One Of Texas' Best Shopping Destinations Is Vibrant, Walkable, And Brimming With Boutiques

The state capital of Texas, Austin is a buzzing metropolis known for its live music scene, riverfront setting, and creative spirit. While the city is considered the best vacation spot for film lovers, shoppers, music lovers, and foodies will also want to explore Austin's many treasures. The city's vibrant heart is found at the 2nd Street District, a 6-block walkable neighborhood that's home to chic boutiques, convivial eateries, and music venues just steps from Lady Bird Lake. 

First-time visitors should base themselves in this central location, where top hotels like the Austin Proper Hotel and the W Austin line 2nd Street. This neighborhood will charm style seekers with its mix of country rock flair and boho-chic vibe. Browse upscale women's fashion at Hemline, sneakers and street style at Sneaker Politics, rock and roll-inspired accessories at Austin Rocks, and locally-made jewelry at Second Street Boutique. Afterwards, stop for Texas barbecue at iconic Lamberts or grab a coffee at Austin institution Jo's Coffee.

Austin makes for the ideal long weekend getaway, and 2nd Street District is just a 25-minute drive from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The Texas capital enjoys warm weather year-round, with an average of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall are the busiest times of year in Austin, when it hosts famous concerts and festivals like South by Southwest Film Festival in March and Austin City Limits Music Festival in October. To avoid the crowds, and the heat of high summer, plan your visit during the winter months. Serious shoppers should extend their stay in Texas to experience southern hospitality at Round Top, a tiny Texas town known for its world-famous antique fair that's just a 90-minute drive from Austin. And to get out of the city and into nature, just a 1.5-hour drive outside of Austin promises endless family fun at Inks Lake State Park, one of Texas' underrated state parks.

First-time visitors to Austin should get their bearings (and the inside scoop on the city) with a local guide on Viator's Austin Small Group Morning Walk. The walking tour, which starts at 10 a.m., meets at Jo's Coffee, the beloved Austin coffeehouse, in the 2nd Street District. From there, you'll head out to explore some of the city's top highlights. Beginning at the famed Moody Theater, you'll learn about Austin's diverse live music scene and the best venues and theaters at which to hear both up-and-coming talents and established entertainers. 

You'll then meander around the 2nd Street District, where your guide will give you a brief history of the neighborhood and recommend some of the best eateries and shops in Austin. You'll also peak into the Driskill Hotel, the grand and iconic Texas landmark that opened in 1886. The hotel houses the opulent Driskill Bar, which has been voted a top 10 hotel bar in the country, and is crowned with a colorful stained-glass dome. 

This top-rated morning walk, which lasts about an hour and a half, is the best way to kick off a trip to the Texas capital, according to reviews. "William was a great guide," wrote a Viator reviewer. "You could really feel his love for Austin. He gave interesting commentary the whole time." The tour can accommodate up to 15 people and costs $32 per person.