Austin is undoubtedly a special place that fosters creativity and adventure. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first or the hundredth time, explore these five hidden gems for a little adventure of your own!

Fabi + Rosi

You won’t find those much-hyped Austin breakfast tacos at Fabi + Rosi, a restaurant nestled in the Deep Eddy neighborhood. What you will find are classic European dishes with a modern influence, served in an updated Craftsman bungalow. Built in 1903, the renovated bungalow’s crisp, inviting details capture that quintessential Austin style: comfortable yet elevated. At Fabi + Rosi, you can expect a welcoming space and a delicious meal.

Mayfield Park

The board and batten, twin-gabled cottage and 23 acres at Mayfield Park were purchased in 1909 as a retreat for former Texas Secretary of State Allison Mayfield and his family. When Mayfield’s daughter passed away in 1971, she left the home in old West Austin and the land to the City of Austin to be used as a park. Today, Mayfield Park is a gorgeous nature preserve with lush gardens, ponds, and roaming peafowl. The cottage, which can be reserved for private events, has been through several restorations and retains original stone walls and chimneys. Open daily, Mayfield Park is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing picnic or outdoor stroll.

The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria

Right next to Mayfield Park is The Contemporary Austin’s Laguna Gloria, a Mediterranean-style villa on the shores of Lake Austin. Built in 1916, the villa was home to Hal Sevier and his wife, Clara Driscoll, who donated the site to be used as a city museum in 1943. Visiting the museum and its stunning grounds – which include a sculpture park – is like being on a luxurious European vacation. Laguna Gloria is definitely a must-see reserve of nature, art, and architecture, right in the heart of the city.

Heywood Hotel

An original bungalow serves as the architectural heart and inspiration for this boutique hotel in East Austin. Each of the seven guest rooms is uniquely designed but still cohesive, with clean lines and plenty of natural light. Wood, metal and concrete are combined to create warm, modern spaces – like the cozy lobby and shared outdoor patio. If you’re looking for a beautiful, laid-back place to stay in Austin, the Heywood Hotel should be on your list.

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center

Adjacent to the hip Rainey Street district sits the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Mexican American and Latino art and culture, the crescent-shaped building boasts soaring lines and centers around a 2-acre zócalo (plaza), where visitors gather for festivals and performances. The MACC hosts classes, exhibits, and events year-round and is an exciting, vibrant part of Austin’s cultural scene. 

Cover photo courtesy Austin Visitor Center

Tarek Morshed is a Central Texas realtor who has called Austin home for more than 20 years. He is passionate about the city’s real estate, architecture and culture.