At Antler, we don’t just talk about travel – we live it. Through our stories and guides, we celebrate the places that shape our legacy and inspire our journeys. Our Antler Travels series takes you deeper into the destinations that move us, guided by the experiences and recommendations of our team – travellers who’ve ventured far and wide.
Austin is a city that hums with energy, where every corner holds something fresh, whether it’s a new taco joint, an art gallery tucked in a converted warehouse, or a music venue pulsing with the sounds of the next big thing. It's a place where creativity and authenticity are more than just buzzwords. They're the heartbeat of the city.
Daisy, our PR Manager, travelled to Austin in April 2025 and shares her experience with us.
Antler: What was the first thing you noticed?
Daisy: The first thing that hit me when I stepped out of the airport was the humidity. It was pretty intense! You can feel the warmth in the air right away, and it definitely sets the tone for the laid-back, outdoor vibe Austin has.
What is your lasting memory of the place?
Visiting Laguna Gloria. It’s a beautiful spot right on the lake, super peaceful. It was the perfect place to take a break from the city hustle, walk around, and just enjoy the quiet and the art – it felt like a hidden oasis right in the middle of everything.
You can feel the warmth in the air right away, and it definitely sets the tone for the laid-back, outdoor vibe Austin has.
Daisy Webb
Did anything surprise you about the place? / A fun fact you learned while you were there?
I was surprised to learn how serious Austinites are about breakfast tacos. They're everywhere! Most coffee shops also serve them, and it’s pretty much expected to grab one with your morning coffee. It was definitely something I had to try – and now that I have, I get the hype!
What did you take with you?
I travelled with my Icon Stripe Large in Dune, which was perfect for the trip. It’s spacious enough for everything I need for transatlantic travel. I also brought along the Essential Tote Bag in Stone, which worked out perfectly for everything from carrying my essentials through the airport to being my go-to gym and pool bag while I was in Austin.
If you were to go back, who would you bring with you?
I’d love to go back on a girls trip. Austin has so much to offer in terms of food, culture, and outdoor activities, and I think it would be such a fun place to explore with a group of friends.
| Austin recommendations | |
| Stay | For a truly Austin experience, consider staying at The Carpenter Hotel, a former carpentry shop turned chic boutique hotel, blending history with modern design in the heart of the city's creative district. |
| Explore | Walk off a full stomach with a stroll around Lady Bird Lake – a picturesque spot for an early morning walk or sunset jog. This beautiful oasis sits on the outskirts of the city, offering 400 acres of scenic trails that provide a peaceful escape with views of the water and city skyline. |
| Eat |
Start your day by grabbing breakfast tacos from Jo’s Coffee, where locals line up for a quick bite to fuel the day. For a true taste of Austin’s culinary scene, Emmer & Rye will blow your mind (and taste buds) with their seasonal, farm-to-table offerings, while Terry Black’s Barbecue will serve up smoky, melt-in-your-mouth brisket that’s hard to beat. When it comes to coffee, Two Hands serves up some of the best brews in town, with a side of laid-back vibes and fresh-baked pastries. |
| Browse |
For those looking to indulge in Austin’s quirky charm, Allen’s Boots is the place to pick up a pair of authentic cowboy boots (or at least try them on for size). If you’re in the mood for art, don’t miss The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria, a lakeside sculpture park that feels like stepping into an outdoor gallery just five miles downtown. |
