If you’re in Austin for WorkHuman, below are some things I recommend you do while you’re visiting this awesome city. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list. Nor does it include things like “seeing the bats at South Congress Bridge” because that’s not something I regularly do as a resident. The list below includes some of my favorites based on my experiences living in Austin. Enjoy! Oh, and let me know if you have questions or need additional recommendations.
Hike & Bike Trail
Austin is an outdoor city so make sure you enjoy some time outside the convention center – especially if you’re coming from the snow in the Northeast. Your body will benefit from a little vitamin D. Accessing the Hike and Bike trail is pretty easy from any of the hotels around the convention center. I don’t recommend doing the full 10-mile loop (unless you’re in training). But I do recommend one of the shorter loops either between South 1st and Lamar or South Congress and Lamar. It will help you get your 10,000 steps and give you a chance to decompress.
Coffee
People take their coffee here pretty seriously. Actually, they take their coffee and craft beer pretty seriously. I recommend Caffe Medici (Congress), Easy Tiger (either on East 6th or in Fareground), or The Hideout. You can also take a walk down to Austin Java or Jo’s. Both are good too, just not quite as convenient for morning coffee since you’ll have to walk west of your hotels.
Eat
There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the capital city. And I promise, even if you’re coming from a big city you won’t be disappointed. I know the conference is offering food trucks, but I also suggest checking out Fareground for lunch, which features stands from several local favorites. The variety is great for a group, and it gives you the opportunity to sample some of Austin’s best (and favorite) restaurants without having to get in a rideshare. Jo’s on 2nd does 2-for-1 burgers on Tuesdays. Again, another Austin local. If you need something quick because you have to catch up on some emails, try Modern Market.
I’m not a BBQ expert, but my go-to for out of town guests, which was recommended to me by people who have lived here many more years than I have, is Terry Black’s. The lines are shorter. There are always sides, and you have the choice of sitting inside or out. Every time we’ve brought people there they’ve been very happy with the experience.
For dinner, you have so many options. Head over to South Congress and check out Perla’s (seafood), June’s, Vespaio (Italian), Central Standard, Guero’s (Mexican), or Hopdoddy (burgers). If you want to stay downtown, Le Politique (French), Lambert’s (high-end BBQ), La Condesa (modern Mexican), Moonshine (southern comfort), Red Ash (Italian-ish), and more and more and more. Honestly, there are so many places. South 1st offer great options, as does South Lamar. If you’re looking for something specific, just reach out and ask. I’m happy to help.
Drink
You can do Dirty 6th (the east part of 6th Street, which is super accessible from all the conference hotels) but I highly recommend Rainey street instead. There you’ll find old craftsman style homes that have been turned into drinking establishments, with backyards and living rooms for hanging out. Enjoy a game of cornhole or giant Jenga while sipping on a cocktail or a local craft beer. If you’re going to do Rainey, I recommend walking the street first before picking an establishment. It’s short so don’t worry. Each house has an entirely different feel – and no cover – so make sure you pace yourself and are able to explore a few options.
If you want something more refined you can check out Geraldine’s at Hotel Van Zandt. Peche on 4th also offers a great cocktail menu, as does The Roosevelt Room. Also, Hotel San Jose is a cool place to grab a drink on South Congress.
One of my new favorites is Upstairs at Caroline on Congress. It kind of feels like the best of all the world’s Austin has to offer, even if it’s part of a hotel.
Kayaking/Stand Up Paddle Boarding
For you risk-averse folks this is not as adventurous as it sounds, but it’s pretty relaxing and a nice way take a different perspective, and work of some of the amazing food you’re going to be eating while in town. There are a number of places to rent kayaks and paddleboards. Let me know if you need recommendations.
Anything Fitness Related
I know Work Human is offering yoga in the mornings, but if you’re not a morning person there is no shortage of yoga studios in Austin where you can get your stretch on. Try Wanderlust, Black Swan, CorePower or Pure.
There’s also a SoulCycle and several other spin studios if that’s your thing. It’s not my jam so I don’t have a specific recommendation.
If you’re a Crossfitter, I highly recommend SoLa (my box) or Crossfit Central.
My experience is that HR tends to have a reputation for being risk-averse. What better way to prove otherwise than throwing axes at a target? Don’t worry, this is a highly organized event that’s actually a lot of fun and doesn’t require a ton of strength or hand-eye coordination (I know, I was surprised too). There’s a coach with you and your group the entire time to make sure everyone has a safe, and awesome, time. It’s a great group activity and it’s BYOB (if that’s your thing).
So that’s just a smattering to help you enjoy your time here. If you’re looking for something specific, just reach out to me on the app or shoot me an email at jennifer@little-wins.co.
Enjoy Work Human and this amazingly fun city!