Hey Steemit,
I love learning about different places around the world. I am hoping to leverage Steemit's diverse, worldwide community to find out things that locals love about their cities.
Here is a bit about Austin, Texas:
1) It's an eating and drinking town
We don't have too many "tourist attractions" but we have tons of amazing places to eat and socialize. Food wise, we are known for our barbecue and tacos. Our most famous barbecue restaurant is called Franklin Barbecue and is home to the world's best brisket. To eat there, you often have to wait in a line for up to 8 hours!
2) Barton Springs is the place to visit
Our summers are really hot. Usually 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit (35-40 Celsius). Locals and tourists love to hang out at our huge, natural spring pool just outside of downtown Austin. It is swimmable all year round, as the water stays approximately 68 (20) degrees the whole year.
3) We are the self proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World"
Austin is home to two major music events. Every March, we host South by Southwest (SXSW) which is a ~10 day conference. The first half is focused on technology and movies. The last 5 days are one of the most unique music festivals on earth. Nearly every bar hosts small venue shows and the streets are filled with people. It's gotten completely crazy and probably isn't the best time to visit Austin, unless you're a diehard music fan looking for a unique experience.
3) Don't waste your time on "Dirty Sixth" Street
Most people that visit Austin spend time drinking at the bars on 6th St. between Congress and Red River. Locals do not. They are usually filled with tourists, college students and people that live on the outskirts of town visiting the city on the weekend. You are more likely to mingle with locals and get an authentic Austin experience if you hang out on Rainey St. or East 6th St.
Rainey St. is a collection of old homes converted into bars. Each has a great outdoor patio and relaxed atmosphere. East 6th St. has some great dive bars like Liberty, White Horse, and Yellow Jacket Social Club.
3) It's probably not the Texas you think of
When many people (both Americans and non-Americans) hear the word Texas, they think of George Bush, guns and pickup trucks. Austin is considered a liberal oasis in the middle of a very conservative state. It is home to a lot of environmentalists and is very gay friendly.
I've met many visiting foreigners who have told me it is their favorite place they have visited in the US. While there might not be quite as much to see and do as some of the big cities, Austin is a great place to relax for a few days, meet some of the nicest people in the States, and eat some great food.
Come visit! And tell me about your city :)