Austin + Dallas + Asbury Park

That sounds like an exciting trip! Here’s a fast-paced 12-day itinerary that combines the vibrant cultures of Austin, Dallas, and Asbury Park, with a focus on parks, music, food, and alternative spots. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Austin

• Morning: Arrive in Austin. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Zilker Park for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the Barton Springs Pool for a refreshing dip!
• Evening: Grab dinner at Franklin Barbecue (get there early for the best brisket!). Afterward, check out live music at The Continental Club on South Congress.

Day 2: Austin - Music & Culture

• Morning: Breakfast at Juan in a Million for their famous breakfast tacos.
• Afternoon: Explore the Blanton Museum of Art and then take a walk through the University of Texas campus.
• Evening: Dinner at Uchi for some amazing sushi. Then, head to 6th Street for a night of bar hopping and live music.

Day 3: Austin - Outdoor Adventures

• Morning: Hike the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail. Rent a kayak or paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Afternoon: Lunch at La Barbecue. Afterward, visit Mount Bonnell for stunning views of the city.
• Evening: Dinner at The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, then catch a show at Antone’s Nightclub.

Day 4: Austin to Dallas

• Morning: Drive to Dallas (about 3 hours). Stop at Waco for brunch at Magnolia Table.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Dallas and check into your hotel. Visit Klyde Warren Park for some green space and food trucks.
• Evening: Dinner at Pecan Lodge for some of the best BBQ in Texas. Explore the Deep Ellum district for live music and street art.

Day 5: Dallas - Arts & Culture

• Morning: Visit the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center.
• Afternoon: Lunch at The Rustic. Then, stroll through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
• Evening: Dinner at Tei-An for some exquisite Japanese cuisine. Check out a show at The Bomb Factory or House of Blues.

Day 6: Dallas - Alternative Scene

• Morning: Breakfast at Bread Winners Café. Then, explore the Bishop Arts District for unique shops and galleries.
• Afternoon: Visit White Rock Lake for a bike ride or a walk. Enjoy the scenery and maybe have a picnic.
• Evening: Dinner at Cattleack Barbeque. End the night with live music at The Kessler Theater.

Day 7: Dallas to Asbury Park

• Morning: Drive to Asbury Park (about 16 hours, so consider flying or breaking it up with a stop).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Asbury Park. Check into your hotel and relax at the Asbury Park Boardwalk.
• Evening: Dinner at The Asbury and then catch a show at The Stone Pony.

Day 8: Asbury Park - Beach & Boardwalk

• Morning: Breakfast at Toast. Spend the morning at the beach or exploring the boardwalk.
• Afternoon: Visit Asbury Park’s Convention Hall and check out local shops. Grab lunch at Langosta Lounge.
• Evening: Dinner at The Wonder Bar and enjoy live music or karaoke.

Day 9: Asbury Park - Nature & Relaxation

• Morning: Head to Allaire State Park for hiking and exploring the historic village.
• Afternoon: Lunch at The Farmhouse. Spend the afternoon at Shark River Park for some more green space.
• Evening: Dinner at The Bonney Read for seafood. Check out a local bar for some live music.

Day 10: Asbury Park - Local Culture

• Morning: Breakfast at The Breakfast Club. Visit the Asbury Park Museum.
• Afternoon: Explore the Ocean Grove area and its charming Victorian architecture. Grab lunch at Day’s Ice Cream.
• Evening: Dinner at The Iron Whale. Enjoy a night of music at The House of Independents.

Day 11: Asbury Park to Dallas

• Morning: Depart Asbury Park and head back to Dallas (again, consider flying or breaking it up).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Dallas. Relax at Fair Park and check out the Dallas State Fair if it’s the season.
• Evening: Dinner at The Porch. Explore the nightlife in Uptown Dallas.

Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Original Pancake House.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or exploring in NorthPark Center or West Village.
• Evening: Depart from Dallas.

And there you have it! A whirlwind tour of Austin, Dallas, and Asbury Park, packed with parks, music, food, and alternative experiences. Enjoy your trip! 🌟