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 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 Louisville 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
The cheapest flights between Louisville and Austin are if you leave on Sept. 6 and return from Texas on Sept. 10. Frontier Airlines currently has tickets for $239, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had in October. If you fly out of Louisville on Oct. 31 and return from Austin on Nov. 5, Southwest Airlines can get you there and back for $278 roundtrip.
Top Austin hotels
To plan your accommodations, here are some 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 (604 Brazos St.)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Driskill. The hotel has a 4.5-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $129.
A landmark in downtown Austin, the hotel was built in 1886 as the showplace for cattle baron Jesse Lincoln Driskill. Enjoy convenient access to the best of Austin, from the Texas State Capitol and the Austin Convention Center to the city’s famous Sixth Street nightlife scene.
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.
Located on the south side of the UT campus, the AT&T Education and Conference center offers luxury hotel amenities and full conference center facilities. Guest benefits include access to the UT pool and gym facilities, in addition to the fitness room and pool on-site.
The Hotel Ella (1900 Rio Grande)
If you're looking to splurge on top quality, there's 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," wrote visitor Alice.
Local restaurant picks
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. Combining local seasonal ingredients with seafood from around the globe is the basis for Uchi's culinary philosophy. The spot maintains close relationships with local farmers and flies in seafood every day from the Tsukiji market in Tokyo.
"Amazing sushi," wrote visitor Katie. "They don't take reservations, and it can get crowded."
Hopdoddy Burger Bar (1400 S. Congress Ave.)
Another popular dining destination is Hopdoddy Burger Bar, with 4.7 stars from 127 reviews.
"This place is popular so there may be a line, but it moves pretty fast and is totally worth it. Here's a secret: If you are willing to sit at the bar, go inside and see if there is a seat before waiting in line," wrote reviewer Wendy.
Home Slice Pizza (1415 S. Congress Ave.)
Finally, there's Home Slice Pizza, an independent neighborhood pizza joint serving authentic, hand-tossed New York-style pizza — by the pie or by the slice.
"Whether you're into spinach pizza or traditional cheese, this place is funky and fun," wrote Tiffany.
What to see and do in Austin
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 Barton Springs Pool.
Barton Springs Pool is the perfect outing for those hot Texas days — or even the cool ones. The hillsides and moss-covered rocks are perfect for sunbathing. Diving boards, concession stands and restroom facilities are also available.
"A must-visit within Austin, especially in the summer," wrote visitor Nici.
Zilker Metropolitan Park (2100 Barton Springs Road)
Then, there's Zilker Metropolitan Park.
Patrons will enjoy a huge variety of activities at Zilker Park. You can check out the hike and bike trails, picnic facilities, Zilker Botanical Garden , canoe rentals, soccer fields and sand volleyball courts — just minutes from the downtown area.
"A great place to take a break from the bustling downtown," wrote visitor Tyson. "Large open space make this a great place to play soccer or frisbee."
Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail (Lady Bird Lake)
Finally, spend some time at Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail.
"A wonderful body of water in the center of the city," wrote visitor Nici. "Paddleboarding and kayaking/canoeing. However, if you don't feel like being in the water, I highly suggest biking around Lady Bird Lake. There are solid trails, and on either side of the lake there are additional areas you can ride through for a longer, more scenic ride of Austin."
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.
