Stumped on what to do while attending a conference in the “Keep it Weird” city? We got you, y’all.

We’ve put together a list of our Top 5 things to do in Austin, just for you. Want even more options? Scroll to the bottom for a favorite locale from each member of the OutBranding Promos Austin staff.

#1: Hop on over to Hopdoddy Burger Bar

This Austin gem uses local, all-natural ingredients to cook some of the best burgers you’ve ever tasted. Hopdoddy’s creative burger menu is sure to have something to satisfy every palate, including their Beyond burger for our vegan and vegetarian friends. We highly recommend you grab a plate of their parmesan truffle fries while you’re there (with an extra order of their truffle aioli – thank us later!), and, if you’re visiting after working hours, loosen your tie with one of their delicious boozy shakes.

Visit their site to find the location closest to you.
https://www.hopdoddy.com/

#2: Donut miss out on Gourdough’s

Looking to treat yo’self? Find the donut of your dreams at Gourdough’s Public House. Gourdough’s has been dealing donuts to the Austin population since 2012, and their menu has only gotten more innovative and mouth-watering since. From classic donuts piled high with powdered sugar and honey to cream cheese and cinnamon creations that will have your tastebuds spinning, Gourdough’s is sure to fill your dreams with dancing donuts. Don’t go thinking this is just for you sweet-toothed folks, either! Gourdough’s savory options – like their “Bacon Me Crazy” bacon and provolone donut sandwich – will have you seeing donuts in a new light.

2700 S Lamar Blvd
https://gourdoughs.com/

#3: Feeling Batty?

No trip to Austin is complete without viewing the surreal display that is the nightly emergence of bats from under Congress Avenue Bridge. Austin houses the largest urban bat colony in North America, a population numbering 1.5 million little winged weirdos. During the summer, you can view this unique phenomenon at dusk every day – though we recommend arriving early to find a good spot. You can choose to watch the bats from on the bridge, or walk down to the banks below to hear the slow build-up of chatter and experience the spiral of over a million little bodies just above your head. Whatever vantage point you choose, we ensure it is a sight you won’t soon forget.

Congress Avenue
https://www.austinbats.org/

#4: Experience 6th Street Revelry From On High

Established in 1978, Maggie Mae’s is one of Austin’s most iconic bars. With over 11,000 square feet of event space, five bars, two stages, multiple floors, a max capacity of 792 guests and a location that is steps from the convention center and numerous prominent downtown hotels, Maggie Mae’s is a must-visit. Their rooftop bar offers a view of the entire drag in style and their All Day Happy Hours on weekdays will ensure you never leave thirsty.

323 East 6th Street
http://maggiemaesaustin.com/

#5: Sing It Loud at Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar

Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar is an excellent venue to visit with coworkers and friends alike! Half concert, half bar, if you are looking for an authentic Austin live-music experience, you’re sure to get one at Pete’s. If you’re feeling up to it, throw a song request onto one of the pianos in the front of the room and prepare yourself to sing along with a crowd of voices around you. It has received accolades from Tripadvisor as one of its top-rated locations for Nightlife in Austin.

421 East 6th Street
https://www.petesduelingpianobar.com/

Still want more? Check out our staff picks below.

Maudie’s Tex-Mex

One of the must dos in Texas is chowing down on our famous Tex-Mex cuisine, and the best place in Austin to do that is Maudie’s Tex-Mex. Not only do they have an endless menu of good eats, but they are committed to giving back to their community with their numerous community partners. Do good for your stomach and do good for Austin by stopping for a bite at Maudie’s!

Garey Park

I highly recommend going for a hike in Garey Park. This former 525 acre ranch is located along the South San Gabriel River, so whether you are into hillside views, fishing, or exploring trails on horseback, this park has all you need. It’s a bit of a drive from downtown Austin, but totally worth it!

Deep Eddy Pool

If the crowds at Barton Springs Pool aren’t your style, but you want to take a plunge in a refreshing spring-fed swimming pool, then Deep Eddy is the place for you. The pool overlooks Ladybird Lake and is surrounded by trees, hiking trails, and an adorable community garden. Getting hungry after your swim? Check out Pool Burger next door for a great burger and a frozen drink!

LORO

Hungry for some BBQ without the long lines? My favorite spot is LORO, where Franklin Barbecue and Uchi come together to create an Asian Smokehouse. Stop by during Happy Hour weekdays from 2pm-5pm!

Lamppost Coffee

Looking for a carefully crafted cup of coffee and excellent service? Lamppost Coffee is my favorite local coffee chain in all of Austin – and trust me, I’ve tried a few! They have several locations and their signature Lamba Latte is to die for.

Have your own opinions to share?

Help everyone do the 512 to the fullest and drop your favorite Austin reccs in the comments below!