Details: Traveling to Austin
By Joe Yonan,
Getting There
United Airlines and US Airways fly nonstop from Washington Dulles to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, with flights starting at $415 in upcoming weeks.
Where to stay
Park Lane Guest House
221 Park Lane
512-447-7460, 800-492-8827
In Travis Heights, walking distance to the South Congress strip. One room in the main house and three cottages, including Vicky, a one-of-a-kind tiny house made from reclaimed materials. Rooms start at about $150, cottages at about $200.
Hotel San Jose
1316 S. Congress Ave.
512-444-7322, 800-574-8897
A 1939 motor court transformed into the hippest lodging in town. Shared-bath rooms from $95, private bath from $160.
Where to eat and drink
Nau's Enfield Drug
1115 W. Lynn St.
512-476-1221
Burgers, shakes, grilled-cheese sandwiches and the like. Burgers go for $4.
G'raj Mahal Cafe
91 Red River St.
512-480-2255
Expertly made Indian food served from a trailer in an outdoor setting. BYOB. Entrees start at $8.
La Boite Cafe
1700 S. Lamar Blvd.
512-377-6198
Classic French pastries (including macarons in inventive flavors such as strawberry and black pepper) and excellent espresso drinks, served from a converted shipping container.
Uchi
801 S. Lamar Blvd.
512-916-4808
Creative takes on sushi and other Japanese food that live up to the hype. The six-course signature tasting is a steal at $91 for two people.
East Side Show Room
1100 E. Sixth St.
512-467-4280
Art-packed spot with delicious cocktails, decent food, and live music nightly. Entrees start at $9.
Lala's Little Nugget
2207 Justin Lane
512-453-2521
Christmas decor, a vintage jukebox and cheap drinks.
What to see
"As Above So Below"
402 El Paso St.
Stefanie Distefano's stunning mosaic bridge.
Cathedral of Junk
4422 Lareina Dr.
512-299-7413
Call before visiting.
Enchanted Forest
1412 W. Oltorf St.
512-743-9031
"Moments"
Lamar Bridge Railroad Underpass
300 N. Lamar Blvd.