A Comprehensive Guide to Some of the Best Things for Couples to Do in Austin, Texas
Austin, the capital of Texas, is a vibrant and dynamic destination, offering couples abundant opportunities to craft lasting memories. Known for its distinctive blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Austin caters to diverse interests. Whether you’re interested in exploring scenic outdoor spots, shopping until you drop, savouring delicious culinary delights, or immersing yourselves in the lively nightlife and music scene, Austin offers it all! Unsure where to begin? Here are the best things to do in Austin for couples.
Guided Strolls and Gastronomic Delights: Uncover Austin Together
Begin your romantic escape to Austin, Texas, by immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and breathtaking views through a guided walking tour. Check out Tipster Tours, which offers public tours without any fixed fees or bookings needed.
Every tour guide brings their unique style to the walk, ensuring each guest’s authentic and personalised experience. If you appreciate their expertise, consider tipping them according to your satisfaction and means.
Food Tour: Discover Austin’s Gourmet Scene
For couples who love culinary delights, Austin’s food tours promise a gastronomic journey that’s hard to resist. Companies like Austin Eats Food Tours curate delectable itineraries, including food truck tours and happy hour excursions, ensuring an exciting culinary adventure. Most tours last approximately three hours.
Barton Springs: Nature’s Retreat for Couples
One of the most popular destinations in Austin is Barton Springs, a beautiful natural pool that invites visitors to enjoy its revitalising waters and peaceful atmosphere. Located in Zilker Park, this refreshing spring-fed pool is an ideal spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming, offering a refreshing getaway from the city’s busy lifestyle.
Zilker Park: Serenity in the Heart of the City
Spanning over 350 acres, Zilker Park is a verdant sanctuary offering various outdoor activities. From hiking, biking, and kayaking to simply lounging on the manicured lawns, there’s something for every couple to relish.
Take in Some Art: UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum
While in the Zilker neighbourhood, check out the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum. This tranquil haven boasts a permanent collection of bronze figurative sculptures by renowned American artist Charles Umlauf in South Austin. The museum also showcases rotating contemporary sculpture exhibitions indoors and amidst the garden’s natural beauty. Visitors to the UMLAUF enjoy a unique opportunity to engage with world-class art in a serene environment near popular attractions such as Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park.
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The Greenbelt: Nature’s Embrace
Head out on an adventure into the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a natural haven boasting 12 miles of scenic trails. Here, couples can savour hiking, biking, or even rock climbing against the backdrop of majestic limestone cliffs. Following a good downpour, the creek swells, forming natural swimming holes and adding an extra layer of excitement to your outdoor escapade.
The Cathedral of Junk: Whimsical Wonders Await
For couples with a taste for the unconventional, the Cathedral of Junk offers a quirky yet fascinating experience. This impressive installation, built by Vince Hannemann, celebrates the art of repurposing discarded items. A massive “cathedral” emerges from a diverse mix of old bicycles, appliances, hubcaps, and TVs in Vince’s backyard.
Initially a solo scavenging effort, donations from others quickly expanded Vince’s creation, adding more rooms to the cathedral’s grand design. This fanciful world encourages couples to explore and marvel at the creativity behind this exceptional Austin landmark.
Two-Step the Night Away: Dance to Local Rhythms
Immerse yourselves in local culture and test your mettle (or rather, your feet) at two-stepping, a beloved country dance in Austin. Venues like the White Horse and Broken Spoke offer lessons, ensuring couples a fun and memorable experience.
Alamo Drafthouse: Cinematic Delights Await
A visit to the Alamo Drafthouse is a must for movie-loving couples. This Austin institution offers a unique cinema experience where you can simultaneously savour a film, indulge in delectable fare, and sip a chilled beer. With a diverse selection of mainstream, classic, and cult films, there’s something to tantalise every palate.
LBJ Presidential Library: Embracing History
The LBJ Presidential Library offers a fascinating insight into the life and political legacy of one of the most influential U.S. presidents of the 20th century, Lyndon B. Johnson. This educational and engaging experience is an excellent choice for history-loving couples.
Texas Capitol: Unveil the Heart of Texas
A tour of the Texas Capitol building is necessary for those intrigued by Texas’ rich history and political landscape. This magnificent architectural gem has held the esteemed status of a National Historic Landmark since 1986 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Surpassing even the size of the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C., it offers complimentary tours for visitors. Couples with a penchant for architecture and history will find this experience engaging and informative.
Rainey Street: Nocturnal Revelry
Rainey Street offers an unforgettable nightlife experience for couples. This pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare, lined with historic bungalows transformed into trendy bars, boasts an array of music, culinary delights, and an overall vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect locale for couples to revel in Austin’s nightlife.
Lake Travis: A Romantic Hideaway
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle with a vacation to Lake Travis. This reservoir, a brief drive from Austin, offers myriad water-based activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. The idyllic vistas and tranquil setting make it the perfect backdrop for a romantic excursion.
Recommended Restaurants for Couples Visiting Austin:
Lutie’s Garden Restaurant
Lutie’s offers a nostalgic journey to the Jazz Age with its cosy ambience featuring dark green latticework, emerald velvet bar stools, and vintage-inspired decor. Enjoy a selection of craft cocktails, vintage spirits, and wines while admiring the view of the restored Italianate Mansion from the covered terrace. Delight in Texas Heritage cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce, including dishes like confit duck leg and Texas beef. Be sure to leave room for desserts like mesquite bean soft serve and beeswax creme caramel. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic date night!
Jeffrey’s:
Delight in prime cuts of meat at Jeffrey’s, a classic steakhouse offering an extensive wine list in an upscale setting. The sophisticated ambience and impeccable service set the scene for a memorable dining experience. Treat yourselves to the dry-aged ribeye or the lobster pot pie for an indulgent feast.
Clarke’s Oyster Bar
Established in 2012, Clark’s Austin swiftly gained popularity as a seafood destination in Old West Austin, close to downtown. Drawing inspiration from the New England Coast, they serve various delicacies, including freshly shucked oysters, lobster rolls, and daily fish specials. The lively patio and marble oyster bar are ideal for indulging in martinis and their renowned Gruyere-topped burger. Oyster lovers will appreciate the selection of East and West Coast oysters flown in daily. Don’t miss out on their legendary pan-roasted black Angus hamburger!
Uchi:
Indulge in a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine at Uchi, featuring innovative sushi rolls and seasonal dishes. The sleek and modern interior sets the stage for an intimate dining experience. Don’t miss their signature dishes like the Machi Cure and the Walu Walu.
Fonda San Miguel:
Immerse yourselves in upscale Mexican cuisine at Fonda San Miguel, where traditional dishes are crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s elegant hacienda-style decor and lush courtyard create a romantic ambience. Be sure to sample their tableside guacamole and the cochinita pibil.
Justine’s Brasserie:
Head to Justine’s Brasserie for classic French fare in an intimate setting reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. Candlelit tables, velvet curtains, and vintage decor create a romantic atmosphere. Indulge in their steak frites or the coq au vin for a truly decadent meal.
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Recommended Bars in Austin, Texas:
The Driskill Bar:
Savour expertly crafted cocktails at The Driskill Bar, nestled within the historic Driskill Hotel. Dark wood panelling and leather armchairs exude timeless elegance, while live music sets the mood in the evenings. Try their signature drink, the Driskill Mule, for a taste of local flavour.
The Continental Club:
Experience legendary live music at The Continental Club, a venue steeped in history since 1955. Couples can enjoy an intimate concert experience indoors or on the outdoor patio. Check the calendar for upcoming shows featuring a variety of musical genres. https://continentalclub.com/
Whisler’s:
Nestled in Austin’s vibrant East 6th street, Whisler’s offers a relaxed haven for craft cocktail lovers. This hip bar, housed in a historic building, features vintage decor and a spacious outdoor patio that oozes charm and character. Upstairs, Mezcaleria Tobala pays tribute to the rich tradition of mezcal, while the nearby food truck, Thai-Kun, serves delicious cuisine. The cocktail menu is a masterpiece, featuring classic and signature drinks that skilled mixologists expertly craft. Whether you’re enjoying their signature Old Fashioned or trying a custom creation, Whisler’s is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Midnight Cowboy:
Nestled within downtown Austin’s historic core on 6th Street, Midnight Cowboy epitomises the irresistible allure of a sought-after speakeasy, with its prohibition-style decor, secretive entrance, and intriguing history enhancing its charm. Once a brothel known as “Midnight Cowboy Modeling Oriental Massage”, this intimate bar is one of Austin’s most exclusive. To enter, press the “Harry Craddock” buzzer and prepare to immerse yourself in the Texan ambience while enjoying exceptional cocktails. Reservations are typically required for two-hour slots, although limited walk-ins are accommodated when the vacancy sign is lit. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic evening out.
The Roosevelt Room:
Nestled in downtown Austin’s Warehouse district, The Roosevelt Room is a popular spot celebrated for its industrial-chic ambience. Here, stylish sophistication seamlessly merges with down-to-earth charm, creating an inviting visitor atmosphere. The atmosphere buzzes with energy downstairs, while the relaxed lounge upstairs offers a pool table and balcony views of the vibrant scene below. With an impressive array of cocktails, ranging from classic favourites to innovative blends, there’s something to tantalise every palate. Be sure to try the Buck to the Future—a delightful concoction of rye whiskey, strawberry-balsamic-basil puree, lemon, ginger, Manzanilla sherry, and Nardini amaro—served over a large rock and garnished with whiskey barrel-soaked black pepper for a truly unique twist.
Discovering Austin’s Unique Neighbourhoods:
Austin boasts many lively neighbourhoods, each with its distinct character and charm. Here’s a glimpse into some key areas worth exploring.
SoCo: Situated just south of Lady Bird Lake, South Congress, or SoCo, is a delightful fusion of quaint shops, eateries, live music venues, and art galleries. It’s a bustling hub for food truck delights, quirky souvenirs, and scenic vistas overlooking the Texas State Capitol.
Rainey Street: Once a tranquil residential enclave, Rainey Street has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis into a bustling nightlife destination. The historic bungalows, once home to families, now house an array of bars, restaurants, and live music spots.
Red River Cultural District: Revered as the heart of live music in Austin, the Red River Cultural District boasts an eclectic mix of musical genres. From its origins in metal and punk to its present-day diversity, this district promises an electrifying musical experience for all.
Sixth Street Historic District: Austin’s most iconic locale, the Sixth Street Historic District, has been a prominent entertainment hub since the 1970s. The area transforms into a pedestrian-only zone from Thursday to Saturday nights, drawing a vibrant nightlife crowd, particularly college students and young travellers. As dusk falls, the district comes alive with bustling activity, with the strains of music echoing from historic brick buildings, creating a lively ambience.
Enjoy the Romance of Austin
Austin offers couples a range of activities to create their unique romantic experience. Its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and world-class dining make it an ideal destination for couples looking for a memorable getaway. Whether exploring the city’s historic sites, relaxing in its pristine natural spaces, or indulging in its culinary delights, Austin will surely capture your heart.
Images of restaurants and bars are from the venues.
