Austin's airport (airport code AUS) is located about 15-20 minutes east of downtown and caters to most major airlines. Most of our wedding events will be held within about a 2-mile radius of each other in downtown Austin, so while you may have been wondering about renting a car during your stay, it is not necessary. Austin has a decent public transportation system ( http://capmetro.org/ ) as well as readily available cabs (and pedicabs at night!) to help you reach your destination. Another nice thing: the 'Dillos! (Yes, like an armadillo) These trolley buses cater to all of the sights downtown, run every 5-10 minutes and....they're FREE!
Sights to see in (or near) downtown Austin:
The University of Texas at Austin: Home to Aaron's other love (UT football) and, come December, Margaux's second alma mater. About 48,000 students attend UT, and you can see the Tower from almost anywhere in town. In addition to the football stadium and tower, there are some neat statues and even a turtle pond. Also home to the LBJ library/museum. Approximate distance from downtown: 2 miles
Texas State Captiol: another freebie here in Austin. Margaux took the tour when she first moved here and learned it's the only pink capitol building.
Museums and such:
Bob Bullock State History Museum
Dell Children's Museum
Blanton Museum of Art
Zilker Botanical Gardens
When you just want to relax and people watch:
South Congress Avenue: Hip and eclectic-but also very casual. Shops, restaurants, and of course, live music at any given hour.
Some of our favorites are Mars, Boticelli's, Guerro's, and anywhere that you can sit outside and enjoy an ice cold beverage
Zilker Park: Home to a hike-and-bike trail that circles Lady Bird Lake (that river that runs through Austin, check your save-the-date)
as well as Barton Springs pool (68-degree spring-fed water) and the Zilker Zephyr, a mini train that takes grown-ups and kiddos around parts of the park.
When hunger strikes....
Torchy's Tacos: the best taco you've ever had out of a trailer...seriously. They've opened up trailers and restaraunts all over central Austin. With crazy names like "Trailer Park", "Dirty Sanchez" and the ever popular "Democrat" and "Republican", we're sure you'll find one you love. Margaux's favorite: Green chili pork taco Aaron: Brushfire (caution-not for the faint at heart).
The Oasis: this one will require a car or deep pockets for the cab. Located about 20 minutes outside of downtown (without traffic), it is said to have the most beautiful sunset in Austin. Be prepared for a long wait!
Hula Hut: Mexinesian food (a blend of Mexican and Polynesian) with a great view of Lake Austin and less than 10-minutes from downtown. Be prepared for a long wait!
219 West: The best happy hour ever....M-Sat until 9pm enjoy half-price appetizers and great drink specials; a great way to dine on the cheap!
Walking around downtown, you'll be hard pressed to find a bad restaurant!
Ahh the nightlife....
6th Street: (in)famous for it's college crowd and mardi gras-esque atmosphere, be prepared to find yourself in another world of dollar beers and shots.
West 6th Street/Warehouse District: A great area to relax and enjoy a good drink and dinner! This area caters to everyone from young professionals on up!
Elephant Room: An Austin classic. Think brick walls, basement, mood lighting, 20 tables and a jazz band. Wynton Marsalis named it one of the top ten jazz venues in the country. 315 Congress Avenue
Outside Austin
Hill Country Wineries Take a scenic drive on Highway 290 west of Austin into the Hill Country and visit one of the best wine destinations in the country (Second only to Napa!). Aaron and I (and our parents) have taken this trip on at least one occasion and it is a great time. Some of our favorites are Becker Vineyards, Sister Creek Vineyards, and Torre di Pietra. Visit http://www.texaswinetrail.com/index.html for more details!
San Antonio Sea World, the San Antonio Zoo, the Riverwalk, and the Alamo! A great day trip!
