Known far and wide for live music and keeping it weird, Austin, Texas, makes a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. You might assume the best time to visit is during one of Austin’s famous annual music festivals. But the city has so much to offer its visitors year-round.

From tourist attractions to local hidden gems, here are some items you must add to your Austin itinerary.

Lodging

Hotels in the heart of downtown Austin can cost a pretty penny. Locals know this, and many of them have transformed their property into a cost-effective Airbnb oasis. For optimal luxury and privacy at a lower price tag, check out these Airbnb Plus locations packed with personality.

If you want to stay minutes from restaurants, shops, and nightlife and check out the iconic Austin Motel on South Congress Avenue. The bright colored décor and large swimming pool are perfect for snapping some Instagram-worthy photos.

If you love history or you want to treat yourself, book your weekend at The Driskill Hotel on Sixth Street. This beautiful hotel was built in 1886, and legend has it there is ghost roaming some of its corridors. It also happens to be within walking distance of Austin’s bar scene.

Eating

There are countless excellent restaurants across Austin. But there are a few fan-favorites that rise to the top, and you will want to make sure you add them to your weekend to-do list.

If you want some authentic Tex-Mex, check out Juan in a Million, La Condensa, or Torchy’s Tacos. All of them are top-rated local favorites with unique Austin roots.

If you want some legendary Texas meat, chow down at Franklin Barbecue. (Just be prepared to wait in line for a while first.) If you are craving some pizza, try Home Slice. Their pies are large enough to feed two people easily.

In the mood to branch out and try something totally new? Brunch at Elizabeth Street Café, a Vietnamese/French food fusion restaurant. They’ve got warm noodle entrees and mouth-watering Nutella crepes.

For dessert, grab a gourmet donut loaded with sweet toppings from Gourdough’s or cool down from the Texas heat with Amy’s Ice Creams.

Exploring

Even if you aren’t in town just to catch your favorite artists live on stage, you won’t have to look far for entertainment in Austin.

Wander around South Congress (locally known as SoCo) and watch the famous Congress Bridge Bats take flight at sunset. Shop for unique souvenirs at Art for the People, Uncommon Objects, Waterloo Records, BookPeople, or Allens Boots.

If you need a break from the concrete jungle, have a picnic in Zilker Park. Stroll through the beautiful Zilker Botanical Garden or go for a swim in the Barton Springs Pool. For extra adventure, kayak on Lady Bird Lake, hike Mount Bonnell, or explore the Inner Space Cavern.

If you’re a Texas native or a history buff, you won’t want to miss touring the Texas State Capitol. Parking and entry are completely free! You can also take ghost tours of the whole city from inside a real hearse, or sightsee while you glide across Lady Bird Lake on a riverboat.

No matter what tickles your fancy, you can find something to love about Austin — as long as you are willing to embrace "the weird."