There’s no doubt about it, Austin, TX has quickly become one of the hottest new travel destinations for a party weekend. I’m looking at you, bachelorette float parties. It makes total sense though. Floating the river outside Austin is like bring Las Vegas to the water, only chiller: pun intended. But the city itself has all the fixing for the perfect weekend adventure. The Texas capital has a thriving nightlife and tons to do to burn off a hangover.
Need a place to stay? This quirky and quiet Austin Airbnb is an outdoorsy dream and sandwiched between Austin and the river which will be welcomed come float time. Looking for something a bit more central without sacrificing that strange Austin flare? Stay in this vintage trailer Airbnb just a stone's throw from downtown.
Want to avoid the college kid crowds but still experience the ultimate Austin party-scene? Here’s your grownup’s guide to a weekend of drinking and playing around Austin.
FRIDAY NIGHT IN AUSTIN, TX
Best Austin bars & neighborhoods to go out in.
On Friday evening, start on Rainey Street hitting food truck after food truck for a dinner crawl. Then get ready to start your night by grabbing a couple of drinks at the Container Bar: a perfectly Austin spot with an indoor/outdoor bar built entirely out of shipping containers.
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From there, avoid the madness of 6th Street and the college-kid-take-over on Rainey and head to The White Horse Saloon for a true taste of two-stepping. This stellar Austin country bar has incredible live music with plenty of partners to twist and twirl you to your heart's desire. Dancing not your style? The people-watching will do just fine. The grimy, legit pool table and back patio add a more relaxed vibe to the joint. Wrap up with a nightcap at Stay Gold, a groovy jazz bar, an Austin staple. Pro tip: bring cash for cover fees and faster drinks. Just remember, tomorrow is the real party prize so don't go too hard.
SATURDAY FLOAT TRIP ON THE SAN MARCOS RIVER
The ultimate day-drink while floating the river.
Saturday is prime time for floating the river in the hill country. Wake up around nine to get the day moving and gather your goods. Don't forget sunscreen, a speaker to pump the tunes, a waterproof phone bag, and water shoes. The real experts bring their own tube rather than renting. This bad boy on Amazon fits two people with drink holders AND a built-in cooler, all for under $30.
Head to Texas State Tubes for an easy on easy off, and a float not too far from Austin. Parking is free, just head to the tent, pay for your rental, or just your transportation.
Retro school busses will bring you to the river drop point. If you have your own tube, fear not, air pumps are there for free filling. Then leave your responsibilities on land and hop into your tube, letting the river take you (and your inhibitions.) The float lasts around an hour and a half or so. You'll know your stop when you see a Texas State Tubes sign and their employees will be there to spot your colored wrist bands. You should have plenty of time to float the river twice during a day, just hop back in line and pay for another ride. Trust me, you'll want it.
SUNDAY IN AUSTIN, TX
Lazy hangover cures & a brunch that will blow your mind.
As for your hungover Sunday? Spend it forking down breakfast at the famed food truck Biscuits'n'Groovy and sunbathing at Barton Springs in Zilker Park, a free-swimming hole in Austin that's ease and beauty will be enormously fulfilling with no effort required.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Hit the boozy brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel, no stay required. While the price tag is on the steeper side at $80, the mimosas and Bloody Marys are bottomless and the buffet selection is breathtaking. From a raw bar to a sparkly pastry platter, your tastebuds won't regret it for a minute. Don't miss the tables out on the patio with stellar views of the river and a cool breeze. If you're still feeling crazy, plan to rent kayaks or paddle boards for a tipsy afternoon sweat before splitting town.