Being from Chicago, I never thought I would like Texas. The verdict? Me gusta. Since I’m incredibly passionate about photography, I was on the hunt for the best photo locations in Austin. So without further introduction, let’s get down to the most Instagrammable spots in Austin.
If you’re planning a trip to Austin, then this guide will give you a lot of ideas you can use for eating, drinking, pictures, and entertainment. The city will pleasantly surprise you with all of the photo worthy locations.
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Map of Locations
Below is a map of the most Instagrammable spots in Austin, Texas. The map is color coded and also has little icons to indicate what it is for your convenience.
Most Instagram Worthy Places on South Congress
Many tourists who visit Austin oftentimes start in downtown Austin. The heart of the city’s hustle and bustle is on South Congress. There are plenty of outdoor photoshoot locations in Austin!
1. Kendra Scott
Are you a jewelry lover? The Kendra Scott on South Congress has adorable Texas inspired jewelry. This is also a favorite in Austin photography locations as the mural is constantly changing. If you get hungry, the store also has a mini cafe that serves desserts.
Photo Tip: This mural is popular and you can go at any time of the day. Since the surrounding buildings cover the harsh light, you can almost always get a good photo here.
2. SOCO Mural
One of the newer additions to the many amazing murals in Austin, this SOCO Mural is located on the building of a brisket place. Meat lovers rejoice. You can take a photo and get full. What a smart move for an Instagram worthy mural in Austin! The best photography spots in Austin must include a cool mural or five. Besides, pics or it didn’t happen!
Photo Tip: Take your photos early in the morning or late afternoon. There’s not usually a line to take photos here so you can take your time.
3. Big Top Candy Shop
The Big Top Candy Shop is one of my favorite Austin picture spots. It’s decked out in old circus memorabilia which makes the store a super Instagram worthy spot in Austin. dubbed “The Most Amazing Candy Store the World has Ever Known,” Big Top boasts a fully-functioning old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream case, specialty chocolates and fudge, over 400 bulk candies, and over 3000 wrapped candies – from nostalgic favorites to new creations from across the globe.
Photo Tip: I took this photo right in front of the door. I think the candy shop would be great for a Halloween themed circus costume.
4. Home Slice Pizza
Remember how I told you to save room because you were going to be eating a lot? You can get New York style pizza at Home Slice Pizza on South Congress. If you’re looking scenic spots in Austin, then his unique pizza shop is it!
Photo Tip: Try getting a photo during the week during the late afternoon after the lunch rush. This place is super popular with Austinites and tourists.
5. Mr. Rogers Mural
Isn’t it a wonderful day in the neighborhood? This mural is located on the other side of Home Slice Pizza so make sure you walk around the side to take a photo with one of the coolest people on the planet. This is one of my favorite places in Austin to take pictures since it always reminds me to be a kindly neighbor no matter how shitty life or some people get.
Photo Tip: The Mr. Rogers mural on South Congress is not time dependent and right across the street from the Wille For President Mural.
6. Willie For President Mural
The Willie For President mural is located on the building with the store STAG Provisions for men. Willie is kind of a Texas national hero making the mural one of the most Instagram worthy places in Austin.
Photo Tip: I recommend taking photos here late afternoon for that sunset glow.
7. I Love You So Much Mural
The i love you so much mural on the side of Jo’s Coffee is one of the most famous corners in the city. Grab an ice cream and snap a picture here if you are walking along South Congress. It’s one of the most recognizable places to take pictures in Austin.
Photo Tip: It’s busy all day, but the most I’ve waited for a photo is five minutes.
8. Lucky Robot Japanese Kitchen
This is a super cute Japanese kitchen on South Congress Avenue. Lucky Robot Japanese Kitchen is just as delicious as it looks. Like everything in Austin, the decor is super aesthetic. If you’re looking for Instagram worthy restaurants in Austin, then Lucky Robot definitely fits the bill with their aesthetic decor.
Photo Tip: This restaurant is super popular and requires a reservation. Go right when it opens at 4:30pm during the week. The staff was kind enough to let me snap a quick photo at this super cute booth. A photo here would be great for pride month or if you’re looking for Japanese inspired places.
9. Austin Motel
The Austin Motel makes a grand statement by being LGBTQ+ friendly in a state that is mostly red. The hotel is retro style and a hot spot over the summer especially with their iconic kidney shaped pool. The property really gives off that Austin aesthetic. Since it’s central to the downtown area, book your stay at the Austin Motel here.
Photo Tip: I would go early in the day since this location is always popping. There’s always lots of tourists walking around. I had to take this photo several times before I got no people in mine.
10. Love Shack Fancy
I discovered the Love Shack Fancy in New York City and I absolutely loved the store. It’s so feminine and cute. They always have the cutest seasonal displays so you should definitely stop by to snap a picture. The Austin Love Shack fancy is a great place to take pictures in Austin.
Photo Tip: South Congress is always busy so just wait for your moment to snap a photo.
11. The Texas State Capitol Building
Fun fact about Texas. The Texas flag can fly higher than the American one because the state was its own country before (as most Texans like to remind the rest of America) they allowed the United States to join them. The Texas State Capitol is one of the best places to photograph in Austin due to the fact you can play with so many angles.
Photo Tip: You can go at any time of day, but I recommend going in the week in the late morning to get the best lighting. During the weekend, there are loads of tour groups.
12. Azul Rooftop
One of my favorite things to do as a city slicker is to find the prettiest rooftops in Austin. I saw this one on Instagram and knew I just had to visit! They’ve got great seasonal drinks and its one of my favorite scenic spots in Austin.
Photo Tip: Go during sunset to get a romantic glow like my photo.
The Most Instagram Worthy Restaurants in Austin
Are you a foodie and wondering where to take pictures in Austin? Restaurants are some of the best places to take photos in Austin. Since there’s always new places popping up many properties are always looking for unique and beautiful decor. After all us millennials (and maybe ya’ll in Gen Z too) love aesthetic places to brag about to our friends.
13. Domo Alley Gato Tatsuya
Domo Alley Gato is Japan inspired with ramen and curry bowls. The best part? They also have vegetarian options. Dom Alley Gato is one of the best photography spots in Austin TX if you love all things Japan like I do.
Photo Tip: I went at night when everything was lit up and it made for such a cool photo. If you go during the day, your photo will also be just as cool. At night, it does get crowded, but if you wait for the right moment, you can get a photo without others in it.
14. Taquero Mucho (West Avenue)
Taquero Mucho is one of the most pink places in Austin. The name is a play on words: taqueria (which means taco place) and quiero (which means to want). Inspired by women to feel safe and celebrate their femininity, this tasty Mexican restaurant was born. This is one of my favorite Instagram worthy locations in Austin. Everything in it is pink, cute, and super adorable. Latina and woman owned, this place is the epitome of cute unicorns and throwing up on everything. The signature “Bad Bitch” drink is super tasty.
Photo Tip: Even though I came to this place during the day in the middle of the week, it was super packed! You’re going to have to wait for photos wherever you choose to take them.
15. Taquero Mucho (Burnet Road)
The Taquero Mucho on Burnet Road is the newest restaurant and has different photo zones. Taquero Mucho is so IG worthy especially if you love pink. Legit, there are so many cute places in Austin!
Photo Tip: I went during the week when the restaurant opened and there wasn’t any wait.
16. Revival Coffee
For photoshoot places in Austin without many people, try the pink and oh so adorbs Revival Coffee. If you’re looking for pretty places in Austin for a pink or feminine photo, you have to come here. Revival Coffee is the latest project from Gabriela Bucio, a proud Latina and restauranteur based in Austin. (So if you’re obsessed with Taquero Mucho, this place will definitely be up your alley.)
Photo Tip: Come during the week. There will be some people WFH. As long as you’re quiet and respectful, everyone is so chill.
The Most Instagram Worthy Murals in Austin
In Austin, is your business or space cool unless you have a mural. Austin is a place where artists thrive and there’s always new murals popping up!
17. Cute Nail Studio
Cute Nail Studio looks like a little piece of Japan upended itself and moved to Austin. The nail designs and salon itself are inspired by a lot of Asian trends. They provide an entire plethora of beauty services like lashes, nails, brows and waxing. This is one of the best photo spots in Austin if you’re looking for a pop of color and femininity in your Instagram feed.
Photo Tip: This location is not time dependent. I do suggest you avoid going in the afternoon because the lighting is super harsh.
18. Greetings From Austin Mural
This is the MOST famous mural is a must on your stop for the most instagram worthy places in Austin. Going here is like a right of passage.
Photo Tip: You can go at any time of day. You will undoubtedly meet other tourists here, but you won’t have to wait long for a photo. I think this spot is great for a friendship photo or taking pictures with your fur baby.
19. Historic 6th Street Mural
This mural definitely screams Austin aesthetic. It’s definitely one of the best photo spots in Austin. I love the colors of the mural and how well taken care of it is.
Photo Tip: You can go at any time of day. This is perfect for a quintessential downtown Austin photo.
20. Flamingo Vintage Pound Clothing Shop
One of my favorite parts about Austin is that there are super cool murals everywhere. Unless you have a mural on your business, then you’re relevant? Since a lot of Austinites are very conscious of the environment, more and more clothing recycle shops have been popping up. Not only is the outside of the shop a super Instagram worthy place in Austin, but you can feel good about buying clothes at Flamingo Vintage Pound Clothing Shop.
Photo Tip: Go during the week in the morning. There’s always shoppers in the store, but you don’t have to worry long about taking a photo here.
21. Leopard Lounge Vintage Clothing
I love retro photography spots in Austin. The Leopard Lounge Vintage Clothing shop has the cutest decor reminding me of Las Vegas. For an OOTD, recycle shops make great Austin photoshoot locations.
Photo Tip: Go in the morning because Pavement and Modern next door is super popular. The parking lot will quickly fill up with cars and give a weird reflection in the window.
22. Pavement and Modern
Pavement and Modern is a colorful recycled clothing shop. I love unique pieces in my wardrobe and a great way to get them without hurting the environment is to by gently used clothes. This store has the most adorable mural on the side of the building.
Photo Tip: I recommend going early in the morning at around 8am before the staff comes for the day to open the store. This mural is located on the parking lot side of the building so cars will get in your way.
23. Tau Ceti Mural
The Tau Ceti Mural is Austin’s tallest mural. The concept of the mural is light reflected in rainbow colors through other windows and into buildings. The artist then imagined this reflected into a spectrum.
Photo Tip: I recommend taking photos here late afternoon. Use a super wide angle lens or the wide angle lens on your photo to capture the entire building.
24. You’re My Butter Half Mural
The You’re My Butter Half Mural aesthetic places in Austin especially in terms of romance photos. If you’re looking for heartwarmingly cute places to take pictures in Austin, this mural will do it.
Photo Tip: This is great for a couples photo or even photos with your fur baby. I’ve taken countless here with her and they make for precious memories.
25. Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk
The Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk is one of the best parks in Austin for photography. In addition its a great area to go for a walk and view the downtown Austin skyline. There are a lot of bikers and runners in the area, so be sure to be careful. Also, there are about 36 restaurants nearby to choose from.
26. Blanton Museum of Art
There are several artists on display at this museum, but what’s super eye-catching about it is the beautiful stained glass windows outdoors. If you’re looking for free Austin photo spots, then definitely snap a photo in front of the building like I did. Visit the official Blanton Museum of Art website for more details.
Photo Tip: Go in the morning during the week as there are not a lot of people.
The Most Instagrammable Places at The Domain Austin
27. Bakery Lorraine
In terms of Austin photography spots, Bakery Lorraine is a really cute outdoor patio and restaurant. It’s also a great spot for brunch. The macaroons here are also scrumptious! They even have a wine bar for all my wine lovers!
Photo Tip: Go during the week as there aren’t that many people there.
28. Erin Condren
I’m always looking for cute places to go in Austin and the Erin Condren Flagship Store is awesome! I’m also obsessed with their life planners. I order one every year to help me keep organized.
Photo Tip: Go during the week when the store opens so you can take a picture on the stairs. It was roped off so I asked the staff if I could take picture and they let me. The Erin Condren Store is great for colorful photos and monochrome outfit photos.
29. Museum of Ice Cream
Do you love sugar, spice, and everything nice? The first time I went to the Museum of Ice Cream was in New York City and I had so much fun. Since then, I’ve been a big fan and a patron of this adorable pink place in Austin. You can book your tickets to the Museum if Ice Cream in Austin, Texas here.
Photo Tip: Tuesday is the best time to visit as there isn’t a lot of traffic here. Avoid this place on holidays because it is also crawling with children.
30. Nike Store at The Domain
Murals are part of why many places get classified as the most Instagram worthy places in Austin. Since the city is big on art and filled with young people, this oftentimes brings splashes of color where you least expect. The Nike Store at The Domain has a fun mural on the side of the building.
Photo Tip: If you’re photo shy, this is a great place for photos since it’s off the main road. I had a lot of fun playing with the reflections in the windows. It’s also great for showing off a blue outfit.
31. The Wonder Bar
They have food, drinks, and endless opportunities to sport a pretty darn good selfie! Step right in and get blown away! The Wonder Bar is a bit expensive and their drinks come in really cute cups.
Photo Tip: The Wonder Bar is a great place to put a pop of color in your feed. Try incorporating it for Pride Month. The space does get super busy on weekends so go when it opens at 3pm before the crowds roll in at 7pm.
32. Wonder Space
There are so many photography places in Austin and Wonder Space is a great one! This space was specifically designed to bring in art from different artists and a way to take a lot of photos. I personally love their VR reality located on the third floor.
33. Whole Foods ATX Sign
Did you know Whole Foods originally started out in Austin? Thank god for this wonderful trend because I’m all about organic foods and White Claw like a basic betch. Austin Instagram pictures need to have the ATX sign.
Photo Tip: Be careful taking photos here as this is located on the side of a busy intersection. People are also creepy around here. I had some weird man come up to me while I was taking pictures and made me feel super uncomfortable.
34. The Oasis Brewing Company
The Oasis Brewing Company is located off of Lake Travis and holy hell, I have never seen a more beautiful sunset. I’m legit obsessed with the beauty of Texas. The food is good, the beer is good, and you’ll get a visual hangover for days with Texas’ never-ending horizon. This is one of the most beautiful places in Austin to take pictures.
35. 360 Bridge at Mount Bonnell
To get to this amazing view, it’s just a short hike up the stone steps. If you’re looking to dress cute for a photo, bring some good trainers and change after because the stone steps are slippery. The 360 Bridge is also a good place for a picnic. It’s one of the prettiest places in Austin for sunset.
Let me know if you check out any of these Instagram worthy spots in Austin, TX. Let me know which ones you end up checking out! 🙂 Also, I would like to give a big shout out to my favorite Sco’ish lass Keri for helping me make this post. She’s been a dear friend of mine since the Okinawa days and has helped me see the true beauty of Austin, Texas.
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