Bird’s Guide to Keeping Austin Weird
The city’s unofficial slogan, “Keep Austin Weird”, shows how Austin embraces its funk, eccentricity and local businesses. With so much to do, see, eat and enjoy, we’re not entirely sure you can do it all in just one week, but here are some crowd favorites within Birding distance from the Festival.
Mornin’ Joe
Start your day at Cosmic Coffee, located in the St. Edwards neighborhood. Enjoy your brew and pumpkin bread next to their scenic pond and garden. And if you’re feeling up for it, check out their chicken coop! You might need a coffee first though.
For other spots to grab your morning coffee, check out the following places…we recommend traveling via Bird.
Better Half
Jo’s (grab a Bird for the dream ATX photoshoot at the ‘I Love You So Much’ wall)
Greater Goods Coffee Roasters (the fresh donuts are a must have)
For the Thinkers
Austin is budding with eccentric art, memorable installations, and historic landmarks.
Bird to Forever Bicycles to see a one of a kind display. Made up of more than 1,200 bicycles, locked into a geometric, 3D pattern that goes up several stories into the air, Forever Bicycles is more than just unique. An art display dedicated to alternative transportation? We like what we see.
Tour the Texas State Capitol Building, located downtown. Enjoy a free capitol tour, and visit the Heroes of the Texas Revolution exhibit or learn about the Trailblazing Women in Texas History in honor of International Women’s Day.
Blanton Museum of Art
Bullock Texas State History Museum (hotspot for all Texas facts)
Mexic-Arte Museum
Book People (rad bookstore downtown)
Do it for the Food
Austin’s food scene is a melting pot of culture and flavor. Not sure what you’re in the mood for? Bird to Fareground at OneEleven to experience and taste a little of everything. Offering boutique cheeses, ramen, Mexican and more, you won’t have to decide on just one.
Irene’s, a self-proclaimed southern grandma, “has the soul of an unpretentious dive bar but manages to keep a firm hand on service, a keen eye to hospitality and a pulse on style.” Pop in here for one of their many delectable bites; fresh biscuits, Irish nachos, pulled chicken & avocado sandwich, and end with the strawberry cake. Yum.
Café No Sé
Sour Duck Market (outdoor patio with lawn games)
Carpenters Hall
Juniper (cacio e pepe to remember)
Dean’s One Trick Pony
Intero (locally raised animals and farmed produce)
She’s Not Here
Bar Peached
Franklin’s Barbecue (hop in line early)
Austin’s food truck scene is thriving with cuisines offered around every corner. Granny’s Tacos isn’t your regular food truck. Converted from an old ambulance, Granny’s Tacos sits on 7th street in East Austin, with picnic tables for optimal enjoyment. Touted by Austin locals as serving the best tacos in Austin, you’ll just have to come to see for yourself.
Boteco
Saigon Le Vendeur (insane vermicelli bowls)
Veracruz All Natural
For the Wanderer
Umlauf Sculpture Garden is an Austin treasure. Originally owned as a carriage house, and donated to the city of Austin for public enjoyment and education, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden hosts visiting exhibitions and community activities. Family days, garden yoga, summer camp, and garden parties are just some of the many activities offered.
Laguna Gloria
Zilker Metropolitan Park (bring your dog and spend the day relaxing outdoors)
Enjoy the ride, Austin!
-The Bird Editorial Team
