Explore Austin Like a Local

Coming to Austin for the Facilitation Lab Summit 2026? You’re in for more than transformative sessions—you’re also in for world-class tacos, live music, Hill Country sunsets, and hidden gems that make Austin unforgettable.

We asked our community’s most in-the-know Austinites to share their favorite things to do, eat, and explore. Here’s how to experience Austin like a local.

Food & Drink

Tacos & BBQ

Taqueria De Diez

Just a few steps off Trinity Street, this tucked-away taco gem serves up hand-made street tacos—think carne asada, pastor, pollo, nopales, and campechano—crafted on fresh corn or flour tortillas. It’s fast, real, and perfect for fueling up between sessions.

Lamberts Downtown Barbecue

Located nearby on 2nd Street, Lamberts delivers slow-smoked Texas barbecue with a modern flair. Expect terrific ribs, brisket, a full bar, and even live music upstairs—ideal for a relaxed yet memorable evening wind-down after Summit sessions.

Terry Black’s Barbecue

Just across the river on Barton Springs Road, this Austin institution serves up legendary Central Texas BBQ. Known for melt-in-your-mouth brisket, giant beef ribs, and classic sides, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting the true taste of Austin barbecue tradition.

Torchy's Tacos

Born in Austin and now a celebrated fast-casual chain, Torchy’s serves creative, made-from-scratch “Damn Good Tacos” with playful names like the Trailer Park and the Republican—and a queso that’s earned legendary status. Expect bold flavors, quality ingredients, and a taste of local taco culture.

Veracruz All Natural

Famous for breakfast tacos that locals swear by, this Austin food truck-turned-staple delivers fresh, homemade flavors with a focus on quality ingredients. Don’t miss the Migas taco—it’s iconic.

Vegetarian

Bouldin Creek Cafe

A South Austin staple on South 1st Street, Bouldin Creek Café has been serving creative vegetarian comfort food for decades. From their famous veggie tacos to hearty plates like the “Renegade” omelet, every dish is crafted with flavor and flair. With its quirky art-filled walls and welcoming patio, it’s the perfect spot to experience Austin’s laid-back, eclectic vibe over a plate of plant-based goodness.

The Meteor

Equal parts café, wine bar, and bike shop, The Meteor on South Congress is a true Austin original. By day, it’s a go-to for fresh pastries, veggie-forward breakfast plates, and locally roasted coffee. By night, it transforms into a lively hangout with natural wines and seasonal dishes. Whether you roll up on two wheels or just want to soak in the South Congress energy, The Meteor blends community and cuisine in a way that feels uniquely Austin.

Show Me Pizza

Just off East 6th, Show Me Pizza takes the classic slice shop and gives it an Austin twist. Their inventive vegetarian pies—topped with everything from locally sourced veggies to house-made sauces—are baked to perfection in wood-fired ovens. Grab a slice, order a whole pie, or try one of their rotating specials, and see why this spot is quickly becoming a favorite for pizza lovers who want bold flavors without the meat.

Nori

Tucked away on East Cesar Chavez, Nori brings a fresh take on vegetarian-friendly sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes. Known for beautifully crafted rolls, flavorful small plates, and a cozy, modern atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving creative plant-based dining with a touch of elegance. With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation, Nori shows that sushi in Austin doesn’t have to mean fish.

Coffee & All-Day Café Vibes

Intelligentsia Coffee

Steps from the venue, this sleek downtown roaster serves beautifully done espresso and seasonal single-origin pours in a serene, minimalist space. A reliable go-to for your caffeine hit.

Codependent Coffee + Cocktails

Located at the base of the iconic “Jenga” tower, this café transitions effortlessly from espresso-driven mornings to chic cocktail afternoons—great for relaxed meetups or solo work sessions.

Citizens All Day (Burnet Rd.)

This bright, Aussie-inspired café brings “laid-back, vibrant, and unexpected flavor” to North Austin. Open all day, it's a perfect spot for avocado toast by morning or a Vegemite flight and espresso martinis under a disco ball by evening.

Cosmic Pickle

A little farther out in South Austin, this enchanting coffee and beer garden blends specialty coffee, local brews, craft cocktails, and food trucks in a lush permaculture-inspired outdoor space—complete with mini-waterfalls, chickens, and vibrant community energy. It’s a peaceful, one-of-a-kind retreat perfect for an extended hang or a late afternoon wrap-up.

Houndstooth

A modern café with multiple locations, Houndstooth is all about precision and craft. Expect expertly pulled espresso, single-origin brews, and a minimalist vibe perfect for coffee purists.

Breakfast Spots

Snooze A.M. Eatery

A lively, colorful brunch spot known for playful takes on pancakes, benedicts, and morning cocktails. It’s breakfast with an Austin twist, served all day.

Jo’s Coffee

Home to the iconic “I love you so much” mural, Jo’s is a laid-back Austin staple for strong coffee, good breakfast tacos, and unbeatable people-watching on South Congress.

Bouldin Creek Café

A funky, vegetarian-friendly café beloved for hearty breakfasts, creative vegan options, and a true Austin neighborhood vibe.

Dinner Spots

Reservations Recommended

Red Ash Italia

A refined steakhouse-Italian hybrid, known for its 50-day dry-aged porterhouses and high-end ambiance—great for when dinner should feel like a moment to savor.

La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas

A lively, pool-side restaurant on the 5th floor, offering sizzling fajitas, fresh ceviches, margaritas, and views to match—ideal for a celebratory dinner with a sparkle.

ATX Cocina

Downtown's modern Mexican standout, serving inventive, gluten-free-forward dishes focused on corn and seafood—with bold flavor and elegance.

Music & Nightlife

The Continental Club

A South Congress staple since the ’50s, this intimate venue is pure Austin vibes—rockabilly, blues, and country nights that feel timeless (and often don’t cost a dime).

The Elephant Room

Descend into this downtown basement for nightly jazz in a quietly cool, candlelit space. Great cocktails, great music, no frills—just flavors and souls.

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q

At this iconic BBQ-turned-venue, you’ll catch world-class live acts in a scenic outdoor amphitheater or intimate indoor stage—and the Sunday gospel brunch is live-music comfort food done right.

Broken Spoke

Austin’s most legendary honky-tonk since 1964, serving up live country music, two-stepping, and true Texas dance hall vibes. A must-visit for an authentic night out.

Lala's Little Nugget

Strip-mall tavern with year-round holiday decor, an old-school jukebox, drinks & games.

The White Horse

A beloved Eastside honky-tonk where you’ll find live country music, cheap drinks, and a dance floor packed with two-steppers late into the night. Pure Austin energy, boots optional.

Half Step

Nestled on Rainey Street, this laid-back cocktail bar is known for its craft mixology and charming bungalow setting. It’s a relaxed, stylish spot to sip inventive drinks under the Texas night sky.

Outdoors & Wellness

Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Start your day with a peaceful stroll or energizing jog along this popular 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake. With sweeping water views, downtown vistas, and plenty of shade, it’s the perfect way to clear your head before Summit sessions.

Shoal Creek Trail

Just steps from downtown, Shoal Creek Trail offers a serene escape with gentle terrain, leafy paths, and a blend of paved and natural trail surfaces. Head north toward Pease Park for a refreshing morning in nature.

Culture & Exploration

Blanton Museum of Art

Just around the corner downtown, this acclaimed museum showcases Central Texas’s largest public art collection—including Ellsworth Kelly’s striking “Austin.”

Mexic-Arte Museum & El Mero Muro

Dive into vibrant Latinx and Mexican art inside, then step outside to experience the powerful El Mero Muro mural that brings bold color and social dialogue to the streets.

Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

A peaceful Zilker gem where contemplative sculpture and lush gardens offer a serene artistic retreat just minutes from downtown.

SoCo Shopping

Feathers Boutique, Prototype Vintage & Uncommon Objects – Explore retro fashion and curiosities along South Congress—vintage threads, eclectic accessories, and eccentric finds await just south of the summit.

Austin Gems

Alamo Drafthouse

Austin’s iconic dine-in cinema where you can enjoy craft beer, cocktails, and full meals while watching movies old and new.

Austin Central Library

A modern architectural gem on the lakefront, with rooftop gardens, art installations, and panoramic downtown views.

Congress Avenue Bats

Each summer evening, more than a million bats soar from under the bridge in a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Live Music Capital

With hundreds of venues, Austin lives up to its nickname as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

Barton Springs Pool

A spring-fed swimming hole in Zilker Park that stays a crisp 68–70 degrees all year long.

Street Art & Murals

From the “I love you so much” wall to vibrant East Side murals, Austin’s art scene is everywhere you look.

South Congress Avenue

A lively stretch lined with vintage shops, local eateries, and some of the city’s best people-watching.

Food Truck Culture

Austin’s famous for its food trucks, serving everything from tacos to vegan ice cream across the city.

Lady Bird Lake Trail

A scenic 10-mile path circling the lake, perfect for jogging, biking, or kayaking with skyline views.

Texas State Capitol

Taller than the U.S. Capitol, this pink granite landmark offers free tours and a taste of Lone Star history.

Toy Joy

A whimsical Austin landmark packed floor-to-ceiling with quirky toys, collectibles, and novelties you won’t find anywhere else.

Yummy Joy

Right next door to Toy Joy, this colorful candy shop offers retro sweets, unique treats, and local goodies that are pure nostalgia.

Getting Around Austin

Transportation Made Easy

From rideshares and scooters to city bikes and public transit, getting across Austin is simple and flexible—no rental car required.

Navigation Tools

Handy maps and apps help you move between neighborhoods, find parking, and make the most of your time in the city.

Neighborhood Highlights

Each district has its own vibe—South Congress for shopping, East Austin for art and food, the Red River District for nightlife. Explore them all at your own pace.

Visitor Perks

Look out for local discounts, happy hour specials, and community deals that make exploring Austin even sweeter.

Where to Stay

Explore Austin Like a Local

Food & Drink

Tacos & BBQ

Just a few steps off Trinity Street, this tucked-away taco gem serves up hand-made street tacos—think carne asada, pastor, pollo, nopales, and campechano—crafted on fresh corn or flour tortillas. It’s fast, real, and perfect for fueling up between sessions.

Located nearby on 2nd Street, Lamberts delivers slow-smoked Texas barbecue with a modern flair. Expect terrific ribs, brisket, a full bar, and even live music upstairs—ideal for a relaxed yet memorable evening wind-down after Summit sessions.

Just across the river on Barton Springs Road, this Austin institution serves up legendary Central Texas BBQ. Known for melt-in-your-mouth brisket, giant beef ribs, and classic sides, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting the true taste of Austin barbecue tradition.

Famous for breakfast tacos that locals swear by, this Austin food truck-turned-staple delivers fresh, homemade flavors with a focus on quality ingredients. Don’t miss the Migas taco—it’s iconic.

Vegetarian

Coffee & All-Day Café Vibes

Steps from the venue, this sleek downtown roaster serves beautifully done espresso and seasonal single-origin pours in a serene, minimalist space. A reliable go-to for your caffeine hit.

Located at the base of the iconic “Jenga” tower, this café transitions effortlessly from espresso-driven mornings to chic cocktail afternoons—great for relaxed meetups or solo work sessions.

This bright, Aussie-inspired café brings “laid-back, vibrant, and unexpected flavor” to North Austin. Open all day, it's a perfect spot for avocado toast by morning or a Vegemite flight and espresso martinis under a disco ball by evening.

A modern café with multiple locations, Houndstooth is all about precision and craft. Expect expertly pulled espresso, single-origin brews, and a minimalist vibe perfect for coffee purists.

Breakfast Spots

A lively, colorful brunch spot known for playful takes on pancakes, benedicts, and morning cocktails. It’s breakfast with an Austin twist, served all day.

Home to the iconic “I love you so much” mural, Jo’s is a laid-back Austin staple for strong coffee, good breakfast tacos, and unbeatable people-watching on South Congress.

A funky, vegetarian-friendly café beloved for hearty breakfasts, creative vegan options, and a true Austin neighborhood vibe.

Dinner Spots

Reservations Recommended

A refined steakhouse-Italian hybrid, known for its 50-day dry-aged porterhouses and high-end ambiance—great for when dinner should feel like a moment to savor.

A lively, pool-side restaurant on the 5th floor, offering sizzling fajitas, fresh ceviches, margaritas, and views to match—ideal for a celebratory dinner with a sparkle.

Downtown's modern Mexican standout, serving inventive, gluten-free-forward dishes focused on corn and seafood—with bold flavor and elegance.

Music & Nightlife

A South Congress staple since the ’50s, this intimate venue is pure Austin vibes—rockabilly, blues, and country nights that feel timeless (and often don’t cost a dime).

Descend into this downtown basement for nightly jazz in a quietly cool, candlelit space. Great cocktails, great music, no frills—just flavors and souls.

At this iconic BBQ-turned-venue, you’ll catch world-class live acts in a scenic outdoor amphitheater or intimate indoor stage—and the Sunday gospel brunch is live-music comfort food done right.

Austin’s most legendary honky-tonk since 1964, serving up live country music, two-stepping, and true Texas dance hall vibes. A must-visit for an authentic night out.

Strip-mall tavern with year-round holiday decor, an old-school jukebox, drinks & games.

A beloved Eastside honky-tonk where you’ll find live country music, cheap drinks, and a dance floor packed with two-steppers late into the night. Pure Austin energy, boots optional.

Nestled on Rainey Street, this laid-back cocktail bar is known for its craft mixology and charming bungalow setting. It’s a relaxed, stylish spot to sip inventive drinks under the Texas night sky.

Outdoors & Wellness

Start your day with a peaceful stroll or energizing jog along this popular 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake. With sweeping water views, downtown vistas, and plenty of shade, it’s the perfect way to clear your head before Summit sessions.

Just steps from downtown, Shoal Creek Trail offers a serene escape with gentle terrain, leafy paths, and a blend of paved and natural trail surfaces. Head north toward Pease Park for a refreshing morning in nature.

Culture & Exploration

Just around the corner downtown, this acclaimed museum showcases Central Texas’s largest public art collection—including Ellsworth Kelly’s striking “Austin.”

Dive into vibrant Latinx and Mexican art inside, then step outside to experience the powerful El Mero Muro mural that brings bold color and social dialogue to the streets.

A peaceful Zilker gem where contemplative sculpture and lush gardens offer a serene artistic retreat just minutes from downtown.

Feathers Boutique, Prototype Vintage & Uncommon Objects – Explore retro fashion and curiosities along South Congress—vintage threads, eclectic accessories, and eccentric finds await just south of the summit.

Austin Gems

Austin’s iconic dine-in cinema where you can enjoy craft beer, cocktails, and full meals while watching movies old and new.

A modern architectural gem on the lakefront, with rooftop gardens, art installations, and panoramic downtown views.

Each summer evening, more than a million bats soar from under the bridge in a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Live Music Capital

With hundreds of venues, Austin lives up to its nickname as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

A spring-fed swimming hole in Zilker Park that stays a crisp 68–70 degrees all year long.

Street Art & Murals

From the “I love you so much” wall to vibrant East Side murals, Austin’s art scene is everywhere you look.

South Congress Avenue

A lively stretch lined with vintage shops, local eateries, and some of the city’s best people-watching.

Food Truck Culture

Austin’s famous for its food trucks, serving everything from tacos to vegan ice cream across the city.

A scenic 10-mile path circling the lake, perfect for jogging, biking, or kayaking with skyline views.

Taller than the U.S. Capitol, this pink granite landmark offers free tours and a taste of Lone Star history.

A whimsical Austin landmark packed floor-to-ceiling with quirky toys, collectibles, and novelties you won’t find anywhere else.

Right next door to Toy Joy, this colorful candy shop offers retro sweets, unique treats, and local goodies that are pure nostalgia.

Getting Around Austin

From rideshares and scooters to city bikes and public transit, getting across Austin is simple and flexible—no rental car required.

Handy maps and apps help you move between neighborhoods, find parking, and make the most of your time in the city.

Each district has its own vibe—South Congress for shopping, East Austin for art and food, the Red River District for nightlife. Explore them all at your own pace.

Look out for local discounts, happy hour specials, and community deals that make exploring Austin even sweeter.

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Join our FREE Introduction to Facilitation workshop to learn collaborative leadership skills!

Visit our events page to see all available times