A Budget Traveler’s Guide to Austin
![There are some great budget-friendly activities to do in Austin](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/b8rwh7.webp)
Traveling doesn’t have to mean spending more money than you can afford. From the great outdoors to some beloved local murals, here are some budget-friendly places to consider checking out when you’re spending time in Austin.
What to see and do
1. Mount Bonnell
Park, Natural Feature
![](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/images/default_location.webp)
2. The Texas Capitol Building
Building
![Texas State Capitol, Austin](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/g5g3eg.webp)
3. Greetings From Austin
Building
![Greetings From Austin mural](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/shutterstock_274192889.webp)
4. Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk
Bridge
![Man biking along Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk, Austin](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/shutterstock_1272670369.webp)
Where to eat and drink
5. South Austin Trailer Park and Eatery
Park
6. East Side Pies
Pizzeria, Restaurant, Italian, American
Where to stay
7. Firehouse Hostel and Lounge
Hostel
![](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/images/default_location.webp)
Despite the high cost of living, Austin offers visitors a number of hotels and hostels for the budget-conscious traveler. Just off 6th Street – Austin’s liveliest stretch for nightlife – is the very affordable Firehouse Hostel. Built in 1885, it now serves as an updated hostel and lounge. They provide free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and various room options. Depending on how much you’re looking to pay, they offer rooms with shared or private bathrooms, deluxe dorm style and economy dorms.
8. HI Austin Hostel
Hostel
![Guests at HI Austin Hostel can rent out bikes and yoga mats](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/5025_80.webp)
Right off the serene shores of Lady Bird Lake sits HI Austin. This hostel gives you the feeling of being out in the country but it’s still in very close proximity to downtown and all of Austin’s fun activities. Lodging prices range from about $30 per person for shared rooms and around $70 per person for private rooms. You can’t beat the location, free breakfast and Wi-Fi included in your rate.