“Keep Austin Weird,” is a bumper sticker familiar to anyone that’s been to the countrified metropolis.  But the only weird thing about Austin is how it manages to be two cities simultaneously.

It’s urban and it’s country. It’s got old Texan charm and new hipster vibes. So if you’ve never been, pack up the car and take a weekend trip to the star of the south.

Where to Stay:

They call it the hotel with a soul. The Hotel San Jose is a garden hideaway slash chic bungalow paradise. Built in 1939, the hotel is nestled behind stucco walls at 316 S. Congress Ave.  When you stay here you’re in the thick of the hippest neighborhood in the city and walking distance from shops, restaurants and bars.

Where to Eat:

There’s a lot more to Texan food than BBQ, but truth be told, you can’t go to Austin without licking at least one meal off your fingers. Stubb’s BBQ is the place to go.

They’ve got fried green tomatoes and an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner. 801 Red River.

Where to Shop:

If you’re a shopper, Austin is the mecca of vintage. There are so many shops that you need to keep your eyes peeled.  Wander the streets and find hidden treasures on your own, but be sure to hit up:

Feathers: Everything in this store is color-coded. It’s a merchandiser’s paradise. 1700b South Congress Ave. (entrance on Milton).

Uncommon Objects: You can spend hours moseying around this store. Every surface is covered with something to marvel at. 1512 South Congress Ave.

Grab a Slice of Pie:

Because you’re on vacation and you can. The Woodland Café is the perfect pit stop for some tasty apple pie. 1716 S. Congress Avenue.

 

-Arianna Schioldager