Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Let the Staycation Begin
Words Codi Chen
When you live in a city as eclectic as Austin, it’s wild how easy it is to take it for granted. Same coffee shop, same route, same weekend plans. But what if you hit pause on the usual and saw the city with fresh eyes? This weekend itinerary invites you to lean into the legendary, explore the ordinary, soak up the sun, and embrace all the things that make Austin exceptional.
Friday
Keep It Classic
Check into a boutique gem like Frame Hotel SoCo or Treehouse, each with a uniquely Austin aesthetic that turns a weekend away into something special. Fuel up with a Don Juan taco at Juan in a Million or grab a coffee and pastry at Radio Coffee. Afterward, hit South Congress for treasure hunting at Allens Boots and Triple Z Threadz. Then snap a pic at the iconic ‘I Love You So Much’ mural outside Jo’s Coffee or a selfie with Willie Nelson next to Home Slice Pizza.
Come afternoon, head to Laundrette, a retro-chic spot housed in a former washateria. As golden hour hits, rent a kayak from Live Love Paddle and float toward Congress Avenue Bridge to catch the nightly bat aerial show. Alternately, take a riverboat tour with Capital Cruises to learn about these nocturnal creatures that live their best lives along the expansive Edwards Aquifer. Cap off the night with a show at The Paramount Theatre, Antone’s, or a big-name set at ACL Live, intimate and classic Austin, through and through.
Saturday
Get a Little Weird
Start your morning with a quirky breakfast at Bouldin Creek Café, beloved for its veggie-friendly menu, or enjoy Paperboy’s thoughtful take on brunch classics. Then, lean into Austin’s eccentric spirit with a stroll through Uncommon Objects, The Little Gay Shop, or Small World Goods, each bursting with personality and one-of-a-kind finds. When the heat kicks in, cool off with a dip at Barton Springs Pool or venture to Campbell’s Hole, a tucked-away Greenbelt favorite.
Later, explore the chaotic brilliance of the Cathedral of Junk, the refined galleries at the Blanton, or the cultural gems at Mexic-Arte. Grab dinner at Suerte for some of the best tacos in Austin, or treat yourself to a Michelin Green Star experience at Emmer & Rye. Wrap up your evening with music and dancing at Sahara Lounge or Cheer Up Charlies. After all, weird isn’t just welcome in Austin — it’s the whole vibe.
Sunday
Chase the Chill
Ease into the day with a laid-back brunch at Mattie’s (Peacocks included!), or soak up the charm at Josephine House. Follow it up with a little self-care indulging in a custom facial at Viva Day Spa or a detoxifying sweat in the infrared sauna at Zen Mind + Body Spa.
Refuel with something light and freshing from JuiceLand or The Soup Peddler, then head outdoors for a scenic stroll at Mount Bonnell or McKinney Falls State Park. End your weekend on a high note with dinner, drinks, and a colorful sunset at The Oasis, because every great staycation deserves a grand finale.
Your Sanctuary Awaits
Frame Hotel–SoCo and its sister property Treehouse blend serene design, the ease of convenience, and luxe details. Both Frame Hotels are focused on privacy and simplicity. There’s no front desk, no door keys, no restaurant, and no pool. Instead, Frame centers the guest experience around carefully curated details such as the sound of water, the feel of stone, and the glow of lanterns at dusk, making it the perfect place to rest your head while experiencing all the new and old things Austin has to offer.
