68 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE From Urban Buzz to Hill Country Calm First things first: where to stay? That all depends on the experience desired. If you want to immerse yourself in the heart of the action, Hilton Austin is the perfect launchpad. Set in downtown Austin with views of the State Capitol and Lady Bird Lake, this upscale hotel puts guests within walking distance of the iconic 6 th Street (more on that later). After a night of live music and dancing, unwind with a game at the on-site Topgolf Swing Suite or grab a bite at one of its award-winning restaurants. It’s sleek, modern and effortlessly cool — just like the city itself. Prefer to enjoy Austin’s spirit while retreating to tranquility? Wayback Cafe & Cottages is a dream come true. Tucked just outside the city, its eight charming cottages overlook the rolling beauty of Hill Country. Think saltwater pool, cabanas, a fire pit for evening stargazing and a farm-to-table cafe that celebrates local flavors. It’s the kind of escape that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Bats, Boats and Vodka Yes, bats. Every year from around March until mid- fall, 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at dusk from under the Congress Avenue Bridge , creating a twilight spectacle above Lady Bird Lake. Hop aboard a kayak with Live Love Paddle or take a cocktail cruise with Capital Cruises to witness this natural phenomenon from the water. Want to stay active? Good Vibes e-Bike Tours offers e-bike tours that stop at brunch spots, cocktail bars and scenic trails. Another local legend with surprising origins: Deep Eddy Vodka . Born in homage to Deep Eddy Pool, Texas’s oldest man-made swimming hole, the brand hosts tastings at its distillery just outside Austin. Their popular “Sunday Funday” experience even includes shuttle service from downtown — perfect for sipping responsibly. Bats taking flight at dusk The pool at Hilton Austin Bat viewing at Congress Bridge

FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE | 69 Music, Mayhem and Esther’s Follies No trip to Austin is complete without a stroll — or dance — down 6 th Street, a major artery in the city known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Music pours from every doorway, from dive bars to rooftop lounges. While exploring, make time for a haunting and hilarious experience at The Driskill Hotel , rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Texas. But the real hidden gem? Esther’s Follies — part political satire, part musical theater, part magic show, this comedy revue is unlike anything else in the country. Irreverent and razor-sharp, it pokes fun at all sides with equal flair. Street Eats Rule Supreme Austin may be home to world-class restaurants, but its street eats are second to none. With hundreds of food trucks scattered across the city, it’s a movable feast you’ll want to chase down again and again. Not sure where to start? Head to The Picnic , East Riverside Food Trucks or Rainey Street , where curated pods bring dozens of the best bites to one walkable location. Whether craving Korean BBQ tacos, gourmet grilled cheese or a brisket- stuffed baked potato the size of your head, Austin’s food trucks are always up for the challenge. Nutty Brown Amphitheater Esther’s Follies Food Truck FROM THE ROAD