Texas Rowing Center wins the points championship again! Enjoying this event requires planning to overcome the remote location and the changing weather patterns. We hope that these tips help you in your next Austin Regatta.
Local Markets: Head north on Chicon and make a left onto Holly Street. Take Holly west under US35 to Rainey Street. There are LOTS of great places here! If you take a left onto Rainey you can enjoy the Royal Blue Grocery. They have a little of everything! For a larger store, HEB is located at E 7th Street. Take Comal north to E 7th and take a right. It is then several miles to the east on the right.
Breakfast: Head north on Chicon and make a right onto Cesar Chavez. About a mile up the road you will find Juan in a Million of the left and Capital City Bakery on the right. Both and great local places. If you make a left on Cesar Chavez you can follow that across US35 to the IHop on the SW corner to the left.
Lunch: Rainey Street!!!! Craft Pride for great Pizza! Trailer Food court! G'Raj Mahal for Indian (if you can handle that). Need a burger? Head to Jo's on 2nd Street downtown (near Lavaca). Or just go explore!
Pasta: I like heading down South Congress for diner at night. It gets crowded and parking is a challenge after 5pm but there are many great places to eat. My favorite for Pasta is Vespaio. But we go next door to Enoteca Vespaio. Same kitchen and half the price. Great food! Of course you drive past Home Slice (best Pizza in Austin) on the way in case that is more your style. Enjoy!
Parking Tips: The area around Festival Beach State Park changes after dark and often local car clubs converge on the parking areas to enjoy the nights with car shows, music, and boisterous fun! It is a good idea to pack your things and leave the area before dark to avoid this crown and the subsequent challenges that come with it. We would suggest parking on the streets or in the parking lots off Chicon Street for easiest egress. Exiting the parking lot on the corner of Comal and Nash Hernandez can become a challenge after dark.