You are correct, I'll pass on the garage bands and frat parties.

>>>I have actually seen the World's largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas<<< I live 5 miles from the worlds largest ball of twine made by one man here in Minnesota.

Thanks for the input. I'll look into South Congress a little closer. It's not the end of the world to drive somewhere instead of walking from the hotel if I stay at the Driskill. I do like historic hotels.

Honestly, I'm only staying in Austin for a couple or 3 nights then driving into hill country. I call my wife and I windshield explorers.

I do appreciate everyone opinions. Kind of nice to have a thread about travel getting responses again. Fodors has been awful quiet.

Last nights post did not work.

I live 5 miles from the worlds largest ball of twine made by one man in Minnesota. I am amazed by how many people stop to see it. Francis Johnsom was an unusual man.

I'll be heading to South Congress but am going to stay in the Driskill. I like the looks of it and love historic hotels. It's only for 3 nights anyway. I appreciate everyones opinion and experience and will hopefully be able to buy a Stetson while in Texas.

For the Stetson brand hats, Allens is good 1522 S. Congress. There's lots of other boot and hat stores around the city

I've quit buying Stetsons because they cost a hoy & a half and I'm hard on them. I buy a new one each winter at the local feed store and usually American Hat brand.

You'll see a ton of Feed Stores on 281 and there fun to shop in.
Have fun!

Don't know which route you plan on taking but an option would be to take I-44 south of Oklahoma City to Wichita Falls TX, then US-281 south to Johnson City and Fredericksburg. Lukenbach is south of Fredericksburg (I lied above!) From there take US 290 to Austin. That would be a nice loop that could be done in either direction. You'll see a lot more of the real Texas.

Dallas can be a nightmare at times so allow extra time or avoid it.

We stopped at one in Montana and that's where I bought all my 'keepsakes'. I'm a country boy through and through.

I plan on going around Dallas.

You could spend a night or two in Fredericksburg and don't forget Willie Nelson's song, "Let's go to Luckenbach, Texas
With Waylon and Willie and the boys..."

If you are actively seeking quirk there is, for example, Stonehenge II and Easter Island in Ingram, TX, about half hour from Fredericksburg.
https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/7819

Another vote for the Pacific War Museum in Fredericksburg, especially if you have an interest, or simply if weather forces an indoor day.

Have a great trip!

You will pat yourself on the back for booking the Driscoll. It has a lovely and historic bar. Maggie Mae's was a fun bar with country music performers.

Also agree with others that Fredericksburg is a great side trip. Try the Der Lindenbaum restaurant; Sister Creek Winery.
Mrs. Z might enjoy browsing some of the just for fun shops.

Trip Report???