Austin

History of Austin

Austin, the capital of Texas, was founded as the village of Waterloo in 1839. Chosen due to its location along the Colorado River, it was renamed Austin in honor of Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas." It soon became an important economic hub due to the construction of the Texas State Capitol and the University of Texas at Austin. Known for its vibrant live music scene and cultural diversity, Austin has grown to be a leading city in technology and business, earning the nickname "Silicon Hills" in the 1990s. Today, it stands as an ever-evolving city that maintains its rich history and charm.

FAQs

What is the best way to get there?

The best way to get to Austin is by flying into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which offers numerous domestic and international flights daily.

Do I need a visa?

If you're not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you'll likely need a visa. Please check the U.S. Department of State's website for current requirements.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the most pleasant times to visit Austin, with milder temperatures and numerous festivals.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The legal drinking age in Austin, as in all of the United States, is 21.

Greetings

Typical American greetings are common, such as a handshake or a simple "Hello."

Public Transit

Public transport in Austin is reliable, with services provided by Capital Metro. Familiarize yourself with local routes and etiquette.

What is the time zone?

Austin is in the Central Time Zone (CT).

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B.

What is the currency?

The currency is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes, ATMs are readily accessible throughout the city.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Austin.

Can you use Apple Pay and Google Pay?

Yes, many businesses in Austin accept Apple Pay and Google Pay.

How much do I tip?

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Austin, similar to other cities in the U.S.

Restaurants/Bars

A standard tip for service at restaurants and bars is between 15-20% of the total bill.

Hotels

It's customary to tip hotel staff $1-2 per bag for luggage assistance, and $2-5 per day for housekeeping.

Taxis

A typical tip for taxi drivers is 15-20% of the fare.

Tour Guides

A tip of $5-10 per person for a day tour is common.

Austin: Key Facts

City Founded	Population (2023)	Elevation
1839	1,003,615 (U.S. Census Bureau)	489 feet (U.S. Geological Survey)

Weather in Austin

Season/Month	High (°C / °F)	Low (°C / °F)
Winter (December - February)	16 / 61	4 / 39
Spring (March - May)	28 / 82	14 / 57
Summer (June - August)	35 / 95	22 / 72
Fall (September - November)	27 / 81	14 / 57