Awards & recognition
About this city
Also known as: Live Music Capital of the World, Silicon Hills
Austin, the capital city of Texas and the county seat of Travis County, is a world-class, explosive metropolitan powerhouse dynamically positioned along the scenic Colorado River on the eastern edge of the Texas Hill Country. Established in 1839 as the capital of the young Republic of Texas and named after 'The Father of Texas' Stephen F. Austin, the city is globally celebrated as the 'Live Music Capital of the World,' hosting legendary international film, tech, and music festivals that reshape global trends annually. Driven by its highly progressive, fiercely independent local motto 'Keep Austin Weird,' the city has transformed into a premier global technical hub known as 'Silicon Hills.' It flawlessly contrasts massive glass skyscrapers and corporate technology headquarters with lush spring-fed swimming holes, extensive urban hike trails, and a booming culinary and bohemian night culture.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
Weather & Timing
Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 2–4 days
Tour the grand sunset-red granite dome of the Texas State Capitol, swim in the pristine 68-degree natural waters at Barton Springs Pool, watch millions of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from beneath the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset, browse tech and art hubs at South Congress (SoCo), and bar-hop along the legendary Sixth Street live music strip.
