What (else) to do in Austin during the weekend of October 19-21
Any weekend in Austin is guaranteed to be an easy-going good time. Whether you’re coming for something epic, like this October’s Formula One weekend, or for a memorable anniversary with a special someone, there’s always something new to discover.
We’re here to show you there’s so much to do beyond the obvious.
Even long-time Austinites constantly find new hot spots in this city of endless magic. And when there’s a major event in town like F1, there are still a thousand other hidden gems to enjoy away from the crowds.
From world-class art exhibitions and quirky film comedy to sun-soaked patios and fresh beats by up-and-coming artists in the “Live Music Capital of the World,” elevate your Austin experience this Formula One weekend – or any weekend – with a healthy dose of made-in-Texas awesomeness.
Here a countdown to our top ten picks to make your ATX weekend truly unforgettable.
10. Be in a music video (or watch one get made) at the Continental Club
This legendary venue just outside The Kimber’s front door, is one of the best in the country. It has a rich tradition of hosting the most sought-after musicians in the city, and this October 20th local funk/soul/R&B group Tomar & The FCs will be shooting their next video in front of a live audience. That should absolutely include you. This Austin-born 6-piece band has a musical prowess that’s best heard in a historic landmark like the Continental.
Image via Continental Club
9. Dive deep into 21st century Africa at the Blanton Museum of Art
Opening October 14th, the Blanton’s Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design brings together the work of 120 artists and designers to illustrate how African design “fuels economic, social, and political change in the continent.” There’s something to open everyone’s mind as sculpture, fashion, film, maps, comics, and more make up this deep dive into the provocative and political art coming out of 21st century Africa.
8. Soak up the sun on the best patio in Austin
There are many places to enjoy the city’s vacation-perfect weather and savor a delicious slow meal, but none so beloved by locals as Perla’s. What could be better than whiling away an afternoon with fresh oysters and melt-in-your-mouth lobster rolls on the oak-shaded deck while watching the rainbow of humanity on South Congress? It’s an ATX essential and just across the street from The Kimber.
Image via Perla’s
7. Get crazy with Master Pancake at the Alamo
Master Pancake is a local legend. If you happen to be in town during one of their shows at the world-famous Alamo Drafthouse, run – do not walk – to grab a seat and enjoy a “glorious pairing of movies and comedy.” Take one part questionable movie, one part comedy troupe, and a healthy dose of craft beer, and you have a recipe for a side-splitting night out. Past hits have included their hilarious takedowns of Labyrinth, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Friday the 13th. We can’t wait to see what they come up with this Halloween season!
6. Take your palate on an adventure at the Real Ale Brewing Company
This homegrown brewery ferments utterly unique beer with local ingredients, and it‘s nestled in the heart of scenic Texas Hill Country. These beermakers are open Wednesday – Sunday to show off their signature pours and allow guests to enjoy an afternoon outside the city. On October 20, they’ll have a special appearance by the Palm Frites food truck serving up Belgian-style fries, poutine, and cheese curds to go with your seasonal Oktoberfest lager. And if you can’t make it out to the tasting room, don’t worry! We, at the Kimber Modern, proudly provide complimentary Real Ale for all our guests.
Image via Real Ale
5. Hike to a waterfall in the Greenbelt
With over a dozen miles of invigorating trails, it’s no wonder the Greenbelt is a local favorite in this active city. Park your car at the MoPac Access Point and hike to Twin Falls for a few hours of waterfall views, rope swings, and a swimming hole that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a forest paradise instead of right next to downtown. If you’re up for more, the beautiful Sculpture Falls is just a mile further up the trail.
4. Celebrate Texas Wine Month with a vineyard stroll
Take a day trip to discover Texas’ best-kept secret: wine. Our Hill Country vineyards have been known to delight even California palates, and there’s no better time to take your taste buds on an adventure than during Texas Wine Month this October. We recommend swinging by Becker Vineyards on Sunday afternoon for live music and a tasting on the verandah.
Image via discovertexaswine.com
3. Get righteous at Pieous Pizza
On your way back from wine country or Real Ale Brewing Company, stop by Pieous for a pie that makes you wish you had an extra stomach. Locals make the pilgrimage here as often as possible for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza and house-smoked Texas-style pastrami. Their starter has been in use for more than a decade and the dough is divine perfection. You can’t say you’ve really done the Austin foodie scene until you’ve been here!
A word of warning: this pie shop shuts down when the kitchen runs out of fresh dough each day. If you’re looking to satiate a late-night cheese craving, check out our neighbor Home Slice right on South Congress – the best pizza in the city!
2. Celebrate the creative spirit in the final month of the HOPE Outdoor Gallery
A failed condo development reborn as a street art hub, this private downtown park has been inspiring artists for years with its large-scale art pieces “driven by inspirational, positive & educational messaging.” At the end of October, it will close down and prep for a move to a new 58-acre ranch space in Southeast Austin. Before it goes, see where the magic began and feel the pulse of Austin’s creative heart flow through you.
1. Enjoy a night in Austin’s original design hotel
Last, but certainly not least, discover why we were named one of 10 Best Hotels in the World by Tablet Hotels, one of the 10 Best-Designed Hotels in America by Dwell Magazine, and have been rated #1 on TripAdvisor for the 8th year in a row. An architect’s dream, this quiet oasis is just one block off the world-famous South Congress Avenue and a few steps from all the weekend entertainment you’ll ever need. Get away from it all while never leaving the beating heart of this great weird city.
Got questions? The Kimber team is here to help. Born and bred in Austin, we have all the insider tips you need to make your next visit to Austin the trip of a lifetime. Reach out to us anytime for help planning your next adventure.
See you soon, explorers.
