If your trip to Austin is all locked in but your travel itinerary is a bit on the empty side, we can give you a few hints and tips.You’ll have to rise with the sun if you’re planning to check out all the fascinating sights that this place has to offer. Governor’s Mansion and Texas State Capitol are no-brainers. Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum and Blanton Museum of Art shouldn’t be forgotten either.Near the city center, Sixth Street is one sight you might like to add to your must-see list. Lady Bird Lake and South Congress Avenue are also a stone’s throw away and worth a pit stop.

If you’re after a day-trip destination, we can help out. Sitting 25 miles away, Dripping Springs is worth hopping in the car for. Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery ought to be high up on your list here. Bell Springs Winery and Bannockburn Baptist Church are must-see attractions too. Spicewood is another great option. It’s 25 miles away and boasts a variety of fun things to see and do. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Pace Bend Park and Krause Springs are just the start.

After a long day of networking with like-minded people, it’s always nice to know you can kick back and relax someplace nearby. If you’re visiting Austin for business, here are some of the top convention centers that are close to hotels, cafés and restaurants:

• Austin Convention Center (0.4 miles away).
• Palmer Events Center (1 mile away).
• Palmer Auditorium (1 mile away).

Sure, you can explore Austin without renting a vehicle. But with loads to see and do here, having one would certainly make life easier. If you plan to get out of town and into Mother Nature, consider a set of wheels with a bit of power. A full-size or mid-size SUV will get you to the surrounding sandy shores in roomy comfort. Planning to spend the majority of your time close to the bright lights of the city? A smaller car like a mini or compact is your best bet. Maneuvering through narrow streets and squeezing into tight parking spaces will be easy with one of these.

There’s loads of choice when it comes to renting a car in Austin. From luxury models to zippy little compacts that make parking a breeze, you’ll find it all here. Choosing your perfect match depends on how much you’d like to spend and what you intend to do. Some road trips are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas others don’t need anything more than enough space for your luggage and buddies. Which car will you be sliding behind the wheel of this time?

It’s relatively easy to find somewhere to park in Austin, although you might find it hard to secure a spot in the biggest and busiest streets. Staying at a hotel that has parking included will make things easier.

One awesome thing about road tripping around a smaller city is lighter traffic, so you don’t have to worry a whole lot about rush-hour gridlock. With a population of approximately 931,800, you can look forward to a smooth Austin driving experience.

While driving through the streets of Austin, keep in mind that the speed limits generally range from 25mph to 50mph. Residential zones are 35mph unless otherwise signed.

Generally, one of two things will happen. Your car rental company may charge the fined amount to your credit card. This is the usual practice. Otherwise, it may provide your contact information to local law enforcement agencies so the fine is issued to you directly.

You’re allowed to use your cell phone when driving around Austin. However, we always recommend waiting until the end of your trip, or pulling over in a safe spot, before using your phone.

While driving in Austin, it’s against the law to have a BAC (blood alcohol content) in excess of 0.08%. Planning to have a few drinks with lunch or dinner? Consider using a ride-sharing service or booking a taxi.

Yes, drivers are allowed to turn on a red light in Austin. But first you are required to stop the car completely. Continue only when you know the lane you are turning into is clear of approaching traffic.

Seat belts must be worn in Travis County. Having said that, the rule may not apply for some vehicles, like those operated by public transportation systems.