Published November 13, 2025
The holidays are the perfect time to show off everything that makes Austin such a fun and vibrant place to live. Whether your guests are first-time visitors or seasoned regulars, the city offers endless ways to celebrate the season — from live music and cozy coffee shops to local art, festive lights, and Hill Country day trips. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to entertain your visitors while giving them a true taste of Austin’s spirit this holiday season.
Austin comes alive with twinkling lights and festive events throughout the season. The Trail of Lights in Zilker Park is a must-see, while the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar blends live music, local art, and holiday shopping all in one. For something more low-key, visit Gibson St. on South Lamar or enjoy a festive night out at Lala’s Little Nugget, Austin’s year-round Christmas bar.
South Congress is the perfect stretch to entertain guests who want that quintessential Austin vibe. Spend the afternoon browsing quirky shops like Allen’s Boots and South Congress Books, then grab dinner at Perla’s or Joann’s Fine Foods. Don’t forget to stop for a photo in front of the “I love you so much” mural at Jo's Coffee — it’s an Austin rite of passage.
No trip to Austin is complete without catching a live show — it’s the Live Music Capital of the World for a reason. Head to The Continental Club on South Congress for a timeless Austin experience, Antone's Night Club on 5th Street for an iconic spot or grab tickets to ACL Live at the Moody Theater downtown for a bigger production. If you want something more casual, Meanwhile Brewing and The Saxon Pub both pair local talent with great atmosphere.
For guests who love a good treasure hunt, Austin’s vintage and thrift scene never disappoints. Spend the morning exploring Feathers Boutique and Prototype Vintage Design on South Congress for curated fashion finds, or dig through racks at Buffalo Exchange and Room Service Vintage for something more eclectic. For a full afternoon, wander down North Loop Boulevard, where retro shops and record stores give visitors a taste of Austin’s funky charm.
For a more cultured outing, stop by The Blanton Museum of Art, located near the University of Texas campus, or explore the Contemporary Austin at Laguna Gloria — a lakeside art experience that’s as much about the setting as the exhibits. The East Austin Studio Tour in November is another great way to explore local artists’ work while supporting the community.
If you’re looking for a night full of laughs, Austin’s comedy scene is the place to be. Catch big-name acts at The Paramount Theatre downtown or see rising local talent at Cap City Comedy Club and The Creek and the Cave. For a more laid-back vibe, grab a drink and enjoy an improv show at Fallout Theater — it’s the kind of experience that feels uniquely Austin.
Fuel up before a day of exploring with a stop at one of Austin’s many local coffee spots. Jo’s Coffee is iconic, but Greater Goods and Radio Coffee & Beer both offer a more neighborhood feel. If your guests are staying downtown, Houndstooth Coffee or Fleet Coffee Co. will impress even the most particular coffee lover.
The Texas State Capitol is one of Austin’s most striking landmarks, and it’s free to visit year-round. Take a guided tour to learn a bit of state history or simply wander the grounds beneath the oak trees. During the holidays, the Capitol is beautifully decorated and sits just steps from downtown dining and shopping.
Austin’s mild winter weather means you can still enjoy the outdoors through the holidays. Take guests to Zilker Park for a stroll with skyline views, rent kayaks on Lady Bird Lake for a peaceful paddle or venture our into the hill country for hikes and rolling hills.
Show your guests why Austin’s craft beer scene is one of the best in Texas. Spend an afternoon at Lazarus Brewing or Zilker Brewing Company for local favorites in the heart of the city, or head south to St. Elmo Brewing for great beer and live music. For a laid-back setting with plenty of space to gather, Meanwhile Brewing offers everything from food trucks to a playground — making it a perfect stop for groups.
If your guests are staying for a few days, take a short drive to the Texas Hill Country for wineries, charming towns, and scenic drives. Fredericksburg and Wimberley both make for perfect holiday day trips, complete with lights, local shopping, and plenty of small-town charm. It’s the ideal way to show off a slower, cozier side of Central Texas.
__
Whether you’re exploring holiday lights at Zilker Park, sipping local brews, or catching a live show on South Congress, there’s no shortage of ways to show off Austin’s charm to your out-of-town guests. It’s this vibrant mix of culture, community, and creativity that makes our city such a special place to call home. If hosting visitors has you thinking about finding a new space — or showing off Austin to someone ready to make the move — our team at Moreland Properties is here to help you find a home you’ll love sharing year after year.
