Austin the Return

I was super lucky when I found a conference in Austin, Texas. I had loved every moment there and now I finally had a chance to go back and try all the food I wanted to try as well as the freedom to go wherever I wanted this time. Turns out everything I wanted was more food but hey, that's all part of the fun of traveling.

My hotel was on Second street which is a great but expensive area to stay if visiting. So much shopping and food are within walking distance. You can also easily get to Sixth street which has all the clubs and nightlife places. I used my first day to revisit a few things I had already tried before and loved. The shops were still just as exciting and the food still just as good. For those who love high fashion but can't always afford it; United Apparel Liquidators was amazing because they get their designs from the runway and designers to sell at outlet prices and slash prices daily the longer outfits stay in the racks. Great designs, livable prices.

I used my second day to get more adventurous with my walks and I was able to stumble upon activities I wasn't expecting! I found the Museum of the Weird and an expo that was cheap to walk into.

Collection of preserved animals in jars

The Museum of the Weird is like a smaller version of Ripley’s with a live show as well. I had to skip the show since I had work obligations but if you like the macabre and unexplained this is a place to stop! They also have quite an interesting shop before the museum.

Collection of pins and stickers showing cute animals and things.

The Pins and Patches expo was a lucky find as well. I guess it's an annual event I happened to find! It's for collectors of patches, pins, and stickers with various booths.

The stage inside Austin City Limits

I did get to have a special experience thanks to the convention. I was able to visit and hear a cover band play at Austin City Limits. The same one from the show. This place is awesome if you love music history.

Walking around the halls also showed portraits of many artists that had been here. I didn't have as many chances to explore the last few days but I still enjoyed all that I could. Even without a destination, I loved getting to just walk to a restaurant and enjoy the atmosphere of this growing, vibrant city.

I still have so much more city to see and so many surrounding activities like Lake Travis that I would love to do as well. That said I highly recommend Austin to anyone. The fold, the sites the vibe are all amazing and a special experience. The weather was gorgeous and worth it every day even when it was raining. There's something for everyone be it live music, clubs, museums, local artisan foods or more high-end tastes. They may say keep Austin Weird but the only thing weird is how quickly it feels like home.