Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Austin is Funny




Did you know that Austin, TX has a comedy scene? They do! Austin is bursting with improv and sketch comedy clubs. In fact, the popular SXSW music and film festival has been adding more and more comedy events to their line up.

Here is a list of some of the places to find a laugh in Austin, TX: 

The Hideout Theatre: This coffeehouse and theater not only has improv and comedy shows but they also offer regular comedy acting and writing workshops. 

Coldtowne Theater: This another great place to watch improv and sketches. They also have a calendar of classes available so you can learn the craft.

The New Movement: Also known as TNM, they have been offering classic underground in-your-face improv since 2009. They also offer classes for those who want to learn the art of improvisation.

Cap City Comedy Club: This club is known for their comedy show, Punch, currently scheduled every Tuesday at 8pm. They also have regular stand up and open mic nights.

Esther’s Follies: Esther’s Follies has been around for 36 seasons on 6th street.  They offer a hilarious night of vaudeville performances such as musical comedy, magic and current political sketches and satire.

Velveeta Room: Conveniently located next door to Esther’s. They offer local and national stand‑up, as well as an open mic.

There are also festivals:

Moontower Comedy and Oddity Festival: In April, local and big name comics perform at more than ten different clubs in Austin.

Out of Bounds Comedy Fest: A project funded and supported in part by the City of Austin. This is a seven-day live performance festival that includes improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy from comedians all over the country.



If you need a place to rent while you are in Austin, click for reservations to stay at 3207 Brass Buttons Trail, Austin, TX 78734, USA.


Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Austin Music Scene Old and New



 

Whether you are just visiting Austin, TX for the first time or you have visited before, you are probably well aware of our claim that Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World". From live music at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to the bustling row of clubs and music venues on throughout downtown and the surrounding areas.  


Since there are so many places to choose from, I created a list of "must-see" venues:

The Broken Spoke – A classic “Honky Tonk” staple located in South Austin. Come here to line dance, people watch and soak in the culture. 

Antone’s – It opened in 1975 originally on 6th street with live blues acts and has relocated to the corner of 5th and Lavaca Street with a diverse genre of musical acts from local faves to big named bands. Antone’s will be relocating once again in mid-March 2013.

Emo’s East – They have recently relocated from their tiny location on 6th street to the east side: Oltorf/East Riverside.  Their new location is huge! It’s not as cozy/cramped as the original but they still pack in the crowds for punk, alternative-rock, country, and more. Parking can be an issue, so make sure to plan ahead!

Stubb’s BBQ – This barbecue joint on Red River features a small indoor music stage and a large outdoor stage. Make sure you make reservations for the popular gospel brunch!

Moody Theater – Located on 2nd street. this venue is surrounded by locally owned shops and restaurants. It is also the home to the taping of ACL Live. Whether you are looking to be next to the stage, up-close and personal or enjoy the show from the balcony seating, this venue has amazing acoustics and sound system.



Contact Bruce Craig and click for reservations to stay at 3207 Brass Buttons Trail, Austin, TX 78734, USA.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Local Austin Texas Flavor



When you come to Austin, Texas you need to try the local cuisine: Tex Mex, tacos and of course the barbecue. There are so many places to choose from that it may be overwhelming. I put together a list of places to get you started:

The County Line – Slow smoked barbecue ribs, brisket, sausage and chicken with the choice of cole slaw, potato salad and beans. Need I say more?

Chuy’s – A tourist attraction and an Austin, TX tradition since 1982. The original Chuy's is located right next to Zilker Park and Lady Bird Town Lake. Chuy's décor is fun and quirky with lots of Elvis memorabilia and garage sale items scattered around. This is a great place to go for people watching, Tex Mex and happy hour. Make sure you request the table salsa to go with your complimentary chips!

Taco Deli – This funky taco stand/restaurant only stays open until three in the afternoon so go early and expect to stand in line. The fresh and unique flavors are well worth the wait. This is an affordable lunch that won't bankrupt you!

Salt Lick – Out in Driftwood, TX and a bit of a drive but it is an Austin visitor’s staple for all things barbecue.

The Oasis on Lake Travis – This restaurant is very close to my lake house so I go there quite a bit with out of town visitors. The view from the multiple balconies is main reason to check it out. In fact, with all the newly open shops and restaurants in the vicinity you have other dining choices to take in the spectacular view. 

South Congress Avenue restaurant trailers – Located just south of the Congress “Bat” bridge is a parking lot with a variety of food trailers with diverse flavors and cuisines to choose from. This is a great spot when you aren't quite sure what you want but you are looking for local flavor and atmosphere.

Casa de Luz – This all organic, vegan and gluten-free cafe is a must. It may not seem to fit in with the typical Texan cuisine but after taking a walk around Lady Bird Lake on the hike and bike trails and having a healthy lunch at Casa de Luz you will feel like a local. Your body will definitely thank you for it.

If you need a place to rent while you are in Austin check out my Lake Austin Waterfront Vacation Home with an amazing pool, view of Lake Travis with 4 bedrooms with 3.5 baths overlooking Lake Austin. 

Monday, January 7, 2013

Stay in Austin, Tx with your kids

Are you coming to Austin, TX? Are you bringing your kids? 

No problem!


Austin, TX may be the "Live Music Capital of the World" but it is also extremely family friendly and offers many local attractions geared to kids, teenagers and the whole family.
Here is my top ten list:
Lake Austin Waterfront Vacation Home
  1. Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary - A private, non-profit zoo that houses about 300 animals and 100 different species.  Be sure to bring a camera to capture the experience. 
  2. Austin Children's Museum – This museum is situated in the heart of downtown conveniently located next to shops and restaurants. Their daily story time and educational exhibits are designed to entertain the curious minds of children and their grown-ups.
  3. Austin Nature and Science Center - Children of all ages can explore the dino pits and the wildlife exhibits.
  4. Shore Club Volente Beach – This is a perfect getaway for families on a hot summer day. There are pools designed for children with twisty slides and an adult only pool with a swim up tiki bar. There is also a sandy beachfront and 3 volleyball courts.
  5. Barton Springs Pool – This 1,000 foot long natural limestone pool, fed by several underground springs is a must.
  6. Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train – This is an interesting and fun way to see the Zilker Metropolitan Park.
  7. Texas Memorial Museum – Go see the dinosaurs! Their exhibits focus on prehistoric life, evolution, rocks, gem stones and native Texas wildlife.
  8. Inner Space Cavern – Take a short excursion just outside of Austin to Georgetown, TX to explore and tour the limestone cavern. Guides will take you back in time so you can experience the fascinating story of the cave’s history.
  9. Pioneer Farms - Step back in time to the Blackland Prairie of the 1800s. Explore more than 90 beautiful, wooded acres and discover exciting, memorable ways to experience Texas' past with your family.
  10. IMAX at the Bob Bullock Museum - 3 floors of Texas History and a state-of-the-art theater that uses innovative IMAX technology to create the ultimate film experience. 

And of course, don't forget to check out my Lake Austin Waterfront Vacation Home with an amazing pool, view of Lake Travis with 4 bedrooms with 3.5 baths overlooking Lake Austin.