Hidden Gems of Austin to Visit in 2026
Visiting Austin for the first time? Here are the spots we recommend to all our guests.
Austin, Texas has its famous landmarks, but what makes people fall in love with the city are the quieter places. The neighborhood restaurants, tucked-away shops, and walks that locals return to again and again. When guests stay with us at The Wayback, these are the places we always recommend.
Think of this as an insider’s guide to Austin, Hill Country style.
Eat
Food Food
A classic West Austin deli. Grab a sandwich, then walk around the Tarrytown Shopping Center for gifts, clothing, home decor, and neighborhood charm.
El Dorado Cafe
Our pick for the best Tex-Mex in Austin. Creative, comforting, and consistently excellent.
Buffalina
Often considered the best pizza in the city. Simple, thoughtful, and done right.
AllDay Pizza
A neighborhood favorite connected to Flow Wine Bar. Perfect for a casual dinner that turns into a long evening.
Zed’s Ice Cream
Australian-style ice cream located in the Tarrytown Shopping Center. A great stop after Food Food.
Cipollina
Family-owned Italian restaurant in a walkable neighborhood. Cozy, welcoming, and loved by locals.
The Peacock
Mediterranean food downtown with easy access to shopping and sightseeing nearby.
Elizabeth Street Cafe
A beautiful blend of French and Vietnamese flavors, ideal for brunch or dinner.
Drink
Lala’s Little Nugget
An Austin institution. Christmas decorations every day of the year and open for over 50 years.
Prana Smoothies
Our favorite place for smoothies. Clean, energizing, and perfect before a day out.
Violet Crown Wine Bar
Coffee during the day and wine at night. A relaxed spot to linger.
Shop
Letterpress PLAY
Family-owned letterpress studio filled with beautiful paper goods and thoughtful gifts.
Liz James Designs
Women-owned jewelry and gift shop with a distinctly Austin feel.
Terra Toys
The best toy store in Austin. A favorite for kids and adults alike.
Maaribu Home
A beautifully curated interiors shop. While you browse, grab a coffee and pastry from their all gluten-free bakery.
Austin Art Garage
Discover local artists and take home a piece of Austin.
Adelante Boutique
Stylish women’s clothing with a relaxed, local sensibility.
Be Active
Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park
Walk along Lake Austin with beautiful views of the water and rolling Hill Country.
Shoal Creek Greenbelt leading into Pease Park
Along the way, discover Malin’s Fountain, an 18-foot troll sculpture by artist Thomas Dambo. Grab a coffee in the park from a high-end espresso bar operating out of a vintage VW bus.
Café Monet
Art and clay classes in a creative, welcoming environment.
Stay
The Wayback Cafe & Cottages
A quiet, design-forward retreat nestled among live oaks in the Texas Hill Country, just minutes from downtown Austin. Enjoy the natural setting, saltwater pool, farm-to-table cafe, and craft cocktails. We also have live music and workshops on select dates.
Book your Austin getaway today, and use code FIRST20 for 20% off your first stay.
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WE HAVE TO STOP TRUMP AND HIS ADMINISTRATION FROM DESTROYING THE COUNTRY.
TRUMP, HIS ADMINISTRATION, AND THE REPUBLICAN PARTY ARE MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR THE WORKING CLASS TO SURVIVE