Your Guide to Texas - Top Things To Do In Austin, San Antonio, and Gruene Texas
Nobody does it bigger than Texas! We’ve all heard this saying about the Lone Star State but after spending a week there, I actually would have to agree. Not only does this state take up the largest amount of land in the US, Texans really live life to the fullest.
On our week in Texas we spent most of our time in Austin, San Antonio, and Gruene. Each place was so different and had it’s own charm so I think it’s important to share the top things to do in each of the areas, based on what kind of trip you’re looking for!
So first up, is Austin…I have to admit, Austin was my favorite. Cities just make me feel alive - seeing the building skylines, finding niche neighborhoods, local breweries and restaurants, and live as the locals do. We were here the longest so I have a few more recommendations for Austin than the others :)
Here are my top 5 things you need to do on your next trip to Austin:
Rainey Street - we had an Airbnb near Rainey Street and I would HIGHLY recommend this. The area is super walkable and there are always scooters around if you needed too! This street is filled with homes that were renovated into bars. All of them have live music, outdoor patios with cute string lighting and delicious drinks. We spent a couple nights down here because we couldn’t get enough of it!!
Go to Loro for happy hour! This was probably the best meal I’ve had in years. I recommend the Korean crispy chicken sandwich and an order of their chicken karaage. The atmosphere and food combined makes this a top restaurant in Austin. https://www.loroeats.com/
Cidercade - Do you like ciders and arcades? Then this is the place for you. $10/person cover charge gets you unlimited plays on all the arcade machines (pinball, Galaga, Pacman, Guitar Hero, ski-ball - you name it, they have it). To top it off, you get to drink delicious ciders while you play. Great way to mix being an adult and becoming a kid again :)
Congress Ave - If your looking to shop with great food options, Congress Ave is for you. If you’re in the mood to eat, breakfast at Magnolia Cafe was quaint and delicious, or stopping for dessert at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams to get a little taste of ‘Biscuits with the Boss’ (for all my Ted Lasso fans out there), you can’t go wrong. You could spend a whole day shopping here at stores like lululemon, Outdoor Voices, or even stop for some cowboy boots at Allen’s.
East 5th Ave - an up and coming neighborhood in Austin filled with good food, good beer, and good music. If you’re looking for a chill, hipster vibe, east 5th is perfect for you. Zilker Brewing was amazing - great vibes, plenty of outdoor seating in the biergarten, and cornhole boards and music to entertain you while sipping on your beers. https://zilkerbeer.com/
Next stop - San Antonio!
Our friends live in and near San Antonio so we were lucky enough to get the inside scoop on what this city has to offer!
Here are my top 4 recs for a trip to San Antonio:
The River Walk - the river walk stretches on for miles, with beautiful landscaping and trees, bars and restaurants lining the walk. When you’re here, it’s hard to believe you’re in the middle of a city - you can even book river boat tours but I suggest just walking and taking in all the sites (while getting those steps in!)
Pearl District - the Pearl district was such a unique experience - it sort of looks like a gated community within the city but it’s filled with bars, restaurants, a cafeteria and SO much character. We had dinner at Southerleigh - highly recommend getting the steak frites, this dish was to die for.
The Alamo - I don’t know about you but I love seeing history and the Alamo was such a cool experience. I learned so much and it is just such a beautiful area that they preserved to remember those who fought and stood their ground there.
Pinkerton’s Barbecue - this place was absolutely delicious - if you’re looking for a good ole classic TX BBQ, this is the place. The ribs and brisket were my favorites and I just loved the vibe of the restaurant as well. Make sure you check them out : https://pinkertonsbarbecue.com/
Last, but certainly not least, is Gruene, TX (pronounced like the color green). This was THE cutest Texan town and I’m so happy we got to experience this place. The Gruene Hall in this photo is famous - it’s the oldest dance hall standing in TX and big name performers still make there way to this intimate venue! My favorite thing to do was just walking around the historic downtown - checking out all the shops, wineries and restaurants.
Here are the top shops and restaurants I went to in Gruene:
Gruene Hat Company - If you’re looking for that classic Stetson hat, this is the place for you. This is a true hat shop with the full experience, you get custom sizing, branding and accessories. Had an amazing experience here and I’m obsessed with my new Stetson :) https://www.gruenehatco.com/
The Grapevine - Such a cute wine bar, with a beautiful outdoor seating area in the heart of history, I would’ve been content sitting here and drinking vino all day.
Cantina del Rio - If you’re looking for delicious Tex Mex, this place is for you. Great food, great atmosphere, great margaritas!
Overall, Texas was bigger and better than I ever expected. They had true southern hospitality and I cannot wait to go back soon! Make sure to bring these ideas along with you on your next TX trip, I promise you won’t regret it :)
Wandering with you,
Emily