Have no plans to travel anytime soon? You can travel around the world right here in Austin with these six culturally diverse things to do. So ditch the passport and get the international experience right here in Austin.
Since we’re talking travel (even if it’s just in Austin), you know we had to ask travel expert and Austin.com contributor Exploring Amanda for her take.
Here are Exploring Amanda’s recs for getting an international experience without leaving Austin
Esquina Tango | 209 Pedernales Street
Transport into Latin America or Argentina through the art of movement. At Esquina Tango you can attend a private Tango lesson or join a group class. Esquina Tango puts an emphasis on their performing arts and strives to build a vibrant and diverse community in East Austin. Check out their class schedule here.
Mexic-Arte Museum | 419 Congress Avenue
The Mexic-Arte Museum is dedicated to educating guests on Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture. They offer guided tours through the museum where you can view their carefully curated collections and see their preservation efforts. Pro tip: admission and tours to the museum are free every Sunday!
Want more free museums? Click here.
Tony’s Jamaican Food | 2700 West Pecan Street (Pflugerville)
Tony’s Jamaican Food is the place for comfort food you didn’t know you needed. Upon walking in, you’ll be greeted by their welcoming staff and seated at a comfy table. They are devoted to giving you a true Jamaican experience so make sure to arrive hungry. Pro tip: try the oxtail or jerk chicken and get ready to feel like you are actually in Jamaica, mon!
Uchi | 801 South Lamar Boulevard
Uchi means “house” in Japanese so it makes sense that it’s located in a house in South Austin. Having trained for more than 10 years in Tokyo, New York, and Austin under two different sushi masters, Chef Tyson Cole proudly leads the team with the finest food and presentations around. Go here for date night and try the chef’s tasting menu. And be sure to check out happy hour, which happens every day from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Sahara Lounge | 1413 Webberville Road
Discover the wonderful diversity of live music ranging from jazz to African, folk or Brazilian. Sahara Lounge hosts Africa nights where you can dance, listen to their house band, and enjoy a free buffet for dinner. Try their signature cocktails and get ready to dance the night away. Did we mention there is free parking and an outdoor patio?!
Buenos Aires Cafe | 1201 East 6th Street
Buenos Aries Cafe’s menu is deep rooted in Argentina’s culture. From the food to the wine, you can get the full experience at Buenos Aries! Make sure to visit on Mondays for their half off bottles of wine under $50. There is no time attached to this as the offer lasts the entire day. They also have yummy $3 empanadas on Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.
For more Austin wine specials, click here.
Bonus:
Catch a shuttle to Hill Country for vineyards and wineries. You’ll feel like you’ve entered an old world wine country right here in the heart of Texas. With miles of vineyards to explore, and even a castle along the way, you might want to consider the 290 wine shuttle. They offer pick up every 10 minutes.
Looking for more recs? Head over to Amanda’s Instagram and TikTok where you’ll find travel tips and hot spots, un-filtered advice, one-of-a-kind motivational messages, and more!
