Austin, the capital of Texas, is one of the most dynamic and creative cities in the United States. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the global network of Creative Cities, particularly in the field of Media Arts, the city is a unique meeting point where art, music, and technology converge, shaping a vibrant culture that attracts visitors and new residents from all over the world.

Famous for its music scene, Austin is also known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” hosting events like the iconic South by Southwest (SXSW), which has been one of the largest festivals of innovation and creativity on the planet since 1987, bringing together leaders from sectors such as music, film, and technology. This event, alongside the city’s growing tech industry, positions Austin as a hub for culture, innovation, and quality of life. The city has experienced notable population growth, with approximately 980,000 residents, driven by its appeal to creative professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, and those seeking a more relaxed and progressive lifestyle.

Located in the heart of Texas, Austin occupies a strategic position in the southern United States, near the border with Mexico. The city is approximately 120 km from San Antonio, 265 km from Houston, and 310 km from Dallas, three of the largest cities in the state. Austin is the 10th largest city in the United States, according to the 2022 census.

With a typically warm and sunny climate, averaging 21.1°C throughout the year and almost 300 sunny days, Austin is perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months, especially August, can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C, while January is the coldest month.

The city is served by Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), one of the busiest airports in Texas, with direct routes to over 85 destinations within and outside the United States. Although there are no direct flights from Brazil to Austin, connections through cities like Atlanta, Miami, New York, and Houston are quite common.

The airport is about 12 km from downtown Austin and the Austin Convention Center, the central location for SXSW. For those arriving at the airport, there are various transportation options. In addition to traditional car rental services, visitors can use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft. For a more affordable option, the Route 20 bus line, operated by CapMetro, connects the airport to downtown for just $1.25, with a journey of approximately 35 minutes.

Austin is a city that facilitates movement both by car and public transportation. While the car is the most commonly used mode of transport, the city has an efficient bus system operated by CapMetro, with multiple lines serving busy areas and peripheral neighborhoods. CapMetro also offers a rail line, the CapMetro Rail, which connects downtown to areas in the north and even the neighboring city of Leander.
Buses run frequently, with trips every 15 minutes on some routes, and the fare is $1.25. For those who prefer biking, CapMetro’s bike-sharing system offers an affordable option for just $1.09 per hour.

Austin’s history begins with Native American tribes such as the Tonkawa, Apache, and Comanche, who inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived. In the 1830s, a group of immigrants, mostly of German, Swedish, and Mexican descent, settled in the area along the Colorado River, founding the settlement of Waterloo.

In 1839, the site was chosen as the capital of the Republic of Texas and renamed Austin in honor of Stephen F. Austin, known as the “Father of Texas” for his crucial role in the region’s colonization and Mexico’s independence. The city continued to expand throughout the 19th century with the arrival of the railroad in 1870 and the founding of the University of Texas in 1883. In 1886, the Driskill Hotel opened and remains a symbol of the city, still functioning as a luxurious five-star hotel.

Austin offers a rich variety of tourist, cultural, and recreational attractions. A must-see is the Texas State Capitol, one of the largest in the country, offering guided tours and an in-depth look at the state’s history. Another important landmark is Sixth Street, the city’s bohemian street, famous for its bars, live music, and vibrant atmosphere.

For a panoramic view of Austin, Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot, offering a spectacular view of the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake. The University of Texas, besides being a center of learning, also hosts cultural attractions like the Blanton Museum of Art, dedicated to contemporary art, and the LBJ Presidential Library, one of the largest historical archives in the United States.

During summer months, Zilker Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities, with trails, picnic areas, and the Barton Springs Pool, a natural swimming pool with refreshing waters. The city is also famous for its parks and bike lanes, offering infrastructure that encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Unmissable events in Austin:

• SXSW (March): One of the largest innovation festivals in the world, bringing together artists, filmmakers, musicians, and leaders for lectures, showcases, and interactive exhibits.
• Austin Pride (August): LGBTQIA+ pride celebration with a series of events, culminating in the Pride Parade through downtown.
• Austin City Limits Music Festival (October): A music festival that hosts over 130 artists across two weekends, featuring major names in world music.
• Austin Food + Wine Festival (November): A culinary event that brings together renowned chefs, sommeliers, and wine producers.
• Trail of Lights (December): A spectacular Christmas lights display at Zilker Park, with over 2 million lights illuminating the venue.

5 must-do activities for a first visit:

• Explore the Food Trucks: Austin is famous for its street food, with trucks offering everything from tacos and barbecue to vegan and Asian options.
• Visit the Local Breweries: The city has a growing craft beer scene, with many breweries offering live music and great food.
• Catch a Live Music Show: With hundreds of venues dedicated to live music, Austin is the perfect destination for music lovers.
• Outdoor Adventures: With several parks and bike paths, the city is ideal for those who want to be in touch with nature, whether walking, biking, or just relaxing.
• Explore Street Art: Austin is known for its urban murals, especially in downtown and the South Congress neighborhood, offering a unique experience for art lovers.