Whether you're planning your trip or already in town, we’ve put together this guide to help you explore the best Austin has to offer.
Known for its vibrant culture, live music, and incredible food, Austin has something for everyone. Use this page as your resource to make the most of your visit while attending the conference.
Transportation: Use ride-shares, electric scooters, or Capital Metro for convenient travel.
Parking: Plenty of options are available near the convention center, but plan ahead during peak times.
Weather: Pack layers; Austin’s February weather can be unpredictable.
Stay comfortable and make the most of your trip with these simple tips.
Looking for a quick bite or a memorable meal near the convention center? Here are some top picks:
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que: Famous for its smoked meats and casual atmosphere.
Moonshine Grill: A cozy spot serving Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Café Blue Downtown: Known for fresh seafood and an elegant dining experience.
P. Terry’s Burger Stand: Perfect for a quick, high-quality burger and fries.
Easy Tiger: A unique bakery and beer garden offering artisanal bread and charcuterie.
These spots are all within a short walk from the convention center, making them ideal for lunch breaks or post-session meals.
We'll be in Austin with you and we'd love to meet you. Stop by Booth 439 right next to the food court.
For convenience and comfort, consider these nearby options:
Hilton Austin: Steps away from the convention center with modern amenities.
JW Marriott: A luxurious stay with excellent dining options.
Fairmont Austin: Stunning views and first-class service.
Explore a variety of accommodations to fit your budget and preferences.
As the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin offers live performances every night of the week.
Check out these must-visit venues:
ACL Live at the Moody Theater: A premier spot for top-tier performances.
The Continental Club: A legendary venue known for its intimate shows.
Stubb’s BBQ: Enjoy great food and even better live music.
Plan your evenings to soak in the city’s unique rhythm.
No trip to Austin is complete without indulging in its world-class food scene. Don’t miss:
BBQ: Iconic spots like Franklin Barbecue and Terry Black’s are worth the lines.
Tex-Mex: Grab tacos at Torchy’s Tacos or enjoy enchiladas at Guero’s Taco Bar.
Food Trucks: Find diverse and delicious options at various food truck parks around town.
Pro tip: Many great food spots are within walking distance of the convention center.
Check out local events taking place while you're in town. From live performances to farmer’s markets, Austin always has something happening. Visit the Austin Events Calendar for the latest updates.
Take a break from the conference and explore some of Austin’s iconic landmarks:
Texas State Capitol: Tour this historic building and enjoy its beautiful grounds. It’s a short trip from the convention center and rich with Texas history.
Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake: Perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quick paddleboarding adventure.
South Congress Avenue (SoCo): Enjoy eclectic shopping, delicious eats, and Instagram-worthy photo ops.
The Bullock Texas State History Museum: Dive into Texas history with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.
We hope this guide helps you experience the best of Austin during your 2025 ESEA Conference trip. Feel free to bookmark this page or share it with colleagues planning their visit.
At Edthena, we’re passionate about supporting educators in and out of the classroom. If you’d like to learn more about our teacher professional development tools, explore the rest of our website.
Enjoy your time in Austin!
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