Discover more of Austin when you visit the Circuit of The Americas for the 2024 United States Grand Prix | Texas

What do you get if you mix big city energy with country vibes, add in a whole lot of cool, a heap of BBQ and a dash of weird? Austin, that’s what!

Austin, the state capital of Texas, is a vibrant destination known for its diverse culture, unique attractions, and delicious cuisines. With its lively nightlife, beautiful lakes and parks, and a mix of modern and traditional experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Austin at a glance

Size: 845 sq km (approx.)
Population: 962,000 (approx.)
Time Zone: UTC-6 (summer UTC-5)
Language: English
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
First F1 race: 2012

GettyImages-2169656005 169.jpg — The Texas Longhorns regularly attract huge crowds of spectators to their games in Austin

Attractions

Austin has plenty of cultural attractions such as theatres, galleries and museums, including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Bullock Museum of Texas History, and the Harry Ransom Center.

If you’re up to embracing the ‘weird’ of the city, then absolutely make your way to the Cathedral of Junk! Located in the backyard of a suburban South Austin house, it has expanded year on year since its inception almost 40 years ago. Its randomly placed knickknacks are mesmerising and this niche Austin attraction is not to be missed!

Sports fans can soak up even more American culture by watching a college football game. Taking their name from the native cattle, the Texas Longhorns are the team of the University of Texas in Austin, and regularly attract huge crowds to their stadium capable of hosting more than 100,000 people.

If you’d rather get moving yourself, then there are many options to participate in recreational activities at dozens of local parks and outdoor facilities, such as swimming and water sports activities at the likes of Lady Bird Lake, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool.

183051528 — If there’s one style of food synonymous with Austin, it’s barbecue

Food and drink

Barbecue is king

Austin is synonymous with barbecue, and with countless BBQ joints in town you will be spoiled for choice. You can even take food tours focused on this cultural staple. The famous eateries La Barbecue and Franklin Barbecue are fan favourites for this, but make sure to get there early to avoid a long wait in line!

Party down 6th Street

A vibrant array of bars, restaurants and entertainment venues, 6th Street is a sure bet for a captivating dining experience! There are a number of walking food tours and bar crawls available here so you can really get a taste of Austin! Check out our guide to 6th Street – the beating heart of Austin’s social scene.

2154290743 — Austin is widely called the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, and you'll be spoiled for choice down on 6th Street

Good to know

Experience live music

Austin is famous for its vibrant live music scene, featuring world renowned artists and independent artists alike. If you're staying in the city for a little longer before the Grand Prix weekend, be sure to check out the Austin City Limits music festival and experience the Austin live music scene at its best!

Bring a reusable water bottle

Temperatures in Austin can get hot (yes, even in October) and it’s important to keep hydrated. There are plenty of places to refill around the city.

Embrace the unofficial siesta

Although Austin doesn’t have an official siesta hour like in some parts of South America, residents implement their own unofficial one to keep out of the midday sun’s scorching heat. You can still make the most out of your days in Austin by waking up and starting your day earlier, meaning you can explore the city in more comfortable temperatures.

Outwit the traffic

Like most major cities, Austin has the occasional traffic jam... Satellite navigation devices don’t always accurately predict the correct arrival time, so ensure you leave 15/30 minutes earlier than you think you’ll need to. If you don’t want to rely on driving, join Austin’s large cycling community and hop on a bike!