Tis Me Michelle

Sometimes vacations are planned around where people can meet you. Having a lot of family based in Texas has led me there quite a few times. Usually I end up in Houston or Dallas, but I’ve managed to make it to Austin a couple times. It’s a great middle point and a fun city!

But be warned, it is HOT. It is a very different type of heat than what I’ve become used to in Florida. Straight, dry heat. My trips have been pretty quick, but both times were super fun. Sometimes trips are memorable because of what you do and other times it’s because of who you are with.

There was limited sight-seeing both trips – mainly due to the weather. The first time around we made it to Mount Bonnell and the SoCo District. SoCo District was a fun little stop, because they have such eclectic stores which are fun to window shop in! There were so many cool vintage/antique type shops. And some pretty iconic graffiti around the streets. Of course, I couldn’t leave without a scoop or two from Amy’s Ice Creams.

Otherwise the main events were all about food and drinks. I ended up at the same BBQ spot both times, Salt Lick. It’s a nice secluded area, but I gotta try a different spot the next time I go. I’ve heard amazing things about Franklin Barbecue and need to compare. Oh and the last trip, I couldn’t skip the chance to support my long time love, Jensen Ackles. If you don’t know him, please go binge watch all 14 season of Supernatural, NOW! He and his family own a brewery, Family Business Beer Company, and although on the outskirts, totally worth it for me. It’s a small joint, but if you are a fan of him or the beer, go check it out!

And then there’s the nightlife. There are 2 main sections for nightlife, Sixth Street and Rainey Street. We went to both the first time around, and it was obvious Sixth Street wasn’t for us. It is just a lot, pretty similar to Bourbon Street, but I definitely went at the peak timing for Sixth Street and caught all the crazy. It also didn’t help that the weekend we went, there was a protest that Uber/Lyft was not taking ride. Rainey Street on the other hand was right up my alley. It was much more chill and had a very hipster vibe. You can find chill bars, places with activities and if you really wanted places to dance.

Austin is a blast, especially with some good company. It’s a city I would visit again, and understand why so many people love it. Consider it for your next vacay!