Welcome to Austin

A visitors' guide to the live music capital of the world

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  Food

  Out-of-towners almost always want to taste the local fare, and in Austin that's barbecue and Tex-Mex. You really should check out our annual Restaurant Poll for a more complete idea of the culinary options around town. For more recommendations and by-region recommendations go to our Restaurant Guide.

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  Music

  We don't call ourselves the "live music capital of the world" for nothing. There's a veritable onslaught of musical options every night of the week. Check out our complete guide to the venues and shows around town, including our recommendations of residencies and one-off shows in some of Austin's unique venues.

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  Film & Arts

  You might not have enough time here to check out our amazing arts scene or catch a film at the flagship Alamo Drafthouse, but when you're planning your next trip, keep these offerings in mind. Arts Listings, Film Listings

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  Transportation

  It doesn't take much for Austin to become gridlocked, especially during special events. If you're driving, you'll find we're a generally courteous bunch, but be patient. Otherwise, hop on one of our many bike routes or look to Capital Metro for public transit options, including buses and the light rail line to Leander.

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  Photo Ops

  If a tree falls in a forest ... well, you know the rest. Will anyone believe you were in Austin if you don't have the photographic evidence? Stop by a few of our favorite spots for photo ops: Mount Bonnell, the Pennybacker (360) Bridge, the Hi, How Are You? mural by Daniel Johnston, or the Willie Nelson statue Downtown.

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  Best of Austin

  We don't like to toot our own horn, except when we do. Each year, Chronicle readers come together to vote on some of the best, weirdest, funniest, prettiest, and Austin-est around. You might recognize some of the perennial winners, including BookPeople, Barton Springs, and Waterloo Records, but we recommend taking a stroll around our "Best of Austin" archives.