There’s New York and Las Vegas, the obvious bachelorette party destinations. We have nothing but love for the “City that Never Sleeps” and “Sin City,” respectively. But may we kindly suggest an increasingly popular bachelorette party spot that’s become a haven for soon-to-be wed gals and their posses to enjoy outdoor activities and a vibrant nightlife alike? We’re talking about quirky and cool Austin, Texas.
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The capital of Texas boasts a ton of outdoor parks, exciting restaurants and bars, great shopping, and relatively mild weather most of the year. Indeed, there’s no shortage of hot spots to visit in Austin proper, including memorable eateries where groups can indulge in unique cuisine, a top-rated spa to luxuriate the day away, and a hipster local winery worth stopping by to sip wines from family-owned vineyards. If you have an extra day to spare, you can also venture outside the city to beautiful Lake Travis, just 30 minutes away. No matter your time frame for celebrating the upcoming wedding of a sister, close friend, or for yourself, a trip to Austin should be in your sights. Read on for tips on planning an unforgettable bachelorette party in this easy-to-travel-to locale, where keeping things interesting is something locals pride themselves on.
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1 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Accomodations
East Austin Hotel
You can’t beat the location of the East Austin Hotel, which boasts modern and colorful rooms and suites less than a mile from downtown Austin. Lounge by the pool and snack at on-site eateries, like the all-day global diner (yes!) serving a wide variety of cuisines. Then, easily trek to the other hot spots on our list below.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
The East Austin Hotel is such a great property. The rooms were cleaned meticulously, the in-shower amenities were lovely. The overall atmosphere was welcoming and fun. We really enjoyed the rooftop bar.
2 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Spa
W Away
Just over a mile from the East Austin Hotel, indulge in a much-needed day of relaxation at the W's top-rated Away Spa, one of the city’s most luxurious spots. Book massages (see price above), nail services, facials, waxing, and fun signature enhancements like detox body brushing. Then it’s off to take in Austin’s vivid nightlife scene!
What Reviewers Are Saying:
The atmosphere was so calming and peaceful. The staff was super-friendly and helpful!
3 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Bar
Mean Eyed Cat
Just a few miles from the East Austin Hotel, scope out the Mean Eyed Cat bar. The name alone has us wanting to try out the BBQ Street Tacos (see price above) and a Mean Marg. Johnny Cash fans will especially love the lively venue, as will any group of friends wanting to sip and laugh their way through an unforgettable evening in Austin.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
This is an awesome Austin bar with a happy hour and super-friendly staff. It has tables, a patio, and couches for a really cool atmosphere.
4 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Activity
Austin Winery
A short Uber ride from the hotel will land you at the Austin Winery, a business venture launched by friends and wine lovers whose aim is to support family-owned vineyards. Taste wines (price above) and nibble on cheese at the hipster spot, which welcomes walk-ins for groups under 20. You may never want to leave!
What Reviewers Are Saying:
This place provides an interesting little space for wine tasting surrounded by oak barrels and stainless steel tanks where wine is actively being blended and stored. We sat and tasted several wines and snacked on cheese, bread and fruit. I bought a bottle of one of their flagship red varieties which was impressive and priced right.
5 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Cafe
Cuvee Coffee
After a night throwing back margaritas at the Mean Eyed Cat, you’ll need some authentic Austin coffee to revive you in time to stop by a fav local shopping spot. Be sure to buy a bag of java to take home so you can remember how Cuvee Coffee saved the day!
What Reviewers Are Saying:
You can't go wrong with Cuvee. We especially love the Stella Cometa espresso - ummmm, liquid gold. It is a cute warehouse-looking place.
6 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Shopping
2nd Street District
The 2nd Street District is comprised of six blocks of dining, shopping and entertainment experiences, including the Daily Juice Cafe, Drybar, and the Austin General Store. If it’s super-hot out, take in a movie, or create a project, like a jewelry hanger or butcher board, while sipping on a cocktail at the Upstairs Circus.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
I wanted an easy stroll from my hotel and this fit the bill. I enjoyed going into the local shops. I loved the Austin General Store which is an upscale gift shop where I purchased some unique items. The area had plenty of restaurants, many with sidewalk tables.
7 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Fitness Class
AdZENtures Yoga
AdZENtures is a business that aims to combine yoga with other interests, like drinking champagne! Try yoga and mimosas in the heart of Austin on the Driftwood Downtown social club rooftop. Hungry after? Head to Geraldine’s (see below) for a culinary experience only found in Austin.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
I highly recommend this class to start a Sunday Funday or to do some relaxing yoga outside.
8 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Restaurant for a Group
Geraldine’s
Located on the fourth floor of the Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt, Geraldine’s offers a truly unique menu to diners, including must-tries like Smoked Carrots, Grilled Texas Quail, and Mustard Glazed Berkshire Pork Chop (priced above). Enjoy craft cocktails and live music 7 days a week, including during the raved-about brunch. Reviewers gush about the shared plates and lively atmosphere, so it seems you won’t be disappointed if you steer your group to Geraldine’s for a meal before you wrap up your weekend.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
We were a group of eight and shared several different small plates. The popovers were really good, as was the beef dish. We ordered enough for our hunger to be satisfied. The ambiance is really nice and overall I’d say this is a higher end restaurant.
9 of 9 Image Credits: Trip Advisor
Best Dessert Spot
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Don’t leave Austin without indulging in Lick Honest Ice Creams' heavenly flavors, like the Caramel Salt Lick or Dark Chocolate with Olive Oil and Sea Salt. Or both. With three Austin locations, you have no excuse to skip this vegan-friendly treat spot that can serve as a sweet ending to an amazing bachelorette weekend.
What Reviewers Are Saying:
I love their ice cream. The flavors are always amazing, and the combinations ingenious.
