If there’s one thing Austinites are good at, it’s waiting in lines. From ACL afterparties to South by Southwest shindigs, the people of Austin are used to massive crowds and tight quarters. Fortunately, not every place you go to in this city is jam-packed with people. There are plenty of underrated places that are ideal for introspective relaxation. Escape from the small talk and the noise. These 10 places are perfect for people who hate crowds.
- Strange Brew
Strange Brew Austin Coffee/Facebook If sipping on an iced latte and reading your favorite novel sounds like the perfect Saturday night, then Strange Brew is the place for you. This South Austin coffeeshop is open 24 hours a day, so your late night outing can be as solitary and quiet as you like. The airy patio and secluded study areas create a comfortable and private atmosphere.
- Capital City Bakery
Capital City Bakery/Facebook Yes, it’s possible to make delicious pastries without animal products, and Capital City Bakery proves that every day. This adorable bakery on the east side rarely gets loud or overcrowded (unless they’re serving homemade poptarts or kolaches), so swing on by for a scrumptious afternoon sweet treat.
- South Congress Books
South Congress Books/Facebook Even though it’s tucked away in one of the most popular shopping districts, this quaint bookstore never feels crowded. At South Congress Books, you could get lost amongst the shelves.
- The Golden Goose
The Golden Goose/Facebook This neighborhood bar is a favorite of the ‘04 neighborhood. Dirty Sixth and Rainey can become saturated with overeager college students, but The Golden Goose never gets too rowdy.
- The Blue Cat Cafe
Blue Cat Cafe/Facebook When human interaction feels too exhausting, head over to the Blue Cat Cafe for some feline companionship. This peaceful cafe is full of affectionate cats that are looking for a new home. Most of the animals at the cafe are up for adoption, so if the separation anxiety feels too strong, you can take your favorite furry friend home with you.
- Cactus Cafe
The Cactus Cafe/Facebook This intimate listening room offers a quiet respite from the rest of the UT campus. The Cactus Cafe has showcased some of the best singer/songwriters ever since its creation in 1979.
- Art on Fifth
Art on Fifth/Facebook Unless there’s a gala or major event, the noise level at Art on Fifth never reaches over a whisper. This 7,000 square foot gallery has everything from Dr. Suess artwork to vintage movie posters. New displays come through the gallery frequently, so there’s always a reason to come back.
- Indian Roller
Indian Roller/Facebook South Austin’s true hidden gem, Indian Roller, has the best of both worlds: an expansive, shaded patio and a hip, comfortable interior. The company at this joint are always friendly, but you’ll never feel overwhelmed or crowded.
- The Texas State Cemetery
Angela Doetsch/Flickr Take a walk through the lush, green grass and absorb some of Texas’ rich history. The Texas State Cemetery expands across 22 acres and is the burial site for Texas Revolutionary General Edward Burleson.
- The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Jon Clegg/Flickr Full of stunning wildlife and gorgeous hiking trails, The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is the ultimate way to get away from it all.
Where’s your favorite place to escape from the crowds?
Strange Brew Austin Coffee/Facebook
If sipping on an iced latte and reading your favorite novel sounds like the perfect Saturday night, then Strange Brew is the place for you. This South Austin coffeeshop is open 24 hours a day, so your late night outing can be as solitary and quiet as you like. The airy patio and secluded study areas create a comfortable and private atmosphere.
Capital City Bakery/Facebook
Yes, it’s possible to make delicious pastries without animal products, and Capital City Bakery proves that every day. This adorable bakery on the east side rarely gets loud or overcrowded (unless they’re serving homemade poptarts or kolaches), so swing on by for a scrumptious afternoon sweet treat.
South Congress Books/Facebook
Even though it’s tucked away in one of the most popular shopping districts, this quaint bookstore never feels crowded. At South Congress Books, you could get lost amongst the shelves.
The Golden Goose/Facebook
This neighborhood bar is a favorite of the ‘04 neighborhood. Dirty Sixth and Rainey can become saturated with overeager college students, but The Golden Goose never gets too rowdy.
Blue Cat Cafe/Facebook
When human interaction feels too exhausting, head over to the Blue Cat Cafe for some feline companionship. This peaceful cafe is full of affectionate cats that are looking for a new home. Most of the animals at the cafe are up for adoption, so if the separation anxiety feels too strong, you can take your favorite furry friend home with you.
The Cactus Cafe/Facebook
This intimate listening room offers a quiet respite from the rest of the UT campus. The Cactus Cafe has showcased some of the best singer/songwriters ever since its creation in 1979.
Art on Fifth/Facebook
Unless there’s a gala or major event, the noise level at Art on Fifth never reaches over a whisper. This 7,000 square foot gallery has everything from Dr. Suess artwork to vintage movie posters. New displays come through the gallery frequently, so there’s always a reason to come back.
Indian Roller/Facebook
South Austin’s true hidden gem, Indian Roller, has the best of both worlds: an expansive, shaded patio and a hip, comfortable interior. The company at this joint are always friendly, but you’ll never feel overwhelmed or crowded.
Angela Doetsch/Flickr
Take a walk through the lush, green grass and absorb some of Texas’ rich history. The Texas State Cemetery expands across 22 acres and is the burial site for Texas Revolutionary General Edward Burleson.
Jon Clegg/Flickr
Full of stunning wildlife and gorgeous hiking trails, The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is the ultimate way to get away from it all.
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