The capital city of the state, Austin TX is located in the central part of the state. It has a population of approximately 1 million people, making it the 11th most populous city in the United States. The city has a diverse and vibrant culture with a strong emphasis on live music, food, and outdoor activities.

Many seniors are drawn to Austin because of its warm climate, relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities, and excellent healthcare facilities. The city also has a range of activities and amenities that cater to older adults, such as parks, senior centers, and community events.

Music lovers should be sure to attend the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival, hosted each year in Zilker Park and drawing hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors from around the world. Enjoy more live music, comedy shows, film screenings, and more at the annual, culture-centric South By Southwest (SXSW) Festival. Join 20,000 runners from around the world at the annual Austin Marathon. Taste the best of innovative cuisine at the yearly Austin Food + Wine Festival.

Downtown

The heart of the city, downtown Austin is a bustling urban center with a mix of high-rise office buildings, residential towers, and historic buildings. There’s always something going on in this area, whether it’s a music festival, food truck rally, or art show. 

Learn the ever-unfolding history of the Lone Star State at The Bullock Texas State History Museum. Be sure to spend some time in the famous Sixth Street entertainment district, home to a variety of bars, dining options, and plenty of opportunities to catch a comedy show or live music. While you can’t swim at Lady Bird Lake, there are plenty of other things to do, from kayaking and canoeing to fishing, or taking in the scenic views along the 10 mile Hike and Bike Trail.

Visitors should consider staying at the famous Firehouse Lounge, a firehouse turned hostel with a speakeasy-esque bar perfect for enjoying craft cocktails. Feel like family at Moonshine Grill, serving contemporary comfort foods in a relaxed setting housed in a historic home. Enjoy a modern Southern menu with a side of live music at Stella San Jac. Carnivores flock to Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse for all-you-can-eat meats carved tableside.

South Congress (SoCo)

Located just south of downtown, South Congress is a trendy neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and live music venues. This area has a vibrant nightlife scene and is home to some of Austin’s best-known landmarks, including The Continental Club and the iconic Greetings from Austin mural.

With food trucks galore, there’s something for every taste in SoCo. Local favorites include LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, Wham Bam Bagels & Coffee Truck, and Hey Cupcake! If you’re looking for a place to sit down to enjoy your meal, try Güero’s Taco Bar, known for their hand-shaken margaritas and great outdoor patio space. If breakfast is your thing, you can get the best of it 24/7 at Magnolia Cafe. 

East Austin

Historically a predominantly African American and Hispanic neighborhood, East Austin is rapidly gentrifying and becoming more diverse. This area is known for its lively street art scene, thriving food and drink culture, and a vibrant music scene.

Art enthusiasts should be sure to pencil in some time to explore Blanton Museum of Art, one of the largest university art museums in the nation. Find the best offerings from local farmers and ranchers at Boggy Creek Farm Market.

For “snout to tail” American cuisine, visit Salty Sow, offering a laid back setting to enjoy locally sourced farm-to-table eats. Go gourmet at Launderette, a former laundromat turned cafe serving up modern American cuisine. Enjoy Mexican specialities and craft cocktails in the colorful setting of Suerte. 

West Lake Hills

A wealthy suburb located just west of downtown Austin, West Lake Hills is known for its stunning hill country views and excellent schools. This area is home to many celebrities and affluent families and offers a quiet, upscale lifestyle.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering 12 miles of trails with plenty of opportunities for everything from hiking and biking to rock climbing and bouldering. 

Dine at Blue Dahlia Bistro for French-inspired dishes and a cozy atmosphere that adds a certain je ne sais quoi guaranteed to elevate your meal. Homemade tortillas and a great margarita menu await at Tex-Mex destination, Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant. Enjoy local seafood selections on the lakeside patio at Sundancer Grill. 

Round Rock

Located about 20 miles north of Austin, Round Rock is a rapidly growing suburb known for its high-tech industry and family-friendly atmosphere. This area is home to Dell Technologies‘ headquarters and the famous Round Rock Donuts.

Shop ‘til you drop at over 125 stores at Round Rock Premium Outlets. Baseball fans can catch a minor league game at Dell Diamond baseball stadium, home of the Triple-A team,  Round Rock Express. Take the family out for a day of fun in the water at Rock’N River Water Park.

Enjoy farm-to-fork eats made with fresh local ingredients at Jack Allen’s Kitchen, offering Southwestern specialties and a lively atmosphere. Get an authentic taste of Venezulea at Arepitas and enjoy the laid-back setting. All things seafood – from lobster rolls to raw oysters – can be found at Salt Traders Coastal Cooking.