Trying to plan a weekend in Austin that doesn’t feel like a tourist checklist? You’re not the only one. A lot of people visit with high hopes, but leave feeling like they only scratched the surface. Crowds, long lines and the same overhyped spots can make it feel like you never really got to know the city.
What if you could spend the weekend the way locals actually do? At Paseo, we live here and we’ve spent years finding the places that make Austin feel like Austin. We’re not sending you to the same five spots everyone posts about. We’re handing you the real version of the city.
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This guide will show you how to spend a weekend that feels spontaneous, local and unforgettable. From morning hikes and hidden food gems to dance floors and midnight swims, this is how to do Austin right.
1. Lunch at Aba
Address: 1011 S Congress Ave Bldg 2 Suite 180
First impressions matter, and Aba delivers one of the best. South Congress is a must when visiting Austin, so start your weekend there: sip a cocktail, share a few plates and soak in that unbeatable view of the city. While you’re at it, wander through the vintage shops and pick up a new outfit (or two) to set the tone for your weekend in ATX.
2. Dance the Night Away at Barbarella
Address: 611 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When it comes to nightlife, Austin knows how to keep the party going, and Barbarella is where it all comes alive. This beloved downtown club is equal parts gritty and electric, with a dance floor that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. The crowd screams Austin Local, unpretentious, lively and here for a good time. Stay late, dance harder and see why nights at Barbarella are practically a rite of passage.
3. Morning Hike at Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail
Address: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
No one does balance quite like Austin. Big nights out followed by quiet mornings in nature, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is the perfect way to reset. With winding trails that feel a world away from the city, it’s ideal for exploring without the crowds you’ll find on the Lady Bird Lake trail. A little escape, right in the heart of it all.
4. Dinner at Franklin Barbeque
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
You can’t say you’ve truly done Austin until you’ve had barbecue, and the locals will tell you, Franklin is the place to go. The scent of oak smoke greets you before you even reach the door, and what’s waiting inside lives up to the hype: melt-in-your-mouth brisket, fall-apart ribs and sides that feel like home. Beloved by Austinites and worth every minute, this is barbecue the way the city intended.
5. Night Swim at Barton Springs
Address: 2131 William Barton Dr
A night swim at Barton Springs is one of Austin’s best-kept secrets, a summer ritual locals look forward to all year. When the sun sets and the heat finally breaks, there’s nothing like slipping into the cool, spring-fed water under the stars. It’s serene, a little magical and the perfect way to end a long Austin night. Night swims only happen in the summer, so check Barton Springs’ Instagram for updates before you go.
6. Spend a Night on Rainey Street
The locals will tell you, Rainey is definitely back. Once the quieter cousin to Sixth Street, it’s reclaimed its spot as Austin’s go-to for a night out. Historic bungalows-turned-bars, craft cocktails, food trucks and live music spill into the street, creating that lively, unmistakable buzz. Grab a drink, hop from porch to porch and see for yourself why everyone’s talking about Rainey again.
7. Make Memories at Peter Pan Mini Golf
Address: 1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Peter Pan Mini Golf is as quirky and classic as Austin gets. Bright lights, giant whimsical statues and a healthy dose of nostalgia make it the perfect way to spend an evening with friends. Whether you’re actually keeping score or just here for the laughs, it’s a playful break from the usual and a reminder not to take your night (or your putt) too seriously.
8.Keep it Simple at Deep Eddy Cabaret
Address: 2315 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Deep Eddy Cabaret is Austin dive bar culture at its finest. No frills, no fuss, just good drinks and better stories. This spot has been pouring cold beers and strong drinks since the ’50s, with jukebox tunes, pool tables and a crowd that feels like your old friends, even if you’ve just met. Come for the laid-back vibe, stay because you won’t want to leave.
9. Shop local at the Texas Farmers Market at Mueller
Address: 4209 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78722
The Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller is Austin at its most vibrant, relaxed, creative and full of local flavor. Every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, the market comes alive with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a friendly buzz that feels like a little slice of Austin community. Stroll the stalls, chat with growers and makers, and soak in the laid-back morning energy. Whether you’re picking up your weekly groceries or just enjoying the scene, it’s the perfect way to start your Sunday, Austin-style.
10. Last Stop at Cuvée Coffee
Address: 48 East Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Wrap up your weekend with a slow sip and a bold roast. Just steps from Paseo, Cuvée Coffee sets the bar for craft coffee done well. As Texas’ first specialty roaster, they’ve been setting the tone for coffee in Austin ever since opening in 1998. Expect rich, custom-roasted brews and a space that feels equal parts laid-back and intentional. The kind of spot that turns a caffeine stop into a ritual.
We hope this guide helps you plan a weekend in Austin that feels true to the city! Spend time taking in the city’s stunning views and enjoying the vibrant food scene. These are the kinds of experiences that capture Austin’s rhythm.
If you’re after even more insider tips or want to stay in the know about what’s new reach out to our leasing team. There’s so much more to Austin than meets the eye, and we’re here to share it with you!
Nirosha Perera
Nirosha is the general manager at Paseo, with eight years of experience in property management. She spent 24 years living in Dubai before moving to the U.S. When she’s not at work, you’ll find her kicking off the day at the gym, exploring new restaurants, or playing fetch with her cat, Shadow.
August 6, 2025