Is there any U.S. city that has undergone such an extensive makeover as much as Texas' most prized destination?
To be fair, the most buzzing city in Texas welcomes all travelers, but it's so welcoming to all walks of life that solo trippers will never feel out of place.
With shameless ‘weird' vibes, never-ending nightlife, world-class food, and stunning nature, those courageous enough to fly solo will fall head over boots with Austin, Texas.
The HuffPost just revealed their worldwide favorites for last-minute solo getaways and Austin stuck out among the rest for its sheer uniqueness.
With endless things to do in this judgement-free zone, you can pig out on barbecue, dance the night away, or find your inner Zen in the lush Greenbelt without a care in the world.
And lucky for you, fall is the best time to visit!
A Unique Blend Of Solitude And Social Life: Austin Has It All!
As long as you avoid my ex in the neighboring town of Kyle, you're sure to have a great time exploring all Austin has to offer!
Austin truly has it all. It's quite surprising this revamped city hasn't landed on more ‘solo' listicles. Heck, the ‘Austin of the Northwest‘ was recently named among the best cities for solo travel, so why not Austin proper?
What was formerly a quirky city with a small town feel has been transformed into Texas' new bustling metropolis.
Oftentimes, solo travelers rightfully want to use their passport, but that doesn't have to be the case.
One trip to Central Texas will change that quicker'n a fox in heat as they say 'round here.
Actually, that's only true in other parts of the state. Austin isn't the ‘fox' but more of the ‘black sheep' as it doesn't fit the typical Texas stereotype hardly at all except for patio margs, mouthwatering barbecue, and southern hospitality (at least from real locals before the ‘California exodus').
Solo travelers will always feel welcomed whether at a local bar, one of the many live music shows, or simply enjoying all of the city's natural sites like Mt. Bonnell or stretching beyond the outskirts to Dripping Springs.
If there's one U.S. city solo travelers should have pinned on their map, it's Austin, a city that embraces anyone and everyone from those seeking a fresh start to those ready to let loose on the always-packed 6th Street and Rainey Street.
Table For One
There's no shortage of great food in the capital of Texas. Southern comfort classics, mouthwatering barbecue, and tacos galore, but that's just a starting point.
More and more world-class chefs have declared Austin as their base, and there's no turning back.
Not only has Austin become San Francisco 2.0 in terms of the latest tech, but it's become one of the nation's foodie capitals.
Visitors have their selection of award-winning food trucks, hole-in-the-wall dives, to outdoor patios, which have become an Austin staple since fall is one of the most enjoyable times of year to be outside.
Unlike many places across the globe, in the U.S., there has always been a stigma against eating alone, but no one bats an eye here.
Here are 3 Austin classics to try:
- Kerbey Lane (get the queso dip!)
- Franklin Barbecue
- Texas Chili Parlor
3 new restaurants to try, according to Eater:
- Yellow Ranger
- Con Vista Al Mar
- Bar Alcina
Lastly, 3 of my personal favorites as a born-and-raised Texan:
- Cabo Bob's (best burritos in the world!)
- Mickelthrwait Barbecue (beat Franklin's lines!)
- Guero's (a classic Austin institution; great for celebrity spotting!)
Austin's Astounding Nature
If you were to visit Austin in summer, you might melt into the pavement, but come late October to early December, you'll experience much more splendid weather hiking, biking, kayaking, or even taking a dip at the city's famous Barton Springs.
There's virtually no end to Austin's lush natural attractions, but you'll find many Austinites out on the water at the unmissable Lady Bird Lake dividing the skyline from other cool districts.
If you're seeking solitude among the best city views, nearby Mount Bonnell is the place to be. If you want to hike as the locals do, then wandering the winding trails of the Greenbelt is your best bet.
For true hidden gems, however, you gotta go south deeper into the Hill Country. New Braunfels is about 30 minutes away and boasts far more than the world's most beloved gas station, Buccee's.
In this region, you'll find one of the prettiest lakes in the country at Canyon Lake and the popular Guadalupe River with many spots to enjoy on your own.
Tip: For affordable stays, consider Austin staple, the Austin Motel in the heart of bustling South Congress.
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