It may seem like 2023 is just beginning, but it’s already almost springtime in Texas, and South by Southwest is in the air! Austin’s annual celebration of music, tech, film and fun is scheduled for March 10-19. If you need a break from catching the latest film releases, showing off your dance moves at a concert or seeing how new technology is changing the world, here are a few ways to live like a local and start scratching the surface of everything this amazing city has to offer.
Binge on Barbecue
They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and few things are bigger than the servings of barbecue you can find at any of Austin’s favorite smokehouses. With incredible selections of brisket, ribs, sausage and more around every corner, it’s safe to say that the debate over which one is best will rage on forever, but there’s no better way to find the answer than to try them all yourself.
While no list of Austin barbecue joints would be complete without a mention of Franklin Barbecue, legendary pitmaster Aaron Franklin’s mouthwatering brisket is by no means the only game in town. In addition to other Austin landmarks such as La Barbecue and Black’s, eat like a local at one of the heavenly barbecue trucks dotted around the city, including Distant Relatives or Micklethwait Craft Meats. Last but not least, for everyone here for the film festival, follow up your latest screening with a trip to Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew, which combines its history as a key shooting location for the Austin classic Dazed and Confused with smoked wings that are far more than just alright, alright, alright.
Marvel at the Murals
It isn’t just the rolling hills or bright sunshine that make Austin such a beautiful city. Everywhere you look, street art of all shapes, sizes and styles adds that special “Keep Austin Weird” flavor to hundreds of buildings. Decades-old retro art meets sleek and stylish masterpieces at every intersection, so use this map to find them all, and snap a pic to make your whole Instagram feed jealous. Be sure to stop by our personal favorite: The Beauty of Liberty and Equality, Austin’s largest mural adorning the LINE hotel.
Catch Up on Karaoke
While SXSW is known for attracting world-class musical talent, the “Live Music Capital of the World” just wouldn’t be complete without the biggest star of all: you!
If you’re looking to belt out a hit from your new favorite artist you discovered at Stubb’s BBQ or The Continental Club, Austin has a variety of karaoke hot spots catering to singers of every style. If you’re feeling brave, head on over to Ego’s to get the full support of the crowd, or stop by the Back Bar at Hole in the Wall to join the ranks of Stevie Ray Vaughan and the Texas Tornados on the list of those who have sang at this legendary venue.
Of course, if you prefer a cozier karaoke experience, there are plenty of spots to book your own private room for you and your group. Step out from the red carpet at the Alamo Drafthouse and book a room at The Highball, or head up north to Austin Karaoke for a BYOB bonanza.
Whether you’re chowing down on barbecue, basking in the glory of the murals or belting out your favorite karaoke hit, make sure to do it all while following the one rule that every Austinite holds dear: Have fun!
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