Things to Do in South Lamar

Austin's last real dance hall — $10 two-step lessons Wed-Sat at 8pm

Austin's last real dance hall, open since 1964. Chicken-fried steak and cold beer from 4pm, then the floor opens for country, western swing, and honky-tonk. Dance lessons Wed-Sat at 8pm, $10 cash. Cover $10-15 cash. All ages.

3201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 · Tue-Sat from 4pm, dancehall opens 8-9pm · (512) 442-6189 · indoor

The original Alamo Drafthouse — they will kick you out for talking

The original Alamo Drafthouse, Austin-born in 1997. First-run movies, repertory screenings, Terror Tuesday, Weird Wednesday. Food and drinks at your seat. They will kick you out for talking.

1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 · Daily, showtimes from late morning to late night · indoor

Farm-to-table with a rotating menu — whatever's in season, they're cooking it.

Farm-to-table restaurant on South Lamar with a menu that changes constantly based on what local farms have available. Small plates meant for sharing. The vibe is casual despite the food being refined. Reservations recommended — walk-ins at the bar if you're flexible.

1201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 · Tue-Sat 5:30-10pm, brunch Sat-Sun 10:30am-2pm

Bob Armstrong dip was invented here in 1952. Still the standard.

Austin Tex-Mex institution since 1952. The Bob Armstrong dip — queso with guac, taco meat, sour cream — was invented here and it's still the standard. Enormous portions, strong margaritas, multi-generational families at every table. Not reinventing anything. Just doing it right for 70+ years.

2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 · Mon-Tue & Sun 11am-9pm, Wed-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm · 512-462-9333 · indoor

Austin-roasted, multiple locations. Solid across the board.

Austin-roasted, multiple locations, consistently excellent. The South Lamar spot has a proper bar feel. Campus location near UT is good for people-watching. They roast their own beans and it shows. Solid drip, good espresso drinks, not chasing trends.

1100 S Lamar Blvd, Ste 2125, Austin, TX 78704 · Daily 7am-7pm (varies by location) · indoor

James Beard winner in a bungalow. Happy hour 4-6pm is the insider move.

Tyson Cole's Japanese farmhouse dining in a converted bungalow on South Lamar. Not a sushi bar — a tasting experience. The hot rock presentations, the wagyu tataki, the hama chili — every dish is precise. James Beard Award winner. Happy hour 4-6pm daily is the move for budget-conscious diners. Reservations essential.

801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 · Mon-Thu & Sun 4pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 4pm-11pm · 512-916-4808

Free Sunday concerts on the lawn overlooking Lady Bird Lake

Free outdoor concerts most Sundays at the Long Center lawn overlooking Lady Bird Lake. Bring a blanket and a picnic. Family-friendly programming, mix of genres. The terrace has stunning skyline views.

701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 · Sundays, check Long Center schedule for times · outdoor · Ages 0+