Austin seems to change by the minute. From the housing prices to the massive city skyscrapers, this city is always reaching higher and higher. Luckily, there are still a few hidden gems that have avoided the effects of progress and gentrification. These are seven incredible places in Austin that never ever change.
- Mount Bonnell
Jeff Gunn/Flickr The houses below grow bigger, but the majestic Lake Austin views stay the same. Mount Bonnell has been a tourist favorite since the 1850s, and no amount of progress or gentrification can wipe away its shimmering beauty.
- The Broken Spoke
Angi English/Flickr From the creaky floorboards to the classic chicken-fried steak recipe, The Broken Spoke stays the same. Even after 53 years, this classic honky tonk sticks to its roots. Numerous country legends got their starts here, and Willie Nelson is known to stop by and take a trip down memory lane.
- Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery
Texas G./Yelp Since 1948, Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery has been whipping up hot, tasty pastries for both night owls and early risers. They’re open every day from 8:00 am to midnight. Sink your teeth into this tasty Austin tradition at 4909 Airport Blvd.
- Enchanted Rock
Jonathan Cutrer/Flickr This pink granite dome has dazzled Austinites for centuries. Entrance to this glistening natural structure is limited, so it’s rarely bogged down with hordes of visitors. This mystical landmark is located just outside of Austin in Fredericksburg, Texas.
- Inner Space Cavern
Inner Space Cavern/Facebook Stalactites and stalagmites don’t grow overnight, so this wondrous cave hasn’t changed for centuries. Inner Space Cavern was discovered in the early ’60s by The Texas Highway Department. Today, visitors can explore the depths any day of the week. Inner Space Cavern is the most exciting adventure in Georgetown, Texas.
- Hoffbrau Steaks
The Original Hoffbrau Steakhouse/Facebook Dining at the original Hoffbrau Steakhouse really feels like a trip back in time. The menu is simple, and the steaks are delicious. West Sixth Street booms around it, but this Austin classic remains. Visit this historic gem at 613 W 6th St.
- The Cloak Room
The Cloak Room/Yelp This covert bar has sat across the street from the capital building since the 1970s, and it still holds on to its original atmosphere. Famous for being the “go-to” drinking spot for politicians in the ’80s, The Cloak Room isn’t easy to find. Look for a historic yellow building near the capital’s west entrance. Take the stairway to the basement, and you’ll experience a little bit of Austin history.
What are some places you would add to this list? If you’re really longing for the good old days, look back on these nine things you can’t do in Austin anymore, but wish you could.
Jeff Gunn/Flickr
The houses below grow bigger, but the majestic Lake Austin views stay the same. Mount Bonnell has been a tourist favorite since the 1850s, and no amount of progress or gentrification can wipe away its shimmering beauty.
Angi English/Flickr
From the creaky floorboards to the classic chicken-fried steak recipe, The Broken Spoke stays the same. Even after 53 years, this classic honky tonk sticks to its roots. Numerous country legends got their starts here, and Willie Nelson is known to stop by and take a trip down memory lane.
Texas G./Yelp
Since 1948, Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery has been whipping up hot, tasty pastries for both night owls and early risers. They’re open every day from 8:00 am to midnight. Sink your teeth into this tasty Austin tradition at 4909 Airport Blvd.
Jonathan Cutrer/Flickr
This pink granite dome has dazzled Austinites for centuries. Entrance to this glistening natural structure is limited, so it’s rarely bogged down with hordes of visitors. This mystical landmark is located just outside of Austin in Fredericksburg, Texas.
Inner Space Cavern/Facebook
Stalactites and stalagmites don’t grow overnight, so this wondrous cave hasn’t changed for centuries. Inner Space Cavern was discovered in the early ’60s by The Texas Highway Department. Today, visitors can explore the depths any day of the week. Inner Space Cavern is the most exciting adventure in Georgetown, Texas.
The Original Hoffbrau Steakhouse/Facebook
Dining at the original Hoffbrau Steakhouse really feels like a trip back in time. The menu is simple, and the steaks are delicious. West Sixth Street booms around it, but this Austin classic remains. Visit this historic gem at 613 W 6th St.
The Cloak Room/Yelp
This covert bar has sat across the street from the capital building since the 1970s, and it still holds on to its original atmosphere. Famous for being the “go-to” drinking spot for politicians in the ’80s, The Cloak Room isn’t easy to find. Look for a historic yellow building near the capital’s west entrance. Take the stairway to the basement, and you’ll experience a little bit of Austin history.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
