Austin in A Day: The Perfect 12-Hour Itinerary

🌟I’ve visited Austin in June, September, and December — but May is hands-down the best time to experience this city! (With December as a close second). If you only have one day to explore the Texas capital, here’s my tried-and-tested plan: ☀️ Morning (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM) Brunch & Stroll on South Congress Ave Drive from Dallas (approx. 3 hours) and fuel up at popular spots like Aba or Two Hands 🥑 I’ve eaten at Aba three times — it’s that good! (Full review coming soon) Explore trendy stores like Alo, Sézane, and Birkenstock 👗 ⚠️ Don’t linger too long — parking is expensive and The Domain is better for serious shopping! 🖼️ Afternoon Part 1 (2:00 PM - 3:30 PM) Art & Light at Blanton Museum of Art Just a 10-minute drive from South Congress UT system students (even non-UT Austin) get 50% off 🎓 Compact but captivating exhibits + the famous “Light Chapel” installation 📸 Highly Instagram-friendly! 🏛️ Afternoon Part 2 (3:45 PM - 5:00 PM) Texas State Capitol Tour Walk 15 minutes from the museum to this stunning pink granite landmark Marvel at the rotunda and portraits of former governors 🖼️ I even caught a live House session — a real civic moment! Free admission + rich history = must-do 🌿 Late Afternoon (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM) Choose Your Adventure: Option A: Hike up Mount Bonnell for skyline views (20-min climb) Option B: Stroll along the Colorado River (my personal favorite) 💭 Walking here reminded me of days along the Charles River in Boston — that same serene, flowing energy 🌅 Sunset (7:00 PM - 7:45 PM) Oasis Texas Brewing Company 30-minute scenic drive from downtown with gorgeous hill country views New: The viewing deck now charges a fee, and crowds have grown — but the sunset is still spectacular 🌄 Pro tip: Arrive early to snag a spot! 🦞 Evening Drive Back to Dallas with a Buc-ee’s Stop Refuel at the legendary Temple Buc-ee’s — a Texas road trip If I ever leave Texas, I’ll miss this beaver-shaped paradise most 🦫 #US #Texas #Austin