Step off a plane at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and right away you'll notice something unusual. Where are the national fast food chains vying for your tourist dollar? They aren't there. Instead you’ll find outposts of local eateries, a tie-dyed piano, and a stellar lineup of live music. Yes, Austin takes pride in being weird.
Ray Benson, of the western-swing band Asleep at the Wheel, has lived and worked in Austin for “thirty some-aught years”. He knows his way around town. Ray invites SxSW visitors to stay awhile at the airport. He also reveals his picks for “don’t miss” places to visit while in Austin.
At the airport:
“When ya hit the airport c'mon over to The Asleep at the Wheel Roadhouse and Ray Benson’s 'Rockin RB Bar.' Have a sandwich or taco and check out the displays of Asleep at the Wheel memorabilia, a Route 66 display and catch live music on our stage.” You can find Ray Benson's Roadhouse in the Central Concourse, which is for ticketed passengers only.
Bar-B-Que:
“If ya can, head out to The Salt Lick for barbeque. If ya need directions ask anyone! It's in Driftwood.”
Mexican food and western wear:
“For cowboy boots or hats head to South Congress and eat lunch at Guero’s. Then walk one block to Allen’s Boots, or go to Cavender’s by Central Market south.”
Two Step into the sunset:
“Two step at The Broken Spoke. Head over to Music Makers for strings and all things musical. Waterloo Records of course for CD's, etc. Go to Zilker Park and Barton Springs to chill and The Oasis on Lake Travis for a sunset!”
Ray Benson’s latest CD, Willie and the Wheel, is “Jerry Wexler’s long-overdue concept album” and an acclaimed collaboration with Willie Nelson. Ray suggests that you pick it up at Waterloo Records.
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Comments
Nice story about Ray Benson. Wish we had the same type of musical entertainment on arrival for visitors to our country in the airport. After a long tiring flight a nice tea or coffee and some in-house music I'm sure would be welcoming.
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