When your travel itinerary combines sophisticated design, culinary creativity, and just the right amount of Texas charm, you know you’ve landed in Austin.
Whether you’re visiting for work, inspiration, or a well-deserved getaway, the city offers a vibrant mix of style and soul. Here’s how I like to do Austin—from where to stay and savor, to what to see and experience:
STAY
Tucked in the heart of the city, The Proper is a designer’s dream. With interiors by Kelly Wearstler, every corner feels like a curated gallery of rich textures, bold color palettes, and artful layers.
It’s the perfect balance of refined elegance and relaxed Austin attitude.
DINE & SIP
Goldie's (Inside Austin Proper)
Start your day with a coffee or wind down with a cocktail at Goldie’s, the hotel’s moody and intimate lounge. The setting is chic yet inviting—an ideal spot to savor conversation and beautifully plated bites.
Lunch at Aba
Set beneath leafy trees and soft lighting, Aba’s breezy courtyard is a must for fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Don’t skip the whipped feta and lamb kefta.
Happy Hour @ Rosie's Wine Bar
A stylish local gem with a laid-back vibe. Sip a crisp rosé or a bold red as the sun sets—Rosie’s knows how to serve both ambiance and wine.
Dinner at Uchiba
Modern Japanese cuisine meets Texas hospitality at this elevated yet approachable spot. The flavor combinations are bold and beautifully executed—perfect for design-minded food lovers.
Dinner at Pecan Square Cafe
A neighborhood favorite with seasonal California-meets-Texas fare, Pecan Square Café offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh, market-driven ingredients.
Real BBQ at Terry Black's
No trip to Austin is complete without experiencing true Texas barbecue. At Terry Black’s, brisket, ribs, and house-made sides are served with a side of smoky authenticity and local pride.
VISIT
Drop Into the Four Hands Showroom
For fellow design lovers, the Four Hands showroom is an essential stop. Their ever-evolving collection of furniture, lighting, rugs, art, and wallcoverings offers endless inspiration—and a look into what’s next in design.
Canoe at Lady Bird Lake
Experience the city from a new perspective. Canoeing or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake offers a peaceful, nature-filled escape right in the heart of downtown.
Late Dancing - Honky Tonk Style
Put on your boots and head to the iconic Broken Spoke or The White Horse for a true Austin experience. Live music, two-stepping, and a spirited crowd make for an unforgettable night.
Seasonal Favorites & Other Must-Do's
- SXSW (March): A global celebration of tech, film, and music. The energy is unmatched, and the city becomes a hub for creativity and culture.
- Formula 1 (October): For those who enjoy speed and style, the U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas is an adrenaline-fueled spectacle with plenty of high-design hospitality suites.
- Browse the boutiques along South Congress Avenue for local fashion and design finds.
- Catch live music at ACL Live at The Moody Theater.
- Visit The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria for a fusion of art and nature.
Austin is a city that celebrates individuality, creativity, and hospitality—all wrapped in effortless style. Whether you’re gathering inspiration, reconnecting with colleagues, or simply savoring a change of scenery, this designer escape delivers on all fronts.
Until the next escape…
XO, Kerrie
