From the steaks to the heat index to the area (nearly 270,000 square miles), Texas certainly lives up to its reputation of being big and bold. Texas is the second-largest US state — it is so large, in fact, that it takes about 12 to 14 hours to drive across it. Depending on where you're traveling from, flying is probably the best way to visit Austin (unless, of course, you're ready for a long road trip).
If you choose to fly, you'll land at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, about 5 miles from downtown. Though smaller than most international airports, Austin-Bergstrom is big in charm and personality. The airport features art by local artists, a slew of local restaurants, and, often, performances by singer-songwriters who greet passengers as they enter the live-music capital. The airport says it coordinates with Austin Public Health to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and make adjustments and recommendations as necessary. Be sure to check your airline's guidelines and requirements before traveling.
Travelers can get a taste of Austin before they even leave the airport by enjoying local favorites such as Salt Lick BBQ, Tacodeli (a must for early-flight breakfast tacos), Annie's Bar & Cafe, and Amy's Ice Creams. After you grab a bite to eat, a 15-minute ride (pending traffic) on State Highway 71 will get you to the heart of downtown Austin. You can rent a car, use ride-hailing services like Uber, Lyft, and Wingz, or take a cab (fares begin at $13.80).
Regardless of where you're staying, it's best to plan for how you want to get around the sprawling city. Generally, a car is the best way to travel, particularly in the Texas heat. Uber and Lyft surge pricing can get out of hand on nights and weekends, but many other ride-hailing options are available.
If you're keeping your Austin adventures to downtown and nearby popular areas like South Congress or Rainey Street, you can walk, rent a bike, take the bus, or hail a pedicab — if the weather isn't too sweltering. In addition, you can hop on one of the electric scooters sprinkled all over the city. But riders beware: Locals have complicated feelings about e-scooters. So follow traffic laws and park your scooter respectfully when you're done.
Whichever travel method you choose, plan for traffic. Austin is one of the nation's fastest-growing cities, and, as a result, it has more people, cars, and other forms of transportation than ever. Though much of Austin's attractions are within 15 to 30 minutes of downtown, budget an extra half-hour during peak travel times — like rush hours, holidays, and events — to get to your reservations on time.