The Perfect Day on South Congress

Any day on South Congress is a good day, but if you do it right, it involves tons of unique shopping, delicious food, and plenty of people-watching. The iconic shopping district is known for its vibrant atmosphere, distinctive shops, and trendy art galleries.

Three must-go shops to visit on South Congress (if you want to feel like a true Austinite) include Allens Boots, an authentic cowboy boots store with rows of handcrafted boots and western wear. Amy's Ice Creams provides a sweet break from the Texas sun, serving up their famous, customizable ice cream with flair. And Uncommon Objects store is a vintage lover’s dream, full of antique trinkets and oddities to discover.

As for food, the world is your oyster. For breakfast, head to South Congress Cafe where you can indulge in fluffy pancakes or a savory breakfast burrito. For lunch pop over to Hopdoddy’s for a customizable burger, and for dinner head to Home Slice Pizza, a no-frills pizza joint that dishes up some of the best New York-style pie west of the Mississippi. And for dessert, you can’t go wrong with a stop at the iconic, bright pink food truck Gourdough’s, where you can order up a variety of inventive and delicious donut creations.

Pay tribute to the “live music capital of the world” and catch a show at the iconic Continental Club, which opened its doors in 1955 and is considered one of the best venues in Austin for live music. Another great spot is the C-Boy's Heart & Soul bar, a classic Austin venue which offers soul food and live music performances ranging from blues to jazz.

For those looking to take in the city's iconic skyline and natural scenery, the South Congress Bridge offers a unique attraction. Every evening around sunset, the colony of 1.5 million bats that live in the bridge's crevices take flight and create a stunning sight as they head out to hunt insects for the night. Visitors can gather at the bridge's overlook or take a boat tour to experience the event up close.

Overall, South Congress has something to offer for everyone, from shopping and food to live music and natural wonders. It's a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city's unique culture and attractions.