Austin is the state capital of Texas and the fastest-growing large city by population in the US. It was named the number one place to live in the country by US News & World Report in both 2017 and 2018. The fact it is nicknamed the 'Live Music Capital of the World' will tell you that music is a fundamental part of Austin's identity, with more gig venues per capita to be found here than in any other American city. To experience all there is to see and do in this fascinating destination and beyond, pick up a car rental at Austin-Bergstrom Airport and embark on a journey you won't forget.
Music is a fundamental part of Austin's character, so if you really want to get to know the city, it's worth checking out some of its live music venues. The top night spots include The Mohawk and Stubb's BBQ, both of which are located in the Red River District - a popular entertainment hotspot where you're sure to enjoy some memorable evenings.
Austin's State Capitol comprises 22 acres of grounds and monuments dating back to the late 19th century. Standing at a height of 308 feet, it's taller than the US Capitol in Washington and features a range of impressive sights, including the Texas African-American History Memorial, a Vietnam War monument and even a miniature version of the Statue of Liberty.
If you want to enjoy some of Austin's outdoor attractions, Zilker Park is probably the best place to start. As well as providing the setting for the famous Austin City Limits festival, this space boasts a number of riverside walking trails and features that younger visitors will love, like the Zilker Zephyr miniature train.
If you're keen to learn more about the history of Texas, rent a car in Austin and take I-35 S to reach San Antonio in just an hour and a half. This fascinating city has a rich heritage, having been founded as a Spanish mission and colonial outpost in 1718. One sight that absolutely shouldn't be missed in San Antonio is the Alamo, a historic mission and fortress that was the site of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution in 1836.
It's easy to forget that a large part of Texas is coastal, meaning there is plenty of beautiful seafront scenery to explore in the south of the state. The sun-drenched Gulf Coast stretches for nearly 1,000 miles all the way from the Texas-Mexico border to the tip of Florida, taking in five states along the way. Highlights of the Texan stretch include Galveston Island, where you can go hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, or just relax on the beach.
Take a drive of about two and a half hours south-east from Austin, following TX-71 E and I-10 E, and you will reach Houston, the most populous city in Texas. One of the highlights of this destination is the Museum District, where you can visit the Museum of Fine Arts, the Contemporary Arts Museum and Houston Zoo. Another highlight is the Lyndon B Johnson Space Center, where you can see a display of spacesuits and go inside the shuttle replica Independence.
Booking a convertible car rental in Austin will allow you to enjoy the sunshine the city enjoys for much of the year.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Tolls are charged on some of the routes around Austin, such as TX-71 E towards Houston.
July enjoys 317 hours of sunshine on average.
May, with 121 mm of rain on average.
Austin City Limits, South by Southwest, Art City Austin