Looking for a trending new city to explore? Consider Austin, Texas, one of the fastest growing large cities in the country and U.S. News & World Report's #1 place to live in the U.S. for the past two years running.

The self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World" is home to many students, artists and musicians, along with a booming tech industry, and a classic Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex food scene. Despite its growth, Austin seeks to maintain its eccentric local vibe, with plenty of independent businesses and a strong commitment to the local environment. Austin hosts numerous festivals throughout the year and boasts more music venues per capita than any other city in the U.S. The list of local attractions also includes extensive theaters, museums and outdoor spaces like parks, lakes and waterways.

It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Saint Paul to Austin in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.

So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.

(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)

Cheapest Austin flights

The cheapest flights between Saint Paul and Austin are if you leave on May 11 and return from Texas on May 15. Frontier Airlines currently has tickets for $107, roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had in April. If you fly out of Saint Paul on April 22 and return from Austin on April 26, Sun Country Airlines can get you there and back for $157 roundtrip.

Top Austin hotels

To plan your accommodations, here are two of Austin’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Driskill – in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt (604 Brazos St.)

For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Driskill - in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. The hotel has a 4.5-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $129.

A landmark in downtown Austin, this hotel was built in 1886. Enjoy convenient access to the best of Austin, from the Texas State Capitol and Austin Convention Center to the city’s famous nightlife scene.  

The Hotel Ella (1900 Rio Grande)

A pricer alternative is The Hotel Ella. The 4.8-star hotel has rooms for $199/night.

Featured Austin food and drink

If you're looking to snag a bite at one of Austin's many quality eateries, here are a few popular culinary destinations from Skyscanner's listings that will help keep you satiated.

Uchi (801 S. Lamar Blvd.)

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Uchi, which has an average of 4.9 stars out of 104 reviews on Skyscanner.

"Amazing sushi. It's right up there with anything you'll find in San Francisco, New York City or elsewhere," wrote visitor Katie.

Franklin Barbecue (900 E. 11th)

Another popular dining destination is Franklin Barbecue, with 4.9 stars from 99 reviews.

"The pork ribs had a very good dry rub for seasoning and they were nice and tender," wrote reviewer Helena.   

Hopdoddy Burger Bar (1400 S. Congress Ave.)

Also worth considering is Hopdoddy Burger Bar. It has 4.7 stars from 127 reviews. 

Top Austin attractions

Not sure what to do in Austin, besides eat and drink? Here are two recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Barton Springs Pool (2201 Barton Springs Road)

First up is Barton Springs Pool, with 4.8 stars out of 341 reviews.

As one of Austin's finest attractions, Barton Springs Pool is the perfect outing for those hot Texas days—, or even the cool ones. Maintaining a comfortable 68 degrees Fahrenheit year round, you will enjoy a 100 percent natural swimming experience with no chlorine. 

Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail (Lady Bird Lake)

Finally, consider checking out Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail. It has 4.9 stars from 183 reviews. 

"A wonderful body of water in the center of the city. Paddleboarding and kayaking/canoeing are the most popular activities around Lady Bird Lake, and I do suggest trying them at least once," wrote visitor Nici.   

This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.