Soulful
Sundowns. 🦇
Austin romance isn't about stiff tablecloths. It's about patio drinks, live music drifting from open windows, and finding beauty in the weird and wonderful.
Neon & Cowboy Boots
South Congress
"It’s the iconic Austin stroll. The street is lined with buzzing neon signs, vintage shops, and the smell of food trucks. Stop at the Continental Club for music, or just walk hand-in-hand watching the Capitol dome light up."
South Congress.
SoCo is the heartbeat of the city. It’s walkable, vibrant, and perfectly encapsulates the "Old Austin meets New Austin" energy.
I Love You So Much
The green spray-painted mural at Jo's Coffee. Yes, it’s a cliché. Yes, you have to take a photo there at least once.
Barton Springs. 🏊
A natural limestone pool fed by underground springs. It is 68 degrees year-round. It is the communal living room of Austin.
Night Swims
Go after 9 PM. Admission is often free, the crowds thin out, and howling at the moon is encouraged. It is incredibly magical in the dark.
The Hill
Or just lay on the grassy hill overlooking the pool. It’s the best people-watching spot in Texas.
Zilker Park
"Surrounding the pool is the Great Lawn. Bring a hammock or a frisbee. It’s casual, sunny, and where locals go to fall in love with the city (and each other)."
102 Steps
Covert Park
"The climb is short but steep. At the top, you get a panoramic view of the Colorado River and the Hill Country mansions. It is the classic 'first kiss' location of Austin."
Mount Bonnell.
A tourist staple that locals still love. The limestone pavilion at the top catches the breeze perfectly.
Golden Hour
Arrive 30 minutes before sunset. watching the sun dip behind the hills while the river turns gold is unbeatable.
The Boardwalk. 🌃
A floating path that curves over the water. It offers the absolute best view of the Austin skyline, especially at twilight when the buildings start to glow.
The Loop
Rent electric bikes or just walk. It’s flat, breezy, and incredibly scenic. You’ll see turtles, kayaks, and the reflection of the city on the water.
* Access: Park near the Austin American-Statesman.
The Bats
"From the boardwalk, you can see the famous Congress Avenue bats fly out at dusk without dealing with the massive crowds on the bridge itself. It’s the smarter local move."
Dance Lessons
East Austin
"Don't know how to Two-Step? No problem. They offer free lessons early in the night. Holding each other close while a steel guitar plays is quintessential Austin romance."
The White Horse.
It’s gritty, loud, and smells like whiskey and popcorn. It’s where cowboys and hipsters mix. There is no pretense here, just good music and a packed dance floor.
Tacos on the Patio
When you need a break from dancing, grab a taco from the truck parked on the patio. It’s the perfect fuel for round two.
Justine's Brasserie. 🍷
A late-night French bistro that feels like a party in 1920s Paris. It’s dark, sultry, and usually playing vinyl records. The kitchen stays open very late.
The Tintype Booth
In the back garden, there is a studio where they take authentic tintype photographs (metal plates). It is the coolest, most permanent souvenir of a date you can get.
Vinyl & Velvet
"The vibe is intoxicating. Red lights, cigarette smoke on the patio, and steak frites at 1 AM. It’s where the night ends if you want it to be memorable."
Sunset Capital
Lake Travis
"It’s called the 'Sunset Capital of Texas' for a reason. Hundreds of terraced tables overlook the lake. When the sun hits the horizon, the whole crowd applauds. It’s cheesy, but it’s magical."
The Oasis.
A short drive from downtown, but it feels like a different world. It’s massive, tiered like a Mayan temple, and offers uninterrupted views of the water.
Margarita Time
The food is standard Tex-Mex, but you’re here for the drinks and the view. Grab a frozen margarita and find a spot on the rail.
Midnight Cowboy. 🥃
Located on "Dirty 6th" but a world away from the chaos. Look for the buzzer marked "Harry Craddock." Inside, it’s a former brothel turned high-end cocktail lounge.
Tableside Cart
Order a drink that is made tableside. Watching the bartender carve ice and smoke herbs right in front of you is a show in itself.
No Standing
"It’s strictly seated service only. No shouting, no crowded bar. It’s intimate, dark, and perfect for actually hearing your date whisper."
Kelly's "Austin"
UT Campus
"It looks like a futuristic chapel. Inside, the light streams through geometric stained glass windows, painting the white walls in rainbows. It is quiet, spiritual, and incredibly beautiful."
The Blanton.
One of the largest university art museums in the country. It’s perfect for a hot afternoon when you need AC but want culture.
The Mood
It stimulates conversation without the pressure. Wander the galleries, criticize the art, and then sit on the lawn outside.
Umlauf Garden. 🗿
Right next to the busy Barton Springs, but completely silent. It’s a shady oasis filled with bronze sculptures by Charles Umlauf.
The Walk
The gravel paths wind through waterfalls, ponds, and massive trees. It feels like a secret garden. It is arguably the most peaceful place in the city to hold hands.
Shade & Art
"Unlike the open sun of Zilker Park, this spot is cool and shaded. It’s accessible art that invites you to touch (some of) the sculptures. A true hidden sanctuary."
Beating the
Heat. 🔥
Austin gets hot. Like, really hot. Knowing how to date without melting is a crucial skill.
Summer Survival
Jun - SepIt will be 100°F. Do not plan hiking dates at noon. Stick to water or AC.
- ● Barton Springs (68°F)
- ● Deep Eddy Pool
- ● Alamo Drafthouse Movies
Patio Season
Oct - AprThe weather is perfect. This is when Austin comes alive.
- ● Hotel San José Patio
- ● Hiking the Greenbelt
- ● Outdoor concerts at Stubbs
The Breakfast Taco
Bracket.
We are currently eating our way through every taco truck on East 6th and every BBQ pit in Lockhart to bring you the definitive guide to the "Meat & Tortilla" date.
Kayak Date
Lady Bird Lake Guide
Fredericksburg
The Wine Road Trip
Franklin BBQ
Is the Line Worth It?
Run an Austin Gem?
We are looking for the best taco trucks, the hidden speakeasies, and the most authentic Hill Country experiences to feature.