Winter has always been a time to hibernate and hideaway from the world but after ample time at home over the last two years, we created a guide for you to brave the cold this winter.
This guide gives you the inside look at some of the coolest things Austin has to offer during the city’s coldest months of the year. From markets to restaurants, to discounts at your favorite spas, UNATION has you covered.
During this winter season the Austin Alliance has aligned with a multitude of small businesses to bring you savings and rewards upon purchasing. The Holiday Passport grants you access to discounts and specials at restaurants, bars, and retailers like Austin Rocks. The passport also has specials at Milk + Honey for the ladies who are looking to self care this winter and Spa by JW.
But wait! There’s more. The passport works as a QR code and the more you use it the more stamps you acquire. By January 7th your passport will give you the opportunity to receive prize entries that if drawn could give you some serious prizes valued up to $500!
Browse the list here to learn more.
Although Austin is known for its perpetual beautiful weather, we witness a few seasonal months of chilly weather. Particularly our short winter is known to be the slowest month for industry folks, but you can still go hang out at all the heated patios in downtown Austin! Check out our downtown Austin restaurants and watering holes that will keep you warm during our short winter months.
Starting this holiday season, Giddy Ups is offering Karaoke every Sunday. This bar brings you back into traditional Texas with some of your favorite classics like Don’t Stop Believing and Bohemian Rhapsody to name a couple. It’s highly recommended to stop in for a well-priced beer and a chance to meet some locals that have been coming to Giddy Ups for years.
Every holiday season The Driskill offers the opportunity to experience tea time in one of the most beautiful interiors in Austin. Traditions carried on here date back to 1886, so there’s a sense of history that brings you back in time upon entering. The moment you step into The Driskill, you will not regret it, the hotel is iconic and always decorated beautifully in the winter. It gives cozy luxury, you could make it a whole stay-cation or plan a romantic date night this winter.
Red River’s Cultural district opens up venues to the public for Free Week, giving you the chance to see local musicians at over 180 venues. This is the first week of January so don’t be afraid to get out and kick off the new year with new friends and music to add to your queue.
Photo credit: Red River Cultural District
There is nothing like seeing beauty from the past. The University of Texas Austin showcases several museum collectives that explore history, culture, sports, and an array of artistic mediums. You can spend the whole day going from exhibit to exhibit finding inspiration and expanding your knowledge.
Every year Austin puts on a marathon, called the Austin Half Marathon and 5k. The marathon started in 1992 and still continues to bring in runners and supporters alike. Visit landmarks like the UT tower and Ladybird Lake and when you’re done, reward yourself with beer and music from local musicians. Challenge yourself this winter to do something physical.
If running isn’t for you but hiking is. Barton Creek Greenbelt trail is over 13 miles of beautiful greenery and is among the top hiking spots in Texas. It has two waterfalls that can be explored as well as places to free-climb.
Blue Starlite Mini Drive-in is well worth the visit, it double features indie films but during holiday season it plays all our holiday favorites like Elf. This is a great date night idea or something the whole family can enjoy.
Don’t let the cold weather keep you in, there’s plenty to do in Ausitn. Keep explorin’!
The Domain is North of Austin but gives you an opportunity to shop at some of the top retailers in the country. It’s a great attraction in Austin and even showcases the Museum of Ice cream there. It’s well worth the visit and will satisfy all your needs. Spend a day here and shop until your drop.
my name is Katlyn Moss and I am a writer, astrologist, and content creator using words to inspire people to lead them to their hearts. I enjoy all things spiritual and love giving readings and offering words of wisdom where its warranted. the outdoors are where I find inspiration and the indoors is where I find solitude. I utilize the lessons of this life to help curate an understanding of integration through the process of just being in the present moment with every feeling and emotion that passes through us.

