THINGS
TO DO IN
AUSTIN
The essential Austin experience — from live music to outdoor adventure.
Austin is one of America's most dynamic cities — a place where live music spills out of every bar, legendary BBQ joints draw lines at dawn, and the Colorado River runs through the heart of it all. Whether you're here for a weekend or a week, there's more to do than you'll have time for.
Austin's top experiences.
These are the experiences that define Austin — the ones visitors remember long after they leave.
Live Music
6TH STREET & BEYOND
Austin earned its "Live Music Capital of the World" title honestly — more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in the US. 6th Street, Rainey Street, and the Red River Cultural District pulse every night of the week.
Outdoor
BARTON SPRINGS
A natural limestone spring-fed pool inside Zilker Park, Barton Springs is one of Austin's most beloved spots. The water stays around 68°F year-round — perfect on a hot Texas afternoon.
Culture
TEXAS STATE CAPITOL
One of the most impressive capitol buildings in the US, the Texas State Capitol is a short walk from Firehouse Hostel. Free guided tours run daily and offer a deep dive into Texas history.
Food
BBQ & FOOD TRUCKS
From legendary Franklin Barbecue to the sprawling South Congress food truck scene, Austin's food culture is unmissable. Get here early for the best BBQ — lines form before 10am at the top spots.
Austin by neighborhood.
6TH STREET
The heartbeat of Austin nightlife. East 6th and Dirty 6th (West 6th) both offer distinct vibes — East 6th is more boutique bars and craft cocktails, while West 6th (the stretch around 600 E 6th) is the famous strip of live music venues and honky-tonks that Austin is known for worldwide. Firehouse Hostel sits right on 6th Street at 605 Brazos — you're already there.
SOUTH CONGRESS (SoCo)
South Congress Avenue is Austin's most eclectic street — a mile-long stretch of vintage clothing stores, local boutiques, food trucks, and Austin-famous restaurants. The iconic Güero's Taco Bar and the original Homeslice Pizza are both here. SoCo is a 20-minute walk or short rideshare from downtown.
RAINEY STREET
Once a quiet residential block, Rainey Street has become one of Austin's best bar districts. Converted bungalows turned cocktail bars, a more local crowd than 6th Street, and a string of food trucks make this the neighborhood for a long, leisurely evening. It's a 10-minute walk from Firehouse.
ZILKER PARK & LADY BIRD LAKE
Austin's green lung. Zilker Park hosts Barton Springs Pool, the Botanical Gardens, and every major Austin festival including Austin City Limits. Lady Bird Lake runs adjacent — kayak rentals, paddleboard spots, and the beloved 10-mile hike-and-bike trail circle the water. This is where Austin slows down.
Beyond downtown Austin.
Day Trip
HAMILTON POOL
A collapsed grotto with a stunning 50-foot waterfall about 45 minutes west of Austin. Reservations required — book well in advance. One of Texas's most photographed natural landmarks.
State Park
PEDERNALES FALLS
Tiered limestone waterfalls and swimming holes about an hour from downtown Austin. One of the most visited state parks in Texas — go on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Hill Country
WIMBERLEY
A charming Hill Country town 45 minutes from Austin with the famous Jacob's Well swimming hole, independent shops, and Blue Hole Regional Park. A perfect half-day trip from downtown Austin.
STAY WHERE AUSTIN HAPPENS.
Firehouse Hostel puts you in the center of everything — 6th Street, Rainey Street, the Capitol, and Lady Bird Lake are all within walking distance. Dorm beds from $35/night in a historic 1885 fire station.