my week in austin

Since my brother and his wife moved to Austin a few years ago, I have fallen in love with the city. Every time I visit we eat amazing food, dance the night away on 6th Street, and shop until we can't anymore on South Congress. This city is full of hipsters and some of the best live music in the country. Here is a list of some of my favorite places to explore in Austin. Have you guys ever been to Texas? 

Graffiti Park at Castle Hill 
Be prepared for the biggest and most colorful wall mural you have ever seen. Hipsters, artists, and teens spray paint the walls at Castle Hill on a daily basis. If you’re feeling brave take a quick hike to the top for some of the coolest views of downtown Austin. 

The Capital Building 
The amount of history in Texas blows my mind! If you can’t make it to The Alamo in San Antonio, the Capital building in downtown is also beautiful to explore. You can take a self guided tour or walk through with an expert that will give you all the insight. 

Barton Springs Pool 
If you are looking for a place to cool down in the hot Texas heat, I highly recommend hanging out at the Barton Spring Pool. Spend the day exploring the 358 acres of trails and wildlife at Zilker Park, which lies adjacent to the man-made spring. They also offering paddle-boarding and kayaking if that is more up your alley. 

Mount Bonnell 
After taking a short drive through what feels like the Hollywood Hills of Austin, Mount Bonnell stands out prominently. Overlooking the Colorado River and Lake Austin, you can get some killer views of the city from this vantage point. The hike to the top is nice and short, and if your lucky maybe you will get to see Matthew McConaughey sipping his morning coffee from a mansion. (A girl can dream right?)

Jo's Coffee Shop on South Congress
Known as the SoCo shopping district, South Congress is an iconic part of the Austin. Lined with amazing shops, food trucks, boutique hotels, and restaurants it is the place to be. Looking for a cliché place to take an Instragam photo? The wall on the side of Jo's Coffee Shop on South Congress Avenue is the perfect spot (plus there coffee isn't half bad).  

Lady Bug Lake Trails 
This is the perfect Saturday morning spot to relax and walk your pup. You are guaranteed to see dozens of cute dogs jumping into the Colorado River, and might even make a few friends along the way. The trails are great for hiking or walking alongside the lush greenery and peaceful riverfront.