Austin, TX
Austin, my hometown, and favorite city. However, the weirdest city in America has come a long way from the small hippy town I grew up knowing. A political hub with a laid-back vibe and colorful music scene, the city has boomed in recent years. The "Live Music Capital of the World" draws people in with its alternative culture, warm climate and emerging bar and restaurant scene.
Before you go...
1. Check the weather. Texas is hot and humid most of the time but that can change quickly. If you're riding, pack breathable gear, rain gear and layers for potential cold fronts.
2. It's the blueberry in the tomato soup of Texas, it's a liberal city with an alternative culture. The city motto is "Keep Austin Weird".
3. Although Austin is an urban center, there are loads of outdoor activities. Pack sneakers and a swimsuit.
4. Tacos are a way of life, be prepared to have them for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night.
5. Like any city, each neighborhood in Austin has its own personality. The neighborhoods I suggest visiting are The East Side (east of the I-35 & north of the Colorado River), Downtown, Clarksville, SoCo, Bouldin, Zilker, and Lamar.
6. Parking is limited most places and traffic has gotten worse, which you will definitely hear about from the locals. It's easiest to share ride (Lyft, Uber, Ride Austin), rent bicycles (Austin B-cycle) or ride your motorcycle.
Where to...
|Eat & Drink|
An Austin staple since 1999, this joint is home to the must-try Iced Turbo and the iconic "I love you so much" mural at their SoCo location.
Your one-stop shop for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks in downtown Austin. It offers an array of cuisine in chic underground digs.
Get the best tacos in town for breakfast or lunch, just make sure you get there before they close at 3 pm.
An airy, Danish-inspired coffee shop serving up your daily caffeine and some stellar breakfast plates.
Stop by for French Vietnamese fusion and delightful pastries at this Bouldin hot spot.
Right around the corner from Zilker Park, this snow cone stand is an Austin classic with countless flavors, open March through October.
Head to the East Side for classic French and a sexy bohemian atmosphere with art installations on the property.
The brainchild of two of Austin's powerhouse chefs, this Asian smokehouse is turning out killer BBQ with a fresh twist.
Make a night of it and reserve your spot at Eden East, a supper club on a gorgeous urban farm that serves up its best produce.
A Palm Beach-inspired bar with exotic drinks and an outside patio perfect for big and small groups.
If you're looking for an interesting conversation with a potential world traveler in a fancy hostel, or just want to dance, look no further.
Everyone's go-to bar where they serve up quality cocktails in a hip, airy spot with plenty of patio seating. They also have a Mezcal bar up the stairs.
|See & Do|
An oasis in the middle of the city. Go early to beat the crowd and take a dip in the chilly water that's naturally fed from an underground spring.
BARTON SPRINGS POOL
The local outdoor hangout where you'll find dog owners, kites, sand volleyball courts, frisbee and soccer scrimmages.
ZILKER PARK
A modern art gallery meets museum with rotating exhibitions downtown and freestanding pieces around town.
The multi-level, raw street art mecca that will be relocated to the East Side from Clarksville in 2018.
1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed bats roost under the Congress Bridge, see them fly out from August to November. Get more info at the "Bat Hotline" (512) 327-9721.
The granddaddy of Austin music venues, expect phenomenal acts in an intimate and historical setting. Also, head upstairs for more live music in even cozier quarters.
A bar and music venue catering to country and indie fans, this place is comfortable and divey, grab a cold beer and let loose.
UAL, United Apparel Liquidators, has your favorite designer clothes at 70-90% off retail. Find everything from Miu Miu to Alexander Wang for a steal.
A hip home store full of new & vintage treats. You'll find artisanal textiles & crafts, restored furniture, and standout accessories
|Moto Spots|
The store offers curated brands and products to support a motorcycle lifestyle. The pieces are quality, small batch, stylish, and have a price tag to match. You can also rent motorcycles for the day here.
At Lone Star Moto Rentals you can easily rent a motorcycle for the day, their website makes it super easy to plan in advance, select the bike and pay.
If you forgot anything or need to restock before you ride, stop here. They are a used-motorcycle dealer that also sells a selection of new accessories, from apparel & gear to parts at a reasonable price.
Rathbone Moto Works is a repair shop with fair prices, honest mechanics and speedy turnaround times.
RATHBONE MOTO WORKS
Stop by to peruse, pickup parts, advice, or have your bike serviced. They have a knowledgeable and patient team that's always helpful with my questions and needs.
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Jo's Coffee
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Continental Club
MOTO FRIENDLY SPOTS
Rides.
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Full tour of Austin. Go through the whole city, see east, west, north, and south. Start at Jo's Coffee on SoCo for breakfast and end on the East Side for lunch.
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Austin to Fredericksburg. 93 miles, 2 hours, sweeping, rolling hills.
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Austin to Luckenbach. 106 miles. 2.5 hours, rolling hills, open roads. The Wildseed Farms is nearby, stop by if you have time.
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Devil's Backbone. From Blanco to Wimberly it's a gorgeous stretch of limestone erosion.
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Three Twisted Sisters if you're looking for a weekend trip. Stay at the Escondida Resort for an upscale, serene rest in Medina or the Medina Highpoint Resort for a more budget and moto friendly overnight experience.
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The sisters’ route is comprised of Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337. It's popular amongst bikers and spans a total distance of 220 miles of rolling foothills and twisting roads. You’ll pass through Lost Maples State Park, Garner State Park, and the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop (a great spot for a break and a cold drink).
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Drop by the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum along the way, open March through November on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
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Watch out for the heat and wildlife, hydrate and stay alert for deer, cattle, and other wildlife along the way.
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