Austin Shopping

Although best known for live music events, Austin offers many other attractions that appeal to tourists and locals alike. From museums to shopping, from parks to historic government buildings, Austin truly has something for everyone.

Check out the sections below, that list many of the major attractions in town.

First, though, have a look at this video in which a young Austinite gives a tour of Austin's many sights to see.

http://www.forbestravelguide.com/austin-texas/where-is-the-best-shopping-in-austin http://austin.retailguide.com/

The Drag

The Drag is the name for a section of Guadalupe St. that borders the University of Texas campus. Because it is close to prominent areas of the university, such as the Main Building and Union Building, the Drag is popular among students who use it as their major shopping and dining district. The Drag began in fact with a collection of bookstores, restaurants, and clothing shops that catered to students.

The Drag today still has many businesses that appeal to the 18- to 22-year old set, such as Tower Records, Texadelphia, and Dobie Mall, which is a two-story mall inside a private residence hall for students that has convenience stores, casual and fast food restaurants, and movie rentals.

Besides national chains, the area also has local stores and eateries. The UT Co-op has many university memorabilia and souvenirs. There's also Renaissance Market, an open-air market with art, jewelry, and clothing.

Read more about The Drag


The Warehouse District

The Warehouse District is approximately a six block by six block area between Third St. and Sixth St., west of Congress Ave. It is the retail and nightlife area immediately west of, and more upscale than, the one downtown. The rundown warehouses that used to be in this area have been converted into stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whereas Sixth Street is known for rowdy college bars, the Warehouse District has more stylish bars and cafes for older, working professionals.

The Austin Music Hall, where the likes of Bonnie Raitt and Eric Clapton have performed is a renovated warehouse in this area. Also in this district is Antone's, a famous nightclub known as Austin's home of the blues, which has hosted B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and many other well-known blues performers.

The Warehouse District is also a romantic getaway destination. The Driskill Hotel, a frequent hangout for Austin politicians, is Austin's oldest hotel and its elegant lobby and appointed rooms go back to an earlier time. The Austin InterContinental Hotel was renovated in 2000. It is a popular place for government and business people to relax after work and also has beautifully and well-furnished rooms.

Watch a short video about the Warehouse District:




http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Guides/Warehouse?Category=Arts_and_Entertainment&SubCategory=Shopping

Austin Attractions

Government Buildings
As the state capital, Austin is the seat of Texas government a good place to witness the inner workings of state government. The state capitol and governor's mansion, the two main government attractions, are both historic buildings dating back to the early days of Texas statehood, and are interesting stories in their own right.

Museums
Austin has over two dozen museums that can educate, entertain, and appeal to the entire family. Whether you're interested in art, history, science, music, literature, or nature, you'll find an indoor or outdoor museum that's like it was designed with you in mind.

Parks
With nearly three dozen city parks to choose from, Austin residents have plenty of opportunity to get close to nature and walk, run, bike, or play sports among the grass, trees, and wildlife.

Shopping: malls, warehouse district, 2nd street, SoCo, Domain Sixth Street University of Texas Texas State Cemetery Historic Neighborhoods Whole Foods Congress St. bats

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