It’s the season of giving thanks, and we’re overflowing with gratitude for Austin. From its music and restaurant scenes to its green spaces and natural beauty, there are many reasons to be thankful for the Capital City.
In that spirit, we asked ATXtoday readers what makes them thankful to call Austin home.
Here’s what our audience said. (Psst — some of these entries have been edited for clarity or brevity.)
“I’m thankful I got to witness the development of the live music scene (before Austin was declared ‘The Live Music Capital of the World’) beginning at the Armadillo World Headquarters (too many artists to name!), the Rome Inn watching Stevie Ray Vaughn when he was just starting out and Ray Wiley Hubbard and the Cowboy Twinkies, seeing the Allman Brothers Band at Southpark Meadows when it was just an open empty field, going to the one and only infamous ‘Barn Dance’ at Memorial Stadium with ZZ Top, Bad Company, Jimmy Page, Joe Cocker and Santana — the first and only concert as the crowd destroyed the stadium and the newly installed astroturf. Austin’s come a long way since those days, to today with ACL Festival, ACL Live, the new Moody Center, and so many more music clubs around town.” —Jody W.
“A great and supportive art community 👏👏❤️❤️❤️” —@artbyfed
“Austin has a long history of family-owned businesses and properties. Those of us whose roots go back over a century provide perspective.” —Alice K.
“Thankful for Town Lake!” —@madison_hartintv
“For the weather and the scenery 😮💨" —@isabelyonara
“I’m so incredibly thankful for the lifestyle Austin has provided me. I moved here over 12 years ago with no job or partner. Within 3 months I’d met the love of my life, and within a year I’d found a job I absolutely flourished in. I have never been happier. Thank you, Austin, for Lake Travis, where I met my husband, for Chasse Consulting where my career skyrocketed, for the numerous buildings I’ve called home (CityView, 422 On The Lake, The Bowie, The Shore Condominiums). Thank you Orange Theory and Gold’s for keeping me in shape. Thank you Four Seasons for the drinks, laughs, and memories. Thank you Hike-and-Bike Trail for the numerous rides and weekly walks with my girlfriend. I could go on and on, but most of all, thank you God for the beautiful life you’ve granted me in the beautiful city of Austin!” —Miriam B.
“The communities, the weather, the lakes surrounding” —@zaripova_lola
“I’m thankful that most Austinites aren’t like everyone on Reddit who talk about Austin like it a horrible place ... because it’s not. It’s awesome.” —@ginobarasa
“I am thankful for God, hiking trails and stunning sunsets!” —Myr C.
“Best driving I have seen in a hot minute. And I’ve been around. Lots of happy and healthy people. Warm winters. Pretty clean for being so popular!” —@endlesslyvictorious24
“I’m thankful for all of our city’s green spaces and public parks!” —London P.
“I’m thankful for @chuysrestaurant” —@everybodyisaplebexceptforme
Feeling extra grateful for the Capital City? You can still let us know what you’re thankful for.
