The Ketanga Kollection: Top 5 Things to do in Austin

Known by US News as America’s #1 place to live for the 2nd consecutive year in a row, Austin boasts an incredible amount to do, see, eat and drink that you don’t want to miss! With its toasty temperatures and sunshine-filled days, Austin provides an ideal atmosphere to get out and about, and its inhabitants and visitors alike are able to take advantage of activities on water, land and in caves!

While it’s known for Franklin’s BBQ and the wild “Dirty 6th” Street, we included a list of our top 5 insider picks for places you can’t miss. So ditch those cowboy boots for sneakers, come hungry and check it out!

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1st stop: Veracruz Breakfast Tacos

A little food trailer with a line as large as the taco compliments it receives, Veracruz is a must-hit spot in Austin when you’re starting your trip. Known by the population of Yelp as “the best tacos in Austin!!!” Veracruz sets itself apart with its juicy Al Pastor tacos and even popular Migas, which are flavorful vegetarian tacos. The ingredients are fresh, the avocado is plentiful and no one stares at you funny when you request extra, extra, extra hot sauce.

2nd stop: Digest and paddle on Lady Bird Lake ​

A river-like reservoir in the middle of Austin, Lady Bird Lake is the perfect place to digest your many breakfast tacos. With its toasty temperatures, Austin encourages endless water activities, so we recommend checking out their paddle boarding or kayaking. If you’re more a land-mammal, try walking or biking around the lake for a great workout and a gorgeous view of the water.

3rd stop: Soak up the sun in Zilker Park

You’ve started that glorious golden glow with your time in the sun on the lake, so don’t stop now! Slather on the sunscreen, grab an iced drink from Picnic and bring a frisbee to Zilker Park for another chance to soak in those UV rays. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how many canine friends you’ll make, and the people watching is an activity all in its own right.

4th stop: Dine at Red Ash

While someone wouldn’t immediately head to Austin and think of getting Italian, don’t let that stop you from having potentially the best meal of your beautiful life. Red Ash may be a deviation from the typical BBQ suggestion when you head to Texas, but allow yourself to take a brief reprieve from Franklin’s heavy (albeit flawless) brisket to try their burrata starter plate and housemade pasta. Pro-tip: Happy Hour last from 4:30pm - 6:30pm and that’s the perfect time to warm up for your main meal with discounted cocktails, wines and salads!

5th stop: Check out Rainey Street nightlife!

You’ve spent the day being pretty active in the glorious Austin sunshine, so cool down with a drink (or three) on the ever-popular and bustling Rainey Street! Austin is home to some of the most unique and eclectic bars with games, fairy lighting and live-music, so make sure to bop around and stretch that social muscle! Lucille, Container Bar and Geraldine’s for live music are a few of our favorite suggestions.

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