Top Attractions in Austin, Texas for Your Next Trip

Have you ever heard the saying, “Everything is bigger in Texas?” Well, after visiting this vibrant city, I think that saying might be true!

Today we’re exploring a place known for its incredible live music, booming technology scene, outdoor adventures, and relaxed, welcoming culture — Austin, Texas. Located about 80 miles north of San Antonio, Austin is a city that perfectly blends history, creativity, and modern innovation.

Austin is named after Stephen F. Austin, often called the “Father of Texas.” In the 1820s, he led American settlers to colonize the region when Texas was still part of Mexico, helping shape the future of the state. His legacy lives on today through both the city and University of Texas at Austin, which proudly carry his name.

From rich history to live music on every corner, Austin truly captures the spirit of Texas in a big way.

The best place to stay in Austin, Texas

We absolutely love staying at the Austin East KOA — and for good reason!

First, the campsites aren’t stacked on top of each other like many campgrounds. You actually have room to breathe, relax, and enjoy your space. But the real surprise? Longhorns grazing at the back of the property. It’s such a unique Texas touch and makes the whole experience feel a little more authentic.

The campground is also fantastic for families. There’s a seasonal pool, a playground with a sandbox (which you almost never see anymore!), and outdoor games set up near the clubhouse where kids and families can hang out and have fun together. It really feels like a summer vacation spot where everyone can slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

We haven’t visited during the summer yet, so we can’t speak to the Texas heat and humidity, but it definitely looks like a dream place for families when the weather warms up.

Austin

The Father of Texas

If you know me, you know I have a bit of an obsession with cemeteries. I love walking through history and paying my respects to those who helped shape the past. So of course, while in Austin, I had to visit the Texas State Cemetery.

This peaceful and historic place serves as the final resting place for notable Texans who made significant contributions to the state’s history and culture. Walking through the grounds feels like stepping back in time, with beautiful monuments, quiet pathways, and stories waiting to be discovered around every corner.

The cemetery is quite large, so plan to spend some time here — whether you’re slowly driving through or taking a walk along the scenic grounds. It’s a serene, reflective stop that offers both history and beauty, and it’s well worth adding to your Austin itinerary.

Some of the oldest remains in the Texas State Cemetery belong to a mysterious sailor from the La Belle Shipwreck, part of a French expedition that took place between 1684 and 1687.

The ship sank off the coast near Matagorda Bay, and for centuries the identity of those aboard remained a mystery. In 1996, scientists excavated the wreck of La Belle and discovered skeletal remains believed to belong to one of the sailors. Despite modern DNA testing, his identity has never been confirmed, leaving him an unknown figure in Texas history.

In 2004, the sailor was laid to rest at the Texas State Cemetery, giving him a final resting place more than 300 years after the ship went down. It’s a powerful reminder that even unnamed individuals played a role in shaping the early history of Texas, and their stories continue to be honored today.

The State Capitol

While you’re in Austin, a visit to the Texas State Capitol is an absolute must. Like many state capitols, it features a stunning dome — but this one has a Texas-sized twist. Built in 1888, the Capitol is actually taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., making it one of the most impressive state capitol buildings in the country.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the beautiful pink Texas granite used throughout the building, giving it a warm, unique look that really stands out in the Texas sun. Inside and out, the architecture and historic details make it a fascinating place to explore.

I really enjoyed spending time here, walking around the 22 acre grounds, with monuments and statues honoring important Texas figures and historical events. I was taking in the history, and admiring the stunning design. It’s a peaceful, educational, and beautiful stop in the heart of Austin — and I definitely recommend adding it to your visit.

The experience here is part of the fun. You start by ordering your sides cafeteria-style, moving down the line as they hand you your selections. Then you make your way to the best part — the meat counter. This is where the magic happens. You tell them what you want, and they slice the brisket, ribs, or sausage right in front of you, fresh off the pit. The smell of slow-smoked meat fills the air and builds the anticipation for that first bite.

Lyndon B. Johnson Library

Admission is very reasonable at around $16 per person, and it’s easy to spend a couple of hours here exploring the exhibits and learning about the life and legacy of Lyndon B. Johnson. As you walk through the museum, you really begin to understand who he was, what he stood for, and how deeply he believed in serving the American people. He pushed through some of the most important civil rights legislation in U.S. history, launched the Great Society programs to reduce poverty and improve quality of life, and was widely known for his remarkable ability to get laws passed in Congress.

One of the most unique and unforgettable parts of the LBJ Library is the ability to listen to real recorded phone conversations. It truly feels like being a fly on the wall in the Oval Office, hearing the conversations, decisions, and behind-the-scenes moments as they actually happened. LBJ secretly recorded many of his calls, and hearing his voice and interactions firsthand brings history to life in a way that very few presidential libraries can offer.

This is an incredibly engaging and immersive museum experience. Whether you agree or disagree with his presidency, the library offers a powerful and educational look into American history and leadership. It’s a place that makes you think, reflect, and better understand the challenges of leading a nation — and it’s definitely worth adding to your Austin itinerary.

Special Finds

I’m not sure how many celebrities live in Austin, but this one was special to my husband and a unique find. Although this person no longer lives here, my husband wanted to find the house. This person was a famous cyclist and won the Tour De France seven times in a row only to be stripped of all of them after an investigation revealed his involvement in a systematic doping conspiracy. Any idea who this was?

The best Barbeque!

When we told locals we were looking for authentic Texas barbecue, one name kept coming up — Terry Black’s Barbecue. And after visiting for both lunch and dinner, we can see why it’s so highly recommended.

Grabbing a table can be a bit of a challenge in the evening because the place gets packed. But honestly, that’s usually a good sign that the food is worth it.

What I really love about this place is that the meat is true pit-smoked barbecue, not something flavored from a bottle. You can taste the time, care, and tradition in every bite. We’ve visited more than once and haven’t had a bad experience yet.

So if you’re in Austin and craving real Texas barbecue, this is definitely a place you should check out. It’s smoky, flavorful, and a true Texas food experience you won’t forget.

So if you ever find yourself in the heart of Texas, be sure to check out these amazing spots in Austin — you won’t be disappointed.

If you’ve been to Austin, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment and let me know where to find the best live music in the city, because Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World and there’s always something new to discover. Please like and hit the subscribe button to continue following us around the country.