Name: Cassidy Stevenson

How long have you lived in Austin? 

Growing up here … I was born and raised in Austin and was a student at Vandegrift High School. It was the best! Austin is such a lively, vibrant city that offers plenty of outdoor activities like boating and hiking. After graduating from UGA, it was an easy decision to come back. I love this town so much, and I can’t wait for the Dawgs to visit!

Education: I spent four years at UGA, majoring in Finance and International Business.

Occupation: Financial Analyst at Oracle

1. Explore South Congress: South Congress, one of the most famous streets in Austin, is a terrific place to shop, eat, and enjoy skyline views. Check out Allens, Tecovas, or the new Lucchese store to buy some authentic Texas cowboy boots. If you’re there at sunset, you may catch the local bat colony emerging from underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge.

2. Eat Some Barbecue: BBQ is a staple in Austin! There are a plethora of restaurants to try, but some of the most renowned include Terry Black’s, Franklin BBQ, and La Barbecue. Expect lines, but the brisket is worth the wait!

3. Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake: There are many spots to rent paddle boards or kayaks on Lady Bird Lake, which flows through the heart of downtown. It’s the perfect activity to spend time outside and see the city from a different perspective.

4. Dance at the Broken Spoke: The Broken Spoke is an iconic dance hall; it is even featured on the cover of a George Strait album! Get ready to two-step and feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Afterward, I highly recommend stopping by Matt’s El Rancho down the street for some delicious Mexican food—order a Matt’s Knock out Martini and a Bob Armstrong Dip!

5. Experience Live Music: Austin is often referred to as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Some of the best venues include the Continental Club, Stubb’s, and ACL Live, or you could stroll into a nearby bar and discover a new artist.