So you’re Austin-bound for this year’s SXSW and you’re ready to be inspired. Guess what, you’re in luck! I just returned from a phenomenal week of interactive mayhem, and now have a treasured list of creative must-sees. Be it shopping on South Congress, tunes on East 6th or five star trailer grub, it’s hard to be disappointed when visiting this city. Whether you’re a seasoned regular or new to the Austin scene, follow along, take the tour and let us know what you think!
- 1. Austin Texas Music Mural, East 6th at the Driskill Hotel
- 2. Iron Works BBQ: Best corn on the cobb for the veggies- Great ribs for the carnivores. (100 Red River Street)
- 3. Stag: Freeman’s-esque men’s store with a burly meets hip lifestyle twist. Fantastic product and displays. (1423 S. Congress Ave.)
- 4. Uncommon Objects: Hands down, the most inspirational store on S. Congress. The owners are retail display geniuses. (1512 South Congress)
- 5. The Fifth Gallery: Great underground prints. (305 E. 5TH- below Action Graphics)
- 6. Tesoros: Skull-inspired folk art galore. (1500 S. Congress)
- 7. Big Top Candy Shop: Vintage speakers to accompany a vast array of sugary sweets. (1706 S. Congress)
- 8. Emos: Multi-room dive bar bedecked with really rad posters. Name appropriate. (605 Red River)
- 9. Jo’s Coffee: Perfect coffee and sandwich joint. Also ideal for business meet-ups. (242 W. 2nd St.)
- 10. Gallery D: A hip array of clothing, art and shoes, curated by former Barney’s buyer, Emily Keast. (436 W. 2nd St.)
- 11. Amy’s Ice Cream: The best midday pick me up. Utterly delish. (1301 S. Congress)
- 12. By George: Another boutique with Anthropologie-like wall displays. (1400 S. Congress)
