We’re gearing up to return to Austin for SaaStock USA. This May, we’ll bring together 1500 SaaS founders, leaders, and investors for our new forum-led content experience, focused networking opportunities, and the debut, pre-conference AI First event.
But it’s not just about the conference. We chose Austin because it’s more than a backdrop. It’s a thriving SaaS hub paired with some of the finest food and live music in the world.
To get a head start and give you a flavour of what to expect, our CEO Alex took to the streets–reconnecting with old friends, meeting new SaaS CEOs and Founders, and sampling some of the best spots in town (we’re not jealous at all).
In this post, we’ll share the highlights from Alex’s trip and hear how our speakers plan to make the most of their time in the Silicon Hills.
Conference and networking
SaaStock USA, Palmer Events Center
“When you attend a conference, you don’t want to be in the sticks, you want to be in the heart of the city,” Alex Theuma, CEO and Founder at SaaStock.
The Palmer Events Center will play host to the conference for the second year running. It’s a great space boasting great views of the city, including some of the biggest names in software, including Google, Indeed, Silicon Labs, and Oracle.
On May 13-14, 1500 SaaS founders, leaders, and investors will make their way through the doors for two days of game-changing insights and eye-opening conversations that will move their businesses forward.
Want to be one of them? Book your tickets.
“At SaaStock people have their guard down. It feels like a reunion of sorts. I go there and the people that I want to see are there,” Jen Igartua, CEO at Go Nimbly
SaaSOpen Austin by SaaStock, Soho House
Soho House is the exclusive members-only club offering Texas charm in the form of local food, live country music, and a wraparound terrace with views of the city.
On Monday 12 May, Nathan Latka and 55 CEOs will meet here for an exclusive SaaSOpen Austin by SaaStock event. It’s your chance to mastermind in person with post revenue SaaS CEOs and CXOs up to $500M in ARR.
Limited spots remaining – RSVP here.
From dinners and parties to 5K runs and poker nights, SaaStock and our Sponsors will be hosting events around the city—get the full list here and plan your networking beyond the conference.
Places to eat
Terry Black’s BBQ
📍1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States
What’s a visit to Austin without BBQ?
Located just a stones throw away (directly across the road) from the Palmer Events Center, Terry Black’s is a must visit while you’re at the conference.
Expect slow-cooked brisket, succulent ribs and some of the best sides going–from mac and cheese to creamed corn.
Eberly
📍615 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Based in an old print shop, Eberly offers the perfect place for creative thinking and productive meetings over some of the best food and drinks in the city.
A SaaStock favourite, Eberly was the setting for our speaker dinner in 2024 and Alex headed back in March to meet with local CEOs including Bethany Stachenfeld (Sendspark) and Nathan Latka (Founderpath).
Day Maker Half Day Cafe
📍1101 S MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78746, United States
Day Maker is a vibrant cafe both in decor and dining. Use the Instagrammable wall mural as the backdrop for your Austin highlights post and enjoy a hearty breakfast that will set you up for a day of meetings.
On his trip to Austin, Alex headed to Day Maker for brunch with Wynter Founder Peep Laja – The Diner fried steak and eggs comes highly recommended!
Night life and music
Rainey Street
If you’re looking to soak up some Austin atmosphere after a busy day at the conference, Rainey Street is the place to be.
It’s a lively street of eateries, live music, and converted bungalows bars. Check out some of the best spots here.
Ego’s karaoke
📍510 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, United States
“If you really connect with people, which you will. Go to Ego’s Karaoke bar. It’s a three minute walk from the event venue and a really good spot,” Nathan Latka, CEO at Founderpath
Who knew Nathan Latka was such a karaoke fan?
Ego’s Karaoke is the perfect place to let loose with old friends or continue the conversation with new connections after the conference. Whatever your signature song, Ego’s offers the chance to take to the stage or enjoy the entertainment over laid back drinks.
Live music
When in the “live music capital of the world” it would be rude not to try and catch a show.
From intimate acoustic venues and country dive bars to all out concert halls–there’s options for every music fan.
See what’s on during your stay with this live music guide.
Shopping
“Austin is an amazing city so if you haven’t been, spend a few extra days. If you are someone who likes thrifting, make time to go thrifting in Austin. They have some incredible clothes,” Jen Igartua, CEO at Go Nimbly.
Austin is known for its quirky style and independent shopping scene. Below are some of the top spots for finding vintage treasures:
South Congress
If you’re looking to take home a piece of Austin, South Congress is a must. Like Alex, you can take a trip to Allen’s Boots to find your new cowboy alter ego. Then, make yourself at home in one of the many coffee shops, restaurants, or bars nearby.
North Loop Blvd
While a bit further out, North Loop Blvd is worth the trip if thrift shopping is your idea of a good time. From vinyl to vintage fashion, collectibles to retro finds – you can find it here.
Outdoors
It’s not just about taking in the bustle of the city–Austin is also a great place to get outdoors and clear your head.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird lake is an expansive ten mile loop through Austin. An ideal spot to take a break from back-to-back meetings or a way to soak up the sun and views of downtown Austin as you head to the event.
If you’ve got a bit more time, make the most of run routes, kayaking, and boating opportunities too.
South Congress Bridge
A true sight to behold. In May, South Congress Bridge becomes home to 1.5M bats that fly out from under the bridge at 19:00pm each evening.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience–it’s a memory you’ll never forget.
Barton Springs
“Austin has this very cool public pool. It’s a natural spring-fed massive pool carved into rocks, called Barton Springs, I would highly recommend going there,” Adam Robinson, Founder and CEO at Retention.com and RB2B
If cold plunges are your thing, then look no further than Barton Springs. Located near Zilker Park this stunning natural pool offers the cool relief from the Texas heat.
See y’all in Austin
Whether you’re here for SaaStock’s high-energy networking, the incredible food, or Austin’s vibrant culture, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip, book your events, and get ready to make the most of your time in the Silicon Hills.
We’ll see you in May—don’t forget to grab your tickets before they’re gone!
