Austin City Guide

Local favorites are Tex-Mex, BBQ, and breakfast tacos. Plenty of international choices and good vegetarian/vegan options. Many late-night food trucks and diners.

Nightlife shines with live music on Sixth Street, Rainey Street, and South Congress. Bars, clubs, and music venues are lively and varied.

Thriving coffee scene with many independent shops and roasters focusing on quality.

Tipping is expected across services: 15-20% in restaurants, rideshares, hairdressers; $1-$2 per drink for baristas.

Buy SIM cards at carrier stores (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) or Best Buy. Good coverage citywide. A valid ID is needed. eSIMs are often supported.

Generally clean in central and tourist areas; varies elsewhere. City provides waste collection and recycling.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores open 24/7. Urgent care centers have extended hours but 24/7 clinics are mainly hospital ERs.

Supermarkets offer international products. Stores like H-E-B, Whole Foods, Randall's, and Sprouts open around 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM. Fresh markets provide local produce. Stores open on Sundays, less common to bargain.

Most places accept card payments. Cash is rare but may be needed at small vendors or food trucks.

ATMs are common at banks, convenience, and grocery stores. Expect $2-$5 fees for out-of-network or ATM surcharges.

Local schools under Austin ISD; international schools exist like Austin International School with French and Spanish programs. Primarily English instruction, some bilingual.

Strong nomad scene supported by tech jobs and culture. Meetups and coworking spaces offer networking.

Good access to parks like Zilker Park and Barton Creek Greenbelt, plus trails along Lady Bird Lake.

Popular trails like the Ann and Roy Butler Trail and Barton Creek Greenbelt. Running groups active and routes safe.

Gyms include national chains and local spots. Outdoor sports courts and running tracks are common in parks.

Many public and private courts; public courts often first-come, private courts need booking.

Padel courts are few but starting to appear in sports centers.

Plenty of studios offer various yoga styles and meditation with English-speaking instructors.

Options for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, and karate with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing nearby; closest resorts require long travel.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing on Lady Bird Lake are popular. Rentals easy to find.

No ocean surfing; there's an artificial surf park but it's currently closed.

Limited dive spots in freshwater springs and lakes. Certification and rentals available.

Good private hospitals like Ascension Seton and St. David's have English speakers. Care is high quality but can be pricey. OTC meds widely available. Pharmacies often inside grocery stores or standalone like CVS, Walgreens.

Tap water is safe and meets all standards.

Many parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like the Thinkery and Austin Zoo. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Known for inclusiveness and safety, with many LGBTQ+ venues and events like Austin Pride.

Very pet-friendly with parks, trails, and many businesses welcoming pets. Vet services widely available.