Top Rated Attracties in Austin

King Louis Philippe ordered Alphonse Dubois de Saligny of France to Austin in 1839 to become the French liaison to the Republic of Texas. He insisted on being called "Count" and built this home on 22 acres of land in 1841. While waiting for building to cease, he was involved in a dispute over pigs and moved to Louisiana. He never returned to Texas and did not spend a single night in this home. In 1848, Dr. Joseph Robertson purchased the home and passed it on through his family for years; in 1949, the State of Texas acquired it. The home has been restored and even houses a French Creole kitchen.

This is one of Austin's favorite spots for karaoke and live music. Music from rock & pop, blues, alternative rock, bluegrass and many more genres is played at this underground club. Pool tables, pinball and video games enhance the entertainment factor here. Occasionally, live bands find the time to entertain the crowd as well. This is a nice spot to hang out with friends over drinks.

A 35-foot (10.7 meters) bronze Lone Star sculpture greets visitors at the entrance of this epic museum. This place narrates the story of Texas, sharing its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The three floors of the impressive building present interactive exhibits, special effects shows and more. On the first floor, you will find a permanent exhibit called Encounters on the Land, which highlights the first meetings between Native Americans and European explorers. The second and third floors have exhibits that showcase the evolution of Texas from the time of its inception. The museum boasts a total of 17 media installations and over 700 artifacts, not to mention Austin's only IMAX Theater.

This museum holds a special place in the heart of Texans, especially in Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World. Founded in 1984, the museum's mission is to promote and preserve Texas music. By presenting two or three major exhibits a year in and around Austin, often including musical performances, the organization works to keep music alive and well. Along with funding these projects, the museum conducts research, sponsors touring exhibits and collects photographs and documents related to all aspects of Texas music.

With a collection of more than 17,000 works of art, this is one of the most visited museums in the city and also the largest University art-space in the country. It is located in the University of Texas campus and houses a large variety of Latin American art, American art and European work. With an atrium that extends 70 feet (21.3 meters) above the stone floors, this museum offers a unique, natural space. Temporary exhibits are constantly changing, with fresh work being showcased regularly. This research-based museum also offers lectures by artists, museum curators and art historians from across the country.

The 21st Street Co-op is a non-profit student housing organization affiliated with the College Houses Cooperatives. This 100-bedroom housing co-operation isn't just the accommodations for an eclectic group of people, this is also an occasional venue for small concerts and parties. Its prime location just a few blocks away from the University of Texas' main campus means that when there is an event, there's going to be a crowd of students flocking to the area.