I went on a date night here and we had so much fun! The staff was so kind, patient, and attentive…read more They play a nice back ground music through the whole store and have amazing lighting and vibes. I love how we both got to pick completely different projects that had detailed instructions. It was nice to be left with our own devices and not walked through all the steps by a person.

I came here for my sister's birthday because we wanted to do something a little more interactive…read morethan just going out to dinner. Funny enough, even though it's called Upstairs Circus, I kept calling it "Uptown Circus" for some reason and still do. My sister had been here once when she first moved to Austin, but it had been a while, so she was happy to go again. We tried to make a reservation for a Monday but found out they're closed that day unless it's a private event. So we ended up booking a Sunday evening during their Sangria Sundays event. Signing up online was quick and easy--no payment required upfront. When we arrived, we were seated at a table and given the option to sit side by side or across from each other. They handed us a laminated flyer with all the available project options, ranging from easy (about an hour) to more challenging projects that can take the full three-hour session. There was a good mix of household items (like coasters and magnetic shelves), jewelry, handbags, clutches, accessories, and even a pricier custom Nike shoe painting project. The sample projects looked very professional, but the final result really depends on your artistic skills and how focused you are during the session. My sister and I decided to pick different projects--she chose a handbag clutch, and I went with coasters. We got all our materials and instructions. One thing I noticed: this kind of activity is probably better suited for people who don't have a ton to catch up on while working. Since my sister and I hadn't seen each other for weeks, we were trying to talk and catch up, which made it harder for me to focus on the project. Some steps were time-sensitive, so juggling both conversation and crafting was a bit stressful. For my coaster project, I initially planned to use a stencil and transfer paper to trace a design, but it didn't work very well. I ended up switching to a simple two-color block design just to make sure I could finish in time. My sister's project was a bit more advanced--she had to do leather hole punching and threading--but she managed to finish and loved how her clutch turned out. Since it was Sangria Sunday, you get one complimentary sangria or mocktail with your reservation, and they keep a card on file if you want to order more drinks. I got a spicy cocktail that actually had really good flavor, even though I didn't finish it. Overall, this is a fun and unique activity if you want to do something creative with a friend or group. I'd recommend it more if you're looking to spend quality time doing something together rather than having a deep conversation--because focusing on the project definitely takes some attention. My sister was happy with her finished product, and I liked mine even if it turned out simpler than planned. It's a cool idea for a birthday, date night, or just a different kind of outing.

Very unique! If you are going to Austin, make arrangements for a tour. This house has been…read morefeatured in a lot of different books and magazines.

Keep Austin Weird is one of those phrases that is synonymous with Austin (in addition to barbecue)…read more There is so much interesting art here in Austin that you should consider looking into when visiting Austin, with Casa Neverlandia being one of them. Casa Neverlandia is a three story, colorful home located behind Goodwill Baptist Church, that was created by James Talbot, or as he referred to himself as "Talbot" when we met him for a private tour of his home. Casa Neverlandia originally started out as a one story home built in the early 1900's. Mr. Talbot purchased this home and started to transform it into what you see now in my photos and what you find online. According to Mr. Talbot, he grew up in a military family, traveling all around the world and living in some unusual places that includes a treehouse in Honduras. He has a college degree in architecture and has always been fascinated with building things, as you can see with his home today. To him, he builds this home for himself to reflect upon his spiritual side but also include some unique things for his physical needs, as he lives rather a green lifestyle. My husband and I, along with our little girl dog (yes Mr. Talbot allowed for us to bring our little dog with us) met Mr. Talbot outside of his home on a Sunday afternoon. We were lucky to be the only couple, as another couple was supposed to come but was told the date just didn't work with their schedule. Please note that it cost $15 per person for this tour and you can contact Mr. Talbot via phone or email to schedule a tour. At the front entrance of his home are numerous of doorbells, xylophones and bells. I believe there is over 40 of these things but Mr. Talbot says he can never have enough. He describes the mosaic tiles outside of the home, the snake, the outdoor patio seating area with the clouds element and so forth. Then inside, we see his living room with a beautiful and inviting fireplace and pit to help radiate heat for the first floor, indoor seating area that is meant to be an air alter with cool colors of green and a unique bookcase. We see some current artwork that he has for sale (no obligation to buy) that includes gorgeous hand beaded work and other things and then make our way to the small music room. Next, the kitchen has a lot of function to it more so than just design. Then we make our way up stairs. On the 2nd floor is a room that has a Thai like theme with the bamboo wall panels and red lacquered beams. This room has high ceilings and utilizes natural lighting since there is no lights in this room. Mr. Talbot says this is the room for parties and entertainment for guests. Then up one more floor is Mr. Talbot's room, which was featured on numerous of TV shows, magazines and books. From his bedroom, that has a safari theme to it, you can see a glimpse of downtown Austin. We were then lead to his bathroom where he is currently working on a bath tub with some kind of ocean wave like theme. Being that he has a background in architecture, he is able to create the structure of things the way he wants it. From his bedroom, we walk across a narrow plank bridge to his tree house or a tower. Climb a very narrow ladder and we are on the top of that tower and see great views of Austin. We eventually take a few narrow ladders down to the bottom, now in his backyard. From here, he takes us into his studio (built in the early 90's) and shows us what he is currently working on, which looks like a large clam shell. He uses soda cans that he has collected around Austin to decorate the shell. He also shows us this ocean like mural that will go with this clam shell. Then we eventually make our way outside. He tells us that he saves the rain water in large barrels, as he considers himself camping in his own home. He dresses up or down according to the weather and has a very low electric bill each month and water bill. Mr. Talbots has told us on the tour that he doesn't consider himself to be done with Case Neverlandia, as he is always building and changing things. And said that Casa Neverlandia may be different the next time we come back to Austin for another tour. Our tour lasted about 75 minutes, but we did make small talk with Mr. Talbot throughout. It was well worth our time to come out here and check out Casa Neverlandia and hope you will consider it too, especially if you are looking for something off the beaten path. You can see some of Mr. Talbot's artworks around Austin and a few other things in other states. Casa Neverlandia truly was a highlight of our visit to Austin and am so glad we were able to get a tour. Again as mentioned, it cost $15 per person for a tour and you can call Mr. Talbot at (512) 442-7613 or email him at talbot@talbotworld.com to inquire for a tour.

If I could bottle the feeling of being a weird little kid who just wandered into something magical,…read moreMuseum of the Weird would be it. This place might honestly be my favorite spot I've ever visited. I love oddities, and they are surprisingly hard to find all together like this. Walking through here felt like running away to the circus in the best way. Every room has something that makes you stop and stare. Shrunken heads, two-headed specimens, medical oddities, freak show history, UFO lore, Movie props and replicas! and so much more. I appreciated that it felt more like a cabinet of curiosities than a haunted house vibe. The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, and there's a genuine feeling of love for weird history here. It doesn't feel cheesy. You can take your time, read signs, and really soak it all in if you want, or just wander around wide eyed and delighted like me. If you're into oddities, curiosities, circus history, strange science, or just being a little weird inside, this place is an absolute must while you're downtown. I left smiling and already wanting to go back. Honestly, if this is your thing at all, you'll get it immediately. One small but important thing to note, especially for the rest of my disabled community: there is no bathroom on site. While they do let you leave and come back if needed, that still means stepping out and trying to find a restroom on a very busy downtown Austin street. It was honestly really stressful and upsetting for me. However...that didn't ruin the experience for me because I love it so much, but it's definitely something to be aware of and the only reason this lands at 4 stars instead of 5.

It is something to do when it's hot. The AC works except in the wax room. It smells awful!!!…read moreThey encourage you to take pics with King Kong which involves getting on knees and climbing up thru the hand. Well my dress had a dark brown wet stain on it as I stood up. Looked like poop -it wasn't but it sure looked like it. Bathroom out of order but they let me in and stain still there. So $25 for 2 to get in and I possibly ruined a brand new dress. Wasn't impressed at all by the place.

This is a a great little bookstore and boutique focusing on LGBTQ topics. I don't know how long I…read morehad it bookmarked but it caught our attention some time ago and it was great to pay a visit here. The selection is great as it has fiction and nonfiction books. I also spotted some photo books and coffee table books which I do enjoy getting from time to time. The accessories are various items and they are fun and unique. There is cards and if I recall correctly socks for example. The gentleman that worked here was very nice and helpful with all of our questions. This bookstore reminds me and take me back to the 1990's as I just came out to myself and was curious and eager to learn about LGBTQ history and I would come across these little independently owned stores that specialized in this and I learned so much. So coming here was a slice of nostalgia of my younger years which was a pleasant reminiscing.

This store is genuinely great for gift shopping. If you need a present, you'll probably find…read moresomething perfect without the usual chaos of fighting traffic and crowds on Congress. Much easier to just slip over to 12th Street, do your shopping, and then reward yourself with a drink next door (as you should). Highly recommend for a relaxed, feel-good browse. Also, I've heard about their Pride Market in June ...definitely on my list to visit!

The Elephant Room is one of Austin's most widely known jazz venues. It is located below street…read morelevel on Congress Avenue. If you are claustrophobic, this might not be the best place for you. From the street level, you walk down steps to enter the club. This basement club delivers an authentic jazz experience. The dim lighting, narrow long room, and close seating create an intimate atmosphere. Live jazz musicians are hosted every night of the week, often with multiple sets, featuring a mix of local musicians, rotating house bands, and visiting musicians. Because of the tight space, you are always close to the stage. Tonight's headliner was the Concept Orchestra. Cover tonight was $7. Cocktails range $14-16. The room was pretty tightly packed creating positive vibes.

One of the best bars in Austin. To my dying breath I will say that…read more Love the live jazz. It's constantly full of people, which is fitting because the vibes are so good. It's a hit or miss with the cocktails - the espresso martini is delicious but some of the other drinks are quite strong.

Fun walk down memory lane, see all the toys you forgot you had. Do the scavenger hunt and find…read moreWaldo!

So glad I came across this place. So cool! Love all the nostalgic stuff. Lots of Godzilla!read more

Tiger Lilly is the newest occupant taking over 400 Colorado Street. If you've ever been to the late…read moreEstelle's, it offers a similar vibe with moody, elegant decor, but with a friendlier, more inviting atmosphere. There are no food offerings, but the specialty drinks offered are immaculate (& ridiculously overpriced for the size). Open Thursday to Saturday from 6 PM to 2 AM, the space boasts vintage furniture, eclectic artwork, and carefully curated décor. Tiger Lilly has two floors, the first floor showcasing a bar and bar stools around and the second floor with more dining spaces and modular spaces for intimate conversations. There are also private rooms and a whole venue buyout for rent.

We visited Tiger Lilly for my girlfriend's birthday weekend, and let me just say, it was a vibe…read more She had been looking for a spot that had that moody, speakeasy feel with an artsy aesthetic for some birthday pics, and this place delivered. We actually found it pretty last minute and decided to go early since we knew we'd be taking photos and didn't want to deal with crowds. When we arrived, it was pretty quiet, which honestly worked out perfectly for us. The décor is bold and eclectic in the best way, think velvet booths, curated gallery walls, low lighting, and these amazing feathered chandeliers that tie the whole space together. We ordered the Tiger Lilly cocktail and the Elote, both were fantastic. The drinks are not only pretty but good, which isn't always a given in places that are more vibe-forward. Ours were balanced, flavorful, and well-presented. The DJ was there, early, which was a nice surprise, it gave the whole place some life without being overwhelming. The staff was super kind, especially the manager who came by to check in and even gave us a little background on the space. We appreciated how welcoming everyone was. We heard that the night before had been packed, so it sounds like this place definitely fills up later at night. We're looking forward to coming back when it's livelier to get the full experience, but for a chill early visit focused on ambiance, great service, and creative drinks, it absolutely hit the mark. Pro tip: If you're someone who loves a visually aesthetic experience and wants a place to snap a few pics before the rush, go early like we did. Can't wait to return!

I was here for a work happy hour, and felt very lucky to experience this venue. The two bartenders…read morewere super patient with our orders. I got the mocktail that was mojito themed and it was very refreshing. The views, always unmatched. Golden hour & sunset? Even better. Later, I asked if I could take the leftover food they were packing up because I know the food industry recommends disposing of them. They gave me a whole bag! Unfortunately I didn't realize the pasta salad given wasn't the one I wanted I did get to have the cheese pastry and two of the breakfast sandwiches for breakfast the following days.

Attended an event here recently and had a great time. The venue offers comfortable indoor and…read moreoutdoor seating for 100-150 guests. The rooftop has some pretty spectacular views of downtown Austin. The bartenders were friendly and quick. Themed cocktail and mocktail drinks were innovative, strong and tasty! Parking is $5 an hour in the RiverSouth garage. The bartenders said that parking fee was capped at $10 for the event at the exit gate but they still charged us the full fee for 4 hours.