Stuff to do in Austin while at SXSW

Austin transplant (Currently in Chicago) @SaraBurton was kind enough to write up a "locals" version of fun things to do in Austin. Sure we'll all be geeking it up at all the South by Southwest events, but if you have some spare time here are some great authentic places/things to do.

Hi Y'all!

I figured since I'm recent Chicago transplant that came from beautiful Austin, TX that I would share some things to check out while you're in the capital city.

1.) For late nights or early mornings check out Kirby Lane Cafe. It's the hippy version of Denny's with homegrown ingredients and grass feed meat. I recommend the pancakes or the Kirby Queso. I don't like cheese and I can't get enough of it. http://www.kerbeylanecafe.com/

2.) You must try Amy's Ice Cream, I promise it will be one of the best scoops you've ever had. Mexican Vanilla is their claim to fame. http://www.amysicecreams.com/

3.) If you need a place to go for lunch check out South Congress and the Magnolia Cafe. Close to downtown and the conference. Make sure you have time to walk around a bit to see the eclectic shops like Lucy in Disguise. Grab a Hey Cupcake before you leave. http://austin.smallplanetguide.com/rentals/index.php?p=soco_austin_neighborhood

4.) If you're looking for authentic Texas BBQ the best place to go is out in the Texas hill country. About a 30min drive but totally worth it if you're looking for the real thing. It's BYOB so be sure to grab a 6pack of Shiner before you go. http://www.saltlickbbq.com/

5.) A restaurant with one of the most beautiful views I've ever seen is The Oasis on Lake Travis. It on the side of a large hill overlooking the water while you eat. Go during sunset to catch one of the prettiest views. http://www.oasis-austin.com/theoasis.php

6.) Speaking of views, one of the coolest places to check out is Mt. Benel. It's the highest point in Austin and overlooks the river and the hill country. Great way to see the whole city in one view.

7.) Alamo Drafthouse is great to check out if you're looking for something do in the evening. It's a full movie theater with food and beer served while you watch. If you have time, check out Master Pancake running during SXSW, http://www.originalalamo.com/Show.aspx?id=5567. It's a modern version of mystery science theater. You'll be ROFL'ing. :-)

8.) If you're looking for a quick bite check out Freebirds (way better than Chipotle) http://www.freebirds.com/ , Texadelphia http://www.texadelphia.com/ , Which Wich http://www.whichwich.com/ or Whataburger http://www.whataburger.com/.

9.) At sundown you have to check out the congress bridge bats. Beginning mid-march at the same time every night you can see about 1.5 million Mexican bats emerge from the bridge for the their night flight. It's close to downtown and worth checking out. http://www.austincityguide.com/content/congress-bridge-bats-austin.asp

10.) I must make a mention of 6th street even though I know you'll be spending most of your time there because of the conference. Some of my personal favorites are buffalo billiards because of the shuffle boards, Maggie Maes and Blind Pig because of the rooftop decks, The Library and Friends because of the cheap drinks and vicci for the dancing. Also check out 4th street for the more trendy side of downtown Austin. My personal favorite Qua because of the dance floor that's over a shark tank.

I look forward to meeting everyone at the tweetup on the 4th! I hope you have fun in Austin and I hope to see you there!