Everyone knows about the capital’s stunning rotunda and the jaw-dropping views from Mount Bonnell, but there’s a slew of other hidden gems Austinites don’t like to publicize. With so many tourists flocking to this city, hoping to soak up Austin’s unique culture, many places have become excessively crowded. These are nine hidden attractions that Austin locals keep to themselves.
- The Umlauf Sculpture Garden
evso/Flickr Not only does Austin have a flourishing botanical garden full of lush plants, but there’s also a sculpture garden that sparkles with gorgeous works of art. Charles Umlauf left his stunning bronze sculptures to the city as part of this whimsical garden. You can walk through the grounds at 605 Robert E Lee Rd.
- Moontower Saloon
Moontower Saloon/Facebook This local hangout is so much more than just a bar. At Moontower Saloon, you can play volleyball in the sand, linger under massive oak trees, and taste the best barbecue in Central Texas. Yes, Salt Lick Barbecue has a food truck at Moontower Saloon, and the brisket pairs excellently with a craft IPA or iced tea. Visit Moontower Saloon at 10212 Manchaca Rd.
- Driftwood Estate Winery
Driftwood Estate Winery/Facebook The Driftwood Estate Winery has, hands down, the best views of the Hill Country. It’s only a breezy 45 minute drive from the city, and the out-of-towners rarely make that trek. This peaceful winery is truly a local gem.
- Veracruz All Natural
Veracruz All Natural/Facebook This food truck doesn’t need a gimmick. With legendary breakfast tacos and scrumptious salsas, Veracruz All Natural keeps fans craving more. This authentic taco joint has three locations throughout the city including a brick and mortar at 9003 Waterford Centre Blvd.
- Mayfield Park
Andy/Flickr Watch the peacocks strut their stuff and enjoy the gorgeous views. Mayfield Park is definitely a place locals want to keep to themselves, though it grows more popular by the day. Explore this whimsical park at 3505 W 35th St.
- The Shoal Creek Greenbelt
Marcus Calderon/Flickr As more tourists flock to The Barton Creek Greenbelt, Austinites haves started congregating at Shoal Creek. This 81 acre ribbon park has plenty of hiking trails and scenic views. Unlike the Barton Creek Greenbelt, you can let your dog roam free at the off-leash dog park. If you haven’t been here yet, now is the time. Check out the Shoal Creek Greenbelt at 2600 N Lamar Blvd.
- Patrizi’s
Patrizi’s/Facebook Close your eyes and let the rich, garlicky flavors sweep you away to Italy. It’s hard to believe that pasta this authentic is produced from a food truck, but Patrizi’s doesn’t let a small kitchen hinder their adoration for fresh flavors. This mouthwatering Italian food truck is parked in Butterfly Bar’s epic outdoor patio. You’ll have an extraordinary dining experience at 2307 Manor Rd.
- The Elephant Room
Roberto Cipriano/Flickr This underground jazz club, tucked away at 315 Congress Ave, will make your hips sway and heart skip a beat. The expert musicians fill this tiny dive bar with energy, and you could listen to these vibrant sounds all night long.
- The Yard
Spokesman/Facebook Whether you need a caffeine boost or some tasty Thai food, The Yard has what you’re craving. This new development at 440 E St Elmo Rd is home to Austin Winery, Spokesman Coffee Bar, Still Austin Whiskey Co., and St. Elmo Brewing.
What’s your favorite local attraction?
evso/Flickr
Not only does Austin have a flourishing botanical garden full of lush plants, but there’s also a sculpture garden that sparkles with gorgeous works of art. Charles Umlauf left his stunning bronze sculptures to the city as part of this whimsical garden. You can walk through the grounds at 605 Robert E Lee Rd.
Moontower Saloon/Facebook
This local hangout is so much more than just a bar. At Moontower Saloon, you can play volleyball in the sand, linger under massive oak trees, and taste the best barbecue in Central Texas. Yes, Salt Lick Barbecue has a food truck at Moontower Saloon, and the brisket pairs excellently with a craft IPA or iced tea. Visit Moontower Saloon at 10212 Manchaca Rd.
Driftwood Estate Winery/Facebook
The Driftwood Estate Winery has, hands down, the best views of the Hill Country. It’s only a breezy 45 minute drive from the city, and the out-of-towners rarely make that trek. This peaceful winery is truly a local gem.
Veracruz All Natural/Facebook
This food truck doesn’t need a gimmick. With legendary breakfast tacos and scrumptious salsas, Veracruz All Natural keeps fans craving more. This authentic taco joint has three locations throughout the city including a brick and mortar at 9003 Waterford Centre Blvd.
Andy/Flickr
Watch the peacocks strut their stuff and enjoy the gorgeous views. Mayfield Park is definitely a place locals want to keep to themselves, though it grows more popular by the day. Explore this whimsical park at 3505 W 35th St.
Marcus Calderon/Flickr
As more tourists flock to The Barton Creek Greenbelt, Austinites haves started congregating at Shoal Creek. This 81 acre ribbon park has plenty of hiking trails and scenic views. Unlike the Barton Creek Greenbelt, you can let your dog roam free at the off-leash dog park. If you haven’t been here yet, now is the time. Check out the Shoal Creek Greenbelt at 2600 N Lamar Blvd.
Patrizi’s/Facebook
Close your eyes and let the rich, garlicky flavors sweep you away to Italy. It’s hard to believe that pasta this authentic is produced from a food truck, but Patrizi’s doesn’t let a small kitchen hinder their adoration for fresh flavors. This mouthwatering Italian food truck is parked in Butterfly Bar’s epic outdoor patio. You’ll have an extraordinary dining experience at 2307 Manor Rd.
Roberto Cipriano/Flickr
This underground jazz club, tucked away at 315 Congress Ave, will make your hips sway and heart skip a beat. The expert musicians fill this tiny dive bar with energy, and you could listen to these vibrant sounds all night long.
Spokesman/Facebook
Whether you need a caffeine boost or some tasty Thai food, The Yard has what you’re craving. This new development at 440 E St Elmo Rd is home to Austin Winery, Spokesman Coffee Bar, Still Austin Whiskey Co., and St. Elmo Brewing.
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