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 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 Raleigh 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. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Flight deals to Austin
Currently, the cheapest flights between Raleigh and Austin are if you leave on Aug. 22 and return from Texas on Aug. 26. Delta currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $154.
There are also deals to be had in July. If you fly out of Raleigh on July 30 and return from Austin on Aug. 3, United can get you there and back for $229 roundtrip.
Top Austin hotels
To plan your stay, here are some of Austin’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price 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.
The AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center (1900 University Ave.)
There's also the 4.8-star rated The AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, which has rooms for $129/night.
The AT&T Education and Conference Center offers luxury hotel amenities and full conference center facilities, including intimate meeting rooms with arena seating and smart classroom technology.
The Hotel Ella (1900 Rio Grande)
A pricier alternative is The Hotel Ella. The 4.8-star hotel has rooms for $199/night.
"Hotel Ella is the perfect quintessential Austin vibe. Upscale luxury with laid-back personality. Some unexpected amenities: free internet access, minibars and luxury linens," wrote visitor Alice.
Featured Austin food and drink
If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Austin has plenty of excellent eateries to choose from. Here are a few from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.
Uchi (801 S. Lamar Blvd.)
One of Austin's most popular restaurants is Uchi, which has an average of 4.9 stars out of 104 reviews on Skyscanner.
Uchi invites diners to explore their gastronomic boundaries by pairing traditional Japanese offerings with new and refreshing flavors and textures.
"Amazing sushi!" wrote visitor Katie.
Franklin Barbecue (900 E. 11th)
Also worth considering is the Franklin Barbecue, with 4.9 stars from 100 reviews.
"All the hype for this all-American meal," wrote Helena. "It was the No. 1 thing to do while visiting Austin."
Hopdoddy Burger Bar (1400 S. Congress Ave.)
Another popular dining destination is the Hopdoddy Burger Bar, with 4.7 stars from 127 reviews.
"This place is popular and there may be a line, but it moves pretty fast and is totally worth it," wrote Wendy.
Home Slice Pizza (1415 S. Congress Ave.)
Finally, there's Home Slice Pizza, with 4.7 stars from 122 reviews.
"Whether you're into spinach pizza or the traditional cheese pie, this place is funky and fun," wrote Tiffany.
Featured local attractions
Austin is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.
Barton Springs Pool (2201 Barton Springs Road)
First up is the Barton Springs Pool. It checks in with 4.8 stars from 344 reviews.
The Barton Springs Pool provides the perfect outing for those hot Texas days. It maintains a comfortable temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. The grassy hillsides and moss-covered rocks are perfect for sunbathing.
"A must-visit in Austin, especially in the summer," wrote visitor Nici.
Zilker Metropolitan Park (2100 Barton Springs Road)
The Zilker Metropolitan Park is another popular destination, with 4.8 stars from 269 reviews.
"This is a great place to take a break from the bustling Downtown scene," wrote visitor Tyson.
Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail (Lady Bird Lake)
Lastly, spend some time at the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, with 4.9 stars from 184 reviews.
"The trail is a 7-mile loop that gives you a great view of the city from different sides. It's a beautiful place for a walk or run," wrote Jenna.
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.
