Beers, steers and queers thrive in Austin, Texas

Planning a trip to Austin can be overwhelming because of its massive size and the sheer amount of options. Austin is a true blue ocean in a sea of red for politics and queer travelers should feel safe to visit this part of the United States.

Austin is the capital city of Texas and it's thriving in 2025. There are growing pains with the population as new Austinites continue to flock to the area.

“Keep Austin Weird” is a slogan to embrace the unique culture found in this region and it's known for a thriving live music scene. Austin is the home of the media festival South by Southwest and the concert venue Austin City Limits.

Start off with a private tour of ACL to learn about the long-running television show held inside the venue and the artists who have performed there over the years.

After that hop on a bus or guide yourself to see multiple murals painted on buildings throughout Austin. The I love you so much mural is located at 1300 South Congress Avenue and conveys the affection between musician Amy Cook and her partner Liz Lambert.

For more incredible art head up to the Blanton Museum of Art on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Multiple galleries hold temporary and permanent collections including an outdoor stone building housing gay innovator Ellsworth Kelly's stained glass titled Austin.

For shopping, taste the rainbow at The Little Gay Shop at 1902 East 12th Street. The co-owned, gay-owned storefront was opened in 2020 and curates everything from important books to a wide range of rare novelty items suited for any occasion.

Queer feminist business BookWoman at 5501 North Lamar is another spot to pick up printed work and has been around for 46 years.

Safe spaces for nightlife include Rain on 4th for dancing and Cheer Up Charlies for live music. Oilcan Harry's at 211 West 4th Street provides programming with special themes including Latin night and go-go boy contests.

There's something for everyone in the Lone Star State and outsiders might be surprised at how diverse the capitol is. The LGBTQ+ community is represented throughout the city and welcomes visitors with open arms.

For more Austin ideas while traveling to Texas try visitaustin.org.