top 5 places to visit in austin

Austin   Travel Guide

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26 Best Things To Do in Austin

With more than 300 days of sunshine, it's no surprise Austinites and many of Austin's top activities are outdoors. From Zilker Metropolitan Park to the Butler Hike and Bike Trail to Mount Bonnell, visitors mingle with dogs on leashes, teens

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Zilker Metropolitan Park Zilker Metropolitan Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Austin City Limits Music Festival transforms Zilker Park for the first two weekends in October. Some attractions like the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and the Zilker Botanical Garden will be closed for those dates. – Catherine Parker

Sitting on the banks of the Colorado River, this beloved park spans more than 350 acres and buoys Austin's reputation as one of the Best Places to Live . Zilker Metropolitan Park shelters some of the city's most popular attractions – from the Zilker Botanical Gardens to Barton Springs Pool – as well as several athletic fields and plenty of open space for strolling. You'll be able to spend a whole day here thanks to a range of activities such as swimming, canoeing or digging for fossils at the Austin Nature and Science Center 's Dino Pit. Art aficionados can peruse the works housed within the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum while garden enthusiasts can peruse the specialty gardens in the Zilker Botanical Garden. After a day spent strolling the park, cool down with a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre natural swimming hole. A theater, train for children and sports courts are also on-site. The park hosts several popular events, including the Austin City Limits Musical Festival, the ABC Kite Fest and the holiday Trail of Lights  (each affect the park's accessibility so plan ahead).

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake free

A cherished outdoor space in the center of the city, the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (locals refer to it as the Lady Bird Lake trail) serves as a popular place for runners, walkers and cyclists, for both locals and visitors. The urban path takes visitors along the water's edge and passes by plenty of places to relax and picnic. Part of the trail is a 1.3-mile boardwalk, which offers amazing downtown views along with bronze belts emblazoned with Texas song lyrics. There are several restrooms and water fountains along the path, plus scenic overlooks.

Outdoor enthusiasts raved about the peace and quiet beauty the trail affords. Recent visitors jumped on wherever convenient and enjoyed the trail's views. Most said the trail was busy enough to feel safe. It is also a good place to see the Austin bats . 

Texas Capitol Texas Capitol free

Standing stoically in the heart of central Austin is Texas's legislative center, the State Capitol. Opened in 1888, this landmark (made of Texas sunset red granite) stands 14 feet taller than the  U.S. Capitol  in  Washington, D.C.  Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Texas Capitol was designated at National Historic Landmark in 1986.

The structure underwent a massive restoration starting in the 1990s, including replacing the zinc statue of the Goddess of Liberty that sits atop the dome with an aluminum one. The restoration also included a 667,000-square-foot underground extension to accommodate how much the state government had grown.

Popular Tours

Sunset Boat Tour of Lake Austin Per Person BYOB

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University of Texas at Austin University of Texas at Austin free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visitors should research and purchase parking ahead of their UT event as there is no free parking on campus. Ride-share and public transportation are also options. – Catherine Parker

In addition to being home to 52,000 college students, the University of Texas also shelters several attractions and venues that appeal to residents and visitors alike. Concert-goers head to the newly completed Moody Center for big name musical acts and UT basketball games. Meanwhile, the Bass Concert Hall hosts Broadway shows and smaller traveling acts. The open-air Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium vibrates on UT football game days with seating for more than 100,000 fans.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater

Odds are your favorite band has played at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. It's home to the legendary "Austin City Limits" television series, which holds the title of the longest running music series in American television history. The theater seats more than 2,700 people. The balcony level houses the Jack & Jim Gallery, which showcases the portfolio of Jim Marshall, a photographer with a passion for music. If you can't secure seats to a show, take a tour of the venue. The tour covers ACL history along with visiting the galleries. Tours depart from Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and last 90 minutes.

Music buffs praise the acoustics at ACL Live, claiming that there is not a bad seat in the house. Others said it was a bucket-list venue, similar to those in Nashville . A few note that some security staff was rude.

Lake Travis Lake Travis

Texas believes bigger is better and its lakes are no exception. Lake Travis is nearly 64 miles long and boasts 271 miles of shoreline. First-time visitors can get a good idea of its scale if they drive by Mansfield Dam, the dam that created Lake Travis while taming the Colorado River. After seeing the massive dam, stop by Mansfield Dam Park for impeccable lake views and activities like picnicking, swimming and scuba diving. Numerous other parks line the lake, offering everything from picnic tables and hiking trails to water sports and swimming. (Note: Hippie Hollow Park is a clothing optional beach and access is restricted to patrons 18 and older.) Travelers who want to enjoy the scenery with a drink should try The Oasis on Lake Travis. It's perched above the lake and calls itself the "Sunset Capital of Texas."

Recent visitors enjoyed their time on the lake, especially when viewing the sunset. It didn't seem to matter too much which park patrons picked, as many of the spots offer clean beaches and good amenities. Some recommended water shoes for slippery and jagged rocks underfoot.  

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Circuit of the Americas Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is primarily a Formula One race track, though it hosts events year-round ranging from motor sports to concerts to its holiday-themed Peppermint Parkway lights display. The Lenovo United States Grand Prix race, which COTA has hosted since 2012, is a three-day Formula One event held in October that features heart-pounding race action paired with top musical acts and immersive experiences for attendees.

Beyond Formula One, COTA also hosts NASCAR and MotoGP events, as well as concerts at the on-site Germania Insurance Amphitheater, the largest outdoor concert venue in Austin. Behind the amphitheater, visitors can head up the COTA Tower for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and racetrack 250 feet below; it costs $35 to visit the observation platform. 

Mount Bonnell Mount Bonnell free

For great views, head to Mount Bonnell at Covert Park, which provides sweeping vistas of the city, Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. The 5.1-acre linear park is home to a 781-foot outcrop, considered one of the highest spots in the area. Mount Bonnell is designated a Texas Historic Landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The point has proven to be an enduring tourist destination since the 1850s.

Recent visitors said Mount Bonnell offers great views that are best on clear days. Others suggested a sunset visit for the top experience. Regardless of when you hike up, make sure to take water. Additionally, make sure to take your valuables with you when you park.

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South Congress Avenue South Congress Avenue free

South Congress Avenue is the section of Congress Avenue after it passes over Lady Bird Lake. With amazing views of the Texas State Capitol , South Congress, or SoCo as the locals call it, plays a vital role in the city's culture. From the murals around every corner – like "Willie for President" (Nelson that is) to the iconic "I Love You So Much" – people are snapping pictures everywhere. Shopping along SoCo ranges from authentic boot shops to curated boutiques attracting both travelers and locals who are in search of conversation-starting outfits. Another top activity is patio dining where you can grab delicious bites from morning to night along with choice vantage points for people-watching. When you're not shopping, eating or strolling, swing by the Continental Club to grab a drink and enjoy some live music.

Recent visitors appreciated their time along SoCo, some for shopping, others for its restaurants or live music. The murals along South Congress are a top must-see for travelers. Others enjoyed the vibe that they described as "Americana."

Blanton Museum of Art Blanton Museum of Art

Located on the  University of Texas at Austin  campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is a must-see for any art enthusiast. It's considered one of the largest university art museums in the country, and is home to more than 21,000 works of art. Its collection of Latin American art (totaling more than 2,000 works) is one of the oldest, largest and most comprehensive collections in the U.S. with artists from Mexico and the Caribbean along with Central and South America. For some first-time visitors, Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin" grabs a lot of attention: "Austin" is a 2,715-square-foot stone structure with colored glass windows. Sometimes referred to as "the Kelly Chapel," this freestanding building features three sets of stained-glass windows, a totemic wood sculpture and 14 marble panels hanging on its interior walls.

In May 2023, the museum unveiled several new exterior features, including shade structures that stand three stories tall and look like flower petals; an outdoor sound gallery; a path that leads to a nearby parking garage, and the Lookout, a large window that allows visitors on the museum's second floor to gaze down at the newly upgraded plaza.

Sixth Street Sixth Street free

A trip to the "Live Music Capital of the World" wouldn't be complete without discovering some of Austin's up-and-coming talent along Sixth Street. After a drastic restoration took place in the 1960s to save the area from its grungy reputation, it became the hub of Austin's music scene in the 1970s. Today, Sixth Street between Congress Street and Interstate 35 (known as Dirty Sixth to locals) is the center of the musical action in Austin. The area buzzes with activity from shops, restaurants, bars and live music joints, such as Maggie Mae's, Pete's Dueling Piano Bar and the historic hotel, The Driskill (rumored to be haunted).

Another standout is Esther's Follies, a longstanding Texas tradition that combines comedy, music and magic. The show began in 1977 and still showcases its satirical blend of politics and pop culture .

LBJ Presidential Library LBJ Presidential Library

U.S. News Insider Tip : Visitors should be mindful of the University of Texas home football games since the LBJ library is in the same area. Traffic will congested and the ride-share drop-off location will be closed. – Catherine Parker

While the thought of visiting a presidential library may sound like a bore, this one is an exception. Dedicated to the 36th president of the United States, the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library houses all the expected artifacts – such as presidential papers – as well as several quirkier exhibits like LBJ's limousine. Visitors wander from a display depicting the day he became president (after John F. Kennedy’s assassination) to his oval office to a talking LBJ animatronic that tells tales. In addition to the wealth of information about the president, you can learn about former first lady Lady Bird Johnson in both a gallery about her and her former office.

Barton Springs Pool Barton Springs Pool

Nestled in  Zilker Metropolitan Park , Barton Springs Pool has been a favorite swimming hole for locals and out-of-towners for generations. Native Americans used the springs for thousands of years before European colonists arrived. William Barton first developed it as a swimming hole in the 1830s. Fed by underground springs, the 3-acre pool consistently stays between 68 and 70 degrees. The grounds also feature grass areas for lounging, bathhouses and an educational exhibit about the history of the Barton Springs, including its endangered salamander.

Recent swimmers said the experience is one of the things that makes Austin unique. Even on a hot summer afternoon, the water felt a bit cold (especially for little kids), according to reviews. Some suggested wearing water shoes. Multiple visitors also warn of sizeable crowds and recommend arriving early.

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Bullock Texas State History Museum Bullock Texas State History Museum

Named for Texas's 38th lieutenant governor, the Bullock Texas State History Museum explores the Lone Star State's vibrant past with artifacts ranging from the original Goddess of Liberty statue that resided at the top of the  State Capitol's dome to a 1960s missile control console from the space center in Houston . Along with galleries featuring more than 700 artifacts, the museum features rotating special exhibits to reflect the diverse history of Texas. The museum is also home to the largest IMAX screen in the state as well as the Texas Spirit Theater, a cafe with an outdoor patio and a souvenir shop. 

Native Texans and out-of-towners alike say the museum has a good layout and many recommend setting aside a few hours to take in all there is to see. Moviegoers enjoyed their IMAX experience.

Rainey Street Rainey Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Grab one of Austin's scooters, a pedicab or walk to Rainey Street, especially on weekend nights. Traffic can grind to a standstill and cheap parking is nonexistent. –  Catherine Parker

As the Live Music Capital, Austin offers more than one entertainment district. Sixth Street oozes into Fourth's Warehouse District, packed shoulder-to-shoulder with bars and clubs. South Congress Avenue across Lady Bird Lake offers more dining and boutique shopping paired with classics like The Continental Club. Meanwhile, Rainey Street attracts a younger crowd, blending dog-walking locals cutting out early with visitors in town for a bleisure trip. This area features many of its original bungalows repurposed into venues and restaurants. The vibe might be laid-back, but the sound systems are cranked up. In between venues, Austin's ubiquitous food trucks offer a sampling of the city's dining scene. Several high-rise hotels cast their shadows down on Rainey, such as  Hotel Van Zandt , and the Austin Convention Center is nearby.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Named for its co-founder Claudia Alta "Lady Bird" Johnson (wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson ), the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the place to visit if you're a flower enthusiast. The former first lady co-founded the center with Helen Hayes to educate others about the benefits of planting native plants, a project that has revolutionized gardening habits in central Texas. The center features North America's most diverse collection of Texas native plants. Visitors flock from all over the country to enjoy more than 900 species of Texan flora – including bluebonnets and evening primrose – that flourish on more than 280 acres of gardens. There are also walking trails and an observation tower. The 16-acre arboretum features 50 types of oaks found in Texas. For the kids in the group, head to the Luci and Ian Family garden for play structures and a maze.

Visitors say it's pretty year-round, but the spring and early summer provide the best chance to see the most flowers in bloom. They advise spending an hour or two here and to bring the kids so they can explore.

Austin Bats Austin Bats free

According to experts, Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Approximately 1.5 million bats make the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge their home for part of each year. The bats settled here after a renovation of the bridge in 1980 created crevices that were perfect for bats to take refuge in against predators. Every spring, the Mexican free-tailed bats migrate north to the bridge to give birth and raise their babies. Come summertime, the bats can be seen each evening at dusk as they emerge for their nightly excursions to rid the city of pesky insects before heading back to central Mexico in the fall.  Evening kayak trips on Lady Bird Lake are a great way to observe the bats. Alternatively, head to the Statesmen Bat Observation Center (free) to watch: It's located next to the bridge on the south side of Lady Bird Lake.

Past visitors and locals alike who have taken the time to watch the bats say it's an interesting sight to see. Others remind future travelers that the bats are a natural phenomenon and therefore unpredictable, so you could be waiting a while. Many said to arrive early to grab a prime spot to watch.

The Contemporary Austin The Contemporary Austin

The first thing to realize when planning a visit to The Contemporary Austin is that the art museum actually occupies two separate sites that are miles from each other. There's the west side Laguna Gloria and the downtown Jones Center. The 14-acre Laguna Gloria houses the Art School at Laguna Gloria and is a beloved location for its art-in-nature setting. Laguna Gloria also houses the historic 1916 Driscoll Villa and the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park. Most of the sculptures at Laguna Gloria are outdoors, and fans of modern art will appreciate the beauty of its location close to Lake Austin.

Set on the corner of Congress Avenue and 7th Street, the Jones Center is hard to miss with neon script glowing from Jim Hodges's "With Liberty and Justice for All (A Work in Progress)" steel installation. The 8,000-foot Jones Center features two floors, including the Moody Rooftop, a favorite for views. This facility offers a robust calendar with exhibitions and films.   

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UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum

The works of Charles Umlauf, a University of Texas art professor for 40 years, intermingle with native Texas landscaping and water features on Umlauf's former property. Umlauf and his wife, Angeline, gifted their property, house and Charles' studio along with 168 sculptures to the City of Austin in 1985. The garden features 59 of Umlauf's sculptures, mainly in bronze using the lost wax method. The collection also includes thousands of his drawings.

Recent visitors called the garden "peaceful," particularly noting the sounds of water as they strolled. Most guests advised it would take about an hour to see the sculptures.

Elisabet Ney Museum Elisabet Ney Museum free

Back in 1892, Elisabet Ney, a German-born sculpture artist, built a neoclassical limestone home and studio in Austin's Hyde Park neighborhood that ultimately earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. She went on to create sculptures of notable Texans, like Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston (both namesakes to Texas cities). Those life-sized marbles statues can be found in the Texas State Capitol foyer, blocks away. The Elisabet Ney Museum includes sculptural works, maquettes, medallions and some of Ney's personal effects and furniture. Located just north of the University of Texas , the castle-like home is one of the Hyde Park's must-sees. It sits on 2.5 acres of a restored Texas prairie that features native plants similar to what Ney would have seen upon arriving in Austin in the late 1800s.

This "hidden treasure" museum attracts many art lovers, who don't mind making the trek north of downtown. Several of the visitors were intrigued by the noted female artist working in the late 1800s Texas, when that was uncommon. Museum-goers enjoyed the grounds and the unique home.

Mexic-Arte Museum Mexic-Arte Museum

The Mexic-Arte Museum is devoted to the conservation of Mexican, Latinx and Latin American art and culture, including artists based in Texas. It's home to a permanent collection of more than 5,000 contemporary works, which includes photographs, sculptures, decorative arts and Mexican dance masks as well as works from local artists. The museum also hosts theatrical and musical performances year-round. 

Recent travelers said the museum was a pleasant surprise and recommend stopping in the eclectic gift shop. Many described the museum as "small, but mighty." Most recent visitors said it took about an hour to explore the collection.

Austin Nature & Science Center Austin Nature & Science Center free

Nestled in a corner of Zilker Park , the Austin Nature & Science Center cultivates a passion for the outdoors, especially for kids. The center provides hands-on exhibits designed to foster connections with the natural environment. One outdoor option is the Forest Trail, which includes information about the 45 types of native trees planted along the path. Visitors with kids should not miss the Dino Pit, which allows children to dig up an assortment of fossil casts, introducing them to paleontology. The Austin Nature & Science Center also houses several animal exhibits, including small fish, reptiles, birds of prey and mammals like bobcats. Additionally, visitors can observe a honeybee hive and walk along the pond.

Travelers appreciate how well the park caters to children, as the array of exhibits are sure to keep even the antsiest kids entertained. Several parents comment their kids spent hours wandering around the facility, especially the Dino Pit. Several recommend bringing hats and water bottles on hot days.

The Domain The Domain free

For high-end boutique shopping in Austin, head to The Domain, a collection of more than 100 retailers sheltered in an outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment district in North Austin. Neiman Marcus anchors the center, but shoppers will also find Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Louis Vuitton. In addition to luxury shops, The Domain offers more affordable staples like H&M, Macy's and Zara. Shopping isn't the only activity here: Travelers will also find the Museum of Ice Cream at The Domain, where visitors can learn about the history of ice cream in 12 different multi-sensory exhibits and enjoy unlimited ice cream treats. Located adjacent, the Domain Northside's Rock Rose District offers a strip of bars and eateries ranging from Velvet Taco to Lavaca Street Bar.

The Domain also houses four different lodging options:  The Westin Austin at The Domain ; the retro-inspired Lone Star Court; The Archer Hotel , a dog-friendly boutique property; and Aloft Austin at The Domain.

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Mayfield Park and Preserve Mayfield Park and Preserve free

Despite its listing on the National Registry of Historic Places, Mayfield Park and Preserve attracts travelers primarily because of its exorbitant population of peacocks (around two dozen!). The peafowl roam the entire park; keep your eyes peeled as you explore and don't forget to look in trees and on roofs. The historical cottage and gardens sit in a 2-acre parcel of land, which Mary Mayfield Gutsch donated to the city of Austin in 1971. There are plenty of ponds and gardens to explore. Mayfield Preserve is a 21-acre natural landscape that travelers can access via walking trails.

The beautiful peacocks, who stayed relatively calm despite the steady stream of gawkers, impressed past visitors. Several parkgoers were able to snag photos of the peacocks spreading their feathers. Keep in mind a visit here in summer could get hot, so bring plenty of water.

McKinney Falls State Park McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls is a nature fix for many Austinites. Onion Creek provides spots for swimming on hot summer days. As a bonus, fishing is allowed and you don't need a state fishing license. In addition to the creek, nearly 9 miles of trails take hikers and bikers around the park's limestone formations and wooded areas. After an active day, visitors at McKinney Falls can wind down at one of the park's 81 campsites or six cabins.  

Parkgoers recommend checking out both the upper and lower falls, calling both beautiful. Travelers also suggest planning your trip to coincide with the wet season (spring) to see the waterfalls at their best.

Thinkery Thinkery

Consider Thinkery Austin's children's museum. It offers activities that combine science, technology, engineering, arts and math, aimed at children up to age 11. Permanent exhibits at Thinkery range from Train Town and the Fresh! Farmers Market to Innovators' Workshop to Currents, which focuses on water. The museum also houses an enormous outdoor playground for kids to enjoy. In all, the Thinkery offers 40,000-square feet of space for babies, toddlers and kids to explore with their people.

Recent visitors appreciated Thinkery's assortment of hands-on activities, which they claimed did an excellent job of keeping children entertained. Museumgoers also recommend bringing a change of clothes, as the museum's water exhibit may soak your children. Overall, the museum makes an excellent destination on a rainy (or exceptionally hot) day in Austin.

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19 Best Things to Do in Austin

Between sets in the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin’s motley medley of outdoor routes fill up your itinerary fast. Lace up your combat boots or converse to stroll public art installations, get some work done on a lake-view butterfly terrace, or hear a pride of peacocks call to each other by day and watch Austin’s famous bat colony fly by sunset. Don’t fret, there’s always time to shop for cowboy boots ahead of your two-step lesson, grab a locally-inspired craft drink on a shady patio, or dip into one of the city’s naturally chilly swimming holes. Not sure where to start? Here are the best things to do in Austin according to our experts.

Read our complete Austin travel guide here.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Congress Avenue Bridge Arrow

Crowds gather nightly on the Congress Avenue Bridge, at sunset, to watch Austin’s urban bat colony fly out from their home on the underside of the bridge over Lady Bird Lake . The 45-minute spectacle is one of those only-in-Austin happenings. The colony of Mexican free-tailed bats is the largest in an urban environment in North America—about 1.5 million bats take flight each night to feed (on pesky insects like mosquitoes, making the animal a local hero). Note that the spectacle is seasonal, typically from May through October; during the winter, the bats migrate elsewhere. And even though the whole thing lasts 45 minutes, you get the idea in under five. If you can pair your viewing with another activity downtown —not difficult, as this part of town is extremely lively—it's worth making time to watch.

The Continental Club Arrow

The red front doors and solid black exterior set the tone for this well-worn, slightly gritty concert venue. But the surrounds fit right in with the storied past of the place—it's internationally acclaimed for launching the careers of the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan, as well as musicians from all kinds of genres (blues, jazz, rock, country). The crowd varies based on the show (so do the cover charges, so check ahead of time ), but everyone is here for the nightly live music and the bottled beers—usually as part of a night of bar-hopping on the lively South Congress Avenue, or ‘SoCo’ (‘First Thursdays’ are particularly big, when the entire street turns into an enormous block party, with late openings, special offers ,and live music seeming to pour from every doorway).  

Blanton Museum of Art Arrow

This museum at The University of Texas has a compact collection that does an excellent job covering numerous genres. There are early Renaissance paintings, Roman-era pottery, modern works housed in the contemporary gallery, a vast prints collection, and Native American and Latin American works. It's impossible to miss (as in, you should not skip, as well as it is literally not possible to miss since it's at the front door) Teresita Fernández Stacked Waters : acrylic panels in ombre shades of blue that cover the walls and staircase in the museum's atrium to create a submerged-in-water feeling. 

Firehouse Lounge Arrow

Tucked behind the fold of a secret bookshelf door in Austin’s oldest fire station built in 1885, Firehouse Lounge harkens history with turn-of-the-century Singer sewing machines holding up tables, an old oxygen tank tucked in the spirits shelf, and rich red damask wallpaper glowing against tiny candles. Black leather benches and slim lacquered wood stools surround the multicolored wood bar for a mix of 1920s speakeasy district meets underground dive bar. As you grab drinks, you hear jazz or blues, or is that a DJ, or maybe rock from their live music stage.Since it’s hiding in a hostel, you’ll find all kinds of atrons, from 20-something travelers and locals all the way to music-loving elders, depending on who’s playing live that night and which old-timey drinks they’re imbibing in.

Barton Springs Municipal Pool Arrow

This massive public swimming pool, fed by a natural spring, is one of Austin’s most prized outdoor settings. It's set within well-kept Zilker Park, which has lots of shade and lawns for sunbathing, and remains blissfully undisturbed by the city's whiplash growth. Not to mention the water temperature is a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it a much-needed respite during extremely hot summers, and perfectly pleasant in the wintertime, too. The pool is also famously topless-friendly, though sightings are rare. Be prepared for a bit of a walk if you can't park close by, as the parking lot fills up with locals quickly. 

Franklin Barbecue Arrow

A standout star within  Austin’s heavyweight barbecue scene , Franklin draws lines that are as epic as its world-renowned brisket. Take a tip from the regulars: come early, come hungry, and come with a collapsible chair (you don't want to stand for three or four hours if you can avoid it). The good news is that you can now preorder  up to six weeks in advance, as long as you’re committed to at least three pounds of meaty treats. Just don’t miss that luscious oak-smoked brisket with its distinctive peppery exterior; it’s tender enough to cut with a spoon.

Read our entire guide to Austin's best barbecue here .

Rainey Street Arrow

At first glance,  Rainey Street  looks like a sleepy suburban avenue with quiet wooden verandas and picket fences, but at night, it  really  wakes up. Here, the craftsman-era bungalow homes, many dating back to the late 19th Century, have been renovated into a string of hipster-friendly bars and restaurants. Wander around and you’ll see food trucks tucked in alongside renowned nightlife spots like  Half Step , Geraldine’s , Lustre Pearl, Emmer & Rye , and Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden . It’s a spot to relax on a porch or picnic table with your kids or your dog during the day, and party with friends or your significant other at night.

Allens Boots Arrow

The first thing you'll notice when you walk into this Austin institution on South Congress Avenue is the smell of leather. Then the shelves that house thousands of pairs of cowboy boots, from exotic Caiman crocodile skin to trendy Western booties. Texans will recognize brands like Lucchese and Tony Lama; the uninitiated might gravitate toward Frye. Need a whole head-to-toe look? There are cowboy hats, belts, leather jackets, jeans, and other accessories. If you've never owned cowboy boots, try on a pair even if you have no intention of buying them. It's an experience from beginning to end, right down to the art of removing them. 

Austin Central Library Arrow

Brilliant bright windows illuminate more than 500,000 books inside the award-winning LEED-certified library with vast views of Lady Bird Lake and Shoal Creek. Its metal and glass exterior striping and industrial structure fit the Seaholm District, and the 37-foot-tall red kinetic sculpture with an enormous cuckoo clock taken over by blackbirds is a must witness. Six stories are cut across by zig-zagged staircases that wiggle up to a rooftop butterfly garden, rotating art exhibits, and a kid’s area with life-sized chess and a technology petting zoo with 3-D printer. Accessible programming from cooking to music to puppet shows happens here, as does reading and work while lounging in the dozens of different types of colorful seating dotting the contemporary concrete, metal, and wood interior.

The White Horse Arrow

This is perhaps the coolest honky-tonk in Austin. The simple space puts newcomers at ease, while regulars take to the dance floor when live music is playing every night on a very small stage. A photo booth, pool tables, and a small yard with seating allow for breathers between sets. With a full bar that serves whiskey on tap, the energy at this dive never seems to wane; neither does the flow of cheap drinks. And the dynamic crowd is one of the best surprises here—a multigenerational mix of hipsters, ranchers, rockabillies, and bikers convene nightly. 

Meanwhile Brewing Arrow

You may come to Meanwhile’s dark gray warehouse for their ultra-cool, vintage-industrial taproom of 20 rotating beers, but you’re staying a few hours for the rest of their 3.7 acres. Their dog- and kid-friendly patio includes a mod-style live music stage that sets the tone with strings of lights, plenty of picnic seating over woodchips and under shady oaks, and a wooden playground with log bridges and tunnels. You can rent their turf soccer field, dine at some of the city’s best food trucks, or hang out at one of their many free events from workouts to art to differently-abled experiences. Food trucks to pair with beers are sprinkled around the outdoor patio offering some of Austin’s best like Distant Relatives’ pecan- and hardwood-smoked barbecue, Bésame’s rotating ice creams, Pueblo Viejo’s street and breakfast tacos, wood-fired pizza with organic sauces and meats from Side Eye Pie, and Songbird’s sandwiches and salads.

"You're My Butter Half" Mural Arrow

Insta-famous East Austin outdoor mural created in 2012 by local designer John Rockwell and the Creative Suitcase team as a love letter to Austin. It’s less tourist-y, but still gets plenty of likes thanks to bright aquamarine paint surrounding a heart between a slice of bread and a pat of butter emoting, “You’re My Butter Half.” The mural lives on the side of the brick United Way Building, and is surrounded by walkable restaurants and coffeeshops like Bennu Coffee, Thunderbird Coffee, Sour Duck Market, Salty Sow, Nixta Taqueria, Birdie’s, Bird Bird Biscuit, Dai Due, Este, and Haymaker. If you need to wait for your photo, pick up delectable coffee or food, or hang out at the picnic table.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake Arrow

Crowds flock to Lady Bird Lake all year to kayak and paddleboard on the Colorado River. Multiple companies, like Rowing Dock and Texas Rowing Center, have kayaks and paddleboards for rent, and the area is dog-friendly. While you're out, check the birds, fish, and other wildlife around the lake, and enjoy the tree-lined shores as well as the striking lakefront homes. If you’re paddling at night, don’t miss bat season from May to October. You can watch 1.5 million of them fly overhead as they head out to hunt. Rentals range from $10 to $20 per hour, or up to $45 for the day. It’s a rather inexpensive way to enjoy Austin’s outdoors without breaking your budget. Active travelers with kids or pets, or those who just want a closer view of the scenery, this activity is ideal for you.

Birdie's Arrow

Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and Arjav Ezekiel form the power couple morphing a New York fine-dining background into a strong focus on local artisan farmers and winemakers. The result is lavish-approachable, forever-changing seasonal American menu with French and Italian influences. Don’t miss the handmade pasta of the day (it’s first-come-first-serve until sold out), steak aligned with peppercorn sauce and fingerlings, or swirling seasonal vanilla soft serve with guest appearances by citrus-flavored olive oil or gala apples. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of their popups folded in during the year consisting of one-time menus with creative edge.

The Contemporary Austin Arrow

The Contemporary is composed of two different venues: The Jones Center, a striking building on a busy downtown street corner, and Laguna Gloria, a 14-acre outdoor site on Lake Austin that houses a sculpture park and 14th century Italianate-style villa. The museum also runs a program called "Museum Without Walls," which aims to bring art out into the community, as well as a public art collaboration with Waller Creek Conservancy, a chain of parks around a restored Waller Creek in downtown Austin. You can cover the small number of artworks at the Jones Center in particular pretty quickly, so this is a stop to add on to an already planned itinerary.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater Arrow

Musicians of all genres perform in this intimate theater for live tapings of the longstanding PBS concert series, Austin City Limits . If you're lucky enough to snag a ticket through the lottery system, grab a drink at the bar on the outdoor patio overlooking downtown Austin before the show. Then take your seat inside the intimate venue, where the atmosphere is charged as some of the biggest names in music take the stage. They'll often perform stripped-down or acoustic sets, so you can really see their talents shine through.

Whisler's Arrow

East 6th is the coolest place to be in Austin, and Whisler's is the coolest place on East 6th. The cocktails are expertly crafted, particularly in the dedicated Mezcal bar upstairs (Mezcaleria Tobala). They do the basics very well (an outstanding Old Fashioned, for example, and a great hot toddy during the winter months), with some interesting additions that will pique the curiosity (and tickle the taste buds) of more experienced cocktail drinkers. Come here for a night out with a friends, but not the messy kind.

Uncommon Objects Arrow

Completely and utterly idiosyncratic, this is the hippest flea market you will ever visit. Picture a sprawling emporium full of fascinating items you could easily spend hours poring over. With jewelry, retro toys, and neon signs to brighten up your space, it's a  temple to American hipster weirdness and it's absolutely brilliant. There are 24 professional antique sellers permanently based here, so if you're after something specific (or to fill a specific corner in your home), then seek one out for the insider intel. Otherwise, be warned that you could easily lose hours on end in this place.

Violet Crown Trail Arrow

Over 13 connected miles of flourishing green spaces start at Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt and snake down to Slaughter Creek and Dick Nichols Park. Shortly, when the 30-miles of trail with giant oaks and winding creeks is completed, it’ll be the longest in Central Texas running from downtown Austin to Onion Creek. Manicured and wild trails, paved and smoothed dirt are hiking, biking, cycling, running, or rollerblading options along with walking your dog (or family) amongst wildflowers and wildlife. Favorite spots in Barton Creek like Campbell’s Hole and the Flats as well as climbing walls, creeks and urban wildlands, open green spaces, and off-trail pathways are here to venture into. Trail maps stand at different inflection points, but because Violet Crown is extensive, each piece varies in what you see in the surrounding area.

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The 10 best things to do in Austin, Texas

Apr 24, 2024 • 9 min read

A night out is a must on a trip to Austin © Harmon Li for Lonely Planet

Austin has been slowly turning the heads of travelers for the last ten years. It first attracted folks with its quirky slogan of "Keep Austin Weird," and this was followed by music lovers who wanted to experience the live music capital of the world . Today, it draws people who love the city's outdoor offerings, want a Tex-Mex and barbecue foodie experience, or just simply want to have a good time.

No matter your reason for visiting Austin , we want you to experience the very best the city has to offer. We cover all the bases – art, music, hiking, and festivals. While you may not be able to do them all in one trip, we're sure that Austin would welcome you back with open arms time and time again.

1. Float upon Lady Bird Lake

When the city of Austin turned part of the Colorado River into a reservoir, the intention was to create a cooling pond for a power plant. Little did they know how the reservoir, named Lady Bird Lake , would become such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Lady Bird Lake is located just south of downtown Austin, and the 468-acre reservoir is a go-to destination for water sports enthusiasts. Expect to see kayakers, canoers, rowers and paddleboarders on the water every day of the week. Six watercraft rentals, like Zilker Park Boat Rentals and EpicSUP , are located along its shores, making it easy for visitors to rent a watercraft and get out there.

If canoeing and kayaking aren't your thing, you've still got options. Enjoy the serene views of the reservoir via the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and the many lakeside parks that it meanders through.

Planning tip: Experience Lady Bird Lake with someone else at the reins – Lone Star Riverboats offers sunset and bat-watching cruises, whereas Capital Cruises is a local go-to for dinner and lunch cruises. Austin Duck Adventures is a fun option that takes you on a land and water tour in a Hydra Terra vehicle, which is basically a vehicle that drives right into the reservoir and turns into a boat.

2. Bar hop through Rainey Street

Rainey Street is a charming little district that cozies up to Lady Bird Lake and isn't too far from the Austin Convention Center. It is comprised of historic little bungalows that have been renovated and turned into bars like Half Step and Clive Bar and restaurants such as Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden and Emmer & Rye . Because of the neighborhood's compact size, it's easy to hop from place to place on foot. The lively district feels cozy thanks to the house-style bars – like you're having a drink in your friend's backyard.

3. Take a dip in the Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool , a three-acre spring-fed pool in the city limits, is a truly natural wonder. Fed by four different springs, the average temperature of the water is 68-70°F, which means you can swim here year-round. The water is clear and has an almost turquoise color, with depths of up to 18ft. It opens at 5am and closes at 10pm, which means you can effectively watch the sun rise and set floating in the water. While there is a small fee to swim here in the summer, it's completely free from November 1 to spring break.

Planning tip: Lifeguards are on-site between 8am and 6pm – outside of those hours, you swim at your own risk. Buy your ticket online or at a kiosk when you arrive. Veterans and children under one year old get in free.

4. Have a night out on 6 th Street

Ask any Texan where to party in Austin, and they'll point you to 6th Street . Lovingly referred to as "Dirty Sixth," this entertainment district is located between Congress Avenue and I-35 in Downtown Austin. It's often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans because it's full of bars with live music, restaurants and clubs that bring out visitors during the day and well into the late hours of the night. And like Bourbon Street, 6 th Street closes to through traffic Thursday through Saturday night.

Maggie Mae's may be the most iconic bar on 6 th Street with its five bars, two stages and multiple floors, but there is no shortage of incredible establishments on Dirty 6 th . Dive fans will love The Jackalope , while Esther's Follies serves up vaudeville acts, comedy and satirical shows. And don't miss Midnight Cowboy , a reservations-only lounge with a phenomenal cocktail menu.

5. Surround yourself with culture at SXSW

Every March, thousands from around the globe descend upon Austin for South by Southwest (SXSW). Founded in 1987, SXSW is a combination of conferences and festivals; people come together for big discussions on tech, climate change, education, energy, travel, cannabis, the workplace, startups and more. Three different festivals coincide with the conferences – a film and TV festival, a music festival and a comedy festival.

Detour: Austin doesn't shut down just because SXSW is going on – take a break from your packed SXSW itinerary and celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the St. Patrick's Day Austin Festival.

6. Learn about Austin's Chicano and Latine history

As with many parts of Texas, Austin has been influenced by its Chicano and Latine residents since its founding. You can't visit the city without seeing this influence in the town's food, street names, art and music.

Start your journey into the Latine community at the Mexic-Arte Museum , which showcases Mexican and Latine artists from the US and beyond. La Peña Gallery exhibits similar artists on a smaller scale, while Teatro Vivo is a phenomenal destination for English and Spanish performances that focus on the Latine experience. Round out your trip with a self-guided East Austin Barrio Landmarks historic walking tour via Preservation Austin . This tour honors the Mexican-American community of East Austin by taking travelers to important places like the Holly Street Murals, Parque Zaragoza and the Herrera House.

Detour: Austin's Black history is equally as enthralling. Javier Wallace is the founder of Black Austin Tours – his tours recount how people of African descent have shaped ATX, and he even takes travelers onto the Colorado River to show how the waterway was used in race-based enslavement and as an important gathering spot in Austin's Black community.

7. Hike to waterfalls and swimming holes without leaving the city

Most US cities don't have hiking destinations within the city limits, but Austin does. Southwest of Downtown Austin is a 7.25-mile green space called the Barton Creek Greenbelt . Barton Creek runs through this public land area, creating a fantastic geological destination full of 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, forests, waterfalls, swimming holes and cliffsides for climbing.

For this reason, Barton Creek Greenbelt is incredibly popular – especially on weekends and in the summer. Steep ascents make for strenuous hikes while swimming holes bring folks together to swim and relax. Twin Falls, Sculpture Falls, Gus Fruh and Campbell's Hole are some of the most popular destinations within the park, but they're just a few of the beautiful and magical aspects of this truly magnificent outdoor destination.

8. Listen to amazing bands at Austin City Limits Music Festival

The "live music capital of the world" offers tunes at a wide range of bars every day of the week, but die-hard music fans should consider attending the Austin City Limits Music Festival.

In 1974, KLRU-TV created Austin City Limits, a televised concert series on PBS that's been going strong ever since. In 2002, Austin City Limits launched a Music Festival and has since featured over 100 artists at Zilker Park . The festival brings out 225,000 patrons every year for a two-weekend event. It's the ultimate music festival, one that will have you listening to world-famous and Texas-based musicians at nine different stages.

Planning tip: There is no parking at Zilker Park during the festival (except for a limited amount of accessible parking spaces), so you'll have to consider other transportation options. The most sustainable transportation method is to rent a MetroBike and park it with the MetroBike valet. A free shuttle runs between downtown and the festival, meaning you can walk to the pick-up spot from your downtown Austin hotel or a parking garage and it'll take you to one of the entrances. CapMetro has some public bus routes that stop near Zilker Park, but you'll have to walk the rest of the way. The festival usually partners with Uber and has specific areas where you can be dropped off and picked up by your rideshare.

9. Shop along South Congress Avenue or the other amazing independent shops in Austin

Austin isn't without malls, but the most "Austin-y" experience you can have is shopping down South Congress Avenue. Nicknamed "SoCo," it is the ultimate shopping destination for hipster boutiques, funky shops and western wear.

When you buy a beautifully made outfit at Cove Boutique , you're supporting an Austin woman-owned shop. Go full cowboy and get your hat at Maufrais and your boots at Heritage Boot Co. or Tecovas . And if thrift store or vintage shopping is for you, Prototype Vintage is a must-visit. Don't forget to support Austin authors at South Congress Books , a great place to decompress after some time spent in the overwhelming and colorful costume store, Lucy in Disguise .

We also love these suggestions from writer James Wong with all the best independent shops in Austin. If you're trying to decide the best one to go to, Nina Beranato Jewlery is a fave with Beyoncé, so....

Detour: South Congress is home to one of Austin's oldest and most famous attractions: Peter Pan Mini Golf . Since 1946, this local treasure has been serving up kitschy mini golf over two 18-hole courses. Don't think this is just a destination for families – the BYOB policy makes it a fun option for adults, too.

Want more shopping recs for Austin? Head to these beloved local shops

10. Cheer on the Longhorns at a UT Football Game

We know that attending a football game in Texas is a bit on the nose – "football is king in Texas" and all. But even so, cheering on the University of Texas Longhorns is a pretty cool experience. The Darrell K Royal Memorial Stadium is a massive space full of students and fans in orange and white cheering on the most beloved college football team in the state. The chants, the food and the entire atmosphere will knock your socks off in the way that only Texas football can.

Planning tip: Dive into the UT football game well before kick-off with some tailgating fun. Bevo Blvd is the ultimate pre-game street party, located on San Jacinto Blvd from 20 th Street to the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. Not only is there a street parade, but you get to greet the players as they enter the stadium and maybe even get their autographs, order food and drink from food trucks and watch other football games on two giant screens. The best part? You don't need a ticket to visit Bevo Blvd. All are welcome, even those not attending the game.

Keep planning your trip to Austin:

Explore Austin's surroundings on these day trips Plan your city takeover in these top neighborhoods Dive into family fun with these kid-friendly activities Keep things wallet-friendly with these free experiences

This article was first published Jul 26, 2021 and updated Apr 24, 2024.

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Outdoor adventures, insightful museums, and lively dance halls await.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin lures those from near and far with its vast array of culture and history. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," you're sure to find plenty of places here to grab a drink and hear some tunes, but you'll also find scenic hiking trails, world-class art, and plenty of tasty food to keep you coming back time and time again. Whether you're a museum lover or an outdoor enthusiast, here are the 30 best things to do in Austin, Texas.

Watch the bats emerge at Congress Avenue Bridge.

From late March through early fall, the largest urban bat population in North America can be seen emerging from under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge every night. Thousands of bats flutter through the sky, eating bugs along the way, while bat lovers watch from the bridge or below on Lady Bird Lake.

Tour the Texas Capitol building.

Taking a free, guided tour of the Capitol is one of the best things to do in Austin — especially if you're a history lover. The Texas Capitol building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986 and is one of the largest capitol buildings in the country.

Have life-changing Tex-Mex cuisine.

You can't come to Texas and not try some Tex-Mex cuisine – a delicious blend of Mexican classics with Texas twists, found across the state. Austin has some real gems, including Matt's El Rancho , Juan in a Million , and Fonda San Miguel .

Attend SXSW.

Every March, Austin welcomes creatives from around the world for film screenings, music, exhibitions, speakers, and all things tech, education, and culture. SXSW is a great opportunity to bring your creative ideas to the table and turn that dream into a reality. Keynotes have included Michelle Obama, Willie Nelson, and Mark Cuban.

Visit the Blanton Museum of Art.

With more than 19,000 works in the permanent collection, the Blanton is known for its European paintings, modern and contemporary American and Latin art, and a wide range of prints and drawings. Don't forget to snap a picture of Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin," a stone building with colorful glass windows that's a must for your Instagram feed.

Make a splash at the Barton Springs Pool.

Austin's favorite swimming hole is definitely Barton Springs , a three-acre pool fed from underground springs. The pool keeps an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, comfortable for year-round swimming. Recent years have seen record attendance, with visitor numbers almost at 800,000 people per year.

Spend some time on South Congress.

South Congress, or SoCo, is a lively district south of Lady Bird Lake full of great restaurants, boutiques, vintage shops, bars, and live music venues. Visitors and locals alike love this part of the city. The famous "I Love You So Much" mural is found here at Jo's Coffee , and Monkey See Monkey Do is a treasure trove of vintage toys and gifts.

Buy a pair of cowboy boots.

If you're ready to hit the honky tonks, getting a fresh pair of authentic cowboy boots is a must. Allens Boots has a large selection, while Heritage Boot Co. offers handmade, vintage-inspired cowboy boots. Want to customize a pair of boots to fit your style? Texas Custom Boots can help you out.

Shop the Austin City-Wide Vintage Sale.

Held at the Palmer Events Center almost every month, the Austin City-Wide Vintage Sale is the place to find anything vintage and collectible. Since 1977, decorators, designers, college students, families, and anyone looking for unique items head to the sale for everything from furniture and kitchenware to vintage jewelry and art.

See art in nature at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum.

In 1985, 20th-century American sculptor Charles Umlauf and his wife Angie Umlauf donated their home, Charles' studio, and hundreds of sculptures to the City of Austin. Today, the Umlauf is a museum in a garden setting complete with over 2,000 drawings and 273 sculptures by the artist.

Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

On 284 acres in the Hill Country, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center boasts beautiful gardens of Texas native plants, trails, an arboretum, and a savanna meadow where you can learn about karst landscapes. The center has recorded sightings of more than 143 species of birds, 15 species of mammals, and 1,800 species of insects.

Lounge by Lady Bird Lake.

Paddleboard, kayak, or canoe your way across Austin's Lady Bird Lake for views of the skyline and outdoor recreation right in the city. Take a hike or bike ride along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, which borders the lake, or float down the Lady Bird Lake Paddling Trail .

Attend ACL.

Austin is known for its live music scene, and Austin City Limits Music Festival , held in Zilker Park, is a must for music lovers. More than 100 performances take place across eight stages each year. Past performers have included Radiohead, Lionel Richie, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Head to Rainey Street.

In downtown Austin, this strip of bungalow-houses-turned-bars is a popular destination for drinks, delicious grub, and of course, live music. Lucille Patio Lounge , Half Step , and The Container Bar are all great places for a cocktail or two.

Visit McKinney Falls State Park.

Within Austin's city limits is an outdoor oasis that's perfect for unplugging from technology and connecting with nature. Visitors can hike, bike, boulder, stay overnight at one of 81 campsites, or swim in Onion Creek. Check out "Old Baldy" while you're here. It's one of the oldest bald cypress trees in Texas and is more than 500 years old and 103 feet tall.

Cheer on the Longhorns at a game.

Texans are passionate about football, and Austin's University of Texas brings the school spirit every season. In a sea of burnt orange, enthusiastic fans cheer on the Longhorns with storied chants and the "Hook 'Em" hand symbol swaying through the air. Just bring along a comfortable stadium seat .

Hang out in Zilker Metropolitan Park.

Austinites love spending time in Zilker Metropolitan Park , located in downtown Austin near Lady Bird Lake. The park's 351 acres are great for picnicking, meeting a new dog friend or two, disc golf, hiking, biking, and even paddling. The Barton Springs Pool is also located here.

Learn your Texas history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Known as the official history museum of Texas, the Bullock is the place to learn about the story of Texas. See the 300-year-old ship of French explorer La Salle that sank in Matagorda Bay, numerous Indigenous artifacts, and more.

Have a night on Sixth Street.

While Sixth Street tends to be a bit rowdy, it's long been the place to party in Austin. The street closes to through traffic from Thursdays through Saturday nights, meaning there's lots of people parading up and down the street in search of cheap drinks, entertainment, and that late-night slice of pizza.

Go dancing at Broken Spoke.

Put your dancin' boots on and head to Broken Spoke , a dance hall that's been open since 1964 and has seen performances from legends such as George Strait, Garth Brooks, and Dolly Parton. They even offer dance lessons for those new to two-steppin'.

Visit the LBJ Presidential Library and Museum.

On the University of Texas campus, the LBJ Presidential Library houses 45 million pages of historical documents, 650,000 photos, and 5,000 hours of recordings from President Johnson's political career. There are also over 54,000 objects to see, such as the desk used for the signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Hike Mount Bonnell.

Among the top things to do in Austin is get a bird's-eye view of the metropolis at Mount Bonnell , one of the city's highest points at 781 feet. After climbing 102 stairs you'll reach the top, where you can take in breathtaking views of downtown and the 360 Bridge. A pavilion and viewing deck allow you to rest up before descending.

Visit the Harry Ransom Center.

Hone into your intellectual side at the Harry Ransom Center , which houses almost 1 million books, over 42 million manuscripts, millions of photographs, and 100,000 works of art. Highlights include some of Einstein's unpublished notes and calculations on general relativity, original works by Frida Kahlo, and Jack Kerouac's notebook from writing "On the Road."

Eat craft barbecue.

Texas is known for its unbeatable barbecue scene, and Austin is home to some of the best 'cue in the state. Leroy and Lewis , Distant Relatives , Valentina's Tex-Mex Barbecue , and La Barbecue are just a few of the top BBQ joints.

Visit a honky tonk.

For a true Texas experience, visiting a honky tonk is a must-do activity, and Austin has some of the best. Strap on your boots and head to the dance floor for country music and a good time. The White Horse , Sam's Town Point , Giddy Up's , and The Little Longhorn Saloon are all great for a boot-scootin' good time.

Stay over in style.

While the live music and dining scene in Austin is thriving, the city is also home to some great hotels. Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt , Heywood Hotel , and Austin Proper Hotel are all gorgeous, while Lake Austin Spa Resort stuns on Lake Austin.

Sip your way through local breweries.

You can't be the "Live Music Capital of the World" and not have great beers to go alongside an evening of fun. Thankfully, Austin is packed with one-of-a-kind breweries across the city. Jester King offers up top-notch farmhouse ales in Hill Country, while Pinthouse , St. Elmo , and Austin Beerworks are just a few of the big hitters in town.

Go mural hopping.

Across the city, vibrant murals don the walls of buildings, displaying everything from Janis Joplin and Willie Nelson to an enormous golden-cheeked warbler. One of the most fun things to do in Austin is a self-guided tour of the best street art around town.

Grab a glass at local distilleries.

Austin and the surrounding Hill Country area are home to a number of great distilleries, and many of them have excellent tasting rooms where you can relax and have a cocktail. Desert Door Distillery , Deep Eddy Vodka , and Garrison Brothers are all fantastic distilleries just outside of town.

See a show at the Paramount Theatre.

Since 1915, patrons have been coming to this storied theater to see performances from legends like Harry Houdini, Duke Ellington, and Katharine Hepburn. Today's shows include musical performances, magic shows, interviews, and more.

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50 Fun Things to Do in Austin

There’s truly something for everyone in Austin. Whether you’re looking for live music , must-see museums , authentic Texas cuisine , scenic outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun , our city offers it all.

Here are 50 of the best things to do in Austin to kick-start your trip.

Restaurants

Local shopping, live music & nightlife, arts & culture, outdoor activities.

1. Try Austin’s favorite food: tacos ! Some of the best are served up by Veracruz All Natural , Fresa’s Chicken al Carbon and Torchy’s Tacos .

2. Sample a variety of food trucks in one location at The Picnic , where you’ll find homemade pasta from  Cannone Cucina Italiana   and authentic Thai cuisine at  Coat & Thai .

3. You’re not doing Austin right if you don’t try some of our world-famous barbecue . Get in line for the ultra-tender brisket crafted by James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Aaron Franklin at Franklin Barbecue . Try the Brisket Frito Pie topped with chili and cheddar cheese at Micklethwait Craft Meats . Or sample Texas-style (and sized) dino beef ribs at Stiles Switch .

4. Dine alfresco (even in winter!) on the heated patios at Grizzelda’s (Tex-Mex cuisine) and Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill (American fare), or sip on craft cocktails and slurp oysters on the oak-tree shaded patio at Perla's (seafood).

5. Taste your way along the scenic Texas Hill Country wine trail , home to more than 50 wineries. Or sample the brews from local microbreweries on the Austin Craft Beer Trail .

6. Dine at Fareground , Austin’s very first food hall, featuring outposts of some of the city’s favorite eateries, including a variety of bite-size sammies at Jewboy Sliders .

7. Enjoy brunch with a side of music at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q , serving up lip-smacking barbecue during its rousing Sunday Gospel Brunch. Or meet the locals at  Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden , where 200+ craft beers are served, and 30 varieties of sausage are grilled during the Sunday Big Band Brunch.​

8. Don’t leave Austin without sampling some of our town’s best Tex-Mex cuisine , including barbecue breakfast tacos from Cisco's , Bob Armstrong queso at Matt’s El Rancho and sizzling fajitas from Maudie’s .

9. Make your first stop at the Austin Visitor Center and get insider tips on the best Austin has to offer, hop on a tour and shop locally made items. You can also check out the online Gift Shop for Austin-themed goodies.

10. Shop  South Congress Avenue , known for its funky stores and chic boutiques. Check out the kicks at  Allens Boots , one-of-a-kind jewelry and clothing by local artisans at  Paper Work  and vintage treats at Big Top Candy Shop .

11. Flip through the extensive selection of vinyl at Waterloo Records and catch a free in-store performance by an emerging local musician.

12. Spend some time at the original flagship Whole Foods Market , where you’ll find restaurants, a beer and wine bar, a food truck, and free rooftop live music and events.

13. Shop ‘til you drop in the 2ND Street District , teeming with Austin-owned boutiques that offer everything from music-inspired apparel at Austin Rocks to gorgeous jewelry from Eliza Page and tailored menswear from League of Rebels .

14. Start your day with farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, colorful flowers and live music at the  SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown , held Saturdays in Republic Square .

15. Search for retro treasures in the North Loop neighborhood, where  Room Service Vintage  and  Blue Velvet  are good bets for affordable clothing and home decor finds.

16. Listen to Texas singers, songwriters and musicians perform in the Oak Garden at  Güero’s Taco Bar  on Wednesdays as part of the  Texas Radio Live  series presented by Sun Radio. Limited seating available.

17. Get a taste of Austin’s cocktail culture at Whisler's , known for creative concoctions with unique ingredients, and the reservations-only Midnight Cowboy , serving classic libations in a sultry speakeasy.

18. Slip into a real honky-tonk and go two-stepping at Broken Spoke , known for its chicken-fried steak and free dinner show; do some boot-scootin' at  The White Horse , with live country jams; or drop in at Little Longhorn Saloon  during its six-days-a-week happy hour, with $2.50 Lone Star beers.

19. Watch a band at the legendary Continental Club on South Congress Avenue, which has been hosting live music ranging from rock to country for 60 years, and is often the site of surprise celebrity performances.

20. Hit some of Austin’s best LGBTQ+ bars on Fourth Street in the  Downtown Warehouse District , with dancing and drag queens at hot spots that include Rain on 4th , Highland Lounge and Oilcan Harry’s .

21. Toast the latest Texas Longhorn victory at  Scholz Garten , Austin’s oldest drinking establishment and the  place to celebrate University of Texas football wins since 1893.

22. Fall brings exciting events to Austin. Tune in for this year's hybrid edition of the annual Texas Book Festival , held November 11-12; explore galleries, museums and artist workshops around Austin at the Austin Studio Tour , November 4-19; and get a jump on your holiday shopping at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar , running from November 17 through Christmas Eve.

23. View a stunning collection of modern art at  The Contemporary Austin  at the Jones Center and get free same-day entry to  The Contemporary Austin–Laguna Gloria , a Mediterranean-style villa with an outdoor sculpture park on Lake Austin. Advance tickets are required.

24. Stop in at the historic Texas Capitol Visitors Center  and get a Lone Star State history lesson during a free guided tour of the handsome pink granite Texas State Capitol .

25. Play it smart at the Thinkery , Austin’s hands-on children’s museum that incorporates science and technology into the fun with interactive exhibits and engaging activities. Open Tuesday-Sunday.

26. Visit the free Brush Square Museums that include the limited-entry  Susanna Dickinson Museum (the only Anglo adult survivor of the Battle of the Alamo) and the O. Henry Museum , former residence of the famed short story writer.

27. Visit an impressive collection of museums at the University of Texas at Austin , including the Blanton Museum of Art , featuring Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin , a stone building with brilliantly colored glass windows (advance tickets required); the Harry Ransom Center , housing cultural archives that include the first photo; and the LBJ Presidential Library , with inspiring exhibits on President Lyndon Baines Johnson photo.

28. Snap a selfie in front of one of Austin’s iconic  murals . The popular  I love you so much  mural is painted on the wall of  Jo's Coffee  on South Congress Avenue.  Hi, How Are You  features a bug-eyed bullfrog named Jeremiah, originally drawn by outsider folk artist Daniel Johnston, near the  University of Texas at Austin  campus. And the colorful  Greetings from Austin  postcard is a must-shoot in  South Austin .

29. Celebrate African-American heritage at the  George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center  through exhibits, programs and theatrical productions.

30. See a classic film at the  Paramount Theatre , a century-old performance venue and movie theater located in the heart of downtown Austin.

31. Get an insider’s look at the history and culture of Texas at the  Bullock Museum , containing three floors of interactive exhibits, the Texas Spirit Theater, an  IMAX Theatre  and the Story of Texas Cafe. Limited capacity, with timed-entry tickets.

32. Take a free guided tour (with  advance reservations ) of the elegant  Texas Governor’s Mansion , built in 1854 as the official residence of Texas governors and their families.

33. See a comedy show at  Esther's Follies , specializing in political satire and hilarious musical numbers, or  Fallout Theater , presenting sketch, stand-up and improv comedy shows by new and seasoned comedians.

34. View Mexican and Latin American artworks at the  Mexic-Arte Museum , and snap a photo with one of the revolving murals painted on the side of the museum.

35. Catch a limited-seating concert at ACL Live at The Moody Theater , named for the long-running Austin City Limits television music series filmed here, which hosts artists of every genre and offers behind-the-scenes tours .

36. Browse the vibrant galleries that showcase local emerging artists, including  Austin Art Garage   (open limited hours),  Women & Their Work  and the  Old Bakery & Emporium  (located in an 1870s national landmark on Congress Avenue), which presents juried art shows.

37. See everything from opera to dance and family musicals at the Long Center , one of Austin’s leading performance venues. This state-of-the-art venue offers both indoor and outdoor performances on their three stages.

38. Tour the free  Elisabet Ney Museum , housed in what was once the German-born sculptress’ studio, and see portrait sculptures of notable 19 th  century Texans.

39. Bike or hike along the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake, which winds along the shoreline and boasts panoramic views of Austin’s skyline.

40. Hike up the stone steps of  Mount Bonnell   and get a sweeping view of the city from atop this Lake Austin landmark that has been a popular attraction since the 1850s.

41. Explore Mayfield Park , home to incredible gardens and colorful preening peacocks that make the perfect backdrop for your photos.

42. Putt your way through the kitschy Peter Pan Mini Golf , featuring two 18-hole mini golf courses filled with fun obstacles and colorful characters that include a towering T. rex.

43. Hike or bike along the  Barton Creek Greenbelt  to find Gus Fruh, a swimming hole known for its famed Urban Assault limestone rock wall that’s a favorite of climbers. Explore further to discover the hidden Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls areas.

44. Join fellow Texas Longhorn fans in cheering on the beloved University of Texas at Austin Longhorns. Limited seating available at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium   for football games. 45. Harness the cowboy spirit in the Texas Hill Country during a guided horseback trail ride with  Maverick Horseback Riding  in Lockhart or  Texas Trail Rides , just outside downtown Austin.

46. Take a swing at the  Harvey Penick Golf Campus , featuring a PGA Tour-designed nine-hole golf course and Austin’s first-ever, 18-hole Footgolf course, which combines the best elements of soccer and golf for a high-energy game.

47. Make tracks to the free  Austin Nature & Science Center  to explore nature trails, see small wildlife creatures and dig for “dinosaur fossils” in the Dino Pit.

48. Wander around  Zilker Park , a 360-acre oasis in the heart of the city that’s home to the  Zilker Botanical Garden  and leafy trails that lead to outdoor artworks at the  UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum .

49. Hike through a Texas Hill Country landscape of limestone cliffs and stone river beds along the Pedernales River at  Pedernales Falls State Park . Follow Juniper Ridge Trail, which leads to the park’s rushing Pedernales Falls.

50. For an adrenaline rush coupled with an awesome view,  Lake Travis Zipline Adventures  offers five pulse-pounding ziplines (one being the longest in Texas) to whisk you away on an exciting outdoor adventure.

Discover more things to do in Austin today, this week and this weekend with our online event calendar here . 

Guest Blogger

29 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

If you are looking for things to do in Austin, the good news is there are lots of choices. As the Texas State Capitol, Austin embodies all things Texas  – promising a jam-packed itinerary. You can learn about Texas history, visit fun attractions, admire Latin American art, and experience an impressive cityscape. As the Live Music Capital of the world, there is no shortage of places to watch live music in the city. This activity was definitely one of our favorite things to do in Austin.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Austin

Of course, nature lovers will also find many things to do in Austin. The city sits in the Texas Hill Country, surrounded by hiking trails, wildlife, and State Parks. The Colorado River runs through Austin, too – filling reservoirs like Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake. 

But, let’s take a more detailed look at all the best things to do in Austin! Austin provides a fantastic balance of indoor and outdoor activities and you’ll find things to do in Austin spread across the city.

1. Rent a Boat on Lake Austin

A picnic on the water is a romantic way to start or end any day. We’d highly recommend using one of the many boat rentals to hire a motorized boat and explore Lake Austin from the water. Pack a picnic and camera, and you have a luxury, independent private tour.

As one of Austin’s main reservoirs, Lake Austin is an important asset to the city. Because of this, certain areas are privately owned or closed to the public, so you’ll need to pay attention to signs and any restrictions. The best way to enjoy Lake Austin is by boat, as swimming and fishing are limited around many lake areas.

If you don’t want to rent a boat yourself, this guided boat tour on Lake Austin is the perfect alternative.

2. Swim in Lake Travis

Lake Travis is where to head if you’d prefer to go swimming rather than shop for boat rentals.

The reservoir is Austin’s biggest and most impressive sight! The lake’s 271 miles of shoreline also means lots of swimming spots – especially considering that the whole of Lake Travis is open to the public.

Lake Travis’ famous, ultra-blue waters are a result of the limestone rock underneath. It is well-worth packing snorkeling gear if you plan a swim, as the waters are known for their great visibility.

3. Tour the Texas State Capitol Building

The Texas State Capitol is on every Austin city guide for a good reason.

The 19th-century building is the home of the Texan government and is the largest state capitol building in the US. To learn about Texas architecture and politics, visiting the Capitol Building is easily one of the best things to do in Austin.

You can take a free guided tour or visit independently. Guided tours run at staggered, set intervals. But, if you choose a self-guided tour, you’ll be able to tour whenever it suits you.

A great way to visit the Capitol is to bundle it together with a small group tour of Austin. This one allows you to skip the line and is likely to sell out! You can book it here .

4. Texas Memorial Museum

The Texas Memorial Museum carries the lofty title of Austin’s first state museum. To learn about natural and cultural history in Texas, we recommend paying this place a visit.

From fossils to exhibitions of the latest research, the museum covers various topics with temporary, and permanent exhibits. The attraction also has a series of entrance fee discounts, with students receiving considerable price reductions.

The museum is on the University Campus and is an educational, interesting place to spend a couple of hours.

5. Zilker Metropolitan Park

Zilker Park is a 358-acre inner-city green space comprising of Zilker Botanical Garden, Barton Springs Pool, Umlauf Sculpture Garden, and The Great Lawn.

If you want to spend a day entertained in just one place, we’d suggest choosing Zilker Metropolitan Park. The Barton Springs Pool is filled with water from a nearby natural spring and is thermally heated, so perfect for swimming all year round. Nearby, the Zilker Botanical and Sculpture Gardens are good to wander on foot.

While you are in the area make sure to visit the Austin Nature & Science Center which is located right at the edge of the park.

6. Mckinney Falls State Park

Remember those nearby State Parks we mentioned above? Mckinney Falls State Park is Austin’s best.

Choose Mckinney Falls over Zilker Park if you wish to spend a morning on remote trails and close to wildlife. The park’s set in the Hill Country woods, with Onion Creek to swim and fish along. The woodland gives the park a more secluded, quiet feel than Zilker’s open green space.

Choose the Rock Shelter Trail for a short and scenic hike. This route passes Old Baldy, a 500-year-old tree and popular natural tourist attraction to visit in Austin.

If you are a cyclist or hiker who doesn’t mind passing bikes, the Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is longer and more challenging. Jump in an air-conditioned van and explore all this area has to offer. Book it here!

7. Listen to Live Country Music

Okay, so you went to The Continental but missed the country music night? Don’t worry. There are lots of venues that play live music, and there are always concert ticket sales to snatch up bargain tickets.

The Hole in the Wall, Broken Step and San Jac Saloon are all good pub-style venues to grab a drink and listen to country tunes. While the Moody Theater, Emo’s Austin, and Maggie Mae’s Concert Hall are an ideal larger concert and festival-style venues – book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Listening to country music is one of the most fun things to do in Austin, Texas. So, definitely prioritize taking in a concert or live music bar when visiting.

8. Tour Austin City Limits

http://it acltv.com Austin City Limits is the longest-running music production on TV. To be able to watch a taping, regular folks are put into a lottery system but you can book tours of the venue. From Monday to Saturday, 90-minute tours are offered of the live venue to see behind the scenes including the awesome photography from acts that have been performing here since 1974.

Austin City Limits Festival

The annual Austin City Limits Festival is one of the best outdoor festivals in the country that hosts 130 artists attracting a quarter million patrons each year at Zilker Park. If you want to attend this festival, visit their website to buy tickets.

9. Catch Live Music at The Continental Club

People call Austin the live music capital of Texas, and The Continental Club is known as one of the biggest clubs in Austin, Texas.

The club has been hosting live music since 1955 – playing everything from blues and country, to rock, and swing. To pay a visit, head to South Congress in South Austin. Enter the club under the vintage neon lights, pull up a stool, grab a drink, and enjoy the best of Texan music culture.

10. Austin Zoo

Austin Zoo is a non-profit organization that promotes wildlife conservation and rescues native and exotic animals. The zoo has over three hundred animals, including endangered species like tigers, ring-tailed lemurs, and spider monkeys.

You can learn about the importance of conservation efforts, the history of the zoo, and meet animals up close. Make sure to catch the train around the park and visit the petting area to meet some of the friendly domestic animals.

11. Tour the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum

The LBJ Library and Museum is another attraction located on the Austin campus.

The attraction is dedicated to Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th US President. Visitors receive an in-depth introduction to Johnson’s life and the entirety of his presidency. You’ll access exhibitions on events in his presidency, like the Vietnam War, hear voice recordings of Johnson discussing important matters, and learn plenty of personal details about the previous president. If you are interested in politics or presidential history, we’d recommend a visit.

12. LBJ Ranch

However, we found touring the LBJ Ranch just outside of Austin to be very interesting. While a tour of the Texas White House is temporarily closed due to structural concerns, you can still take a driving tour of the ranch.

This was the childhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson, and during his time in office, he spent 20% of his time working from here. The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is a super cool tour through the ranch to see the cattle that are descendants of LBJs livestock. Book it here!

13. Mayfield Park

Mayfield Park is a 21-acre reservation site with walking trails frequented by more roaming peacocks than other people. If you want a quiet day in the city’s West, visiting the park is one of the best things to do in Austin.

The park is accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, so it is a good attraction for all visitors to Austin, Texas. And, if you’d like to combine Austin’s nature with history, you’ll appreciate the historic cottage in the park center.

14. Eat at Franklin Barbecue

When in Texas, try the cuisine at Franklin Barbecue. Barbecue grilled meats have long been the iconic Austin food, and Franklin Barbecue is the most popular venue to try this local specialty.

At Franklin Barbecue, you can order brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage variations by the pound – perfect for large groups and families. Alternatively, order a sandwich packed with grilled meat of your choice or a sweet dessert pie.

Franklin Barbecue is located in East Austin and is a favorite spot amongst Austin residents.

15. The Contemporary Austin, Laguna Gloria

The Laguna Gloria is Austin’s only dedicated contemporary art gallery. Art enthusiasts should place the gallery high on their list of things to do in Austin, as the venue offers a fantastic range of exhibitions and artists.

From the Betty and Marcus Sculpture Park to temporary trending exhibitions, it is easy to spend half a day visiting the Laguna Gloria. While primarily featuring contemporary sculptures, you will find a range of art forms to analyze and appreciate.

16. Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum

How familiar are you with the story of Texas? To experience a living history museum, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of the greatest things to do in Austin.

The museum has a cinema, a mixture of temporary and permanent exhibitions, and artifacts. So, whether you learn visually, kinetically, or through auditory information, there will be plenty of opportunities to soak up Texas’ living history.

You can learn about Texan social history – from the original inhabitants to the first European colonizers and the recent battles for equality.

17. See the Largest Urban Bat Colony

This addition to our list of things to do in Austin might sound strange, but it is a massively impressive phenomenon.

The largest urban bat colony is in Downtown Austin – right under the South Congress Avenue Bridge. Every evening, over 1.5 million bats emerge from their daytime perches under the South Congress Bridge and take to the sky in a dramatic spectacle. Animal-lover or not, the urban bat colony is something you should prioritize witnessing in Austin.

For a different perspective on the bats try this kayaking tour which takes you right underneath the bridge.

18. Desert Door Distillery

Have you ever tried Texas sotol? Sotol is an alcoholic spirit and is thought to be the first-ever alcoholic beverage drunk by humans. Sotol has been drunk for over 800 years now, but the Desert Door Distillery is the only distillery in the United States.

You can visit for a tasting experience on Thursdays to Sundays. The distillery is a forty-minute drive outside of Austin, located in the suburb of Driftwood. However, it is well worth making the drive for a visit or organizing a transfer.

19. Visit Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is another reservoir for your itinerary! While swimming is prohibited, the lake has many other outdoor activities that you should try.

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is the famous loop around Lady Bird Lake. The ten-mile trail circles the entire lake perimeter, with mixed terrain of boardwalk and pavement.

You can grab a coffee and enjoy taking in the beautiful scenery that is sandwiched between the cityscape and lake. Or, for runners and cyclists, you can use the circuit to keep accountable and fit while on holiday.

Lady Bird Lake also runs under South Congress Bridge, so book a boat tour if you want a unique way to watch the bat colony emerge.

20. Spend Midday in Cesar Chavez

Cesar Chavez is a lively neighborhood, full of action and hospitality. To experience the suburb on a time limit, we’d recommend spending midday on Cesar Chavez Street, which links downtown and east Austin.

Don’t know where to start? Begin with a visit to Women & Their Work, a non-profit art gallery, then buy tacos to go from Granny’s Tacos – you can relax and eat your lunch in the Pan American Neighborhood Park.

21. Visit the Secret Beach

Everyone loves a secret, right? Although keeping them is evidently much harder as the Secret Beach is not-so-secret anymore.

Along the river in East Austin, you’ll find a sand beach where locals sunbathe and swim in the river. If you want a quiet beach experience in central Texas, the Secret Beach is your best bet.

You can use Google Maps to easily access the beach through Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park.

22. Take a Bike Tour of Austin

We highly recommend sightseeing in Austin, but who said you couldn’t do it on two wheels?

Many companies run bike tours around Austin, giving you information on the city and fun exercise at the same time. Many people find cycling easier than walking a city too, and it might be a quicker way to sightsee if you only have a short visit planned.

You can enquire at the Austin Visitor Center or book tours online like this one on an Electric Bike through Get Your Guide.

23. Have a Game of Mini Golf

Sometimes a bit of lighthearted fun is bliss. Mini golf is a fun family activity, challenge with friends, or as a date.

Austin has a surprising amount of golf venues, but we recommend Peter Pan Mini Golf. This course has been operating since 1946 yet keeps adding innovative new ideas. Nutmeg a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex, hit the ball through a giant Converse shoe, and aim straight into an orca’s mouth – the Peter Pan course is as whacky as they come.

A game at Peter Pan is one of the most entertaining things to do in Austin; weird and wonderful, it is bound to get a giggle or two.

24. Go Wine Tasting at the Austin Winery

Enjoy tasting new wines? Or just want an indulgent, interesting activity for your itinerary? Wine tasting at the Austin Winery is a brilliant thing to do when staying in Austin, Texas.

You don’t need a reservation to visit the Austin Winery, and the venue runs tasting sessions four days a week. The tasting menu allows you to sample a generous number of different wines, with the option to purchase additional snacks like cheeseboards and olives.

If wine tasting is your thing then this Wine Shuttle might be right up your alley.

25. Visit the Museum of the Weird, Austin

Austin’s slogan is Keep Austin Weird and The Museum of the Weird caters to that weird, eclectic, and strangely intriguing thing that makes Austin special.

The attraction self-proclaims to be ‘America’s Strangest Attraction’. From shrunken heads to bigfoot memorabilia, the museum is an entertaining spot to visit while in Austin. There is also a gift shop next door, just in case you get inspired to bring any oddities home!

The attraction is open from 10 am until 7 pm every day, so it is a good attraction to visit last minute.

26. See the Austin Murals

Austin has many, many beautiful murals. In fact, the city has so many that mural tours have become a legitimate thing to do.

You can purchase a tour online, visit the visitor center for advice, or set out to find the best murals independently.

If you boldly choose the latter option, these are the murals that you should prioritize: Greetings From Austin, Won’t You Be My Neighbor, Tau Ceti, and the Austin Texas Mural.

27. Take a Dip in Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is one of the most interesting swimming spots in Austin.

The pool sits under a 50ft waterfall, where Hamilton Creek plummets over the cliff edge above. Hamilton Pool was formed when an underground river collapsed, and now visitors climb down to reach the pool level.

Hamilton Pool is an hour’s drive from Austin and is not accessible via public transport. However, if you don’t have a car, it is worth stopping by the Austin Visitor Center to enquire about any available tours.

28. Drop by the Cathedral of Junk

You’ve likely seen a lot of cathedrals in your time. A cathedral made from junk? Probably not.

The Cathedral of Junk is constructed from over sixty tons of unwanted items – including furniture, tennis rackets, tires, and even classroom skeletons.

The cathedral is an incredibly eccentric art sculpture and is privately owned. To visit, book an appointment (512-299-7413), as the sculpture is in the owner’s backyard.

Important Information

A Quick Look at Austin…

To help you arrive prepared in Austin, it is a good idea to understand how the city is laid out. This way, you can plan an itinerary that makes sense geographically and logistically! So, let’s take a look at the best areas within the city limits.

Downtown Austin

Downtown Austin is cool. The district embodies contemporary Austin, with live music venues, hip shops, and many cultural attractions. Downtown Austin is fast-paced and best suited to those who want a busy atmosphere.

Key streets to remember are Rainey Street and Sixth Street. Rainey Street is where to eat, with rows of bungalows converted to hospitality venues. Sixth Street is a nightlife hotspot, with bars, speakeasies, and rooftop parties galore.

Central Austin

Central Austin has a sociable atmosphere thanks to being home to the University of Texas campus.

The area has an everything-you-need layout, typical of student areas and city centers. As a tourist, you can visit various museums on campus, watch live music, or just enjoy the popular restaurants and cafes.

If you like to be in the city center and just hop on the metro from most attractions, the Central region is for you.

South Austin

In contrast, South Austin feels more suburban. You’ll meet more Austin residents here, as the area is residential rather than aimed at students or tourists.

The best street to visit is South Congress Avenue, while South Lamar is a neighborhood worth stopping by.

South Congress Avenue is where you’ll find a famous Austin mural – a cursive message in red reading ‘I love you so much’. It is also the place to go for shopping needs, and if you want to purchase a pair of cowboy boots, Allen’s Boots is the spot.

South Lamar is a budget-friendly and very safe area in Austin, Texas. If you are looking for a reasonably priced meal or a piece of art, make sure to visit the neighborhood of South Lamar.

East Austin

Those that find downtown Austin trendy but not quite quirky enough should head to east Austin.

The area is under rapid gentrification and development – meaning it still has that exciting, fresh-faced appeal. East Austin is widely known for its street art, eateries promoting sustainable living, and green space.

You could be lazing by Lady Bird Lake by morning, taking a street art tour by afternoon, and dining in trendy areas like Cesar Chavez by night.

Now that you’ve started to build an itinerary of things to do in Austin, these are some extra things for you to consider.

How to Get to Austin, Texas?

Getting to Austin is easy, and the city is well-connected by roads and flight paths.

The quickest way to get to Austin is to fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which connects Austin with both the rest of the US and the rest of the world.

Getting Around Austin

Austin has excellent public transportation within the city limits. When traveling between neighborhoods and attractions, you can use the buses or light rail system without relying on a car.

However, when visiting attractions outside the city limits, be prepared for limited or non-existent public transport.

If you have remote places you want to visit in the Texas Hill Country, we recommend renting a car or booking a tour.

When is the Best Time to Visit Austin?

When judging based on temperature, March to May and September to October are the best months to visit Austin. You can expect warm weather without having to contend with mugginess and humidity.

However, these months are the peak seasons for visiting Austin. If you want to save some money, consider booking for the shoulder seasons – especially February and November, when the temperatures are still relatively cool.

Where to Stay in Austin?

• BudgetHostels are great for budgets, so book into the Firehouse Hostel if you are comfortable in a dormitory room.The hostel is located in the middle of Downtown Austin – perfect for easy access to city attractions.
• Mid-Range Sentral East Austin 1610 is a great mid-range accommodation choice. You have luxuries like a fitness center and a trendy location but will also save money by having full use of a kitchen.
• LuxuryReserve a room at the  Fairmont Austin Gold Experience for luxury in Austin. A Five-star hotel with a 7th-floor terrace pool and five different on-site restaurants, the Fairmont is sure to tick all your boxes.

Austin is an amazing introduction to Texas. The city can keep you entertained for a weekend or a week, all year round.

Of course, don’t just stop in Austin! Head North to join Route 66 , East to the coast, or West for desert State Parks – Texas is a state that demands exploring.

Plan Your Next Trip to Texas With These Resources

• 17 Interesting Facts About Texas
• 46 Best Places to Visit in the US
• United States National Parks in Photos

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Texas Travel 365

20 Best Things To Do In Austin: The Ultimate Bucket List

October 21, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365

If you are looking for the ultimate bucket list of the best things to do in Austin, you have come to the right place! Austin is a spectacular city with activities and attractions everyone is sure to enjoy.

From spooky ghost tours to world-class art museums to gorgeous natural beauty, this list is filled with stops that will make your visit to Austin an amazing experience! Visitors will want to take in the great outdoors at Austin attractions like Barton Springs and Mckinney Falls State Park. You’ll also want to absorb the variety of arts and culture with artwork from around the world!

Austin is home to truly Texan activities as well. You won’t want to miss an evening of country dancing at Broken Spoke, a Texas dancehall, or see the stories of everyday Texans at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. There are plenty of great places to visit in Austin!

Whether you have a day or a whole week to enjoy the Austin cityscape, you will want to include these best things to do in Austin!

If you are planning on visiting, discover some of the Best Places To Stay In Austin for your trip!

Barton Springs

Barton Springs is one of the essential Austin attractions! Located in Zilker Park, it is a beautiful natural spring with a swimming area open to the public. And with 70-degree water year-round, it is the perfect place to take a dip.

Not only can you wade in the magnificent spring water, but Barton Springs also features grassy areas around the spring to relax and enjoy the view. It is also the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or afternoon snack! If you have kids accompanying you they will enjoy Splash!, an educational exhibit that teaches the biology and history of Barton Springs and the aquifer that feeds it.

Barton Springs is also home to the Barton Springs Salamander! What’s not to love about Barton Springs, with its relaxing waters and natural beauty. So make sure to stop at Barton Springs as it is one of the best things to do in Austin! And if you are looking for more natural Texas beauty check out these great springs in Texas !

Austin Bats

The Austin Bats are one of the most popular Austin tourist attractions! A colony of about 1.5 million Mexican Free-tail Bats live under Congress Avenue Bridge.

This is truly one of the best things to do in Austin at night!

From around March to November, this impressive bat colony emerges nightly from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in their search for food. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Taking a tour to experience this unique bat colony is sure to be one of the best things to do in Austin.

Click here: Ausin Bat Tours

You will want to make sure to check out the haunted side of Austin. Take a ghost tour to visit haunted hotels, shops and restaurants. With tours available for all ages, the family is sure to enjoy this edge-of-your-seat activity.

Walk the streets of Austin at night and perhaps you will cross paths with a spirit of Austin’s past. Searching for ghosts and the paranormal is definitely one of the spookiest things to do in Austin!

Click here: Austin Ghost Tour

Texas Capital Building

What would a trip to Texas’s state capitol be without a visit to the capitol building? The Texas Capitol Building is full of history and exploration, making it one of the best things to do in Austin!

You will definitely want to check out the Capitol Tours to make sure you don’t miss out on the hidden treasures of the state capitol building! With important history and beautiful architecture, the state capital building is an essential stop when visiting Austin.

Visiting the capital building along with the tours is free making it one of the best free things to do in Austin!

McKinney Falls State Park

If you are looking for the perfect outdoor experience in Austin, look no further than McKinney Falls State Park! There is something for everyone at McKinney Falls, one of the neatest Austin attractions.

Mckinney Falls has camping, biking, hiking, fishing, and more! Whether you want a restorative day hike, a traditional camping experience or you want to go geocaching, McKinney Falls is one of the best places to visit in Austin!

Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is full of Texas history and one of the best museums in Texas! With its focus on both big parts of Texas history such as Texas gaining statehood and a special exhibit on stories from everyday Texans, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is a truly unique experience.

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Austin! And if you are looking for more culture to experience, check out our list of other great museums in Texas !

Zilker Botanical Gardens

One of the best things to do in downtown Austin is the Zilker Botanical Gardens! With several themed gardens such as the Taniguchi Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden, it is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. There are even special events at times, like yoga in the garden!

Zilker Botanical Gardens also features a Children’s Garden, koi ponds, and a butterfly gate making it one of the best things to do in Austin with kids. So make sure to take a stroll through Zilker Botanical Gardens while visiting Austin!

Cathedral of Junk

This one-of-a-kind backyard artwork/clubhouse is one of the cool things to do in Austin! Started in 1988, the Cathedral of Junk was built by Vince Hannemann in his backyard in the Austin suburbs. Vince is always happy to show visitors around when he is at home.

From a zen garden of TVs to a throne room, the Cathedral of Junk is a truly unique structure. Built from car bumpers, bicycle wheels, cables, and other random items brought to the creator over the past few decades, the wonders never cease at one of the best things to do in Austin!

WonderSpaces

Wonderspaces is an immersive and interactive art museum featuring unique and modern art installations making it one of the best Austin activities!

To experience the whole Wonderpsaces show takes about 75 minutes making it the perfect stop for an afternoon or morning to fill out your day. With installations featuring light, sound, and interaction from visitors, you won’t want to miss out on one of the best things to do in Austin!

Magic’s Theater

If you are looking for a fun night out, look no further than Magic’s Theater! Offering an exciting magic stage show along with close-up magic shows, Magic’s Theater is one of the most fun things to do in Austin!

Magic’s Theater also hosts Live Jazz nights and is home to a museum filled with magic history, including Harry Houdini’s Chinese Water Torture Cell. Any lover of magic should include a visit to Magic’s Theater, one of the best things to do in Austin!

Keep Austin Weird/South Congress Avenue

Keep Austin Weird is a movement that promotes small, independent businesses in Austin. South Congress Avenue is filled with one-of-a-kind shops, bars, and restaurants making the most fun things to do in Austin!

South Congress Avenue is home to vintage shops, boutiques, gift shops, and more. Not only are there a variety of shops, but there are also street vendors offering different goods as well. South Congress Avenue is an eccentric part of what keeps Austin weird, making it one of the best places to go in Austin.

Blanton Museum of Art

Located at The University of Texas at Austin, the Blanton Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Austin! It is home to over 19,000 artworks in its permanent collection.

Blanton Museum of Art is home to a variety of art, from European paintings to Modern art to a beautiful building by artist Ellsworth Kelly. The museum also hosts different exhibitions throughout the year as well, making it one of the best places to go in Austin!

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell is one of the best things to do in Austin for couples. Mount Bonnell is one of the highest points in Austin featuring a beautiful view of the city. With a pavilion at the top of Mount Bonnell, it makes the perfect spot for a romantic picnic!

The hike to the top is more of a leisurely hike rather than a strenuous one making it a relaxing outdoor activity. Mount Bonnell trail is also family-friendly and dog friendly too! Make sure to make an excursion to Mount Bonnell, one of the best things to do in Austin!

Mexic-Arte Museum

Mexic-Arte Museum is a special museum that focuses on Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture. Located in the heart of Austin’s vibrant downtown, Mexic-Arte Museum is one of the best places to visit in Austin!

So grab a friend and experience this enriching art experience! Mexic-Arte Museum also offers free admission and free tours every Sunday. With its unique art collection that showcases paintings, decorative arts, sculpture, performance art, and photography, Mexic-Arte Museum is one of the best things to do in Austin!

Esther’s Follies

Laughter is an important part of any good time and Esther’s Follies will definitely bring the laughter to your time in Austin. Known as a modern-day vaudeville theater, Ester’s Follies is one of the most fun things to do in Austin!

Located on 6th street in downtown Austin, Ester’s Follies is surrounded by wonderful restaurants and other nightlife, making a show the perfect thing to add to an evening on the town. You will definitely want to grab a seat and get ready to laugh at Ester’s Follies, one of the best things to do in Austin.

Broken Spoke (Two-step dancing)

What would a trip to Texas be without some Two-step? Whether you are a pro or a complete novice, Broken Spoke is sure to provide a great time. With dance lessons every Thursday through Saturday night, an evening at Broken Spoke is one of the best things to do in Austin for couples!

Broken Spoke also features live music and a menu featuring Tex-Mex, steaks, and BBQ! You will definitely want to complete a visit to Austin with a night out at Broken Spoke, one of the most authentic things to do in Austin!

Bar Hopping on Sixth Street

Sixth Street is a hot spot for Austin’s nightlife and culture. Sixth Street has a growing reputation as the Bourbon Street of Austin. With plenty of bars to enjoy, you won’t want to miss out on one of the best things to do in Austin!

You can enjoy a fancy cocktail at Midnight Cowboy or a beer at Shakespeare’s Pub. And if that doesn’t suit your taste you can always stop by Casino el Camino for its dive bar vibe or have an elegant evening at The Driskill. No matter where you end up, bar-hopping on Sixth Street is definitely one of the cool things to do in Austin!

If you are looking for some old-school fun then look no further than Pinballz. The Original Pinballz Arcade in Austin features a variety of pinballs, modern-day video games, and classic arcade games making it one of the neatest Austin attractions.

Pinballz also offers a menu of food and drinks to add to your day of fun. Visitors can also find their way through the Zombie Crisis Escape Room Challenge. With plenty of games and activities, Pinballz is definitely one of the best things to do in Austin with kids!

Museum of Ice Cream

Experience the Sprinkle Pool or take a journey through the Banana Forest at the Museum of Ice Cream! The Museum of Ice Cream is a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience making it one of the best Austin tourist attractions!

A day at the Museum of Ice Cream is sure to be fun for your imagination and your taste buds! Not only will you get to travel through the Rainbow Tunnel, but you’ll also get to enjoy sweet treats along the way. The Museum of Ice Cream has vegan treats as well for those who prefer a non-dairy treat!

Museum of Ice Cream also has a cafe and bar with unique treats and drinks. You will definitely want to visit the Museum of Ice Cream, one of the best things to do in Austin!

UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum

UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum is the perfect blend of outdoor beauty and culture. While the permanent collection is mainly comprised of over 100 sculptures by Charles Umlauf, the museum also has new exhibits throughout the year as well.

UMLAUF also hosts family days with kid-friendly activities and has a garden storytime occasionally. Admission is always free for those 12 and under, making UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum one of the best things to do in Austin with kids!

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The best attractions in Austin, Texas right now

For sightseeing, culture, and all the live music you can handle, here are all the best attractions in Austin, Texas.

It is not just the best sports events,  music festivals , and conferences that keep Austin busy year-round; the slew of awesome attractions,  restaurants , and live music venues make it a fabulous evergreen destination of fun and frolics.

Whether you only have  48 hours to explore  or you’re a local looking to be a tourist in your own city, there really is something for everyone and plenty of  outdoor space  to enjoy.  And  it’s weird and varied. One minute you’ll find yourself sweating it out on the lake, then you’re at a  trendy  SoCo restaurant. Whatever the occasion, know this: Austin folk are some of the most friendly, open-minded, and welcoming around. You’ll have a swell time ( margarita  in hand),  make some friends , and be hurrying back for more. Let’s go out and get exploring—here’s where to start.

RECOMMENDED: The best  things to do in Austin  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best attractions in Austin, Texas

1.  barton creek greenbelt.

• Things to do

In so many cities across the US, tapping into well-preserved wilderness requires a trip outside of town. Not in Austin. That’s largely thanks to multiple green space preserves, but largely due to one: the Barton Creek Greenbelt (lovingly referred to by locals as the Greenbelt), which spans 7.25 miles of dense forest, limestone cliffs, shallow swimming holes (connected by the creek’s flow) and hike-and-bike trails. The public property is populated year-round by mountain bikers, hikers, and rock climbers. And in the summer months—pending enough rainfall—it is incontestably the most magnificent place to swim within city limits. Whether you hit up the super-popular Campbell’s Hole, the gloriously gushing Sculpture Falls, or the relatively secret Lost Creek site, the mind is always put at ease by way of immersion in what sometimes feels like an impossibly secluded oasis adjacent to some of the city’s busiest sections (many of entry points require a bit of Google research to locate). If Austin’s contemporary urban utopia didn’t already have you hooked, this slice of natural paradise embedded within ought to do the trick.

2.  The Bats at Anne W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge

For many, the idea of the world’s largest urban bat colony—approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats—all flying out from under a bridge within a few minutes may sound utterly terrifying. Maybe so, especially if you’ve got a genuine phobia, but actually witnessing them speed out at up to 60 mph and 2 miles high en masse on any evening (around dusk) is one of the most jaw-dropping sights in the region. By now, it’s a business: You can buy into one of Capital Cruises’ boat tours to watch them emerge from lake level, or you can simply do as the Romans do and arrive early to grab a spot along the eastern side of the bridge. Generally speaking, the bats aren’t dangerous (unless you attempt to handle them, so do  not  try). In fact, aside from the majestic beauty of their cyclonic flight, they’re local assets: The bats consume about 20-30 thousand pounds of insects each night (they’re heroes, the best mosquito slayers we’ve got). Even though bats reside there most of the year, summertime—as with most things here—is the peak for activity; if you wanna reap all of Austin’s benefits, you gotta stick out the heat for the good stuff.

S. Congress Ave between W. Cesar Chavez St and Barton Springs Rd (crossing Colorado River)

3.  Zilker Park/Barton Springs

• Attractions
• Rivers, lakes and ponds

Each October for two weekends, Zilker Park—situated at the bottom of South Austin neighborhood Barton Hills—is the home to the internationally renowned annual Austin City Limits Music Festival, and each winter holiday season, it hosts the dazzling Trail of Lights. But those yearly events barely scratch the surface of what the park regularly offers. Year-round, the 358-acre publicly-owned swath of land is equipped to entertain all generations and cultural groups living in and visiting Austin. There’s a playscape for the kiddos, soccer and rugby fields, hike and bike trails for the athletically inclined, and—the apex of manmade ATX swim spots—Barton Springs Pool. The expansive, blocked-off section of Barton Creek is fed by the Main Barton Spring (Texas’s fourth largest spring), which maintains a stable 68-degree temperature. Say it with us…brrr! Yes, it’s freezing, but it becomes a godsend once we hit our almost annual streak of 30-plus days of unbearable 100-degrees-or-hotter weather. Besides, it’s one of the most surefire spots in town to socialize—you’re bound to run into old friends along the hillsides if you’re local and likely to make new friends if you stick around long enough.

4.  The Lakes

Ask any native Austinite: most of us didn’t grow up skiing or snowboarding—the closest mountains are an arduous drive away—but we did do our fair share of boating, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. That’s because Austin boasts three fantastic lakes within relatively close proximity. Lady Bird Lake (still referred to by most locals as Town Lake, its name until former FLOTUS Lady Bird Johnson died in 2007) sits on the edge of downtown and connects to the Colorado River and Barton Creek. You legally can’t swim in it, but there are a few stand-up paddleboards and kayak rental spots like  Austin Rowing Club , so you can glimpse a panoramic view of the city skyline while floating atop the serene water’s surface. Lake Austin, meanwhile, is the premier locale for watersports, jetskiing, and—if you’re lucky—lounging or partying at a pal’s lake house. Lake Travis is a hotspot for sailing, speed boating, and fun family outings such as summer’s  Waterloo Adventures  water park pop-up. Your best bet as a newbie? Lady Bird. With such close proximity to downtown, you can squeeze in a session between other activities, and there are plenty of other nearby spots to get your swimming fix.

5.  Q2 Stadium

Until 2021, Austin was the largest city in the US not to have a major sports league team. Remember, this is Texas, a state that’s bonkers for ball games, so it was a  really  tough time. Thankfully things changed in 2021 with the shining new Q2 stadium, home of Austin FC, and Bat City finally became whole. In fact, the team has developed such a huge local (and extremely proud) following that we dare you not to spot a YETI green jersey on game day. Even if you’re not a soccer enthusiast, the experience of cheering the boys on among a rowdy stadium is a ton of fun, and it’s all situated by another recent development, The Domain, an upscale shopping, living, and dining destination, meaning post-game grub is never too far away.

6.  Breweries

Like so many hipster havens across the U.S., Austin has seen a massive boom in local craft brewery culture within the past 5 years; about a dozen new producers (typically with adjacent taprooms) have popped up. Which ones you visit all depends on your palate:  Hops & Grain  leans more toward IPAs and (appropriately) hoppier fare,  Blue Owl  is the spot for sours,  Jester King —located in the beautiful hill country—flirts with interesting flavors in its farmhouse ales and Austin Beerworks’ beers run the gamut from easy-drinking to heavy-and-malty. If hops don’t make you happy, there’s always  Austin Eastciders , which—across two locations—offers a variety of craft ciders advertised as “drier, smoother, and more complex than many modern ciders.” Of course, the places listed here only represent a tiny sampling of the sprawling ATX brewery community. Consider signing up for a tour via companies like  ATXcursions  if your time is limited.

7.  South Congress (SoCo)

If your wallet’s well-stocked, you could pull off an entire week’s worth of eating, drinking, shopping, and live music in one day on SoCo, the shortened moniker for the historic strip of S. Congress Avenue south of the Colorado River. But we recommend taking your time throughout several visits. Don’t miss the ultimate barbecue food truck  LeRoy and Lewis , and save room for dessert—the cheddar cheesecake is unreal. Next, wander the almost overwhelming array of vintage shops, boutiques, and mom-and-pop craft vendors. If you’re a first-timer to the area, we recommend First Thursdays, where most shops stay open until 10pm, and a flourishing marketplace featuring local artists and small businesses blooms in the lot of Italian eatery  Vespaio . Also essential: catching a show at the  Continental Club , one of the city’s oldest continuously running venues where Texas legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Paul Ray & the Cobras, and Joe Ely played regularly in their heydays.

8.  Texas State Capitol

• Walks and tours

For architecture and history enthusiasts, the Texas State Capitol building—located at the head of South Congress Avenue in the heart of downtown—is an essential stop. Really, though, it’s a must for anyone trying to get the full feel of Austin’s Texas-centric side. Free daily guided tours will take you into the central atrium where stunning portraits of every Texas governor hang on display, into the Senate Chamber and newly restored House of Representatives Chamber, and finally into the impressive underground extension. All the while, your guide will give you a rundown of Texas history and politics. Those with specific informational interests should check the website for details about themed tours, which include Women in Texas History, Heroes of the Texas Revolution, Rest in Peace (urban myths and ghost stories near Halloween), Bravest of the Brave: Celebrating Texas Veterans, the Holiday Tour (available in December) and Early Texas Artists. The Capitol is also proof that everything is bigger in Texas—it’s a replica of the Washington, D.C. building, but actually a bit taller. How much taller? You’ll have to ask when you get there.

9.  North Loop (Blvd)

Can’t hang with the crowds on Rainey or Dirty 6th? Tired of the upscale price tags along SoCo? Craving an authentic locals-only atmosphere? North Loop is your go-to hood. Along the stretch of N. Loop Boulevard roughly between Guadalupe Street and Airport Boulevard, you’ll find a blend of shops that toe the line between old-school and contemporary: there’s  Room Service , one of Austin’s best sources for ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s furniture, clothing, collectibles and knickknacks;  Monkey Wrench Books , an all-volunteer bookstore and social space (they host some killer local concerts) with the mission in mind to spark “radically different” ways of thinking/living; and the all-vinyl  Breakaway Records . For the alcohol-inclined, whether day- or night-oriented, you can hit up one of the friendliest-staffed and most well-stocked (especially in terms of craft beer) dives in town,  Workhorse Bar , or, for some award-winning cocktails, the ever-intimate  drink.well  (pictured). The only catch for these places is limited parking since the strip is positioned in a primarily residential area. At the same time, it’s everyone’s Cheers, a neighborhood that makes this short jaunt north of downtown well worth it.

10.  Rainey Street Historic District

The stretch of E 6th Street between IH-35 and S Congress Avenue—known by locals as “Dirty 6th”—hosts a wild college party scene nightly (it’s essentially our Bourbon Street). But as far as well-rounded, barhoppable strips go, it—or any other ATX drinking district—doesn’t come close to Rainey Street just a few blocks south. Here, you’ve got your pick of the lot: sports bars, swankier cocktail joints ( Half Step ,  Icenhauer’s ), reliable live music havens , and microbrew meccas ( Banger’s ). Quite a few of these feature excellent food choices, making the district an all-in-one-stop worthy of an entire evening. Nighttime visits are more key as many establishments don’t open until late afternoon or early evening, but daytime eats are top-notch, too: Grab a brat at Banger’s or go for some gourmet food truck fare at  Little Lucy’s  or  Masala Dhaba . Barring the food trucks, most of these places are set up inside renovated old houses—each just minutes or moments apart—which lends the avenue a heavy layer of homey charm on top of its enviable variety.

11.  The Broken Spoke

• South Lamar

“Last of the true Texas dancehalls and damn sure proud of it!” reads a quote from owner James M. White on the South Austin bar-restaurant’s website. If that sounds pretty dang Texan, it’s because it has been, is, and always will be one of the most Texan spots you can visit since 1964. The family-owned honky-tonk is situated far enough from downtown that it feels like a homely neighborhood watering hole, and its food menu features all the ATX essentials: steaks, burgers, Tex-Mex, and, of course, BBQ. Two-steppin’ is always in full swing, and you can even sign up for lessons with White’s daughter Terri on Wednesday to Saturday nights. But one of its most attractive features is a long tradition of hosting legendary musicians—Willie Nelson, Ernest Tubb, and Bob Wills, to name a few. Some of those who are still around occasionally pop in unannounced. No joke, if you’re lucky, you might witness Nelson hop on stage for an impromptu show any given night of the week. Can I get a “yeehaw”?!

12.  The Drag

If you’re headed anywhere on or near the University of Texas campus, you’ve gotta take a stroll down the Drag—the stretch of Guadalupe between 29th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard that runs alongside campus—for some superb shopping and/or food along the way (officially, it’s between 21st and 25th Streets, but true Austinites know better). Gone are the days of classic music stores like Tower Records and Sound Exchange, but there’s still plenty of culture to soak up via vintage clothing shops ( Buffalo Exchange ,  C. Jane ,  Monkies Vintage and Thrift ), delicious eateries ( Kerbey Lane Café ,  Madam Mam’s ,  Teji’s Indian Restaurant ), one of the city’s best dive bars ( Hole in the Wall ) and a plethora of handmade craft goods at the open-air Austin Renaissance Market on 23rd Street. For some carefree recreation, one needs to jaunt across the street and down a few flights of stairs to access the UT Student Union Underground, which is decked out with billiards tables, an arcade, and glow-in-the-dark (!) bowling. Glow Bowl is only available from the end of May through mid-August, so we highly recommend it as a fun and trippy—not to mention air-condition—respite during the often brutally hot summers.

13.  Mayfield Park

Located northwest of downtown near the Contemporary Austin’s sprawling Laguna Gloria artists’ complex, Mayfield Park is a mainstay for locals, but often overlooked by visitors on their way to the scenic Mt. Bonnell overlook just up the road. With its quaint central cottage built in the 1870s surrounded by a serene, sprawling garden replete with koi ponds and lush, colorful flora, it’s a perfect place for an afternoon picnic, reading, or just generally relaxing. There’s also a lovely hiking trail through the 23-acre nature preserve if you’re aiming for a more active mode. But the real draw for most is the two-dozen or so resident peafowl (that’s the accurate plural of peacocks and peahens) who, not the least bit frightened by humans, roam the grounds, rooftops, and trees of the central park. Our recommendation: Go see these majestic birds between February and April—this is the season when the males begin courting the females by fanning out their colorful tail feathers, a truly impressive spectacle.

14.  Hippie Hollow Park

• Greater Austin

You don’t need to be a nudist to enjoy the secluded beauty of Hippie Hollow, but you do need to be comfortable with the concept. The 109-acre park, situated about 20 minutes from downtown alongside Lake Travis, is the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in the Lone Star State—quite appropriate for a city that proudly strives to “keep [it] weird.” Even if you don’t strip down to your birthday suit, it’s worth a visit for its natural oasis-like atmosphere and solid swim spots with close proximity to the city center, without any sign of the hustle and bustle. Just be warned, you will see naked bodies of all types—young, old, big, small—so think twice if you’re the modest type.

15.  Circuit of the Americas

• Sport events

If you’re an avid live music fan, you may want to check COTA’s website for concert listings before your visit. Aside from the 3.4-mile racetrack (home to the only Formula 1 race in America, the United States Grand Prix), the complex is home to Austin360 Amphitheater, the largest permanent outdoor amphitheater in Central Texas, which since opening in 2012 has hosted some of music’s biggest artists, including Kanye West, KISS and local legend Willie Nelson. For racing fans who just want to see the track—which features a ride up Turn 1, a 133-foot rise with panoramic views from the top of the surrounding hill country—you can catch a guided tour. If neither racing nor live music is in your wheelhouse, COTA is still worth a visit for a trip to the top of its iconic 25-story Observation Tower, which provides a clear view of the Austin skyline—you won’t want to miss that awe-inspiring perspective!

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austin, TX

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023

Austin, the capital of Texas, sits where the Colorado River leaves the Edwards Plateau in Central Texas. It's the second-largest state capital in the United States by population and was founded in 1839. Today, this longstanding history interweaves with a vibrant community that's only growing by the day.

Austin has a million ways to enjoy a vacation or long stopover. From traditional tourist attractions like the red-granite State Capitol or the Bullock Texas State History Museum to simply spending the day walking near the shores of Ladybird Lake , the city offers a new experience around every street corner – like watching millions of bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge .

There's a reason why so many people are moving to Austin. Consistently nice weather mixes with the city's natural spaces and downtown sidewalks, casting a Texas glow across the city late into the evening – this and a friendly, eclectic community that invites creative types and sightseers to join the crowd.

Whether for a quick weekend visit or a lifelong move, enjoy the capital of Texas with these top attractions and things to do in Austin, Texas:

The State Capitol and Visitors Center

Lady bird lake, go for a dip at barton springs pool, lyndon baines johnson library and museum, bullock texas state history museum, see the bats from congress avenue bridge, hop on a sightseeing tour, zilker metropolitan park attractions, explore the attractions at the university of texas at austin, mexic-arte museum, mckinney falls state park, umlauf sculpture garden and museum, mount bonnell, tour the museum of the weird, day trip to texas hill country, map of tourist attractions in austin, tx, austin, tx - climate chart.

The State Capitol and its 22 acres of grounds and monuments are home to the office of the State Governor and the Chambers of the Texas Legislature. The building was completed in 1888 and today is protected as a National Historic Landmark. It impresses with its dimensions; and at 308 feet tall, it ranks as the sixth tallest state capitol, taller even than the US Capitol in Washington, DC.

Visitors stroll the capital park via the tree-lined path called the Great Walk and admire the numerous monuments. A Texas African American History Memorial , the Vietnam War monument , and a bronze statue of a Texas Ranger all capture attention along the Great Walk , as well as a miniature Statue of Liberty that was presented in 1951 by the Boy Scouts of America.

The visitor center is located on the grounds and features exhibits about the history of Austin and the state of Texas. Free tours of the Capitol Building are given daily, except on holidays. Visitors are also welcome to take a self-guided tour anytime the capital is open.

Nearby, the recently restored Texas Governor's Mansion is also an area of interest, accessible via free guided tours (reservations required).

Address: 112 East 11th Street, Austin, Texas

Named after the wife of President Lyndon Johnson, Lady Bird Lake is actually a section of the Colorado River. This flowing reservoir covers 416 acres and has become one of the city's top recreation areas.

Although lined with hotels and residential complexes, the majority of its shoreline is open to the public, with miles of excellent trails for pedestrians and cyclists. The main pedestrian path along the shores is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail and Pedestrian Bridge , which crosses the river and connects downtown Austin with the southern shore.

The Ann and Roy Butler Trail connects many of the city's parks, including Zilker Metropolitan Park , the Town Lake Metropolitan Park's Vic Mathias Shores, Lamar Beach, Butler Shores, Waller Beach, and Eilers Neighborhood Park .

The Ann and Roy Butler Trail also leads to popular tourist sites near the river, like the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue , Congress Avenue Bridge , the Long Center of Performing Arts , and the Barton Springs Municipal Pool .

Motorized boats are prohibited on Lady Bird Lake. On the north shore, the Texas Rowing Center provides kayak and canoe rentals and lessons. And on the lake's south shore in Zilker Park , the Rowing Dock offers rentals and instruction for paddleboards, kayaks, and paddleboats.

Canoe and kayak rentals are also available for use on Barton Creek, which is within the park.

Although swimming in Lady Bird lake is prohibited, nearby Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park is Austin's favorite place to cool off.

Barton Springs is a spring-fed pool along Barton Creek, covering an area of three acres with an average temperature of 70 degrees year-round. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the grassy tree-lined perimeter and perfect water that reaches up to 18 feet deep.

The area is also considered a protected habitat for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, which is only found in this specific aquifer. Because of the delicate balance between recreation and nature, the pool is closed for most of the day once a week for a specialized cleaning that protects the wildlife form harsh chemicals while keeping swimmers safe.

Location: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, Texas

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is one of the most visited attractions in Austin and boasts more than 45 million pages of historical documents and papers from President LBJ's lengthy career.

The museum, dedicated in 1971 and refurbished in 2013, contains exhibits relating to the president's time in office, as well as important issues of the day, including the rise of the civil rights movement.

Also of interest is an impressive scale replica of the Oval Office as it would have been during Johnson's presidency, and many temporary exhibits related to American history are hosted throughout the year.

The library and museum are open every day of the week, excluding major holidays.

Address: 2313 Red River Street, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.lbjlibrary.org

The Bullock Texas State History Museum tells the state's story through a variety of interesting interactive exhibits, along with audio-visual displays and film.

The permanent Story of Texas exhibit is home to artifacts and displays that feature defining events in the state's history. Artifacts include the preserved hull of the 17th-century La Belle, which was shipwrecked at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Other exhibits and presentations include the fall of the Alamo, Tejano culture, and the history of the Texas oil industry.

The museum's IMAX theater shows educational and popular new-release films. The museum also hosts many special events throughout the year, including children's activities and public presentations.

Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.thestoryoftexas.com

One of Austin's most unique things to do is spectating the evening flight of the Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge . up to one-and-a-half million of these insect-devouring critters take to the sky at dusk each evening from March through November, comprising the world's largest urban bat colony.

The result is a stunning display as they fly from beneath the bridge and up to two miles high in massive formations so they can dine on mosquitoes, moths, grasshoppers, and other flying pests. It can take up to 45 minutes just for the fuzzy mammals to all exit their home. Once the pups (babies) are old enough, they accompany their mothers on the evening flight.

There are many vantage points from which to enjoy the sight, with the area surrounding the bridge the most popular. Others enjoy watching from boats on Lady Bird Lake or from the Statesman Bat Observation Center , which sits at the southern end of the bridge.

In conjunction with Bat Conservation International, the center is an eco-tourism destination, striving to increase awareness of bats and educate the public on their importance.

Location: South Congress Avenue, off West Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, Texas

Austin has several sightseeing tour options to aid in exploring the city without a car. These narrative journeys also provide valuable insight along the way, perfect for first-time visitors or those who want to know more about Austin's legacy. Tour options include walking tours, tasting tours, and bus tours, as well as aquatic Duck Tours.

Double Decker Austin is always a popular choice to get around. This locally owned tour company offers a single-loop, hop-on-hop-off tour throughout the day, stopping at several downtown top attractions. A few recommended hop-offs include downtown 6th street, the Texas State Capitol, and South Congress District.

Another amphibious option is Austin Duck Adventures . This Coast Guard-approved Hydra Terra tour takes to land and sea with a unique 75-minute expedition. Passengers on this floating vessel tour the streets of downtown before splashing into Lake Austin. Duck tours depart from near the Austin Visitor Center.

Advance reservations are recommended no matter the tour, especially if you're visiting during the busy summer season.

The 351-acre Zilker Park is Austin's most popular green space and recreation area. The park's grassy expanses and picnic space sit alongside Lady Bird Lake and are ideal for lazy afternoons, but there are also many recreational facilities for the public to enjoy. Riverside walking trails, volleyball courts, and a disc golf course are all within park boundaries.

The 26-acre Zilker Botanical Garden is the park's most beautiful area, open daily for a small entrance fee. Within, there are several individually themed gardens. Specialty gardens include the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which is built around ancient dinosaur footprints found embedded in the rock, and the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden, which features serene waterfalls and ponds. There are also gardens dedicated to butterflies, cacti and succulents, herbs, and roses.

Water recreation for all ages is popular at the park as well, with canoe and boat rentals available, as well as the family-favorite Barton Springs Pool . Zilker Park is also home to the Zilker Playscape , a large playground with its own section designed for kids aged two to five years. Kids will also love the Zilker Zephyr, a miniature train that runs along the water's edge.

The Austin Nature and Science Center is also on the grounds, open daily with no admission charge. It is celebrated for its interactive exhibits and programs, as well as its numerous trails and special events designed for all ages. Kids especially enjoy the Dino Pit, where they can be amateur archaeologists.

The park is also host to several major music events, including the Zilker Hillside Theater's annual Zilker Summer Musical, Blues on the Green, and the celebrated Austin City Limits Music Festival . Also known as ACL, Austin City Limits takes place over two consecutive weekends in October.

The park grounds are also home to another one of Austin's top tourist attractions, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum.

Address: 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas

In addition to being the first of the Texas University System campuses, the University of Texas at Austin is home to several top tourist attractions. The Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art has a permanent collection of 17,000 pieces of European, American, and Latin American art. The museum also hosts numerous temporary exhibits.

Also on campus is the Harry Ransom Center , which houses a permanent collection of rare literature and printed materials. The Ransom Center also has numerous temporary exhibits and collections on display. Among the museum's most prized pieces are a Gutenberg Bible from the mid-fifteenth century and the First Photograph, a heliograph developed on a pewter plate that was created in 1827 by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce.

The Texas Memorial Museum is part of the Natural Science Center at the University of Texas and features a huge collection of items representing the natural and cultural history of the Lone Star State. Highlights include numerous dinosaur displays, fossils, gems, and minerals, as well as the famous Wichita County meteorite, a large space rock regarded as a medicine stone by Comanche Indians.

Another impressive tourist site at the university is the landmark UT Tower , infamous for the tragic shooting in 1966. With a height of 307 feet, the tower provides beautiful 360-degree views of the city of Austin; tours are self-guided and include information on the architecture and history of the structure.

For sports fans, the spirit of Longhorn athletics is unrivaled throughout the state. Football games at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium feature trembling bleachers and deafening crowds of pigskin fans.

The university also just opened the new Moody Center multi-purpose arena in April 2022, offering a state-of-the-art venue for sports games and more.

Representing one of the city's largest cultural influences and populations, the Mexic-Arte Museum showcases traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture.

Founded in 1983, the museum features rotating exhibits, many of which are thought-provoking statements about current issues, like immigration, border control, and acceptance of Mexican culture in Texas.

Numerous installations and topic-focused galleries include the artwork or sculptures of one or more artists, and several are collections of photography, painting, and multimedia work that represent populations within the culture.

The museum also hosts free "family days" several times a year, when the public can participate in hands-on activities that help visitors get a deeper understanding of the artists' work.

Address: 419 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.mexic-artemuseum.org

Another must-visit outdoor attraction in Austin is McKinney Falls State Park , home to one of the best waterfalls in Texas . This natural landscape is in the southeastern corner of Austin and provides a perfect place to get away from the city and explore some picturesque Texas scenery.

The state park has over 80 campsites available with water and electric hookups. Six cabins on-site also provide a rustic way to spend the night. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is the main corridor for exploration, with many side trails leading off from the gravel path.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum is dedicated to the understanding and appreciation of American sculpture and features several works by 20th-century sculptor Charles Umlauf.

The sculpture garden and museum are within Zilker Metropolitan Park . The outdoor sculptures nestle among the trees, gardens, and ponds that surround the museum. Inside, visitors see more of Umlauf's work in addition to exhibits about the artist's life and displays of personal artifacts and mementos.

The museum also features temporary exhibits of other artists' work and hosts events such as concerts, workshops, and even yoga classes among the sculptures outside. Guided tours are available.

Address: 605 Robert E Lee Road, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.umlaufsculpture.org

Mount Bonnell is one of many best hiking trails in Austin and is one of the most popular with tourists because of its numerous photo ops and proximity to the city center. Standing at 775 feet, Mount Bonnell is the highest point in the city and provides excellent views of downtown Austin and the 360 Bridge. It also looks out across the Colorado River and is the perfect place to take photos of Austin's skyline.

Although the lookout deck and pavilion are at the top of 102 stairs, it is not a steep or strenuous climb. Pets are welcome on the path and on the observation deck, and many visitors enjoy picnicking while admiring the view. Expect to encounter crowds if visiting on the weekend.

Address: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Drive, Austin, Texas

For a big taste of the "weirdness" presented in the capital city, head to Historic 6th Street and the Museum of the Weird. This certified roadside attraction sits squarely in the middle of the hustle and bustle of downtown, and provides halls upon halls of curiosities.

Among the displays are wax statues, two-headed creatures, and mysteries from around the world.

The museum is open seven days a week and experienced with a self-guided tour, with a few different paths to follow. Visiting mid-week is a way to enjoy the museum at a less-crowded pace. Expect to spend at least two hours wandering the halls and seeing the live demonstrations from "professional human oddities."

West of the city, the sprawling Texas Hill Country sits atop the Edwards Plateau and invites day trips from Austin .

This beautiful area has a strong German heritage, as can be seen at prominent places to visit like New Braunfels . Other fun cities to visit in Texas Hill Country include Fredericksburg and Wimberley. With many charming places to stay, these destinations are also some of Austin's best weekend trips.

Outdoor activities are abundant in Texas Hill Country. Popular recreation destinations include Hamilton Pool , Enchanted Rock , and Pedernales Falls . These three destinations offer unique landscapes and popular places to spend the entire day.

Thanks to a unique limestone bedrock, Texas Hill Country is also home to all the best caverns in Texas . Subterranean spaces open to the public here include Inner Space Cavern and Cave Without a Name.

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Top 30 Things To Do in Austin Texas

This list highlights the top 30 things to do in Austin Texas in June 2024 with Austin sightseeing, attractions, tours, museums, and more that locals love just as much as visitors!

Last updated on Sep 23, 2024 by Ivan Collins

1. Blow Your Mind at Wonderspaces

Arriving in Austin during covid, Wonderspaces offers 28,000 square feet of art installations to dazzle every corner of your mind. An exquisite fun house of varied installations of light, mirror, technology, and pure imagination, Wonderspaces features a sensually diverse experience that everyone will love. Tickets sell out, so check online to find a day and time to go spend a few hours blowing your mind with this indoor activity that features plenty of space for fun alone or with your crew.

2. Ride in Style with a Haunted Hearse Tour

Locals and visitors alike rave about the dark, spooky style of Haunted ATX hearse limo and van tours. One of the more unique experiences in Austin that is seriously keeping Austin weird, this tour lets you pack your friends in a hearse that's been converted into a limo or a passenger van wrapped in spooky art to visit historic locations and hear the tales of ghosts that haunt these landmarks. Tours start at $49 per person, but lasts 3 hours so you get a lot of entertainment bang for your buck. The tour itself is a blend of scary stories, Austin history, and a deep dive into some intriguing tales behind some of Austin's most iconic buildings.

3. Check out the World Famous Congress Bridge Bats

Watching the Austin Bats depart the Congress Bridge is Austin's most popular tourist attraction for a reason. It's simply a marvel. Watch as 1.5 million bats pepper the sky in steady stream appreciated pursuit to rid Austin of mosquitoes. There are a lot of ways to view the bats. Use the button below to learn about 4 fun ways to check them out.

4. Take a Splash with Austin Duck Adventures

One of the first tours to show visitors around town and the only land and water tour available, Austin Duck Adventures is one of the most popular tours in town. The tour starts at the Austin Visitor Center at the corner of 4th and Red River in downtown Austin. It drives along 6th street, up Congress where you get great views of the Texas Capitol and then on to Lake Austin where you drive straight into the water and float around before heading back. Tours run 7 days a week.

5. Take a Wild Ride at Slick Dick's

Gather the girls and head to Slick Dick’s for some Texas sized fun at one of the only arcades of its kind. Take a wild ride with your ride-or-dies on their mischievous mechanical member, Marvin. Smash the patriarchy with the Whack-A-D*ck machine or try your luck at grabbing a plushy package from Jean Claw Van Dayum! Slicks is the picture perfect playhouse for your upcoming bachelorettes, birthdays, and bangers of any kind.

6. Pet Your Next Kitty at Purrfecto Cat Lounge

Do you believe in furry tails? Indulge your kitty fix or adopt your new family member with a visit to the newest, coolest, chic lounge in Austin...Purrfecto. This is the only cat lounge in Austin and a one of a kind activity that will warm your heart.

7. Work out Your Frustrations in a Rage Room

One of the most exotic Austin things to do, Unchartered Adventures features a variety of high octane activities. Originally they featured a Rage Room full of breakables, suited up guests in protective clothing and let them go wild with a baseball bat. Since releasing the rage room they've added more activities with Smash Car, Escape Rooms, Splatter Paint, and something called Zombie Airsoft. If you're looking to log some off the charts memories, definitely check out the scene at Unchartered Adventures.

8. Immerse Yourself into a Virtual Reality at Zero Latency

Have you ever wanted to jump into a video game and experience what it's like with your own eyes? Look no further than Zero Latency VR. Here, you can fully immerse your senses into a whole new story and free roam VR world. Save yourself from zombies, defend your team on the Islands of Far Cry, enter the sci-fi singularity cyber world, and many more adventures to discover! Amp up your adrenaline and become the hero you’ve been training to be.

9. Weird Out at the Museum of the Weird

This mystical museum will blow your mind without leaving a crater in your wallet. An authentically Austin adventure that is accessible and eccentric. You won’t want to miss the unique sights to be seen here. Located right downtown in the Sixth Street Historic District and home to many things most couldn’t imagine. Throw your expectations to the wayside and anticipate something stranger. Go see for yourself and you’ll soon believe in the Weird like we do.

10. Zip Over Land and Lake with Lake Travis Zip Lines

Climb up above the tree lines and then zip across the forest and water like a modern Tarzan with (hopefully) more than a loin cloth. Lake Travis Zip lines offers a chance to suspend your pedestrian life with something more airborne as you zip through, across, and over some of Austin's best scenery. Zip lines offers one of the most highlighted photographic opportunities available to declare to your social media pals that you're bravery is not grounded to bikes and scooters.

11. I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Boozy Scoop Ice Cream!

That’s right folks! Now there is an adult ice cream shop to satisfy multiple cravings. Every flavor at Boozy Scoop is loaded with great ingredients and infused with your favorite liquors. If you aren’t drinking or under age no fear, they have tons of non alcoholic flavors as well. Try these flavors: S’mores (marshmallow cream, chocolate chips, graham cracker, topped with toasted marshmallow with a Boozy Infusion of Ugly Dog S'mores Whiskey) - Mama's Banana Puddin' (Banana Pudding Mix, Nilla Wafers, Bananas with a Boozy Infusion of Howler Head Banana Whiskey) - Tiger Stripes (Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Reese's Cups with a Boozy Infusion of Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey)

12. Break Out of Prison + More at The Escape Game

Located downtown next to the Austin Visitor Center, this is the #1 escape room in Austin. You and your friends will work together to find clues and overcome challenges to ultimately complete a mission and ESCAPE! The Escape Game has 6 different adventures to choose from including The Heist, Gold Rush, Playground, Cosmic Crisis, Classified, and our favorite - Prison Break.

13. Snap Some Selfies at the Texas State Capitol

Austin and Texas are at odds when it comes to politics. Exploring the Texas State Capitol is a unique Austin experience and may help you understand the complexities of the local political scene. Who knows, you might get lucky and bump into Alex Jones protesting against masks, science, or some idea of civic responsibility. While a lot of people will stroll the grounds and take some selfies, we recommend a tour with Texas Capitol City Tours that lasts about an hour and costs $20 a person

14. Fire a Fully Automatic Uzi at The Range at Austin

What better way to bond with friends and family than showcasing your Uzi skills? The Range features a state of the art facility and immersive experience that begins the moment you step inside. Pick from shooting packages featuring, pistols, revolvers, shotguns, modern rifles, and/or automatic firearms! Packages start at $49. We suggest you go big and get the AR15 + Uzi Two-Gun package for $199. Your party's Safety Officer will run you through the protocol and demonstrate proper usage of your gun(s). The Range Safety Officer is there to assist your party from start to finish and make sure you're prepared for the next invasion.

15. Dine at the Best Austin Restaurants

Everybody has a friend that claims their city has the most restaurants per capita. You hear that from Austin locals all the time. While it may not offer the most restaurants per capita, it's definitely a hot market for culinary talent looking to escape the high prices of running a boutique restaurant along the nation's coasts. Austin City Guide recently released our Best Austin Restaurants Guide that is organized like this things to do list. We figured we'd give it a quick plug here since everybody loves to eat!

16. Crush Devil's Cove with Lone Star Party Boats

Often catering to Austin's elite, the boat scene at Devil's Cove has earned its nickname with boats tying together creating a dance floor that rival's Austin's best night clubs. The guys at Lone Star Party Boats make it easy to get your groove on with single and double decker boats to rent. All boats have captains, large floating pads, plenty of pool noodles, and big coolers. If you want to seize the day in Austin, there's no better experience than Lake Travis and Devil's Cove!

17. Take Down the Cartel at Paniq Room

Fed up you can't help stop the drug war? Every time you shut down a lab, another pops right up. Do your part with Paniq Room's Cartel Crackdown. They also feature rooms called Isane Asylum, Wizard Trials, and Pirates of Tortuga if you're not up for helping with the War on Drugs.

18. Laugh til you Cry at Esther's Follies

The only evolving shows to grace the city of Austin's streets and a good reason to visit Austin's famous 6th street, Esther's Follies offers an amazing Broadway like show that features current political skits, impersonations, magic and more. They tease both sides of the political wheel, but if you're really rigid about your politics, this may be more than you can handle. We consider it an annual must see show worthy of every guest that comes to town.

19. Hold your Paddle High with Live Love Paddle

We absolutely love Live Love Paddle's kayak bat watching tours during bat season. They also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes for those looking to get a little exercise in with their sightseeing. The views of downtown Austin from Lady Bird Lake are amazing, especially as the sun sets.

20. Taste and Tour Texas Hill Country Distilleries

Get to know Austin's Hill Country with a distillery tour in Dripping Springs. You and your crew can take a private ride from your location in Austin to three celebrated distilleries: Dripping Springs Distilling, Treaty Oaks Distillery, and the Desert Door Distillery. Maybe take some notes on how to make your own hooch in case prohibition circles back to the new America. Or just enjoy drinks at each location and soak in the views. The guys at Austin Tour Company make it fun, safe, and legal to let go a little. It's a great idea for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a group get away.

21. Challenge Your Tribe at Axe Escape

Whether you are an axe amateur or a ninja with the knives, Axe Escape is the perfect experience for you and your squad. Become the hero you’ve always wanted to be and learn to throw axes, hachets, Batarangs, and a host of other sharp objects. With a full bar and plenty of space, this is the prime spot for your next party. Put your friends to the test and book an Axe Escape.

22. Get the Gang Back Together with YourBikerGang.com

Bring your gang of friends on one of YourBikerGang.com's tours and they will have the time of their life! They have won Tripadvisor's Traveler's Choice Award 7 years in a row and for good reason; everyone has a BLAST! Choose from one of their biker gang themed e-bike tours or learn about Austin's music history on their newest walking tour. They also offer e-bike rentals if you want to explore Austin on your own. It's a bucket list experience in Austin!

23. Rock a Night Out at the Best Bars in Austin

Maybe you're into breweries and outdoor seating. Perhaps it a hot dance floor with a sweet disco ball. In the past, Austin's nightlife was isolated to historic sixth street. Now there's districts all over town. Check out our nightlife guide for hot spots to get your groove on or chilax with your dogs and some brews.

24. Escape a Submarine in a Literary-Themed Escape Room

Like Escape Games? We love them. The guys at Novel Escape build them based on classic novels. Their main game is built around 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and requires escaping a submarine before you run out of air. Talk about pressure! Novel Escape features 100% private games just for you and your mates.

25. Explore Austin's Trails with Mike's Bikes Tours and Rentals

We love biking in Austin and nobody knows the trails and sites better than Mike. His crew offers a variety of tours to choose from including a couple on Austin's premiere mountain bike trails and a few that explore the city itself. You might think summer is the only time for a bike tour in Austin, but due to our warm weather these tours run all year round

26. Disappear at Magic's Theater

Located in Southwest Austin, Magic's Theater offers a close up magic show inside a magic museum. They're open Monday - Saturday nights with shows starting at 8pm. The museum features pieces from Harry Houdini, Doug Henning, and other magician's acts. Plus you can bring your own wine with a small corkage fee.

27. Catch Some Air with soFly Social

Have you ever dreamed you could fly? Well, we want to see you soar! Express your inner aero and take an aerial dance class with the folks at soFly. Swing from the silks, hop in a hoop, and dance till you drop! Book a class for you and your besties!

28. Enjoy a Sightseeing or Dinner Cruise on Lady Bird Lake

There are two large river boat operations on Lady Bird Lake that are super packed during warmer months taking people on bat watching tours. When they bats leave, they still offer great sunset, sightseeing, and moonlight cruise tours of Lady Bird Lake. There's also a few companies that offer kayaking tours that are very popular because the weather can be perfect on a weekend afternoon.

29. Keep Austin Weird and Visit South Congress Avenue

The epicenter of the "Keep Austin Weird" movement, South Congress Avenue remains a top visitor attraction albeit more and more upscale as the years go by. It's a great place to do some unique shopping, catch a great restaurant, even see live music.

30. Walk, Jog, or Ride the Boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake

It wasn't until they finished the boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake that you could circle the entire trail without a few treks on the road. Now there's a full 10.2 mile loop along the water in downtown Austin. We love getting our bikes out there when the weather is right.

Frequently Asked Questions about Austin

The most enjoyable indoor attractions in austin are:.

• Break Out of Prison + More at the Escape Game
• Blow Your Mind at Wonder Spaces
• Take a Step Back in Time at Inner Space Cavern
• Enjoy Illusions at Magic’s Theatre
• Fire a Fully Automatic Uzi at The Range
• Check out the Top Indoor Things To Do in Austin Texas

Check out these totally free things to do in Austin:

• View the Congress Bridge Bats
• Explore Lady Bird Lake
• Hike Mount Bonnell
• Visit Waterfalls on Barton Creek Greenbelt
• Check out these 5 free sightseeing ideas in Austin

Austin's best natural swimming holes are:

• Check out sculpture and twin falls at Barton Creek
• Go for a dip in Barton Springs Pool
• Head over to McKinney Falls State Park
• Cool off at the iconic Hamilton Pool
• Check out all of Austin's best natural swimming holes

Other Things To Do in Austin

• View The Domain Austin
• View Rainey Street District
• View Tactical Fitness Austin
• View the Cathedral of Junk
• View Mount Bonnell
• View Pedal Pub Austin
• View Barton Creek Greenbelt
• View Bob Bullock Museum
• View McKinney Falls State Park
• View Texas State Tubes
• View Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures
• View Top Golf Austin
• View Hamilton Pool
• View Barton Springs Pool
• View COTA Karting
• View Inner Space Cavern
• View Elizabet Ney Museum
• View the Imax Theatre
• View Zilker Botanical Gardens
• View Just for Fun Boat Rentals
• View the Escape Game
• View Float On Boat Rentals

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The 21 Best Things To Do In Austin, Texas, According To A Local

Between tacos and two-steps, check out some of these Austin hot spots.

Outdoor Activities

Culture activities.

• Food and Drink

Austin, Texas, is a city that moves to its own groove. The Texas state capital has become known for its relaxed, laid-back vibe and vibrant live music scene, attracting droves of young professionals, retirees, and everything in between. Whether you're shopping in South Congress or taking in the fine arts, paddle-boarding, or touring the capitol, Austin promises endless days of fun.

Among similarly sprawling Southern cities , Austin stands out for its widely popular outdoor activities. From the Barton Springs swimming hole to Lady Bird Lake—its glossy water is often dotted with paddle boards and kayaks—the city's prolific green spaces and waterways are a surprising and wonderful addition to the urban landscape.

To get a real pulse on the city, we partnered with our Texas-based editors to round up some of the can't-miss spots in the live music capital of the world. Between tacos and two-stepping , check out some of these Austin hot spots. Here are the top things to do in Austin, Texas.

Swim at Barton Springs

This outdoor swimming hole in Zilker Park is entirely fed by natural springs, making it the perfect spot to cool down during hot Texas summers. It's surrounded by a picturesque grassy area, and on hot summer days, it seems as if all of Austin is there to cool off. (The visitor count has approached 800,000 in recent years).

austintexas.gov/barton-springs-pool , 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746

See the Bats on the Congress Avenue Bridge

Each night, spectators line the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch the world's largest urban bat colony—we're talking 1.5 million bats—fly out from a roost beneath the bridge. Don't fear: Bats are gentle animals, and the city appreciates that its bats "eat from 10,000 to 20,000 pounds of insects, including agricultural pests."

batsinaustin.com , South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Go Mural-Spotting

In a city known for its street art, wandering around to find some of the city's signature murals proves an ever-entertaining activity. You'll find many along South Congress Avenue, including the notable "I Love You So Much" mural on the side of Jo's Coffee. On the East side and downtown, keep an eye out and you'll count dozens more murals on your walks and drives.

Stroll Along the Hike-And-Bike Trail

Take in the downtown skyline as you bike or run along Lady Bird Lake on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. You may have to do a double take to believe that this idyllic trail is right in the heart of the city.

Paddle Board or Kayak on Lady Bird Lake

Hitting the lake is simply an essential Austin experience. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand up paddleboards from the Rowing Dock .

rowingdock.com , 2418 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Founded by Lady Bird Johnson and actress Helen Hayes in 1982, this 284-acre state botanical garden and arboretum is home to more than 1,000 species from all over Texas, the most diverse collection of such in North America.

wildflower.org , 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739

Take a Cruise on Lady Bird Lake

It's no secret that there are many ways you can get on the water while in Austin, but the cruises offer a unique view, especially at dusk, when you can see the city at sunset and watch the bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge. Book a tour with Capital Cruises and Lone Star Riverboat .

Learn How to Two-Step

Stop by The White Horse in East Austin for free dance lessons from different genres, or visit legendary spot Broken Spoke for lessons and live music, Wednesday through Saturday evenings. When in Texas, learn to two-step!

Take a Capitol Tour

Get a quick lesson in Texas history with a free tour of the Capitol building. Seasonally, they also can offer themed tours , including one dedicated to Women in Texas History.

tspb.texas.gov , 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Visit the Blanton Museum of Art

This University of Texas museum is naturally one of the largest university art museums in the country. Pro tip: Entry is free every Tuesday. Don't miss Ellsworth Kelly's Austin .

blantonmuseum.org , 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712

See Immersive Art at Wonderspaces

This interactive art exhibit highlights 14 interesting installations that you can explore and immerse yourself in. It's open year-round with a rotation of artwork displayed, as well as a full bar to enjoy while meandering through the expansive spaces.

austin.wonderspaces.com , 1205 Sheldon Cove #2A, Austin, TX 78753

Where To Eat and Drink

Try out authentic tex-mex.

It's no secret that barbecue and tacos reign supreme in Austin, Texas. Experience an epic mashup of these Austin specialties at Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ , or test out some of our other favorite spots to eat in Austin right now, including the famed Matt's El Rancho Tex-Mex , taco truck Discada , and Veracruz All Natural for breakfast tacos. While most people will recommend the classic Migas, you won't go wrong with any of the breakfast taco options and one of the fresh-squeezed juices on the side. 

Wait in Line for Real Texas Barbecue

While you can find the state's famous brisket in many cities and towns, Austin boasts some of the best in the business, including the iconic Franklin Barbecue (make sure to show up early), Leroy & Lewis (try the not-your-usual proteins and side dishes), Stubb's B-B-Q (go to the gospel brunch on Sundays), and Asian-influenced Loro (don't skip out on the boozy slushies).

Spend the Day Touring Breweries

On a sunny day, get a taste of the Hill Country with a drive out to Jester King , a brewery, kitchen, and farm just 30 minutes outside Austin's city center. Come for the exciting beer varieties, stay for the wood-fired pizza made with Texas grain.

If you're looking for something within city limits, check out Austin Beerworks , The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. (the ABGB) , or Live Oak Brewing Company .

Explore Downtown's Rainey Street

Admittedly, this block of historic houses-turned-bars skew to a younger crowd at night, we recommend going during the day to sit in one of the cozy courtyards, listen to music, and try out a Texas Ranch Water. Walk up and down to find your favorite place to post up, but we recommend Banger's Sausage House and Beer Garden for a German-style meal, Half Step for more crafted cocktails, and Lucille Patio Lounge , which decks itself out in decorations for most holidays.

Where To Experience the Music Scene

As the live music capital of the world, Austin has a diverse music scene that spans genres and decades. Here are a few of our favorite spots for taking in the tunes.

Hit the Historic Continental Club

The Continental Club , fondly dubbed "the granddaddy of live music venues," is one of the most celebrated live music venues in Austin. You feel like you're living part of history when you're there. Next door to Continental Club is its upstairs sister property, the Gallery . The shows here are smaller and the set-up almost feels like you're listening to music in someone's living room.

continentalclub.com , 1315 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

GABRIELA HERMAN

See Big Names at the New Moody Theater

The Moody Theater at ACL Live is a great place to see big name shows—think Kacey Musgraves, Martina McBride, and Jason Isbell. Even in the balcony, the acoustics make the 2,750-person theater feel intimate.

acllive.com , 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701

Wander Between the Many Other Local Music Venues

C-Boys Heart & Soul is another South Congress venue that caters to blues, soul, and country music fans. Antone's Nightclub has been a downtown staple since 1975, and Carousel Lounge is a colorful carnival-themed watering hole that’s been a local spot since it opened in 1963.

Best Places To Shop

Explore south congress avenue.

The walkable district of South Congress is home to many of Austin's iconic boutiques. Some favorite spots include Big Top Candy Shop (a whimsical candy store with an old-fashioned soda fountain and over 300 different varieties of candy), Parts & Labour (a mix of fun souvenirs from local artisans), and South Congress Books (a used bookstore with quite a few signed editions and collectibles). Cool off after an afternoon of shopping with a scoop from Amy's Ice Cream , a charming walk-up stand serving over 350 flavors.

Find a Unique Pair of Boots

There are many places to find a pair of cowboy boots that will have you feeling ready to two-step. Allen's Boots on South Congress Avenue is a great place to start, thanks to a collection of over 4,000 boots. Tecovas offers quality-made Western wear and boots in both classic styles and those with unique modern flair, while the shelves of Heritage Boot Co. are lined with a curated collection of artisan-made boots.

Leave With a Custom Hat

There's something so festively Texan about designing your own custom hat. Maufrais on South Congress Avenue features a a top-notch experience where you can personalize your own Western-style hat with bands, charms, and art. You'll also find customizable options at Goorin Bros. and Trovador .

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The Top 14 Things to Do in Downtown Austin, Texas

TripSavvy / Austen Johnson

In addition to holding the title of Texas's state capital, Austin has fully evolved from a hippie university town to a booming, hip metropolis. While much of the action is focused in up-and-coming neighborhoods like South Congress, downtown Austin offers a wealth of amusing possibilities, too. Whether you're a fan of Texas state history and 19th-century architecture, live music, or traditional Texas barbecue, there's plenty to do here. And while ATX's city center is easy to navigate on foot, pedicabs and ride-sharing services are also readily available for short trips.

Venture on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Tom Pennington / Getty Images

Those looking to get some exercise while seeing a mix of lovely natural and urban spots will enjoy the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. This popular path passes by Lady Bird Lake, a 416-acre (168-hectare) reservoir, as well as Austin neighborhoods, buildings, and cultural attractions. One option is to start your journey at the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, with views of downtown Austin and the Colorado River. The popular 10-mile (16-kilometer) trail is named after the city's former mayor and his wife.

Take a Double Decker Bus Tour

Courtesy of Double Decker Austin

Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, one fun way to see the city without having to drive is on an open-air ride with Double Decker Austin . Learn about the city and its history from friendly tour guides as you cruise along. Easily hop on and off the bus to get a closer view of an attraction such as The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum or the Texas State Capitol. The red buses depart from the Austin Visitor Center and Museum of the Weird every day .

Get Spooked at Museum of the Weird

Bruno Ribeiro / EyeEm / Getty Images

If you'd like an entertaining and possibly creepy type of day in Austin, head to Museum of the Weird on Sixth Avenue, which emulates dime museums made popular by people like Barnum & Bailey Circus founder P.T. Barnum. Check out bizarre artifacts such as shrunken heads, fossils, and wax figures of classic movie monsters. There is even a famous carnival exhibit displaying a frozen caveman in a block of ice that toured the country from the 1960s through the 1980s. The admission price includes a visit to the Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts shop.

Admire the Texas State Capitol

The pink-granite building is the centerpiece of downtown Austin, perched on a hill at 12th Street and Congress Avenue.

Free guided tours are held daily , starting in the South Foyer, but brochures are also available on the first floor for self-guided tours. The Texas Legislature meets every two years, so you’ll have to check the schedule if you want to see an actual session in progress.

If you're hungry, there are some restaurants nearby serving up everything from Indian food to sandwiches and chili.

Barhop in the Warehouse District

Sometimes referred to as “Sixth Street for grown-ups,” the Warehouse District is centered around West Fourth and Lavaca Streets.

If you’re interested in dancing to ’80s and ’90s cover bands, head to Cedar Street Courtyard, a hybrid space of two bars with an outdoor courtyard in the middle. For a little less dancing and more drinking, try Midnight Cowboy.

The Fourth Street area is also home to several gay bars, including Oilcan Harry’s, which has been around since 1990.

People-watch on Sixth Street

The Sixth Street entertainment district—especially the businesses between Interstate 35 and South Congress Avenue—is a popular stop for first-time visitors. This bustling area is packed full of bars of every shape and size, including famous outposts like Maggie Mae's , where you will find many bars and floors, along with three stages. Whether you’re interested in listening to live music, dancing, or drinking, it’s hard to go wrong. 

Plus, the people-watching is free. The area is generally very secure, but if you plan to stick around until 2 a.m., keep an eye out.

Catch a Show at the Paramount

The historic Paramount Theatre on Congress Avenue hosts red-carpet movie premieres, plays, live music, ballets, and stand-up comedy. Built in 1915, the roughly 3,000-seat venue still has many of the initial Art Nouveau stylistic touches and was inducted into the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. One of Austin's oldest theaters, the Paramount displays an elaborately ornate ceiling and the original stage curtain.

Chow Down at Stubb's Bar-B-Q

Located on the eastern edge of downtown, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q is one of the  best concert venues in town  as well as an excellent barbecue joint. High-profile national acts usually play on the outdoor stage, which sometimes hosts as many as 2,000 fans. There’s also a smaller stage indoors.

If you’re just here to eat, make sure you try the slow-cooked brisket. This is not an ideal spot for vegetarians, but there are sides like macaroni and cheese, potato salad, and collard greens. To enjoy music and food together, show up on Sunday for the gospel brunch at the amphitheater stage.  

Listen to Some Live Music at the Moody Theater

Home of the long-running Austin City Limits Live series, which airs on PBS, the Moody Theater is also the site of big-name concerts. Everyone from Peter Frampton to Beach House to Lyle Lovett has played on this stage.

Even though there are 2,750 seats, the three-level theater is remarkably intimate. Plus, with multiple bars, you'll rarely have to wait in line for a drink.

Explore Austin's Culinary Scene on Rainey Street

What started as a few old houses turned into bars has grown into a full-blown entertainment district on the southeastern edge of downtown.

Rainey Street is primarily a place to drink in downtown Austin. There's even a bar made of metal shipping containers. However, an increasing number of gourmet restaurants have opened up, earning the stretch the title of Restaurant Row. Standouts include Emmer & Rye and Geraldine's , where Southern-inspired fare takes on a distinctly Austin accent.

Raise a Toast at the Historic Driskill Bar

Whether you’re interested in meeting high-tech entrepreneurs or cattle barons, people from every corner of the spectrum show up at the Driskill Bar , a beautifully elegant locale on the second floor of the historic 1886 Driskill Hotel.

Though it’s located within steps of the madness on Sixth Street, the Texas-style bar is fairly low-key. Sit at one of the chairs around the piano to enjoy the performance and an occasional sing-along. During SXSW and the Austin Film Festival, this is one of the best places to spot celebrities. 

Watch an Indie Film at Alamo Drafthouse

The Alamo Drafthouse is a unique movie theater that got its start in ATX and evolved into various locations in the city and many across the U.S. If you're in downtown Austin, that outpost is in a funky vintage theater. While it’s slightly smaller than most Alamo theaters, you can expect all the same fun stuff: goofy quote-alongs, quirky theme nights, and food and drinks delivered to your chair. Choose the balcony seats for the best view.

Observe Austin's Famous Bats by a Bridge

Austin's most famous flying mammals make an appearance nightly from March to October, when 1.5 million bats fly out of the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue bridge just before sundown.

The best vantage point is the walkway on the east side of the bridge, but you can also bring a blanket and enjoy the show from the hillside below the bridge. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also rent a canoe or kayak and watch the bats from the water.

Immerse Yourself in Texas History

The three-story Bullock Texas State History Museum  tells the story of Texas from prehistoric times up until the present.

Using interactive displays, audio recordings, dioramas, and short films, the museum explains how three major industries—ranching, cotton, and oil—played key roles in the state’s evolution.

For a more immersive experience, you can also enjoy an IMAX movie at the museum's Bullock IMAX or Texas Spirit Theater. Both historical films and major motion pictures are featured.

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Home » North America » Austin

26 BEST Places to Visit in Austin (2024)

Austin is a city that’s known for its amazing barbecue dinners and for its live music scene. Visitors to the city will enjoy the friendly, creative atmosphere as well as all the history of this admittedly unique and vibrant city. When you’re looking for the best places to visit in Austin, the only problem you’ll have is finding enough time to do it all.

Austin isn’t a city that’s on everyone’s bucket list, so you might not know what to do when you’re visiting there. In fact, when you travel to Austin, you’ll be surprised at how much there is to see and do and will probably have trouble choosing between them. To help with that, we’ve created this list of the best things to do, see, and eat for every taste and preference. So, all you have to do is show up and enjoy yourself!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Austin:

These are the best places to visit in austin, faq on the best places to visit in austin, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in austin.

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East Austin

In a city bursting with cool, East Austin is a giant amongst men. It’s far and away the coolest neighborhood in the city thanks to its central locations, a high concentration of hipster hangouts, and its great selection of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

• Explore the exhibits dedicated to African-America history and culture at the George Washington Carver Museum.
• Sink your teeth into out-of-this-world dishes at Franklin Barbecue.
• Visit the Historic Victory Grill, one of the few remaining juke joints in Austin.

As the capital of Texas, there’s A LOT going on in this city. There’s so much more than just East Austin. If you’re curious to find out more about our favourite neighbourhoods, check out where to stay in Austin . Once you’ve done that and booked yourself the best accommodation possible, scroll on down the list!

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#1 – Pangea Lounge – A must visit place to visit in Austin on the weekend!

• One of the best places to eat in Austin.
• Austin is home to countless food truck lots where you’ll find the tastiest, cheapest, and most varied snacks around.
• Located on East Sixth Street.

Why it’s so awesome: Austin loves its food trucks and it isn’t hard to understand why. At no other place can you find such an intoxicating combination of different types of foods all at rock bottom prices. This is one of the best food truck locations in the city, and there are also other lots close by in case you want to eat some more! Visitors and backpackers to Austin just love the food scene here.

What to do there: What’s awesome about food trucks is the fact that they change constantly. So, make sure you wander around first and see what catches your eye. Otherwise, try cheesesteaks at Way South Philly, Bua Loy Thai Cuisine’s delicious dishes, or the amazing Indian food at Masala Medley. And if you go on a weekend, there will be live music and artisan booths as well, so you can wander and work off all that food!

#2 – Sixth Street

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• Discover why Austin is famous for its live music in this area.
• Sixth Street was the hub of the city’s music scene in the 1970s and a recent restoration has saved the area from its grungy reputation and made it popular once more.

Why it’s so awesome: Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World and you must be a part of that when you explore Austin. The best way to do that is by visiting this area. It was recently renovated to save it from its grungy beginnings and has been the center of Austin’s live music scene for decades.

What to do there: There are countless live music joints for you to explore this area. This includes famous options like Esther’s Follies, The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, and Pete’s Duelling Piano Bar. But there’s more for you to do in this area too. It’s packed with restaurants, bars, and shops, so take the time to explore and become a part of this lively scene.

#3 – The Bullock Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Austin

• A great place for the kids and for adults.
• Texas has a varied and colorful history, and this is the best place to learn about it.

Why it’s so awesome: The history of Texas includes interesting events like the Kennedy assassination and the Alamo. Learning about how these pivotal events shaped the state is vital if you want a deeper, richer experience when you’re visiting Austin. This museum contains over 4 centuries of that history, complete with lots of artifacts and interactive displays. That means you’ll walk away understanding just a little more about how the culture around you came to be.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this museum, so take your time and make sure you take your kids with you too. They’ll love the interactive displays. To get the most you’re your visit, make sure you check out the renovated shipwreck, the Bush family display, and the space exhibits.

#4 – Zilker Metropolitan Park

• This is a 351-acre park conveniently located just across the river from downtown Austin.
• Several of the city’s most popular attractions are in this area, which is why it’s so popular amongst locals and tourists alike.

Why it’s so awesome: Putting a huge park in the middle of a busy city is always an amazing thing to do. It gives locals and tourists a chance to enjoy a touch of nature, exercise, and generally get away from the busyness of the city. The Zilker Metropolitan Park is one of the best city parks you’ll ever see. Several of the city’s top attractions are located there and it also includes athletic fields, swimming holes, and open spaces where you can walk or just sit down with a picnic.

What to do there: If you’re looking for a place to exercise, swim, or have a picnic, you’ll definitely find the space in this park. You can take part in a range of activities like canoeing, digging for fossils at the Austin Nature and Science Center’s Dino Pit, exploring the art at the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum, or smelling the flowers in the Botanical Garden. This venue also holds popular events throughout the year, so make sure you check out what’s on while you’re visiting Austin.

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#5 – Barton Springs Pool

• A great place to cool off in the middle of the city.
• This pool is often referred to as the soul of Austin and was once believed to have spiritual healing powers.

Why it’s so awesome: Located in Zilker Park, this is one of the most famous places in Austin. Native American settlers once believed the springs had healing powers and the area is still held in high esteem among the locals. It’s also the perfect place to get away from the stifling heat of summer. The pool is fed by underground springs, which is why it stays cool even on the hottest day. You can expect the temperature to hover between 68 and 70 degrees no matter how hot it is under the sun.

What to do there: If you need a cooling dip, this is where to come. The grounds feature bathhouses for your convenience and once you’ve cooled off, you can explore the educational exhibit about the history of the springs. Barton Springs is also a great area to set up base for a while. Check out some of the best Airbnb’s in Austin to find one nearby!

#6 – Franklin Barbecue

• One of the best places to eat in Austin!
• If you’re a meat lover, you’ll be in heaven in this restaurant.

Why it’s so awesome: Franklin Barbecue is absolutely iconic in Austin and in Texas as a whole. It’s a favorite amongst locals and tourists and waits can last up to four hours. The restaurant began in a BBQ trailer but quickly outgrew these humble beginnings. The founder, Aaron Franklin, was the James Beard Award winner and his mastery of all things barbecue is amazing.

What to do there: If you enjoy eating all things meat, then you’ll be spoiled for choice at this restaurant. It’s seriously one of the best BBQ places in Austin ! The brisket is a perennial favorite, seasoned and smoked to perfection, but you can try almost every offering and get smoky goodness.

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#7 – The Highball – Cool place to see in Austin with friends!

• One of Austin’s best karaoke bars.
• You’ll need to book in advance if you want to stop by, it’s usually packed.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, then you’ll have the night of your life at this bar. It holds recurring theme nights at the main bar and also has themed rooms that range in size and price. It’s the perfect place for a night out or a party and most of Austin would agree!

What to do there: When you’re planning a night out with friends, call ahead and see if you can get one of the themed rooms or just be a part of what’s going on in the main bar. The Highball offers a range of packages that include personal servers that will bring food and snacks to your room. So, no matter what type of night you’re looking for, this bar should be a part of the fun.

#8 – Waterloo Records

• One of the most popular attractions in Austin for old music and music fans.
• You can’t visit Austin without indulging in its famous music scene.

Why it’s so awesome: Austin is famous for its music scene and this has led to the growth of record stores throughout the city. Waterloo Records is one of the best and you can find anything at this venue from the latest music to rare classics. It’s also absolutely huge, so if you’re a music lover then you’ll enjoy getting lost in its shelves.

What to do there: If you’ve been looking for an old record, you’ll probably be able to find it at this record store. You can also learn more about Austin’s famous music scene and the most popular musicians in the state by doing some browsing around the store. And if you want a surprise, have a rummage through the dollar bins and see what you come up with! The shop also holds regular performances in store, so make sure you find out what’s on while you’re in the city.

#9 – The State Capitol – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Austin

• One of the most important landmarks in Austin.
• It can get crowded, so make sure you arrive early if you want to explore without a lot of company.

Why it’s so awesome: Some visitors claim that this is the most impressive state legislative building they’ve ever seen. It was first opened in 1888 but has been recently renovated to ensure that the building and statues last as long as possible. It includes a 218-foot rotunda, a replica of the statue of liberty, the Hall of Representatives, and the governor’s receiving room.

What to do there: You don’t have to pay an entrance fee to explore the capitol building, which makes it the perfect cheap way to learn more about Austin. It does get crowded, so make sure you arrive early so you can get the full experience and take lots of photos without tourists in the way!

#10 – Mount Bonnell – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Austin

• The best place to visit in Austin for amazing views of the entire city!

Why it’s so awesome: You’ll be able to enjoy amazing views of the city from Mount Bonnell. It’s located in historic Covert Park and is the highest point at 775-feet high. It’s also located along the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River and has been one of the most popular points of interest in Austin for centuries.

What to do there: If you manage to visit on a clear day, you’ll be treated to sweeping, unobstructed views of the city. You’ll have to climb over 100 stairs to get to the top, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, but it’s worth the climb. The overlook is surrounded by a forested area which makes the whole experience even better than you might expect.

#11 – Blanton Museum of Art

• If you’re an art lover, then this museum must be a part of your Austin itinerary.
• This is one of the largest university art museums in the country and holds more than 18,000 pieces.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum includes 18,000 pieces of artwork from Renaissance and Latin American art to works by masters such as Rubens and Poussin. It’s located on the University of Texas at Austin campus and is one of the best places to visit in Austin if you enjoy a bit of culture.

What to do there: This is a small museum, but there’s a lot to see so you’ll need a couple of hours to explore. It’s also the perfect place to go when you need to cool off in the air conditioning and has such a wide range of exhibits that everyone will find something they love.

#12 – SoCo District – A great place to visit in Austin at night

• If you’re looking for something to do at night, you’ll definitely find it in this district.
• This area is a vital part of the weirder side of Austin’s culture, and most of what you’ll find here will definitely be conversation starters.

Why it’s so awesome: Austin has its rebellious side too and this area is the center of that quirky culture. The shops lining South Congress Avenue, the main street, specialize in boutique or retro clothing that’s meant to make you stand out. There are also several amazing eateries, restaurants, and bars in the area for you to explore.

What to do there: If you’re looking for some unusual fashions, then warm up your credit card and spend an afternoon in this area. Whatever you buy, it will definitely end up being a conversation starter and a great reminder of your trip. But once the sun goes down, stick around and try some of the amazing eateries. Most of the restaurants have outdoor patios, so grab a chair, people watch, and then find a place to have a drink with some live music. One of the best Austin vacation ideas you’ll have is to spend an evening at The Continental Club, an iconic venue with live country music.

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#13 – Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Austin

• Walking, hiking or biking along this trail is an Austin must do.
• This ten-mile trail is popular amongst locals and tourists.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular outdoor places in the city and it’s also the perfect place for you to work off all that barbecue! It’s a 10-mile trail that encompasses the lake and is almost always busy with runners, cyclists and walkers. But it’s also a famously peaceful place, where you can collect your thoughts in the quiet beauty of being outdoors.

What to do there: If you like to exercise, even when you travel, then this is the perfect place to do it. You’ll be in good company and be able to enjoy your workout in a famously beautiful spot. The trail also passes by lots of places to eat, so feel free to stop off for a meal in the middle of your wanderings. And make sure you stop at the boardwalk to take in the downtown views as well.

#14 – Mexic-Art Museum

• A small museum that packs a big punch in terms of how well it highlights local artists.

Why it’s so awesome: Located on Congress Avenue, this museum works to support the conservation of Mexican and Latin American art and culture. Its collection includes photographs and artefacts from the past as well as contemporary pieces from local artists. The museum also holds some amazing theatrical and musical performances year-round.

What to do there: Check out what’s on at this museum while you’re in the city and make sure you show up to anything that looks interesting. After you’ve explored the museum, make sure you stop at the gift shop. It sells works by local artists that would make unique souvenirs of your trip to Austin.

#15 – Museum of the Weird – One of the more unique places to visit in Austin!

• A quirky little museum that’s one of the most unusual things to do in Austin.
• This museum is what’s known as a dime museum, in which you can never be sure what’s real and what’s not!

Why it’s so awesome: Dime museums were created to contrast with more serious museums and originally catered to clientele with less money. Traditionally, they offered exhibits that were a little more dubious and challenged attendees to decide what was real and what wasn’t. Over the years, many of these museums have closed down, which is why you absolutely must experience this museum before it disappears too. Created by entrepreneur Steve Busti, the museum is at the back of his store and features many of the same kind of exhibits you would have seen in older version dime museums.

What to do there: This museum is filled to the brim with oddities. Make sure you check out the cyclops pig, the hand of glory, a two-headed chicken, shrunken heads, and the feejee mermaid. There’s also a wax museum on site, as well as the Minnesota Iceman, a figure that’s been the source of mystery for decades. Also, don’t miss the life sideshow performance afterwards, and remember to tip the performers!

#16 – Congress Bridge

• This seemingly normal bridge is home to the largest bat colony in North America.
• If you’re squeamish about bats, make sure you stand well out of range!

Why it’s so awesome: It’s fairly rare to see wild animals within a big city, much less a huge colony of them. The bat colony that lives on the Congress Avenue Bridge includes about 1.5 million Brazilian free-tail bats. Every night the bats swarm out from under the bridge in search of food, and this is an Austin place to visit. It’s one of the most spectacular and unusual things to do in Austin .

What to do there: The best time to see the bat colony is on hot, dry nights in August, when the bats fly out together. Just make sure that you aren’t standing in their flight path and that you’ve got a reusable travel water bottle with you. There are several points you can watch from without the worry of getting a bat tangled in your hair. So, to find the best viewing spot, head to the information kiosk on the north bank of the river, just east of the bridge, for more detailed information.

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#17 – Casa Neverlandia

• An eccentric house that merges the life experiences of a very unusual man.
• Make sure you email for tickets before you arrive in the city as this is someone’s residence and you can’t just show up and expect to be allowed in.

Why it’s so awesome: This whimsical house was created by one James Talbot, a well-traveled man who used his architectural knowledge to create his home. He lived all over the world, and elements of the places that meant to the most to him can be seen in his wonderfully bizarre house.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see in this house, but just remember that it is still occupied. You’ll need to book a tour ahead of time to get in, but it’s definitely worth the trouble. Once you’re in, make sure you see the many DIY features that were added to the house. This includes the Rumford fireplace, an Indonesian style A-frame ping pong room, a city lookout reached via an Indiana Jones bridge, and an intercom system that uses PVC piping and no technology.

#18 – Rainey Street Food Trucks

• This lot contains some of the best food trucks in Austin.
• Make sure you take your appetite along with you and be prepared to eat things you’ve never tried before!

Why it’s so awesome: Some of the food trucks in this lot are the best in the city. You’ll find foods cooked to perfection along with a convivial atmosphere that will convince you that your hometown needs food trucks too!

What to do there: There are lots of different foods, so just show up and see what smells the best! If you can’t make up your mind, try Ms P’s Electric Cock, which makes perfect chicken, White Girl Asian Food, Little Lucy’s Donuts, Taco Baby, or Tommy Want Wingy’s delicious chilli lime wings.

#19 – East Riverside Food Trucks

• Another lot that includes some really delicious food options.
• If you enjoy Mexican food, you’ll love some of the food trucks at this location.

Why it’s so awesome: Located near the South Shore residences in Austin, you can get the best Mexican food of your life off the back of a truck. At this food lot, you can enjoy asada, quesadillas, burritos, churros, al pastor, and more, all of them fresh and so delicious you’ll wish your stomach could hold more.

What to do there: Make sure you’re hungry and try everything that smells good. Some of the best places to try are Callejeros, Rosita’s Al Pastor, and Cow Bells’. Also, make sure that you try Churro Co.’s Campfire Churro made with graham cracker sugar, whipped cream, and Mexican chocolate sauce. Sounds incredibly sweet, and it is, but it’s also worth the extra workout you’ll have to do.

#20 – BookPeople – A nice quiet place to see in Austin

• The ideal place to take in more of the quirky vibe in Austin while enjoying a good book.
• This is the largest bookstore in Texas, so you’re bound to find something great to read.

Why it’s so awesome: BookPeople has three floors of quirky décor, a café, and lots of books. It also includes a kids’ area with a mini amphitheater where story time is held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday morning. So, whether you’re traveling alone or with the family, there’s lots to do, which is why this is one of the most popular hotspots in Austin.

What to do there: Take a couple of hours, grab a good book, and set up in the café to read. The décor is determinedly quirky at this shop, which makes it the perfect place to wander around and explore as well. And if you have kids, bring them along to the story hours. They also have puppet shows on the weekends, which are sure to send your kids home with huge smiles!

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#21 – The Alamo Drafthouse

• A winning combination of great food and the latest movie blockbusters.
• Seeing a movie at the Drafthouse  is truly an Austin must do.

Why it’s so awesome: Originally created in 1997, the Drafthouse has since moved to 6th Street and holds pride of place. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists to sit and watch a movie while enjoying a meal at the same time.

What to do there: You should obviously see one of the latest movies and have a meal at the Drafthouse, but you should also check out any special events they have on. In September the owners hold Fantastic Fest, for example. This is a showcase of horror, fantasy and sci-fi movies that draws in big crowds. So, if you’re a fan of more unusual movies, find out what’s on while you’re in the city and grab a seat.

#22 – Veracruz All Natural – A must-see for foodies!

• The best place to visit in Austin for tacos if you’re concerned about food poisoning or mystery meat at food trucks.
• Even the locals love this restaurant, so you know the tacos will be good.

Why it’s so awesome: This was once only a food trailer but it’s now a restaurant in North Austin with the best tacos you can find. And you don’t have to worry about mystery meat because the trailer and the restaurant are clean and fresh enough to dispel these kinds of worries.

What to do there: The breakfast taco is absolute legend at this place and actually have a cult following. The tortilla includes egg, tortilla chips, avocado, pico de gallo, and cheese, and after one bite you’ll want more. The menu is so good, that there are now outposts at North Burnet, Round Rock, and Radio Coffee, so no matter where you’re staying, you’ll be able to get hold of one of their tacos.

#23 – The Broken Spoke

• If you really want to learn more about Texas culture, then you need to learn how to two-step to country music at the Broken Spoke.
• This dance hall is uniquely Texan, and you probably won’t find anything like it out of the state.

Why it’s so awesome: The Broken Spoke is an iconic dance hall that still manages to hold onto its country charm despite its popularity. It’s one of the most popular places to eat in Austin and offers dance classes as well so you can really immerse yourself in the local culture.

What to do there: The Broken Spoke offers dance lessons at 8pm most nights so you can learn the basics of two-stepping. And afterwards, grab a bottle of beer and one of their famous and famously huge chicken-fried steaks to replace all the calories you burned and then some.

#24 – Rainey Street – A great place to visit in Austin if you are alone/traveling solo

• The best place to go if you’re looking for a fun night out.
• Austin’s reputation for weirdness is highlighted by this eccentric bar street.

Why it’s so awesome: Rainey Street might look like a typical suburban street, but it’s far from that. The wooden-style ranch homes in this area actually hide recently renovated, dishevelled bars that boast swinging lamps, creaky floorboards, and the best and strongest cocktails in town.

What to do there: Show up at night or on weekend mornings for a night out with friends or a boozy breakfast the morning after. Try Banger’s for a liter of Champagne with a splash of orange juice to start out your morning. And then, if you’re still standing, head over to Half Step, Blackheart, or Craft Pride to continue your boozy day.

#25 – The Thinkery – Awesome place to visit in Austin with kids!

• The absolute best place to take the kids for hours of fun.
• No matter what your kids are interested in, they’ll love spending time at this museum.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for hours of fun and distraction for the kids, then this is the place to take them. The Thinkery will allow your kids to learn about the world and to do scientific and physical experiments that will keep them enthralled. There’s also a great outdoor area for pure play that includes a space-age playground.

What to do there: Let your kids guide the way at the Thinkery. But make sure they check out the Animation Station, the Spark Shop, learn how to draw with light in the Light Lab, and explore the playground outside. And when they get tired, direct them towards the Story Nook where they can settle in with one of the huge collections of picture or storybooks.

#26 – Austin Nature and Science Center – A very cool place in Austin to go for a day

• The best place for you and the kids to learn about the natural world.
• When you finish with the center, head out into the famous  Zilker Park  to discover more things to do.

Why it’s so awesome: If you or the kids want to learn more about the natural world, then you can do it at the Austin Nature and Science Center. It’s located in the western corner of the Zilker Park and the activities are both fascinating and designed for people of all ages. The goal of the center is to encourage awareness and appreciation of the natural world, and they have programs relating to all areas of nature.

What to do there: Check out what’s on at the center while you’re in the city for a great half or full day of learning and fun. You can learn about anything you’re interested in, including biology, astronomy, and palaeontology. So, let your interests, or your kids’ interests, guide you.

Get insured for your trip to Austin!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Austin

What is the most famous place to visit in Austin?

The Texas Capitol building is the most famous landmark in Austin.

What should you not miss in Austin?

Sixth Street is the most famous street in Austin and a must-see on any Texas itinerary.

What is a free place to visit in Austin?

The State Capitol is free to see and a must-see attraction in Austin.

What is a good place to visit in Austin for couples?

Zilker Metropolitan Park is a great place for a picnic or a swim, the perfect date in Austin.

When should I visit Austin?

Austin is one of the best places to visit in November . I like visiting in October or November, but March-May is also good.

Vibrant is a lively and fascinating city that will teach you more about the very different cultures that exist within the US. If you love music, barbecue, and warm weather, you’ll have a blast in this city and probably return home with a tan and with a renewed interest in music. And if you plan your trip according to this list of the best places to visit in Austin, you’ll have lots of great memories of your trip as well as a new appreciation for the Lonestar state!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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Great post. I’ve lived in Texas for years. Mostly Galveston. Never visited Austin. Shame how we miss what is in our own back yard. Not anymore. Heading to Austin before the end of 2020.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Austin

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Austin

Downtown Austin may have been founded on a six-hundred-acre plot and have consisted of no more than fourteen blocks, but two hundred years on things have certainly changed. Downtown Austin, flanked by a broad stretch of the Colorado River, now incorporates eight districts and covers an area much larger than the original town plan.

While Downtown may be the central business district of the Texan city of Austin, it doesn’t lack in diversion. In fact, there are far more exciting and fun things to do there than could ever be fitted into a single list of the fifteen best things to do in Downtown Austin.

Downtown Austin has one of the best nightlife scenes in the whole of Texas, a thriving food scene, excellent cultural activities and some great nautical ones too. Plan on staying a month, because it’s impossible to fit in all the good stuff in a week.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Austin :

1. Austin Duck Adventure

Take a tour of Downtown Austin in a vehicle with a distinct difference. While the Duck may appear to be a medium-sized mini-bus, it’s a Hydra-Terra and fully amphibious so on this tour be ready for a big splash.

Board the Austin Duck on East 4th Street by the Austin Visitors Center for a ride past all of DT’s major sights while listening to a guide narration before floating out onto the waters of Lake Austin.

The tours last for just over an hour and are a fun way of getting to know Downtown Austin.

2. Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

It’s not very often you can observe a phenomenon of nature in a busy urban setting like Downtown Austin, so don’t miss this one.

Stroll out onto the Congress Avenue Bridge at sundown between April and October, and apart from seeing an amazing Texan sunset, you’ll be able to watch around a million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from their colony and rise in a swarm into the night sky.

It’s a truly surreal experience not unlike watching a live version of an Alfred Hitchcock horror movie.

3. Upstairs Circus

The Upstairs Circus on West 2nd Street in Downtown Austin is a bar where you can create your personal souvenir of DT while sipping a circus-themed, house specialty cocktail.

Try a Strongman’s Punch while beading a wrap bracelet or a Coco Contortionist while making nail and string art. Wine bottle tumblers, coasters of concrete or even a collar for your dog, there are lots of different project types to choose from which suit all skill-level of handicrafter even the most novice.

Check out the Upstairs Circus program before heading to Downtown Austin, and you might find you arrive just in time for a session of Making-n-Mimosas.

4. Austin Fire Museum

The Austin Fire Museum on Downtown Austin’s East 5th Street is dedicated to the history of the city’s firefighters from the service’s inauguration to the present day.

The museum, which is in the DT’s working fire station, houses a display of uniforms dating from the 19th century, photographic exhibitions and a collection of memorabilia.

The Austin Fire Museum is run on a voluntary basis and opens on weekend afternoons only.

5. Double Decker Austin

Spend the day exploring Downtown Austin using the open-top, Double Decker Austin hop-on-hop-off bus service.

The bus has six pick up and drop off points in Downtown which are all located next to major attractions. Stay on board for the full one and a half hour narrated tour to listen to fascinating facts about the district’s history by a qualified guide or jump off, make a visit or grab some lunch then get back on when the bus passes by again an hour and a half later.

6. Congress Avenue Kayaks

Pick up a kayak rental from Congress Avenue Kayaks at the Waller Creek Boathouse on Trinity Street in Downtown Austin and paddle upriver to see the DT skyline from the water.

The kayaks can carry one, two or three people and depending on your upper arm strength, are available by the hour or for half days. Navigate the Colorado River, spot murals hidden under bridges or head out onto the open waters of Lady Bird Lake. Whichever route you choose, kayaking is a great way to spend some time outdoors.

During bat season at Congress Avenue Bridge, the Congress Avenue Kayaks take out two hour, guided sunset kayak tours which include seeing the dusk bat flight while floating on the river.

7. Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ

Get fed in traditional Texan-style at the Cooper’s Old Time Barbecue Pit on Downtown Austin’s Congress Avenue.

The eclectically rustic, ranch-style restaurant, complete with horses heads and saddles, serves up barbecued ribs, chops, and brisket by the pound with sides of coleslaw, potato salad or pinto beans.

Leave room for dessert as Cooper’s make a mean cobbler. There’s peach, pecan, apple or blackberry to choose from and it’s all accompanied by live music at the weekends.

8. Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State History Museum, located on North Congress Avenue in Downtown Austin, is a museum which tells the story of Texas.

The museum has three floors which are all individually themed on various aspects of the state’s history and have hands-on exhibitions. There are two theaters showing multiple film productions throughout the day aimed at recreating the life and times of the inhabitants of Texas from the Comanche Indians to rodeo riders.

The museum houses more than seven-hundred artifacts including fascinating documents showing how Texas was once part of Mexico, antique equipment from the oil industry and a NASA mission control console.

9. Container Bar

Bar owners have taken recycling to a whole new level in Downtown Austin. Head over to Rainey Street and you’ll find a bar made from seven old shipping containers.

It may be made of old metal boxes, but there’s nothing rusty about this lively pub. The Container Bar is one of Downtown Austin’s top night spots.

Surprisingly spacious, the bar draws a young crowd for drinks on the upstairs terrace and dancing to music spun by some of the city’s best DJ’s. It’s a fun place to go for a night out in DT Austin.

10. Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure

One way to make sightseeing in Downtown Austin even more exciting is to join a scavenger hunt. All you need to join in with an Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure is a smartphone. Download the app and start solving the clues.

Follow the trail around DT’s major sights by completing one clue at a time and learning interesting historical facts along the way. Do the hunt alone or with a group of friends, at your own pace or against the clock.

Wear comfortable shoes. The scavenger hunt takes around three hours to complete not counting stops for drinks or food. Don’t forget to make sure the phone is fully charged before starting.

Book online :  Downtown Austin Adventure: 3-Hour Smartphone Scavenger Hunt

11. Frank C Erwin Center

If there’s a big event happening in Downtown Austin, then it’ll be happening at the Frank C Erwin Center or to give the arena its full title, the Frank C Erwin Special Events Center.

Big sporting events such as basketball, martial arts competitions, and boxing tournaments are all held at the seventeen-thousand seater venue. There have been big artist concerts featuring groups and artists such as Kiss, Lady Gaga, U2, and Garth Brooks as well as bull riding and WWE Live Smackdown events.

The Center has a full range of snack food concessions serving pizza, burgers, nachos and ice creams.

12. Austin Panic Rooms

Get the adrenaline flowing with a visit to the Austin Panic Rooms on Rio Grande Street in Downtown Austin.

With four great challenges to choose from, the panic rooms will test your nerves to the limit. Try to make a prison break while shackled in handcuffs or take the place of the president of the USA in the Oval Office. Get caught in a blizzard in a mountainside hut or escape before the mad scientist makes you one of his human trial specimens.

They might sound easy, but you’ve just one hour to solve the clues and escape. Believe it; they’re not as simple as they seem.

13. Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike trail is a ten-mile-long trail part of which runs through Downtown Austin.

Join the trail at Congress Avenue Bridge and head west for a walk or cycle and there’ll be Downtown Austin on one side and the Colorado River on the other. Head east, and after a bit of a hike, you’ll find the mile-long boardwalk which stretches across Lady Bird Lake.

Don’t miss checking out the thirty-six bronze belt sculptures adorning the railings of the boardwalk. Each one is inscribed with popular song lyrics written or sung by Texan songwriters and musicians.

14. Museum of the Weird

Not all museums in Downtown Austin are about history or other serious stuff, the Museum of the Weird is about the macabre, the curious and the undeniably odd.

The museum located on Downtown’s 6th Street started life as a gift shop but now hosts a collection of strange artifacts including a mummified mermaid, a furry trout, and a frozen ice-age man.

There is also a daily live circus sideshow performance which if you can’t handle someone hanging hooks from their eyes or poking nails up their nose, you’re probably better off avoiding.

15. Esther’s Follies

Vaudeville lives on at Esther’s Follies on 6th Street in Downtown Austin. The intimate theater is the place to go for an entertaining evening of comedic satire, magical illusions, and a few good old song and dance routines.

The theater which has been open for over forty years presents two performances nightly, and they’re usually full to the max, so go early to be assured of getting a seat.

The theater has a full bar and offers food from a taqueria on an outside courtyard. Esther’s Follies is the epitome of Downtown Austin. Diverse, full of life and great fun. Have a good time there.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Austin:

• Austin Duck Adventure
• Congress Avenue Bridge Bats
• Upstairs Circus
• Austin Fire Museum
• Double Decker Austin
• Congress Avenue Kayaks
• Cooper's Old Time Pit BBQ
• Bullock Texas State History Museum
• Container Bar
• Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• Frank C Erwin Center
• Austin Panic Rooms
• Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail
• Museum of the Weird
• Esther's Follies

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6 best things to do in Austin, according to a local

Check out a local's guide to the best things to do in austin, texas, including where to swim, eat, drink, and more.

Lots of people visit Austin, Texas . In fact, the latest stats show that Austin gets over 30 million visitors each year. Those travelers often visit destinations like central 6th Street (the “dirty six”) and Rainey Street, which are both … great if you want a really loud, sloppy night. But there’s so much more to do in Austin, and it’s all way cooler than hanging around a bunch of other tourists in a cheesy bar.

If you really want to explore the city’s vibe (and escape the wailing thirtysomething “woo girls” having a bachelorette party), visit these destinations instead. Trust me, you’ll have a much better experience and see more of what makes Austin truly special.

Explore Zilker and Barton Creek

Zilker is a massive 361-acre park, and it’s located directly in the middle of the city. You can walk there from downtown and once you’re there, you can get some amazing skyline views. Zilker is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, but most famously, it has Barton Springs Pool. A 68-degree, spring-fed public pool, Barton Springs is a must-visit during the summer. Not only does the cold water feel amazing when it’s 100 degrees outside, but it’s also a social hub for locals. Everyone goes to Barton Springs in the summer, so it has a fantastic community feel.

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But my personal favorite is Barton Creek. Barton Springs is fenced in and costs $5 dollars ($9 dollars for y’all who don’t live in Austin). But through the fence, the water flows down a creek into the Colorado River. The creek is completely free, and in my opinion, way more fun. People play music, bring their dogs, lounge on their paddleboards, and jump into the creek from rope swings. It’s a really fun time and is a great way to explore Austin’s famous outdoorsy vibe.

Dine on South 1st Street

Yep, I know … all the websites talk about South Congress Ave. and how amazing it is. They’re not wrong. It’s definitely great to stroll down South Congress because it has a lot going on, but for the best food, go one street over to South 1st. For starters, South 1st is still far less developed than South Congress, and many of the restaurants sit under the shade of large trees and have great creekside patios, giving it a way more chill and local feel.

Grab some Vietnamese fusion at Elizabeth Street Cafe, elevated fine dining at Lenoir, or some quirky vegetarian fare at Bouldin Creek Cafe – a spot that’s a total Austin institution and shows off the old “Keep Austin Weird” spirit that initially made ATX so special. On top of South 1st’s many restaurants, you’ll also find coffee shops, bakeries, ice cream shops, and more.

Chill out at a rooftop pool

As I said before, summers in Austin are hot. And to be honest, Austin can be pretty hot long before and after summertime. You can have 90+ degree days from May through October. That’s why almost every apartment complex in the city has a pool. For locals, hanging at the pool is a big part of life.

There are also tons of hotels in the city that have really awesome rooftop pools. I feel like Austin has a bit of Miami vibes when you’re at a pool since many have poolside bars and DJs playing music. Some hotels, like the JW Marriot, even sell day passes for the pool area. The best rooftop pools in town are the Marriot, JW Marriott, Fairmont, W, and Austin Proper.

My personal favorite, though, is the Marriott because next to the pool is a rooftop lounge Zanzibar . The vibe isn’t pretentious or influencer-obnoxious, and is instead, super chill with great views of the city, icy cold drinks, and great topical-inspired snacks like ahi tuna guacamole and plantain chips served with pineapple salsa.

Listen to live music

Austin is known as “The Live Music Capital of the World,” and as much as I normally hate local bands (seriously, to me, they sound like amateur hour at karaoke night), I have to admit that Austin is loaded with some legit talent. What also makes Austin so cool is that there’s such a wide array of talented musicians from different genres. You can find venues for bluegrass, folk, punk, rock, and more. There’s even a busker who performs on South Congress sometimes with an electric violin, and even they’re fantastic.

On top of local music, Austin also gets big-name musicians who come through town, so you can find any type of music you want. Some iconic local institutions include the Continental Club, Stubbs BBQ , and Hole in the Wall, or check out bigger musicians who come to perform at ACL Live and the Moody Center.

Visit during an event

Austin has some seriously cool events throughout the year and the city’s vibe completely changes when something big is going on. The two major events Are South by Southwest ( SXSW ) in the spring and Austin City Limits (ACL) in the fall.

SXSW has gotten so big it’s almost hard to explain what it is anymore. It’s an ideas festival where prominent voices come to share their stories and innovations in TED Talk-style panels. But it’s also huge for entertainment and has a yearly film festival that premieres massive movies like Everything Everywhere All At Once and Civil War . It also has its own music festival and a whole series of events for the gaming industry … as well as events for travel, sustainability, food, AI, and more. This year Delta even came and opened up a pop-up lounge, and Amazon Prime Video created an apocalyptic wasteland to promote its show Fallout . Whatever your interests are, I guarantee you that someone at SXSW is doing an event for it.

ACL is the other massive annual event. It’s one of the biggest music festivals in the country and takes place over two weekends. Each year the festival gets massive headliners and tons of smaller indie acts, too. In 2023, there was a total 140 performers. Everyone from the Foo Fighters to Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa has played ACL.

Other big events throughout the year include Fantastic Fest, one of the largest horror and sci-fi film festivals in the world, the annual U.S. Grand Prix F1 race, the Moontower Comedy Festival, and if you’re one of the athletically inclined among us, there’s also the Austin marathon and the CapTex triathlon.

Venture away from 6th Street to find the city’s coolest bars

Austin has tons of fun and unique bars where there’s lots more to do than just drink. My favorite spot in town is Cidercade . This arcade bar sits on the river and has a great outdoor patio overlooking the water. Inside, there are over 150 arcade games, pinball machines, skeeball, and more, and the bar serves over a dozen varieties of Bishop hard ciders. During the day, it has a good number of kids, but it becomes 18+ after 9 p.m. (s0 go at night for the best experience).

Another great spot is Cosmic , which now has two locations, though the South Austin spot is the more famous one. Grab beer, wine, or coffee and sit under large trees strung up with camp lights as you play board games and listen to music. There’s also a big array of food trucks on the property serving up some seriously good eats. The outdoor setting makes Cosmic feel inviting and casual while still being really fun. It’s great for a Friday night or Sunday afternoon.

Another personal favorite is the Hula Hut . Technically a restaurant, the Hut sits right on the lake and has a massive deck overlooking the water. Lots of people visit to sit on the deck and grab an app or two (which are all Polynesian takes on Tex-Mex favorites) while sipping on some of the establishment’s signature drinks like the Hu-La-La and the boozy Lake Austin Lemonade. It’s not exactly Hawaii, but with drinks and snacks this good, you won’t care.

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Travelers planning a trip to the United Kingdom in 2025 will need to budget for an additional fee as the country rolls out its long-awaited electronic travel authorization (ETA) system. Starting November 27, 2024, all non-British and non-Irish citizens will be required to obtain an ETA or an eVisa before entering the UK.

The new policy mandates that eligible non-Europeans apply for an ETA ahead of their travels, with the requirement taking effect on January 8, 2025. Eligible European travelers will also be impacted, as they will need to apply for an ETA starting March 5, 2025, with enforcement beginning on April 2, 2025.

The gorgeous city of Rome is complete with amazing historical attractions and unforgettable experiences. But while the Eternal City offers endless attractions, its strategic location makes it the perfect base for exploring more of Italy’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and iconic sites. Searching for a medieval village? No problem. Want to relax on a sunny beach? Sure thing. Looking to visit ancient ruins? There are plenty of spots for that. No matter what you are in the mood for, there are many incredible day trips from Rome that promise to enhance your Italian adventure. So, if you’re planning a trip to Rome, it’s worth setting aside a few extra days to discover the gems just beyond the city walls. Pompeii

Time to get there: 2 hours by car, 4 hours by train

Looking for a beach vacation spot that guarantees pristine waters and immaculate shores? The results are in from the Blue Flag International Jury 2024, showcasing the countries with the cleanest beaches in the world. The Blue Flag is one of the most respected global symbols of excellence when it comes to environmental sustainability, cleanliness, and safety. To earn the prestigious "Blue Flag" distinction, beaches must adhere to rigorous environmental standards, from water quality to safety measures and accessibility. These countries are home to the cleanest beaches in the world. Which countries are home to the cleanest beaches?

Spain takes the crown with a staggering 639 beaches, earning the coveted Blue Flag status. In fact, Spain has held the title for the most Blue Flag beaches since the system’s inception, and it’s easy to see why. Among the country’s top beach destinations, Isla Antilla offers golden sands and calm waters in the southwest, perfect for a relaxing retreat. The Corinto beach in Valencia is a hidden gem, known for its serene atmosphere and crystal clear waters. If you find yourself in Mallorca, then check out the Cala Ferrera Cove, which combines dramatic cliffs with turquoise seas.

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• Travel Destinations

30 Hidden Gems In Austin

Published: September 20, 2024

by Dulcy Bowers

Austin, Texas, is known for its live music, vibrant arts scene, and delicious food. But beyond the popular attractions, the city hides many lesser-known spots worth visiting. Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring these hidden gems in Austin can make your trip unforgettable. From quirky museums to serene parks, these places offer unique experiences away from the usual crowds. Imagine stumbling upon a secret garden or finding a cozy café with the best coffee in town. Ready to uncover some of Austin's best-kept secrets? Let's dive into these 30 hidden gems that will make you see the city in a whole new light.

Hidden Gems in Austin

Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and unique culture. But beyond the popular spots, there are many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here are 30 lesser-known places in Austin that you should check out.

Unique Outdoor Spots

Austin's natural beauty extends beyond its famous parks and lakes. Discover these hidden outdoor treasures.

Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve Peacocks roam freely in this serene park, which also features beautiful gardens and hiking trails.

Blunn Creek Nature Preserve A peaceful spot with trails that offer stunning views of downtown Austin and the surrounding nature.

St. Edward's Park A hidden oasis with hiking trails, a creek, and plenty of spots for a quiet picnic .

Shoal Creek Greenbelt A lesser-known greenbelt with trails perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.

Secret Beach Tucked away in Roy G. Guerrero Park, this sandy spot along the Colorado River is perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Quirky Museums and Galleries

Austin's art scene is as eclectic as its residents. These offbeat museums and galleries offer a unique cultural experience.

Museum of the Weird A quirky museum filled with oddities, curiosities, and strange artifacts.

Yard Dog Art Gallery Showcasing folk and outsider art, this gallery is a must-visit for art lovers looking for something different.

Mexic-Arte Museum Dedicated to Mexican and Latin American art, this museum offers a vibrant and colorful experience.

Cathedral of Junk An ever-evolving structure made entirely of junk, this quirky creation is a testament to one man's creativity.

The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria A beautiful art museum set in a historic villa with stunning gardens and outdoor sculptures.

Hidden Eateries and Cafes

Austin's food scene is legendary, but some of the best spots are off the beaten path. Here are a few hidden culinary gems.

Justine's Brasserie A cozy French bistro with a romantic atmosphere and delicious food.

Dai Due A farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

The Omelettry A beloved breakfast spot known for its hearty omelets and laid-back vibe.

Fonda San Miguel An upscale Mexican restaurant with a beautiful interior and mouthwatering dishes.

Radio Coffee & Beer A relaxed spot offering great coffee, craft beer, and live music.

Offbeat Shops and Markets

Austin's shopping scene is full of unique finds. These hidden shops and markets offer something special.

Uncommon Objects A treasure trove of antiques, oddities, and vintage finds.

Blue Genie Art Bazaar An annual holiday market featuring handmade goods from local artists.

End of an Ear A record store with a fantastic selection of vinyl, CDs, and cassettes.

Monkies Vintage and Thrift A great spot for vintage clothing, accessories, and home decor.

HOPE Farmers Market A community-driven market offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music.

Lesser-Known Historical Sites

Austin's history is rich and varied. These lesser-known historical sites offer a glimpse into the city's past.

French Legation Museum One of the oldest buildings in Austin, this museum offers a fascinating look at Texas history.

Neill-Cochran House Museum A beautifully preserved historic home with exhibits on 19th-century life in Austin.

Oakwood Cemetery A historic cemetery with graves dating back to the 1800s and beautiful monuments.

Texas Military Forces Museum Located at Camp Mabry, this museum showcases the history of Texas military forces.

O. Henry Museum The former home of the famous writer, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Secret Spots for Live Music

Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, but some of the best venues are hidden gems.

The White Horse A honky-tonk bar with live country music, dancing, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Cactus Cafe An intimate venue located on the University of Texas campus, known for its acoustic performances.

Saxon Pub A cozy spot featuring live music from local and touring artists.

Hole in the Wall A dive bar with a long history of hosting live music and a great place to discover new bands.

Mohawk A multi-level venue with indoor and outdoor stages, offering a diverse lineup of live music.

Discover Austin's Hidden Treasures

Austin is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From quirky museums to secluded parks , there's always something new to find. South Congress Avenue offers unique shops and street art, while Mayfield Park provides a peaceful escape with its peacocks and gardens. For a taste of local history, visit the Texas State Cemetery or the French Legation Museum . Food lovers will enjoy East Side Pies and Franklin Barbecue .

Live music can be found at The Continental Club or Mohawk Austin . Outdoor enthusiasts should check out Barton Creek Greenbelt and Mount Bonnell for hiking and stunning views. Each spot adds to the city's vibrant culture and charm. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these hidden treasures make Austin a city worth exploring again and again.

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9 Great Spots to View The Iconic Austin Skyline

Austin is a city full of charm, culture, and obviously, an awe-inspiring skyline. While popular spots such as Lou Neff Point, Pennybacker Bridge, and Zilker Park offer a stunning Austin cityscape, there are also plenty of hidden spots to admire the Austin TX, skyline from a different perspective.

In this blog, we have curated a list of ten of the best-overlooked spots for an unforgettable view of the skyline. So, buckle up, and let’s explore your Austin weekend itinerary!

1. Long Center for the Performing Arts 

Situated conveniently near Lady Bird Lake, the Long Center offers cool, shady areas to take in the surrounding scenery. The building’s mirrored windows create breathtaking reflections of the city skyline and are perfect for snagging that coveted Instagram photo.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, experience Austin’s vibrant artistic culture through a range of musical and cinematic performances presented at the Long Center in the art district of Austin year-round. Customer service hours Monday-Saturday.

Click here to learn more about Long Center for the Performing Arts.

2. The Running Trails at Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s most popular outdoor destinations, offering scenic routes for bikers and runners alike. The trails provide gorgeous views of the city skyline at all hours, and visitors who stick around until dusk can catch sight of the famous Congress Bridge bats, who typically take flight around 7:45 pm each night.

Ample parking is available at the corner of West Riverside Drive and South First Street but be advised that demand is highest during the weekends.

Click here to learn more about The Running Trails at Lady Bird Lake.

3. Zilker Park

Zilker Park is a picnic lover’s paradise, complete with open-sky views of the surrounding skyline. The park is located at 2201 Barton Springs Road and is home to Austin’s iconic annual music festival: ACL.

Known fondly to Austinites as the “jewel in the heart of Austin”, Zilker also offers exciting attractions such as a lush botanical garden, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, the Austin Nature and Science Center, the Zilker Hillside Theater and the spacious, 3-acre Barton Springs Pool.

Click here to learn more about Zilker Park.

4. Pennybacker Bridge

Located on Austin’s East Side at 5300 North Capitol of Texas Highway, Pennybacker Bridge offers views of the Austin skyline from a more distant perspective than other more centrally-located spots.

The Pennybacker bridge across Lake Austin connects both the northern and south Austin Loop 360 highway, it is known as the “Capital of Texas Highway.”

Known commonly as the “360 Bridge”, the spot is located along the Loop 360 Highway: considered to be one of the best scenic spots near me and scenic urban drives available in the Lone Star State. 

Click here to learn more about Pennybacker Bridge.

5. Lou Neff Point

Located near Austin’s downtown Butler Hike and Bike Trail, the Lou Neff Point Gazebo provides charming photo ops of the downtown skyline, framed by the Colorado River and the iconic Lamar Bridge.

The scenic overlook offers benches and shaded seating areas as well: the perfect nooks to relax while taking in the surrounding scenery. This is the perfect location to overlook the downtown skyline.

Click here to learn more about Lou Neff Point.

6. Mount Bonnell

Climb up 102 stairs at Mount Bonnell, and you’ll get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the skyline from the Austin mountain. The view from Mt Bonnell is particularly spectacular at sunset with Austin skyline pictures, and it’s a popular spot for marriage proposals and wedding photoshoots with the waterline behind.

Named after George Bonnell, a commissioner who served as the Commissioner of Indian Affairs for Texas in the 19th century, Mount Bonnell is the highest point in Austin. It offers a bird’s eye view of the city across South Congress to Austin city limits. For recuperating patients looking for relaxation and recovery, Mount Bonnell is hard to beat for natural treatment. So when tourists ask: Are there mountains in Austin, Texas? Mount Bonnell can be proudly pointed out.

Click here to learn more about Mount Bonnell.

7. Laguna Gloria

Located at the southern edge of the Colorado River and adjacent to Lake Austin, Laguna Gloria offers a unique view of the city skyline with the water in the foreground. It’s a historic venue that has been home to art exhibitions, offers opportunities for nature walks, picnics, and yoga, while you get an unparalleled view of the skyline.

A particular highlight of Laguna Gloria is seeing the tower of the Texas State Capitol, spotlighted and illuminated against the night sky.

Click here to learn more about Laguna Gloria.

8. The Lookout at Shoal Creek

The Lookout at Shoal Creek is a hidden gem in the Austin Greenbelt – a mile-long stretch of scenic green space through the heart of Austin.

Located in the middle of the city, this peaceful hideaway features a spectacular vista of downtown, making it a popular spot for early birds looking for their first appointment, hiking, picnicking, and dog walking. During the day, you can relax in the shade of the trees, and as the sun sets, watch as the downtown skyscrapers light up.

Click here to learn more about The Lookout at Shoal Creek.

9. Austin Central Library

No trip to Austin would be complete without a visit to the city’s Central Library. Imagine reading a book by the window, and when you look up, you realize the Austin skyline 2023 is right in front of you. The library offers a unique perspective on the city’s skyline of large businesses and small business alike, and it’s a great place to relax and soak in the city’s cultural vibes.

The best views from the library are from the rooftop garden where you can take panoramic shots of Lady Bird Lake, Auditorium Shores, and the city skyline.

Click here to learn more about Austin Central Library.

Austin’s skyline is undoubtedly one of the most photogenic sights you will ever see. Even though some popular spots offer unforgettable views, countless lesser-known spots throughout the city offer just as spectacular views from unique perspectives.

From hiking to libraries with free Wi-Fi, and docklands to downtown, Austin is full of picturesque spots perfect for finding good views in Austin. Whatever your Austin itinerary, whether you’re looking for solitude or an active social scene, these ten overlooked spots will give you an up-close and personal look at Austin’s towering urban beauty. Get out there and enjoy the view! For a more traditional cityscape view, try 515 Congress Avenue Austin TX 78701, with 26 storys.

Of course, not all companies are based in hi-rise buildings for example, Ebay is located in Parmer La, North Austin and international building designer Adam Zarafshani is based in East Austin in Ed Bluestein Blvd Building V. If you ever need a break from the crowds and noise of real street addresses take time out to discover the more relaxing views and atmosphere of Austin’s spots to view the city.

Which spot is your favorite for admiring the Austin skyline? Let us know in the comments!

If you find yourself in downtown Houston with time to spare, take in the best Houston skyline view from Eleanor Tinsley Park, both during the day and the evening.

More Things to Discover in Texas, Austin:

7 Historic Monuments at the Texas State Capitol

6 Things to Do Near Texas Capitol

Best Parking in Austin

Best Places to Go Swimming in A u stin

House of Torment - 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX 78754 - One of the scariest haunted houses

The Most Romantic Austin Wedding Venues

Your Guide To Austin's Barton Creek Greenbelt

View the Austin Bats Under Congress Bridge

Exploring Lady Bird Lake - The Jewel of Austin, Texas

7 Popular Lady Bird Lake Activities this Summer

Austin Texas Sunset: A Captivating Visual Experience

Best Restaurants in Austin Open Late

Best Hotels In Downtown Austin

10 Dude Ranches Near Austin

12 Austin Traditional Butchers

Buy A Classic Car In Austin

Best Places to Go Swimming in Austin

First Timer's Guide To Austin's South Congress

5 Hotels Near Austin-Bergstrom Airport

7 Best Gun Ranges in the Austin Area

7 Top Gun Shops in Austin: Your Guide to the Best Firearms Dealers

Austin Bergstrom International Airport

Shopping Austin in a Nutshell

19 Big Brands That Started Small In Austin

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Discover the Iconic Austin Skyline

31 Family-Friendly Things To Do With Kids In Austin, Texas

Are you planning a family trip and wondering about the best "things to do with kids in Austin"? Look no further!

As a family that has spent a lot of time in Austin, we've put together a list of the most fun things to do in Austin. We also share pro tips for each activity.

We should know too, since ChaChingQueen is ranked as a top Austin blog and top Austin mom blog !

Here are 31 things to do with kids in Austin, TX:

For Toddlers and Preschoolers

1. the thinkery.

The Thinkery Front Outside

What it is : The Thinkery is Austin's children museum where science and families play side by side. It is an evolution of the Austin Children’s Museum, and it’s designed to provide a creative and interactive learning environment.

Our family loves The Thinkery. I actually started writing this article while sipping on coffee outside of The Thinkery.

When you go, check out Thinkery Austin Children’s Museum Coupons and Discounts

Why you should visit : The Thinkery offers a range of exhibits perfect for spark curiosity in young minds. The Light Lab allows kids to explore colors, shadows, and light refraction.

The Currents section lets them experiment with water flow, with water tables, fountains, and vortexes to splash in.

Insider tip : Make sure you check out their calendar for special events and programs. Also, Wednesdays from 4-8 pm are Community Nights, where admission is pay-what-you-can.

The Thinkery Outside

2. Barton Springs Pool

What it is : Barton Springs Pool is a man-made recreational swimming pool located on the grounds of Zilker Park. Its main source of water is a natural spring.

Why you should visit : Maintaining an average temperature of around 68 degrees year-round, it's an ideal place for a refreshing swim.

The shallow end is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, while adults can enjoy a dip in the deeper areas.

Insider tip : Bring along swim shoes as the pool's bottom can be rocky and slippery. It's also advisable to arrive early, especially on hot summer days, as it tends to get crowded.

Related: 15 Free Things To Do In Austin, TX: Explore Austin For Free

3. Austin Zoo

What it is : The Austin Zoo is a rescue zoo and animal sanctuary that is home to more than 300 animals across over 100 different species.

Why you should visit : This zoo provides a unique experience for kids to learn about animals from different parts of the world as well as the importance of conservation.

You'll find everything from lions and tigers to monkeys and birds here.

Insider tip : Don't miss the daily feeding times, which can be a highlight for many kids. Also, consider bringing a picnic lunch as there are several shaded areas perfect for a family meal.

4. Altitude Trampoline Park

What it is : Altitude Trampoline Park is an indoor park filled with trampolines, foam pits, and other fun activities.

Why you should visit : It's a great place for active toddlers and preschoolers to burn off energy. They can bounce on trampolines, dive into foam pits, climb on the rock wall, and even play a game of dodgeball.

Insider tip : Check their website for special toddler times, where the park is open exclusively for little ones.

5. Mayfield Park

What it is : Mayfield Park is a public park that is home to beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and a resident peacock flock.

Why you should visit : Kids will love watching the peacocks strut around. The park also has walking trails, ponds filled with koi fish, and stunning gardens that make it a peaceful spot for a family day out.

Insider tip : Be sure to bring a camera to capture pictures of your kids with the peacocks. Also, pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful gardens.

6. Austin Nature & Science Center

What it is : The Austin Nature & Science Center is a dedicated space for families to explore the natural world through a variety of exhibits and activities.

Why you should visit : The center offers a number of hands-on exhibits where kids can dig for dinosaur bones, meet local wildlife, and even explore the universe.

Insider tip : Don't miss the Dino Pit, a sand pit filled with replica dinosaur bones that kids can dig up. It's the perfect spot for budding paleontologists.

Related: How To Go To SXSW For Free + SXSW Student Discounts

What it is : Toy Joy is a long-standing Austin toy store known for its eclectic mix of toys and collectibles.

Why you should visit : With its wide range of toys, games, and collectibles, Toy Joy can keep your little ones engaged for hours. From classic toys to the latest trends, there's something for every child here.

Insider tip : Don't forget to check out Yummi Joy, the candy store located right next door. It's packed with a wide range of candies, chocolates, and vegan ice cream.

Related: Free Things To Do In Converse, TX + Things To Do With Kids In Converse

For Elementary School Kids

8. lady bird lake hike-and-bike trail.

What it is : The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is a 10-mile long, scenic trail that loops around Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin.

Lady Bird Lake - Austin

Why you should visit : This trail offers stunning views of the lake and downtown Austin. It's perfect for a family bike ride or a leisurely walk. You can also spot a variety of birds along the trail, making it a great place for young birdwatchers.

Insider tip : Consider renting bikes or bringing your own to cover more ground. There are several places near the trail where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes for a fun water adventure.

9. Wonderspaces

What it is : Wonderspaces is an interactive art show that presents a new way to experience art. They collaborate with artists from around the world to create immersive, thought-provoking works of art.

Why you should visit : This unique experience features a rotating selection of extraordinary artwork from artists all over the world. Each piece is designed to be interactive, allowing visitors to become a part of the art.

Insider tip : Tickets can sell out, so it's best to purchase them online in advance. Also, plan to spend at least 90 minutes exploring the various exhibits.

10. Inner Space Cavern

What it is : Inner Space Cavern is a karst cave located in Georgetown, Texas. Discovered in 1963, it is one of the best-preserved caves in Texas.

Why you should visit : A guided tour of this cavern takes you through stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. It's a fascinating journey into the underground world that will pique your child's interest in geology.

Insider tip : Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain. Also, bring a light jacket as the temperature inside the cavern is usually around 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

11. Science Mill

What it is : The Science Mill is a family destination located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. It offers a fun, interactive learning environment for all ages.

Why you should visit : This museum makes learning about science, technology, engineering, and math exciting and fun. With over 50 interactive exhibits, a 3D theater, and an outdoor science park, there's something to engage every young scientist.

Insider tip : Don't miss the BioLab where kids can engage in hands-on biology-based activities.

12. Austin Aquarium

What it is : The Austin Aquarium provides children and families access to a variety of species from the rainforests and oceans of the world.

Why you should visit : Kids can feed koi, touch stingrays, and even have a bird perch on their shoulder. It's a great place to learn about marine life and conservation.

Insider tip : Check out their website for feeding times and special events. Check out our site for: Austin Aquarium Coupons and Discounts + Free Tickets

Related: Sea World Coupons and Discounts. Cheap Tickets

13. Zilker Botanical Garden

What it is : The Zilker Botanical Garden, often called “the jewel in the heart of Austin”, is a beautiful 26-acre garden set within Zilker Park.

Why you should visit : The garden features a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, and dinosaur garden. It's a great place for kids to learn about different types of plants, and it offers plenty of beautiful spots for a picnic.

Insider tip : Bring a camera for some great photo ops. Also, wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

14. Dinosaur Park

What it is : The Dinosaur Park is an outdoor museum filled with life-sized dinosaur replicas. It's located in Cedar Creek, just a short drive from Austin.

Why you should visit : Kids can learn about different types of dinosaurs as they explore the park. There's also a fossil-dig area where kids can unearth replica fossils.

Insider tip : Pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables. Also, bring bug spray and sunscreen, especially in the summer.

For Middle School Kids

15. bullock texas state history museum.

What it is : The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a dynamic educational institution that engages visitors in the exciting Story of Texas through a variety of exhibits, films, and programs.

Why you should visit : The museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits that present Texas history from prehistoric times to the present. It's a great way for kids to learn about the state's rich history in a fun and engaging way.

Insider tip : Don't miss the Texas Spirit Theater, which offers multi-sensory films that truly bring Texas history to life.

16. Austin Rock Gym

What it is : Austin Rock Gym offers indoor climbing instruction for all ages and abilities.

Why you should visit : Climbing is a great way for kids to build strength, improve problem-solving skills, and gain confidence. The gym offers various climbing routes, catering to both beginners and experienced climbers.

Insider tip : Be sure to wear comfortable clothes that allow for a full range of motion. All necessary climbing equipment can be rented at the gym.

17. Blanton Museum of Art

What it is : The Blanton Museum of Art, part of the University of Texas at Austin, is one of the foremost university art museums in the country and holds the largest public collection in Central Texas.

Why you should visit : The museum offers a wide array of art, from ancient Greek pottery to contemporary works. It's a great way to introduce kids to different styles and periods of art.

Insider tip : Admission is free on Thursdays, and every third Thursday the museum stays open until 9 pm.

18. McKinney Falls State Park

What it is : McKinney Falls State Park is a state park located at the southeastern edge of Austin, Texas, around the confluence of Onion Creek and Williamson Creek.

Why you should visit : The park offers hiking, camping, fishing, mountain biking, and more. Kids can learn about local flora and fauna, explore the falls, and even search for fossils.

Insider tip : Don't forget to pack a swimsuit and towels. The Lower Falls swimming area is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

19. Austin Panic Room

What it is : Austin Panic Room offers live escape games where participants are locked in a room and have to use elements within the room to solve a series of puzzles and escape within a set time limit.

Why you should visit : Escape rooms are a fun way to encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It's also a unique and exciting activity that kids will love.

Insider tip : Be sure to book your escape room experience in advance as they often sell out.

20. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures

What it is : Lake Travis Zipline Adventures offers a chance to zip across incredible canyons and inlets of Lake Travis.

Why you should visit : For thrill-seeking kids, ziplining over Lake Travis is an unforgettable experience. It's not only fun but also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas.

Insider tip : Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a change of clothes as you might get wet during the adventure.

21. The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria

What it is : The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria is a unique art museum that features rotating contemporary art exhibitions, as well as an outdoor sculpture park.

Why you should visit : Kids can explore the grounds, discover new art, and even participate in hands-on art activities. The beautiful setting on the shores of Lake Austin also makes it a peaceful place for a family outing.

Insider tip : Don't miss the Art Lab, where families can create their own art inspired by the works on display.

22. Austin Bat Bridge

What it is : The Congress Avenue Bridge, also known as the Austin Bat Bridge, houses the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening from spring to fall, visitors can watch as 1.5 million bats fly out from under the bridge at dusk.

Why you should visit : It's a truly unique and memorable experience to see such a large number of bats take flight at once. It's also a great opportunity for kids to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

Insider tip : Be sure to arrive early to get a good viewing spot. Also, consider bringing a blanket to sit on and some bug spray.

For High School Kids

23. texas state capitol.

What it is : The Texas State Capitol, located in Downtown Austin, is the fourth building to serve as the seat of Texas government. It houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature and the Office of the Governor.

Why you should visit : A guided tour of the Capitol offers a look into Texas history and the legislative process. The architecture and the grounds are also impressive.

Insider tip : Guided tours are free and depart from the South Foyer, but you can also explore the building on your own.

24. Graffiti Park at Castle Hill

What it is : Also known as HOPE Outdoor Gallery, this community paint park is one of the largest outdoor galleries in Texas. It's dedicated to positive, educational messages and collaborations that reflect the spirit of the community.

Why you should visit : This park provides a canvas for local artists and is a unique place to experience Austin's vibrant art scene. It's also a great spot for some interesting photo ops.

Insider tip : Wear sturdy shoes as the area can be a bit rough. Keep in mind that the artwork here changes regularly, so there's always something new to see.

25. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

What it is : Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a movie theater chain known for its strict policy of requiring its audiences to maintain proper cinema-going etiquette. They serve dinner and drinks directly to your seat, and they strictly enforce a zero-talking policy.

Why you should visit : It's not just a movie theater - it's an experience. With a mix of latest releases, independent films, and classic retrospectives, Alamo offers something for every film fan.

Insider tip : Arrive early to enjoy their unique pre-show clips tailored to each film. Don't forget to try their bottomless popcorn.

26. Mount Bonnell

What it is : Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park, is a prominent point alongside Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. It has been a popular tourist destination since the 1850s.

Why you should visit : The peak offers spectacular views of the city of Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills. It's a great spot for a picnic or a sunset view. It's one of our favorite spots, which is why we included it on our list of top views in Austin .

Insider tip : It's a bit of a climb to the top (over 100 stairs), so wear comfortable shoes and bring some water.

27. Austin Food Truck Parks

What it is : Austin is famous for its food truck culture, with several parks dedicated to these mobile restaurants throughout the city.

Why you should visit : From gourmet donuts to savory BBQ, Austin's food trucks offer a wide variety of delicious options. It's a fun way to explore the city's diverse culinary scene.

Insider tip : Some popular food truck parks include Rainey Street, South Congress, and The Picnic. Be sure to check the operating hours as they can vary.

28. Circuit of The Americas

What it is : The Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is a world-class destination for performance, education, and business. It is the first purpose-built Grand Prix facility in the U.S.

Why you should visit : COTA offers a variety of motorsport events throughout the year, including the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. It's also home to the largest outdoor amphitheater in Central Texas.

Insider tip : Check their calendar for upcoming events and races. If there's no event when you visit, consider taking a tour of the facility.

29. Barton Creek Greenbelt

What it is : The Barton Creek Greenbelt contains 12.68 miles of gorgeous trails, with the main trail spanning about 7 miles. This particular greenbelt is considered one of the best hiking trails in Texas.

Barton Creek Greenbelt Austin TX

Why you should visit : From hiking and biking to rock climbing and swimming, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast here. It's also a great place to escape the city without actually leaving Austin.

Insider tip : Be sure to bring plenty of water, especially in the summer months. Also, check the water level if you plan on swimming - the creek can dry up depending on the rainfall.

30. Austin Public Library - Central Library

What it is : The Austin Central Library is a six-story marvel with a rooftop garden, technology petting zoo, cooking demonstration area, and a variety of reading spaces.

Why you should visit : Besides its impressive collection of books, the library offers stunning architecture and a beautiful view of Lady Bird Lake from the rooftop butterfly garden.

Insider tip : Don't miss the Cookbook Bar & Café on the first floor, where recipes come straight from the cookbooks on the library's shelves.

31. LBJ Presidential Library

What it is : The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is one of 14 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration.

Why you should visit : The library offers a chance to learn about America's 36th President, Lyndon B. Johnson, his colorful life, and significant impact on our nation.

Insider tip : Be sure to check out the 7/8th scale replica of the Oval Office as it was during Johnson's presidency.

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Have Fun In Austin!

Austin is a city brimming with opportunities for exploration and adventure for kids of all ages.

Its rich history, vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and thrilling outdoor activities make it a dynamic and exciting destination.

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