Name: Jackson Wells

Family: Megan [Parra] Wells [UGA ‘15], our dog Ziggy, and baby girl on the way.

I’ve lived in Austin since 2015 and Megan was born and raised here. I am the Head of Financial Planning at Our Home Snack Foods. We own brands like PopChips, Pop Secret, and Parm Crisps. I attended UGA from 2011 to 2015 and graduated with a degree in Finance.

I didn’t exactly mean to make this into a step-by-step approach, but honestly it works out quite nicely in order. Also, as you all know, it’s quite a busy weekend in Austin. All bets are off but I tried to focus this list to things/places that typically won’t be too overcrowded with some exceptions.

1. Eat BBQ – It’s no surprise that Texas loves its barbeque and Austin has some of the state’s best spots to enjoy it. There’s a lot of strong opinions on what is best and I’ve no doubt already offended someone, but here are my three recos depending on your mood

*usually* Quicker Experience – Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ: located in the heart of downtown, Cooper’s is originally based out of Llano, Texas since 1962 but opened an Austin location in 2016.

Upscale/Sit down Service with Full Bar – Lambert’s: long time Austin spot, great for a comfortable experience.

Classic Experience – Terry Black’s BBQ: Perhaps the most popular BBQ location in downtown Austin in terms of foot traffic. Line moves fast and you can buy cold beer while you wait. If you have the time, this would be my first choice.

2. Frozen Margarita + Chips and Queso – self explanatory. Here are the places that do it well

Güero’s Taco Bar – located on South Congress, great spot for lunchtime.

Polvos Downtown or South 1st – great homemade tortillas and fish fajitas.

Matt’s el Rancho – an institution, usually crawling with people but take the under on your quoted wait time. You want the Bob Armstrong dip.

3. See Some Live Music – Athens loves its music scene and so does Austin. Without having to buy a ticket to a show you can see music all up and down 6th street including at Pete’s Piano Bar. On South Congress there is the very popular legendary Continental Club or the just as cool, less trafficked, C-Boys Heart and Soul.

4. Walk Town Lake or South Congress – with all the great food the city has to offer, here’s a chance to earn it. Take a stroll around the lake on the Hike and Bike Trail or head up scenic South Congress Blvd (this option has shopping along the way).

5. Take a Dip in Barton Springs Pool – located by Zilker Park in south central Austin, Barton Springs is a near 1,000 ft long natural springs that maintains a consistent 70 degree year round. Bring water, sunscreen, and a towel and enjoy the *fingers crossed* sunny weather in the forecast.