“Date Nights” for Austin Hippies and Free Spirits

Austin’s reputation as a hippie town has tempered with the development of more Austin luxury homes and high rises, an increase in traffic on the highways, and a noticeable growth in business and development. Regardless, Austin’s laidback atmosphere, culture of acceptance, and commitment to eco-friendly practices and local businesses keep the hippie vibe strong. Finding date night outings that align with a free-spirited nature is easy, and below are a few options found in town:

Dinner

Whip In

An Austin favorite since 1986, the Whip In was founded by the Topiwala family as a mom and pop Indian food café and small grocery store in Travis Heights. The café is committed to sustainable, local, organic, and natural produce in all menu items and on the grocery store shelves. Over 60 types of beer are on tap to accompany the authentic Gujarati-style Indian food. Live music is also a frequent occurrence, with local and touring musicians serenading diners, shoppers, and those sharing a pint of beer or glass of wine.

Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse

Bouldin Creek is a full scale vegetarian eatery and coffee bar designed to bring people together over the love of good company, good food, and good drinks. All food is made from scratch and to order, with free magazines, books, and games available to guests to enjoy. There is plenty of patio seating, and leashed pets are welcome. In addition to coffees and teas, the baristas also offer beer, wine, sake, and mixed drinks.

Olivia

The fresh fare at Olivia reflects French and Italian culinary influences and a commitment to featuring local and organic. The modern and inviting design of the restaurant offers patio seating, a cocktail bar, and open dining room. The upscale menu with dishes made from heirloom recipes and crafted with precision offer choices for omnivores and vegetarians.

Fun

Hippie Hollow

A list of hippie fun for free spirits wouldn’t be complete without a nod towards Austin’s most well-known swimming hole: Hippie Hollow. Situated on 109 peaceful acres, Hippie Hollow is a clothing-optional park securely nestled in the natural beauty of the Hill Country of Lake Travis, only 20 minutes off Interstate 35, but a world away from the bustle of nearby Austin.

The Broken Spoke

The Broken Spoke is Austin’s most recognizable dance hall. Owners James and Annetta White have been operating the Austin tradition since 1964 and its reputation for good country music and good Texas cooking has spread worldwide. In the sixties, The Broken Spoke played host to countless country super stars and legends, including George Strait, Ernest Tubb, Roy Acuff, and even Bob Wills. Willie Nelson started playing at The Broken Spoke before he brought braids and tennis shoes to the forefront of country fashion and still frequents the dance hall for guitar picking, two stepping, and good times.

Hippie Church at Maria’s Taco X-Press

Maria’s Taco X-Press, close to the Olympic Heights neighborhood, made a name for itself on its food choice alone, but “Hippie Church” is the namesake of its Sunday afternoon gospel music hour. The small restaurant radiates an eclectic and quirky Austin vibe and offers a large, multi-level patio for eating, drinking, and dancing.

Also visit, Austin Date Nights that Showcase Your Sensitive Side.