City Guide
Austin, Texas
Three places worth the detour in Austin, and a couple of downtown stays we would actually book. Start at the Cathedral of Junk, where sixty tons of salvage prove that a backyard can be a monument. Work down from there.
At a glance: 3 place guides, 2 hand-picked hotels, vibes that skew hidden gem and historic.
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Our picks in Austin
Ranked. Start at the top and work down as far as your weekend allows.
- 1
Cathedral of Junk: Austin’s Backyard Monument to Salvage
A sixty-ton labyrinth built from bicycles and old electronics in a suburban backyard. You can even get married here, provided you do not mind the chair of despair.
- 2
Museum of the Weird: Austin's Living Tribute to the Dime Museum
Dime-store museum culture lives on through taxidermy gaffs and live sideshows. It is one of the few places left where the spirit of P.T. Barnum feels literal.
- 3
Uncommon Objects: Austin's Premier Cabinet of Curiosities
Dense displays of antiques that feel more like a surrealist collection than a shop. It functions as a cabinet of curiosities where the inventory is always shifting.
Where we'd actually stay
| Stay | Vibe | Why here |
|---|---|---|
| Hyatt House Austin/Downtown | Minimalist, Hidden Gem | Extended-stay suites with full kitchens right in the middle of downtown Austin. Perfect for a long weekend exploring the live music capital. |
| Austin Marriott Downtown | Adventure, Scenic | Sleek downtown Austin tower with a rooftop pool and walking distance to everything on 6th Street. Not your typical Marriott. |
Know before you go
Call 512-299-7413 to set an appointment before heading to the cathedral. A $5 donation is requested for each adult visitor. Tickets for the dime museum cost $12. Street parking is the norm in the residential areas, so avoid blocking any mailboxes.
Common questions about Austin
Do I need to book ahead for the Cathedral of Junk?
Appointments are mandatory. You have to call Vince to schedule a time or you will not get past the gate.
How much cash should I bring to the Museum of the Weird?
Entry is $12. The live performers work for tips, so keep some extra bills ready for the sideshow.
Is Uncommon Objects a quick stop?
No. The displays are dense and require a slow pace to actually see the relics.
Where should we stay to be near the action?
Downtown has solid options. One Marriott tower has a rooftop pool and sits within walking distance of the music on 6th Street.