the work calendar now and start planning your travel arrangements for the year ahead. If you commit well in advance, you’re more likely to take the time. Plus, by taking time to focus on traveling, friends and family makes for a more focused and productive employee.
One city we thought might be a great destination to explore this year has a huge music scene, plenty of shopping, foodie experiences, and great weather year-round for the outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the sites. Touted as the city to “Keep Weird”. . . . We’re talking about Austin, Texas, the music capital of the world!
Here are some awesome things to do once you arrive:
Photo: Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Barton Springs
The huge man-made swimming pool located in Zilker Park. It’s just over 3 acres and 900 feet long. Visitors flock during the summer for a refreshing dip, but is still a cool sight to see any time of year. The average temp is 70 degrees, definitely bearable for those brave enough to have a winter swim. For the history buffs, the pool has been a sought after attraction since the 1800’s. Do a Google image search to see some cool vintage photos.
Photo: WikiMedia Commons, Texas State Cemetery
A cemetery, really? Yes really. Located 22 acres east of Austin’s downtown with over 900 graves of prominent Texans who pass the burial guidelines to be laid to rest there. In order to be buried here, you have to be a governor, senator, legislator, or similar stature. So many of these plots contain the leaders that made the state what it is today. The grounds are open 7 days a week, the visitor’s center is open Monday-Friday and tours are also available.
Photo: Eric Ellis Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Franklin Barbecue
It just wouldn’t be right for anyone to visit the great state of Texas and not indulge in some good ol’ BBQ. However, your choices are abundant, so you might have to indulge a few times on the trip.
Photo: Eric Ellis, Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Franklin Barbecue
- Franklin Barbeque is the brisket lover’s heaven, some even call it legendary! Even with wait times averaging over two hours, people still say it’s the best and well worth the wait. There’s only one way to find out if that’s true, and that’s to get in line. Some say it’s all part of the Franklin experience anyway.
- La Barbeque is a Yelper’s favorite. They have covered outdoor seating, and usually have a line due to their popularity. Dress for the occasion and roll up your sleeves, because their famous brisket can get messy.
- County Line on the Lake is another BBQ joint that is worth the trip! This place has a great setting for a meal with a view. It sits on Bull Creek, right off Lake Austin, in an old lodge. It has been voted a must to take out of town guests to for a meal. You’ll definitely want to try their legendary bread and honey butter, and maybe share some with the cute turtles that hang out near the deck.
Photo: Stephen Rudd, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau
The seven block stretch on 6th Street is the heart of Austin’s live entertainment scene. And, let’s face it, it would be violating some type of unwritten law to visit Austin and not experience their iconic live music scene. From small, intimate venues, coffee shops, and huge spaces with state-of-the-art acoustics, there is something for everyone. 6th Street isn’t the only place for live music, there are a few other entertainment districts that are a must too. Here they are.
Photo: Dan Herron, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, State Capital
What a cool sight to see. It’s the largest state capitol in the nation and a well-known architectural structure. It’s so gorgeous that it’s named the number one place to visit in Austin on TripAdvisor.com. Guided tours are offered daily, or you can opt for the self-guided tour route. Either way, it’s free! Believe us, you’ll be amazed by the immaculately landscaped grounds, the building, monuments, and finishing touches that went into this beauty. It makes for the perfect picnic location. Don’t forget to wear walking shoes!
Photo: Bruce Lemons, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Zilker Park
A 351 acre metropolitan park, located across from Lady Bird Lake (formally known as Town Lake). Zilker Park is home to a botanical garden, hillside theatre, science center, sculpture garden and museum, miniature train for children and parents, and the previously mentioned, Barton Springs Pool. Needless to say, you can spend quite a bit of time discovering everything this park has to offer.
It’s a perfect place to stay fit while traveling too. With the nice mix of land and water, you can run, walk, bike, rollerblade, kayak, or paddleboard. Barton Springs Pool is located here too. So, pack your swimsuit! Some cool events are held at Zilker Park, such as festivals, live music, and theatre. Check the Austin Visitors Bureau’s event calendar before your trip.
Photo Credit Dave Mead Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2nd Street District
You could quite possibly spend your entire trip to Austin shopping, if you wanted to. There is no shortage of brand names and local shops, with shopping districts throughout Downtown Austin. The Second Street District is filled with sidewalk shops that have items found only in Austin. From jewelry, home décor, to unique gifts, and apparel, this district “Keeps Austin Weird”, in the best way possible. Do they sell luggage on 2nd Street? They might need to, in order for you to bring home all your cool finds.
Photo: Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau
Access ATX Tour
Looking for a guided tour of Austin? Or wonder what “Keep Austin weird” means? This tour might be for you! They offer a few different tours that will take you sightseeing, escort you to the local hotspots, get you to the best barbeque in town, and of course, make sure you get your fill of live music too. This is also a great option if you have a large group, leave the planning up to the pros.
There are some other tours offered that are equally as cool, check out austintexas.org for the list.
Think of travel as a career investment! Book the hotel, tell your boss the days you’ll be out of the office and pack your bags for Austin, Texas!
What other cities are on your list to explore? Tell us by Tweeting us @SearchWide Global.
SearchWide Global is honored to be retained to recruit the CEO of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the leading tourism authority for this great American city.
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