Lifestyle in Austin

New arrivals will certainly be in for a bit of fun in Austin. The city’s famous motto ‘Keep Austin Weird’ sums up the quirkiness of the lifestyle in the city.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast keen to make the most of the Texan sun or an avid foodie looking to discover some culinary delights at one of Austin’s famous food trailer parks, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Newly arrived parents will be pleased to learn that the lifestyle in Austin is family-friendly, with plenty of fun things for the little ones to do.

Shopping in Austin

Austin offers a vibrant shopping experience, blending upscale malls with eclectic markets. The Domain stands out as a premier destination, featuring luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, alongside a variety of dining options.

For a more unique, local vibe, South Congress Avenue, affectionately known as SoCo, boasts an array of boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries, reflecting Austin's creative spirit. Just a short drive away, the San Marcos Outlet Malls provide over 240 stores, making it a top spot for bargain hunters. Whether you're seeking high-end fashion or local crafts, Austin's diverse shopping venues cater to every taste.

Sports and outdoor activities in Austin

People paddleboarding on a lake in Lou Neff Point by Tomek Baginski

Austin’s great weather makes it conducive for residents to spend time outdoors. Within the city limits and in the surrounding rural Texas Hill Country, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nature. From winding hiking and mountain biking trails to refreshing swimming spots and lakes perfect for paddling, Austin has loads to satisfy the outdoor enthusiast.

Undoubtedly, Austin is a sporting city, so new residents can get excited about American Football, cycling, and roller derby. Despite the city’s size, most people are surprised to learn Austin doesn’t boast any of its own professional sports teams. That said, it is home to a litany of amateur sports organisations, including the Austin Spurs, the Texas Stars and the Round Rock Express. In addition, the city has invested a lot of money into sporting infrastructure, so it won’t be long before things start to take off here.

Arts and culture in Austin

Newcomers to Austin will soon see there is no shortage of creativity in this city. Austin is home to world-class museums such as the Blanton and the Harry Ransom Centre. The city has a vibrant art scene with an array of galleries, such as the Jones Center, Carver Museum and the Mexic-Arte Museum, all offering an eclectic range of exhibits.

When it comes to the performing arts, Austin offers its residents everything from ballet and opera at the Long Center to music and comedy performances at the historic Paramount Theatre.

Entertainment and eating out in Austin

The nightlife in Austin reflects the energy and diversity of its people. Whether you are looking for a pumping dance party, a plush cocktail lounge or the chance to catch some local garage bands, Austin really does have it all.

Sixth Street, complete with its cheap drinks and wild party atmosphere, is popular with the student crowd. To experience what it truly means to ‘Keep Austin Weird’, head to the East Austin Entertainment District, where revellers are treated to a diverse range of sights and sounds. From quirky graffiti-style murals and late-night coffee shops, it's easy to see why this area is popular with a hipster crowd.

For a more subdued night out, head to Rainey Street for some unique live music offerings in a district lined with historic houses. The Warehouse District is another great alternative for a more mature crowd looking for a laid-back but dynamic nightlife scene.

Austin’s culinary scene is unique. From traditional Texan fare such as Tex-Mex, BBQ and breakfast tacos to fantastic Asian food offerings and a growing number of fine-dining establishments, Austin promises foodies a treat.

Food trucks are quite the institution in Austin. All over town, chefs are opting to dish up unpretentious cuisine in the back of a humble trailer. There are now thousands of food trucks operating all around Austin, and food-court trailer parks are becoming a growing phenomenon in the city. From fresh lobster rolls to authentic Italian street food, residents will have no shortage of good-quality affordable offerings.

See and do in Austin

Visiting Austin’s top attractions is a great way for new arrivals to get acquainted with their new home. Below are some top things to see and do in Austin.

State Capitol

Dating back to 1888 and based in the heart of Austin, the State Capitol is Texas’s legislative centre. The pink granite landmark actually stands taller than the US Capitol in Washington, DC. The building itself is extremely impressive, and it's a great place to learn more about Texan history. Visitors can opt to take a scheduled free tour of the Capitol or use the self-guided tour pamphlet.

Mount Bonnell

Visitors will need to take a short drive out of the city, but the views from Mount Bonnell are certainly worth the effort. The historic Covert Park is home to the 775-foot mountain alongside the beautiful Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River. It's a great place for a family adventure or a pleasant scenic walk.

Zilker Metropolitan Park

Just across the river from downtown Austin is the famous Zilker Metropolitan Park, which houses some of the city’s most popular attractions – from swimming spots and athletic fields to art museums. Digging for fossils at the Austin Nature and Science Center’s Dino Pit always goes down as a treat to the kids. To do Zilker Metropolitan Park justice, it must be visited on more than one occasion.

Blanton Museum of Art

Located on the University of Texas’s Austin campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is a popular attraction for art enthusiasts. It contains over 18,000 pieces of art – including works of the Renaissance and Baroque eras to an impressive collection of modern Latin American work. The museum is unique, eclectic and very well curated.

Meeting people and making friends in Austin

Moving to a new city and setting roots can be a daunting process, but building a community can certainly help settle feelings of nervousness. Some of the best ways to make friends in a new city are joining an interest group and attending community and professional network events.

Children often make friends through school, but parents looking to broaden their children's social network while improving their skills can explore after school clubs. Fitness and sports enthusiasts will also not have a shortage of groups to join. Social platforms such as Meetup also have a fair few groups new arrivals in Austin can join.

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