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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.

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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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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austin, TX

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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:

1. The State Capitol and Visitors Center

2. lady bird lake, 3. go for a dip at barton springs pool, 4. lyndon baines johnson library and museum, 5. bullock texas state history museum, 6. see the bats from congress avenue bridge, 7. hop on a sightseeing tour, 8. zilker metropolitan park attractions, 9. explore the attractions at the university of texas at austin, 10. mexic-arte museum, 11. mckinney falls state park, 12. umlauf sculpture garden and museum, 13. mount bonnell, 14. tour the museum of the weird, 15. day trip to texas hill country, where to stay in austin for sightseeing, 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.

If you are visiting Austin to enjoy the famous live music shows or for general sightseeing, the best place to base yourself is right downtown. The city is relatively compact, and many of the top attractions are in close proximity to each other. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• Looking out over Lady Bird Lake and not far from the entertainment districts, the Four Seasons Hotel features lovely grounds, a saltwater pool, and luxury suites.
• The InterContinental Stephen F. Austin , conveniently located between the 2nd Street District and the state capitol, is one of the city's iconic hotels, with an Art Deco façade, large rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness facility complete with a lap pool.
• The W Austin is as close to the music scene as you can get, with Austin City Limits right next door, and for something a little different, the Hotel Ella is a converted mansion dating from 1910, just a little outside the city center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Mid-range hotels are scarce in the city center. At the upper end of this category is the Hyatt Regency , with a prime location on the Colorado River waterfront and just a short walk over a bridge to downtown.
• The Crowne Plaza , a large property with a great outdoor pool, is just over five miles out from the city center and easily accessible at the intersections of two major highways, I35 and 290.
• A great option only three miles from downtown is the Best Western Plus, which was completely renovated in 2013.

Budget Hotels:

• Just steps from the capitol building and about a five-minute walk from the 6th Street area, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a good budget option in downtown.
• A short distance outside the city center are the Rodeway Inn & Suites and the recently renovated Red Roof PLUS+ , both with outdoor pools.

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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.

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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Top 30 Things To Do in Austin, Texas

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

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, like Hoshi By NONOTAK Studio (pictured above.) 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 socially distanced 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

View the Congress Bridge Bats 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 their nightly departure from Congress Bridge in their relentless and appreciated pursuit to rid us 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. 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.

6. 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.

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. 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.

9. 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!

10. 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

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. 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.

13. 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.

14. Float the River with Texas State Tubes

Back before tourism hit the Austin market and visitors had endless options, floating the Guadalupe and San Marcos rivers provided locals with a relaxing way to spend the day chilling in the water. As the city grew so did the attraction and depending on when and where you go the parking and lines can be a mess. Joining a bus load of other tubers on a tour from Texas State Tubes makes it super EASY and a little SAFER with transport from Austin to the rivers down South and back.

15. Take Down the Cartel in 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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!

21. Power Your Own Pub Crawl with Pedal Pub Austin

Pedal power is all the rage in the new green America! Help do your part to save the environment by saddling up with Pedal Pub and hitting the town. If you're worried about stamina, these rides come with electric pedal assist as a backup for your quads. Your tour can include stops at bars, murals, and food trucks in the downtown area. Private tours are a clear favorite of bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations and corporate team building, but public tours are also offered and are a great way to meet new people for locals and visitors alike.

22. 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.

23. Get the Gang Back Together with YourBikerGang.com

Ready to join a biker gang? This doesn't quite qualify as an automatic entry into the Sons of Anarchy gang but it's as close as you’re likely to get and a lot more fun! YourBikerGang.com offers ridiculously fun guided adventures on electric powered bikes. It's one of our favorite ways to see Austin! They have a variety of different experiences to choose from and tours depart every day of the week.

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. 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

27. 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.

28. Catch Some Air at 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!

29. 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.

30. 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.

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 the Cathedral of Junk
• View Mount Bonnell
• View Barton Creek Greenbelt
• View Bob Bullock Museum
• View McKinney Falls State Park
• 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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19 Best Things to Do in Austin

By Mandy Ellis and Jonathan Thompson

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.

Jessica Chapel

Alex Erdekian

Diana Oates

Jessica Puckett

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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Free Things to Do

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48 Hours in Austin: Itinerary

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Top Things to Do

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 on Fridays and Saturdays (closed major holidays).

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 for your safety.

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. Vegetarians can dine on some sides such as potato salad and coleslaw. 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 almost never 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. 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, named one of Bon Appétit magazine's Best New Restaurants in 2016, 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. The bar is open Thursdays through Saturdays.

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.

Watch Now: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Austin's Bat Bridge

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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Austin's Bat Bridge: A Viewing Guide

Nightlife in Austin: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

Austin's Top Annual Events

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Your Trip to Austin: The Complete Guide

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The Best Neighborhoods to Visit in Austin

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The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From San Antonio

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Guide to Halloween in Texas: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

53 Best & Fun Things To Do In Austin (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: March 19, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

With everything from wild mountain ranges to hip and trendy bars, Austin is one of the most vibrant cities in Texas.

It welcomes more than 27 million visitors per year, and it hosts all kinds of concerts, festivals, parades and government events as befitting the state capital.

It has a dual identity, too.

While it’s home to many patriotic landmarks and solemn memorials, its unofficial slogan is “Keep Austin Weird,” and it lives up to that promise with funky shops, colorful murals, secret speakeasies and one-of-a-kind neighborhoods with lots of atmosphere.

Are you ready to experience everything that this fun and unique city has to offer?

Here are just a few things to do in Austin, Texas.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Greetings From Austin Mural

Wally Gobetz / flickr

Start your vacation right with the “Greetings From Austin” mural .

Located in the heart of the city, it’s a painted wall that resembles a cheerful, life-sized postcard, and it’s the perfect selfie spot for tourists.

The mural contains images of iconic Austin landmarks such as the Texas State Capitol and the University of Texas Tower.

It’s free to visit and take photos, so you can pose with it as many times as you’d like to get an Instagram-worthy photo.

When you’re done, step sideways into the Roadhouse Relics studio.

The owner is the one who painted the mural, and he makes all kinds of signs and art prints that can be purchased as souvenirs.

Address:  1720 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704, United States

2. Lady Bird Lake

Skylar Dawn / Shutterstock

With glittering waters and tree-lined shores, Lady Bird Lake is one of the most beautiful attractions in Austin, and it can offer hours of entertainment for outdoor enthusiasts.

The first thing to know about the lake is that motorized boats are prohibited.

However, you’re free to rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard, so the ban is actually a good thing that keeps the area calm and clear for tourists.

If you prefer to stay dry, there are enjoyable activities for you as well.

You can hike or bike one of the many trails that encircle the lake; you can walk a paved, picturesque boardwalk; you can even take a cruise along the water.

Lady Bird Lake is one of the major points of interest in Austin, so you should definitely put it on your list.

As long as you don’t mind mud in your water shoes, you’ll have a great time.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741, United States

3. Museum of the Weird

sean hobson / flickr

With its eye-popping colors and brain-bending oddities, the Museum of the Weird is one of the most unique things to see in Austin.

It’s the only place in the city where you can find shrunken heads next to melted wax figures next to gigantic statues of movie monsters.

Its bright yellow walls are decorated with splashy, vintage-style posters, so the assault on your retinas will begin as soon as you enter.

From there, you can check out weird antiques, psychic trinkets, taxidermy animals, deformed skulls and many other odds and ends.

Nothing is off-limits at the Museum of the Weird.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll leave the building, blink in the sunlight and wonder what just happened.

You should definitely schedule a visit if you’re wondering where to go during your vacation!

Address:  412 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

4. Zilker Park

Jill Shepherd / Shutterstock

Texas is one of the most beautiful states in the country, and when you’re surrounded by the lush, vibrant landscapes of Zilker Park , you’ll understand why.

Hills are covered in wildflowers.

Nature trails wind through babbling brooks and charming little footbridges.

Multiple lakes are scattered across the park, including an all-natural, spring-fed lake with water so clear and mild that it’s used as a swimming hole all year long.

Popular pastimes include hiking, cycling, fishing, boating, paddling and touring the local gardens and sculpture exhibits.

If you’ll be there on the weekend, you can take advantage of free-to-the-public events like outdoor movie nights and plays in the park.

There are commercial activities as well; Zilker Park hosts everything from music festivals to holiday light shows.

Are you looking to enjoy yourself this weekend?

Consider a trip to Zilker Park.

It’s one of the best, most beautiful attractions in Texas , so it’s a must-see while you’re down south.

Check out this 2-Hour sightseeing bike tour that runs through Zilker Park.

Address:  2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746, United States

5. Blazer Tag Adventure Center

Many of the tourist attractions in Austin are best visited on sunny, summery days.

But what if you’re headed to Texas in the winter?

You might be wondering what to do.

The answer is Blazer Tag .

Hailed as the largest laser tag arena in Texas, Blazer Tag offers three entire floors of ramps, towers, corridors and bridges.

Rather than playing a rinky-dink game of tag in a small, enclosed area, you’ll immerse yourself in an amazing tactical landscape like something out of a video game or military exercise.

When you’ve defeated the other team, you can relax at a cafe that offers pizza, burgers, nachos, cheese sticks and funnel cakes.

You can also get nostalgic with an arcade that boasts everything from pinball machines to good old skee-ball.

Blazer Tag is one of the top places to visit in Austin, so give them a call if you want some exciting possibilities for a vacation, birthday party or corporate event.

Address:  1701 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

6. Downtown Austin

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

With its gleaming buildings and waterfront views, Austin has one of the most recognizable skylines in the entire state of Texas.

However, there are just as many fun things to see on the ground!

Shops and restaurants line the sidewalks.

Malls, museums, art galleries and performance theaters offer a fun night on the town.

A farmer’s market provides fresh produce and artisan crafts every week.

There’s a boardwalk for sightseeing and a river for kayaking.

The state capitol building is available for tours.

You can rent cars, bikes and boats to follow every whim and explore every trail.

Whether you’re looking to shop ’til you drop or stuff your belly until you explode, downtown Austin has it all.

It’s a must-do while you’re in the city for any length of time.

Check out this awesome downtown history walking tour.

7. Terry Black’s Barbecue

Terry Black’s Barbecue

In Texas, it isn’t a good platter of ribs unless it’s as big as your face.

Thankfully, Terry Black’s Barbecue knows how to serve up a worthy portion of dripping, sauce-slathered pork.

Everything is cooked in gigantic smoke ovens that tenderize the meat until it practically falls off the bone.

The menu includes ribs, briskets, sandwiches, sides and even a salad or two, and there are drinks and desserts when you’re craving something sweet after stuffing your face.

The restaurant has a cafeteria-style setup, so even if there’s a wait for your ribs, you can start munching on potato salad and mac and cheese as soon as you arrive.

No one goes hungry at Terry Black’s Barbecue.

It’s one of the best restaurants in Texas, so if you’ll be near the Austin or Dallas area, make sure to loosen your belt buckle and stop by!

Address:  1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Houston  & things to do in San Antonio !

8. Austin Nature and Science Center

Austin Nature & Science Center

Are you traveling to Texas with kids?

You won’t want to miss the Austin Nature and Science Center .

While it offers family-friendly fun that can be enjoyed by all ages, it holds a special kind of magic for children.

Maybe it’s because of the wildlife center that houses everything from birds to bobcats.

Maybe it’s because of the “dino pit” where little paleontologists can dig up their own rocks, fossils and gemstones.

Maybe it’s just the fact that the Austin Nature and Science Center makes learning fun .

It isn’t a dull place where you have to listen to tour guides drone on and on about things that you don’t care about.

At this destination, you can enjoy education and entertainment all rolled into one, so it should please parents and kids alike.

Address:  2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Galveston  & things to do in Fort Worth !

9. Circuit of the Americas

Tricia Daniel / Shutterstock

If you feel the need for speed, there’s no better place to get the wind whipping through your hair than Circuit of the Americas .

Though it was built as a professional racetrack, it’s expanded to include an amphitheater, observation tower and various sports facilities, so it’s easily one of the top destinations in Austin.

Plan a trip in the spring to enjoy the IndyCar Classic.

Visit in the winter to watch the Formula One Grand Prix.

Go anytime to marvel at the glass floors and ceilings of the observation tower, or check their schedule to see when they’ll be hosting concerts, rugby matches, motorsport events or go-kart races.

There’s always something exciting to do at Circuit of the Americas, which is why it’s one of the most fun things to do in Austin.

Call today to see what they’ll be hosting tomorrow!

Address:  9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617, United States

10. Toy Joy

When traveling to Austin, you might hear the locals say that they want to “Keep Austin Weird.”

It’s a rallying cry meant to support the small, one-of-a-kind businesses that give Austin its eclectic charm.

Toy Joy is one such business.

Crazy and colorful, it’s home to all kinds of fun, quirky toys, including vintage collectibles that you can’t find anywhere else.

You’ll have your pick of board games, kaleidoscopes, finger traps, wind-up figures, lava lamps, stuffed animals and more!

It does offer “traditional” toys, so if you’re looking for something familiar to occupy your kids in the backseat, you can find the usual dolls and puzzles to keep them entertained.

However, the true strength of Toy Joy lies in its unique and kitschy trinkets.

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just letting out your inner child for awhile, you’ll love the unforgettable shelves of this toy store.

Address:  403 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

11. Texas State Capitol

LMPphoto / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Austin without checking out the Texas State Capitol .

Not only is it the most important seat of government in Texas, but at more than 300 feet tall, it’s even bigger than the famous capitol building of Washington D.C. !

Tours are available if you’re interested in the grand architecture of the building or the politics within it.

If not, you can check out the different photos, videos and exhibits that have been arranged for visitors.

The highlight is a gigantic Lego model of the capitol that required more than 65,000 blocks to complete.

You’ll definitely want to visit the Texas State Capitol if you’re headed to Austin.

It’s one of the major points of interest of the city, so even if you don’t spend hours and hours there, you’ll want to drop by just to say that you saw it.

It’s almost like a prerequisite if you’re looking for things to do in downtown Austin.

Address:  1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

12. Congress Avenue Bridge

Jaime Becerra / Shutterstock

Congress Avenue Bridge is an iconic landmark in Austin.

Not only does it form an important part of the city skyline, but it’s also home to the largest bat colony in Texas.

Have you ever seen a dark cloud of bats scattering through the air like something out of a gothic horror movie?

This is your chance!

Experts say that as many as 1.5 million bats could be living in the nooks and crannies of the bridge’s concrete structure.

They sleep during the day, but at night, they take flight.

Visitors to Austin can watch thousands and thousands of bats soaring through the sky.

They’re a remarkable sight, especially if you stand on the pedestrian portion of the bridge and get a bird’s eye view of their rise.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Austin, you won’t want to miss Congress Avenue Bridge when the sun goes down.

The bat migration is something that has to be seen to be believed.

Address:  Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, United States

13. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures

Olesia Bilkei / Shutterstock

If you’re going to hurl yourself through the air at 30 miles per hour, you might as well book the best, and that’s Lake Travis Zipline Adventures .

They boast the longest and fastest ziplines in the entire state of Texas!

Their lines aren’t the only things that they have going for them, however.

They also offer food, lodging and transportation for guided tours through the beautiful scenery of Austin.

Whether you’re looking to rent a cabin for the weekend or just lounge on a private beach for the afternoon, this company can arrange everything for you.

Do you dare to fling yourself off the tree tops?

Do you dream of sunbathing on a quiet, unoccupied stretch of sand?

Call Lake Travis Zipline Adventures.

You could be having an exhilarating near-death experience as early as this weekend!

Address:  14529 Pocohontas Trail, Volente, TX 78641, United States

14. Hippie Hollow Park

Philip Arno Photography / Shutterstock

If you’ve always wanted to go to a nude beach, Hippie Hollow Park is something to put on your Austin bucket list.

It isn’t officially known as a nude beach.

In fact, it isn’t really a beach at all.

Located on the rocky shores of a limestone outcropping, it’s more of a place to sit, socialize and sunbathe rather than a splash in the water.

However, it does have a “clothing optional” rule, and many people take advantage of that and let their nether regions breathe.

Texas hippies have been doing it since the ’60s and ’70s, and today, visitors like to throw off their coats and join the fun as well.

Do you believe in body positivity?

Do you like the thought of cracking open a beer and soaking up the sun with like-minded individuals?

Visit Hippie Hollow Park and let it all hang loose!

Address:  7000 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732, United States

15. Sixth Street

Rolf_52 / Shutterstock

Sixth Street is one of those “love it or hate it” places in Austin.

Known to locals as the Dirty Sixth, it has a thriving nightlife scene that includes everything from microbreweries to dance bars, so it’s a source of food, drink, art, live music and spontaneous tattoos.

On the other hand, Sixth Street can be a pretty overwhelming place.

The lights glitter like it’s Vegas instead of Austin, and it’s definitely an adult-oriented neighborhood where the best action happens after the kids go to bed.

It’s part of downtown Austin, too, so it’s always loud and lively.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Austin, however, you can’t beat Sixth Street for sheer opportunity.

There’s always something going on, and it’s usually boozy.

You should give it a try if you like having a good time and are decent at holding your liquor.

Address: 115 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Traveling to other parts of Texas? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in El Paso  & things to do in Waco !

16. Texas Memorial Museum

Ken Wolter / Shutterstock

Located on the University of Texas campus, the Texas Memorial Museum is a celebration of natural science.

Its programs and exhibits are devoted to geology, zoology, paleontology, herpetology, ichthyology and more.

Fossils are preserved behind glass. Specimens float in jars, and dinosaur bones rise to dizzying heights.

There are even chairs shaped like scaled-up models of vertebrae!

Special events are frequently held at the museum, too.

If you’re intrigued by the thought of touching meteorite rocks or feeding little critters from wildlife shelters, there’s something on the schedule for you.

Make use of travel hacks to get free or discounted admission.

The best things to do in Austin aren’t always centered around roller coasters.

Sometimes, they’re located within places like the Texas Memorial Museum, and they’re educational and entertaining.

Address:  2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78705, United States

17. Wonder Bar

If Instagram opened a bar, it would be Wonder Bar .

Filled with colorful, whimsical props that range from carousel unicorns to stripper poles in ball pits, it’s a dream destination for people who like to take cool and unique photos for social media.

Snuggle with a gigantic teddy bear.

Put on a pink cowboy hat and ride a spring-operated spaceship.

Get a “printed drink” in a tall, funky glass that’s just begging to be photographed.

There’s a bar area with fuzzy, colorful upholstery that will delight your eyes and your taste buds.

There’s a dance floor if you like to groove.

There are even secret rooms with more props if you want to go on a selfie tour!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Austin, it doesn’t get more novel than the Wonder Bar.

It’s one of the best tourist attractions for anyone with a smartphone camera.

Address:  11500 Rock Rose Ave suite d, Austin, TX 78758, United States

18. McKinney Falls State Park

Daniel Mullins / Shutterstock

McKinney Falls State Park is one of the hottest tourist spots in Austin.

In the summertime, this is quite literal; temperatures can climb high in Texas, so people flock to the streams and pools of state parks to get a little relief.

In terms of activities, however, McKinney Falls State Park is still pretty hot.

It boasts more than 80 campsites, and you’ll have the option of sleeping under the stars or living the life of luxury in a wooden cabin.

You can also swim, fish, hike, bike, picnic, bird watch and even geocache.

Amenities are available if you want them.

Otherwise, you can enjoy the rugged natural beauty of McKinney Falls State Park by exploring it in your own way.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Austin, so you won’t be alone.

Thousands of visitors flock to its scenery each year, and thousands more are subjected to the vacation photos of their friends and family as they explain, “This is where we rented a paddleboat, and this is where Johnny scraped his knee on the rocks…”

Address:  5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, United States

19. Pinballz Arcade

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If you’ve always lamented the fact that you can’t find old-fashioned arcades anymore, Pinballz Arcade is a must see destination.

It’s a cozy little place that offers all of the best retro games, and with a relaxed, open atmosphere that includes a “bring your own beer” policy, adults can enjoy it just as much as kids.

A plush carpet will sink under your shoes as soon as you enter.

Dark lighting will make the pinball machines glow.

You’ll be transported right back to childhood as the chimes and jingles of high scores fill the air.

Once you’ve beaten the games, you can mosey on over to Pinzball Lake Creek for even more fun.

It’s a secondary location that offers laser tag, escape rooms, bumper cars and virtual reality simulations, so there’s a little something for game enthusiasts of all types.

Pinballz Arcade is definitely one of the best things to do in Austin, so if you’re looking for the city’s best tourist attractions, put this one on your itinerary.

It can offer hours of tipsy, nostalgic fun!

Address:  8940 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758, United States

20. Austin City Limits Music Festival

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Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and the Austin City Limits Music Festival is a celebration of that.

Held every year over the course of two weekends, it brings together literally hundreds of musical acts, and it’s always a crazy good time.

The concerts go all day long. They start at 10AM and end at 10PM.

Multiple stages are in operation at any given time, and the music coming from them could be rock, jazz, country, electronic or hip hop.

In addition to the music, there’s always food and drink for hungry revelers, and there are special booths for arts, crafts, games and other fun things.

If you like music, you won’t want to miss the Austin City Limits Music Festival.

It’s the southern version of Coachella.

Book your tickets early so that you can guarantee yourself a spot at this amazing annual event.

21. Austin Public Library

ShengYing Lin / Shutterstock

You wouldn’t normally see a library on a list of tourist attractions, but the Austin Public Library isn’t an ordinary place.

Its gleaming, high-tech building is home to everything from a cafe to a rooftop garden where you can relax outdoors with a cup of tea and a good book!

The inside is equally impressive, however. Local artwork hangs on the walls, and there are dozens of soft, comfortable reading nooks tucked between bookshelves and computer stations.

With six floors in total, you can also wander between story rooms, game rooms, hangout spaces and demonstration tables.

There’s a giant chess set on one floor and a keyboard on another.

Special events are always going on for kids, teens, adults and even seniors.

The Austin Public Library is one of the coolest places to visit in the city.

In fact, it might be one of the coolest places to visit in the entire state of Texas.

Whether you’re looking for leisure or excitement, there’s a room that can meet your needs.

Address:  710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Got more time? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Lubbock  & some of the things to do in New Braunfels ?

22. Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Larry D. Moore / CC BY-SA

Despite the abundance of lakes and ponds near Austin, it can be difficult to find a good spot for swimming.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park is where you’ll want to go to splash.

Open every day of the year, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a beautiful and family-friendly location for swimming, biking, camping, picnicking and sightseeing.

The water is always mild, and there’s a sandy shoreline for catching tadpoles and building sandcastles.

You can be forgiven for thinking that you’re in Florida rather than Texas.

Do you hate sand in your shoes?

You can also hike, bike and camp on dry land.

Do you love wildlife observation?

See if you can spot the native birds and fish of Austin.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park isn’t a wild and crazy place, but it can offer a fun time for families who just want to enjoy a sunny day together.

Bring a basket lunch; slip off your shoes at the wooden docks. Stay awhile.

Address:  1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730, United States

23. Hatchet Alley

AP Group of Photographers / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do in Austin on a rainy day, consider Hatchet Alley .

It offers more than 12,000 feet of indoor recreational space, and activities include everything from axe throwing to football bowling.

You’ll find lots of fun stuff to do here, and since it isn’t weather dependent, it can be enjoyed anytime!

Test your strength with bocce ball.

Toss some bean bags with friends, or attempt to throw an axe at a bullseye.

You can even try “football bowling,” an inventive game that combines precision passing with good old-fashioned bowling.

Walks-in are accepted at Hatchet Alley, but you can also call ahead and reserve lanes if you’re in a big group.

That might be best if you’re traveling with kids or colleagues.

Either way, you’re sure to have fun with this indoor entertainment space.

Schedule your visit for this weekend and get half-off beer on Friday!

Address:  443 A Bastrop Hwy, Austin, TX 78741, United States

24. Austin Visitor Center

Austin Visitor Center & Gift Shop

Southerners are known for their hospitality, and nowhere is this more apparent than the Austin Visitor Center .

As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted like an old friend, and the staff will tell you all about the attractions, events, programs and hidden gems of the city.

You might also enjoy the gift shop within the visitor center.

It’s the best place to buy souvenirs and knickknacks, so if you want an “I (Heart) Austin” shirt to add to your collection, this is where you’ll find them.

Additionally, you can make travel plans with the help of the staff.

They can arrange everything from food tours to zipline adventures, and they’ll do it with a local’s knowledge, so you’ll get good deals and avoid the usual tourist traps.

Swing by the Austin Visitor Center if you’re new to the city and wondering what to do.

It’s a place that can provide answers, so it’s worth the trip!

Address:  602 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

25. Texas Governor’s Mansion

Ms S. Ann / Shutterstock

The Texas Governor’s Mansion is an architectural marvel.

Originally built in the 1800s, it’s housed every single Texas governor since its creation, and it’s weathered everything from crazy storms to arson attempts from anarchist groups.

Free tours are available, but they only take place on certain days, so you’ll need to call ahead.

Once you’re inside, you can enjoy a peek behind the governmental curtain as you explore the rooms, halls, furnishings, offices and stairways of Texas’s most prominent politician.

If you’re interested in the history and legacy of the great state of Texas, put the Texas Governor’s Mansion on your list of Austin attractions.

It’s one of the top places to see when you’re in the area, and if you time things right, you won’t have to pay a penny for the experience!

Address:  1010 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

26. Typhoon Texas

Typhoon Texas Austin

Located a few miles north of Austin, Typhoon Texas is a water park that can provide a rollicking good time during those hot southern afternoons.

There are rides, slides, pools and splash pads as far as the eye can see, and best of all, there’s a little something for the whole family.

Toddlers will enjoy the pint-sized playgrounds with gentle jets and streams.

Older children can fling themselves down plastic tubes with names like “The Gunslinger” and “The Bronc Buster.”

Teenagers can snap endless selfies as they drift down canals on gigantic floats, and mom and dad can lazily wave at the kids as they sip cocktails and munch on tacos.

If you’re ready to be blown out of the water, Typhoon Texas is one of the best tourist attractions in the Austin area.

It’s technically located outside of the city limits in a nearby town called Pflugerville, but don’t worry: It’s worth the gas!

Address:  18500 TX-130 Service Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660, United States

27. Sculpture Falls

Si Vo / Shutterstock

Considered one of the hidden treasures of Austin, Sculpture Falls is tucked deep within a greenbelt.

It’s surrounded by trees on all sides, and you’ll have to hike through all kinds of forests, tide pools and mini-waterfalls just to get there.

Some visitors get distracted or confused by the other waterfalls and miss Sculpture Falls completely!

If you have a good map, however, you can make it to your destination, and it’s one of the most amazing things to see in Austin.

It’s more of a horizontal waterfall than a vertical one, and it pours across the rocks and into a neat little swimming hole.

Take a dip if you want a refreshing cool-down after your hike, or go cliff-diving off the bluffs if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a good time.

It takes a little effort to reach Sculpture Falls, but it’ll be worth the trouble.

It isn’t as well-known as other Austin attractions, so you can escape the crowds of major tourist hubs, and you can enjoy the satisfaction of being “in” on the secret.

Not everyone makes it to Sculpture Falls. Can you?

Address:  Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, United States

28. Firehouse Hostel and Lounge

Firehouse Hostel and Lounge

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Austin, consider the Firehouse Hostel and Lounge .

It’s located on the top floor of an old, abandoned firehouse, and it has more secrets than its blocky building would suggest.

You see, there’s a speakeasy hidden in the depths of the firehouse.

That’s where the “lounge” part comes in.

While the world-weary travelers are sleeping upstairs, the party animals are living large in a secret bar that can only be accessed by pulling a latch on an out-of-the-way bookcase.

Some people stay in the hostel with no idea that the lounge exists.

Others come specifically for the lounge as part of scavenger hunts or city tours that go off the beaten path.

Regardless of how you find it, the Firehouse Hostel and Lounge is one of the top destinations in Austin, so you won’t want to miss it.

Put on your Sherlock Holmes hat and get to searching!

You could be enjoying craft drinks in a speakeasy tonight.

Address:  605 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

29. Rainey Street Historic District

Kelly Jobe / Shutterstock

The Rainey Street Historic District is one of the most unique places to go in Austin.

Formerly a residential neighborhood of old bungalows and southern-style ranch houses, it’s been converted into a hip, trendy community with bars, bistros, pubs, cafes, restaurants and even a speakeasy or two.

Lights are strung between houses and porches that have been transformed into outdoor dining spaces.

Live music spills out of the buildings.

In true Texas style, you’re never far from a cold beer, especially at night when the sun sets and the cowboy boots get propped up on tables.

The Rainey Street Historic District is located in downtown Austin, so if you’ll be touring the hot spots of the city, consider a detour into one of the coolest little neighborhoods in Texas.

You won’t regret it!

Address: Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701, United States

30. Elisabet Ney Museum

Kushal Bose / Shutterstock

Elisabet Ney was a famous sculptor who spent the first half of her life in Germany and the second half in Austin, Texas.

Her works are displayed everywhere from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Smithsonian Museum, but her largest collection is gathered in the Elisabet Ney Museum .

Her most well-known pieces are probably her busts.

She created likenesses of many famous figures, and they’re startlingly lifelike even though they’re made of stone.

Other works include statues, fountains and ornaments.

There are also portraits and artifacts from Elisabet Ney’s life, so if you’re a history buff, you might enjoy taking a trip through the personal timeline of a German-American artist.

The absolute best thing about the Elisabet Ney Museum, however, is that it’s free.

You don’t have to pay a dime to enjoy it.

If you’re thinking about what to see in Austin on a limited budget, this is the destination for you!

Address:  304 E 44th St, Austin, TX 78751, United States

Looking to explore other parts of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in Corpus Christi  & some of the fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX ?

31. Barton Creek Square

Barton Creek Square

Do you need shoes, shawls or souvenirs? Are you dying for a smoothie? Are your nails crying out for a manicure?

Barton Creek Square is an indoor shopping center that offers everything from bookstores to fashion boutiques.

Whether you’re looking for a movie theater to enjoy the latest blockbusters or a food court to get your grub on, this mall has it all.

It’s been recently renovated, too. The mall will welcome you with gleaming surfaces and glass handrails.

If you enjoy upscale shopping experiences, this is one of the best places to see and explore.

Consider a trip to Barton Creek Square if your wallet is burning a hole in your pocket during your trip to Austin.

It’ll offer hours of entertainment as you wander the shops and explore everything, and if you play your cards right, you might even get a giant pretzel out of the deal!

Address:  2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746, United States

32. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Austin TX

It’s tough to live up to a name like “world famous,” but Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken rises to the challenge.

Originally based in Memphis, Tennessee, it’s expanded to several other southern states, and it’s converted thousands to its menu.

What’s so special about Gus’s?

For starters, it’s a southern buffet through and through.

Whether you’re craving coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad or fried okra, you can find some finger-licking goodness on the menu.

It’s also completely devoted to fried chicken.

It doesn’t serve any other kind of meat, and it refuses to bow to customers who want things baked or steamed.

At Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, you go greasy or you go home. That’s the Texas way.

If you want to experience it while you’re in Austin, look for a red rooster on the outside of a brown brick building.

Address:  117 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701, United States

33. Zilker Botanical Garden

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Zilker Botanical Garden is located within Zilker Park, which we’ve already covered as one of the best destinations in Austin.

However, this attraction is such a show-stopper that it deserves special attention!

You see, Zilker Botanical Garden isn’t a singular garden.

It’s actually a series of gardens, and they include everything from oriental tea houses to butterfly trails filled with colorful monarchs.

You can rest among water lilies in a picturesque gazebo; you can run around rose bushes or walk under the shady paths of oak groves.

You can even meet a dinosaur!

There’s a “prehistoric garden” filled with life-sized dinosaur sculptures and other fun things.

Kids and adults can both appreciate such novelties.

If you’re looking for the best travel destinations in Austin, you should definitely swing by Zilker Botanical Garden.

You can experience it as part of Zilker Park, or you can make a separate trip for it.

Either way, the Ornithomimus is waiting for you!

Address:  2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746, United States

34. Pioneer Farms

Who needs a boring history museum when you could experience a living history museum?

At Pioneer Farms , the volunteers wear high-buttoned dresses and top hats as they take you through guided tours of farms and villages from the 1800s.

You can pet animals, listen to stories and ride in horse-drawn buggies as you learn all about Texas history.

Pioneer Farms also hosts a number of special events.

For example, ghost tours are available for fans of haunted barns and taverns, and culture studies are frequent at the Tonkawa encampment.

If you don’t know a lot about Texas’s original Native American inhabitants, this is your chance to learn.

Pioneer Farms is a must-see if you’re a history buff who will be traveling to Austin.

It’s fun for all ages, and it’s much more unique than other museums that cover the same topics.

When you’re scratching behind the ears of a donkey as you enjoy a lesson on hand-churning butter, you’ll be glad that you stopped here.

Address: 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754, United States

35. Laguna Gloria

Einahpets32 (Stephanie) / flickr

Owned by an art community, Laguna Gloria is a historic house that was designed to resemble an Italianate-style villa in the early 1900s.

It was originally the home of a prominent Texan philanthropist, but today, it functions as a museum and art gallery for contemporary works.

The coolest thing about Laguna Gloria is that it’s primarily outdoors.

While you can tour the fun, decorative interior of the house, it’s the grounds that offer dozens of statues and sculptures along green walking trials.

Visitors come from all over to see the creative work on display.

Some people even book weddings so that they can say “I do” among tall moss pillars or between gigantic stone fountains.

If you’re looking for fun tourist places in Austin, consider Laguna Gloria.

It’s worth the price of admission just for the photos that you’ll get to take of the city’s coolest contemporary art.

Address:  3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States

36. Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Trong Nguyen / Shutterstock

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is a big name for a big place.

Stretching for more than 10 miles in total, it winds around Austin’s Lady Bird Lake and passes all sorts of stunning sights.

If you enjoy the wild natural beauty of untamed places, you’ll love hiking through the thick, overgrown fields and fully-shaded tree groves.

If you prefer a smoother path, you can stick to the paved roads and footbridges that are well-traveled by bikers, joggers, dog walkers and stroller pushers.

Since you’ll be traveling around Lady Bird Lake, you can stop at any time and enjoy its amenities.

Rent a kayak; buy some duck feed; hop aboard a leisurely water cruise.

The sky is the limit at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

There’s a reason why it’s considered one of the top things to do in Austin, so don’t hesitate to put it on your list.

Address: Lady Bird Lake, First Street Bridge at Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701, United States

37. Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park

Austin Parks and Recreation Department

With its peaceful lakefront views, the Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is a great place to escape the urban frenzy of Austin.

You’ll be able to “get away from it all” without actually venturing too far from the fun stuff of the city.

You can just take a break from it for a while.

The water is calm and pretty. The wooden docks are a great place to sit and fish.

Folks usually bring their dogs to run around the open fields and catch Frisbees, and it isn’t uncommon for swans to come up to picnickers and ask for food.

Local events include nature tours, birdwatching trips, gardening shows and more.

Check their schedule to see if something fun is happening while you’re in Austin, or give them a call to ask about private arrangements for a big family or work group.

You don’t have to leave the city to get away from the steel bridges and high-rise apartment buildings.

Serenity can be found in a nice little park like the Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park!

Address:  614 N Commons Ford Rd, Austin, TX 78733, United States

38. Infinite Monkey Theorem

The Infinite Monkey Theorem

There’s a mathematical theory that a monkey hitting random keys on a keyboard will eventually type something amazing like a love poem or the collected works of Shakespeare.

This is the basis of the Infinite Monkey Theorem , an urban winery that strips away all pretenses and functions as a sleek, minimalist and surprisingly chic place.

Its converted warehouse is both fashionable and functional.

Its wine bar serves all kinds of fresh, original creations, and its taproom is open to tours and tastings.

Special events include everything from “Trivia Tuesday” to “Silent Disco Night.”

This is in addition to a regular rotation of bands, artists, yogis and guest speakers who are constantly flitting in and out.

No matter when you’re traveling to Austin, you can find something fun going on at the warehouse.

Head over to the Infinite Monkey Theorem this week.

It should already be on your Austin bucket list, and with a regular schedule of awesomeness, there’s no reason to wait!

Address:  702 Shady Ln, Austin, TX 78702, United States

39. Deep Eddy Pool

Steve Hopson (SteveHopson on en.wikipedia) / CC BY-SA

At first glance, the Deep Eddy Pool might seem like any other public pool.

When you do a little digging, however, you’ll learn that it’s actually a historic Austin landmark with a lot of fun activities to offer.

For starters, the Deep Eddy Pool is one of the oldest man-made pools in Texas.

It was originally built during the Great Depression, and since the architects made sure that it was fed by springs instead of artificially filled with water, it’s continued to be a fresh, clean and chemical-free pool since the 1930s.

There are also neat things on the schedule.

Every summer, for example, there are movie nights where they play big-screen favorites while the audience floats on pool tubes!

If you’re looking for fun, unique things to do in Austin, consider the Deep Eddy Pool.

There’s a reason why it’s survived so long as a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

Address:  401 Deep Eddy Ave, Austin, TX 78703, United States

40. Cathedral of Junk

PiercarloAbate / Shutterstock

The Cathedral of Junk is one of the most unique things to see in Austin.

It’s the kind of thing that would make a list of “Top 10 Bizarre Roadside Attractions in Texas,” but what makes it even stranger is that it isn’t meant to be a tourist trap.

It’s just a weird thing in one guy’s backyard!

His name is Vince Hannemann, and he started building the cathedral in the ’80s.

He constructed it with bottles, circuit boards, lawnmower wheels, old TVs, ladders, kitchen utensils, pool toys, household knickknacks and more.

Over the years, he’s turned it into an elaborate structure with stairways, corridors and hidden passages where visitors can get lost in sheer piles of stuff .

The Cathedral of Junk is on private property, so you’ll need to call ahead if you want a tour.

Vince Hannemann will let you into his backyard and show you around.

It’s definitely one of the stranger places to go in Austin, but it’s also the kind of thing that you just can’t pass up!

Address:  4422-4424 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in Amarillo ?

41. Austin Bouldering Project

Austin Bouldering Project

Everything is bigger in Texas, including their rock-climbing facilities.

The Austin Bouldering Project offers more than 50,000 square feet devoted to people who like a little height.

Not only is it the largest indoor rock-climbing destination in the United States, but it’s one of the largest in the entire world!

Classes and workshops are available for climbers of every skill level.

Additionally, there are things like yoga rooms and gymnastic rings for fitness enthusiasts.

Do you hate the thought of missing leg day while you’re on vacation?

Have you always wanted to try a barre class?

They’ve got you covered.

The Austin Bouldering Project does have some restrictions, and visitors will have to sign a waiver before they can participate in any activities.

If you’re okay with that, however, it’s definitely a top tier choice in Austin attractions.

Address:  979 Springdale Rd #150, Austin, TX 78702, United States

42. Austin Zoo

Michael Ransburg / Shutterstock

The Austin Zoo is a small nonprofit that focuses on animals more than visitors.

While it welcomes guests who want to enjoy lions, monkeys, bears, wolves and alligators, its primary purpose is the care and rehabilitation of its residents, so it isn’t a “showy” kind of zoo with lots of attractions.

Instead, it offers the chance to see and interact with animals in a healthy, non-damaging way.

For example, if you want to feed the giant tortoises, you’ll need to follow strict rules while in their habitat.

If you want to learn about the cougars, you’ll need to time your visit so that you’re available during their scheduled training and feeding times.

The Austin Zoo isn’t one of the bigger zoos in Texas.

However, it’s a good organization with a good cause, so you can feel good about spending your money there.

It’s going to a nice sanctuary for the animals of Texas.

Address:  10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736, United States

bigbirdz / CC BY

If you want to experience Austin like a local, you’ll need to visit the Drag.

That’s what residents call Guadalupe Street, a stretch of land just outside of the University of Texas campus that has an old-school vibe despite its new-school population.

You see, most of the buildings in the Drag are older.

Some parts of the neighborhood even have a run-down look.

Rather than trendy bars and clubs, it has an odd assortment of bookstores, record stores, dormitories, antique shops and co-ops.

Despite this, young college students love the Drag, and there are always crowds ready to party.

It’s a great place to grab a drink and have a little fun.

If you’re the type of traveler who likes to throw away the map and go where the road takes you, the Drag is one of the best things to do in Austin.

It isn’t as glitzy and glamorous as other attractions, but it’ll give you a taste of real, authentic Austin nightlife!

44. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Open every day from sunrise to sunset, the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is one of the last parts of Austin that remains untouched and undeveloped by civilization.

It’s the perfect place for rugged, natural sightseeing, and it’s a must-do for anyone interested in the native flora and fauna of the state.

Hiking trails weave through cliffs and tree groves.

Waterfalls cascade over the rocks.

From a distance, you might hear the cry of the golden-cheeked warbler, an endangered species that makes its habitat on the protected land of the preserve.

You’ll have to follow strict rules while touring the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve.

It’s one of those natural, carefully-tended sites where visitors are expected to conduct themselves properly.

If you can be responsible, however, the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is definitely at the top of our list of Austin attractions.

Where else can you get a natural experience like this?

Address:  805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746, United States

45. Cathedral of Saint Mary

amadeustx / Shutterstock

Originally built in the 1800s, the Cathedral of Saint Mary is one of the oldest churches in Austin, and it has a deep, rich heritage thanks to its Irish Catholic roots.

It doesn’t shy away from those roots, either.

Every holiday season, the Celtic Cultural Center of Texas hosts a concert that brings together hundreds of Irish and Scottish musicians.

It’s a noted cultural event in both Austin and the Irish Catholic community.

You don’t have to wait for Christmas to enjoy the cathedral, however.

It still holds mass regularly, and its gothic architecture includes many features to gawk at, including towers, spires, crosses, rose windows, interior domes and stained glass fixtures.

Consider a trip to the Cathedral of Saint Mary if you’re looking for awesome things to do in Austin.

You don’t have to be Catholic to feel moved by its beautiful design, long history and cultural significance.

Address:  203 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

46. Austin Aquarium

Andrea Izzotti / Shutterstock

Home to thousands of birds, reptiles, amphibians and sea creatures, the Austin Aquarium is one of the best places to visit for animal lovers.

Not only can you admire them in gigantic tanks and pools, but you can pet, play and take pictures with them through special interactive programs!

The marine life is the main attraction of the aquarium, of course, and you won’t be disappointed by all of the tropical fish and softly-glowing jellyfish.

However, there are also sloths to cuddle and lemurs to monkey around with, and there are visitor feeding programs for sharks, otters, string rays, tortoises, parakeets and honey bears.

If you’re wondering what to do while traveling near or through Austin, consider a trip to the Austin Aquarium.

It offers a rare chance to get up close and personal with Texas’s wildlife, and the kids might even learn a thing or two while they’re there.

Address: 13530 N Highway 183 Suite #101, Austin, TX 78750, United States

47. Mayfield Park

Faina Gurevich / Shutterstock

With its quaint little cottages and gardens, Mayfield Park feels like a setting from another time.

It’s only fitting that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

Stepping into this park is like stepping into a flower-filled prairie during a trip across colonial America in your covered wagon.

The grasses are long and green.

The ponds have water lilies daintily resting on the surface.

The air is always sweet with the fragrances of roses, daisies and brown-eyed Susans, and the trees provide plenty of shade for walking or lounging on the soft ground.

Another fun thing about the park is that it has a sizable peacock population.

These amazingly colorful birds just wander the grounds without a care in the world, leaving visitors to gawk at their bright plumage and blase attitude.

Enjoy a blast from the past with a visit to Mayfield Park.

From the poppies to the peacocks, it’ll offer amazing sights for anyone in Austin who can find it.

Address:  3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States

48. Uncommon Objects

uncommon OBJECTS

Austin can be a quirky city, especially when you’re knee-deep in a place like Uncommon Objects .

It’s basically an attic sale filled with everything under the sun, and when we say everything, we mean everything .

Guitars are propped against bookshelves and marble statues.

Purses and carnival masks hang on the walls.

Old jewelry is displayed with dishes, perfumes, figurines, music boxes and decorative tins.

Some of the stuff is bizarre, including taxidermy animals with strange expressions and mysterious artifacts that can’t be opened or identified.

Other things are valuable, one-of-a-kind items that you won’t believe you stumbled across.

If you like thrifting, you’ll love Uncommon Objects.

It’s the kind of place where you could spend hours just sifting through the goods and laughing with your travel partners about what you’ve unearthed.

Make sure to stop by during your trip to Austin!

Address:  1602 Fortview Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

49. Thinkery

Lost_in_the_Midwest / Shutterstock

Formerly known as the Austin’s Children Museum, Thinkery started as a roaming collection of exhibits, activities and programs that were designed to engage with children from all over Texas.

They eventually settled in a permanent location, but their mission remains the same.

They want to help young people develop their minds and imaginations through STEAM-based learning.

Visitors to Thinkery can build, mold, cook, craft and experiment in various labs and workshops.

There’s a “spark shop” with child-safe tools and a “light lab” where they can hit all kinds of buttons and switches.

There are places for clambering on playground equipment and places for resting on floor pillows and listening to a story.

Your little one doesn’t have to be an Einstein to have fun at Thinkery.

If they enjoy trying new things, making new friends and maybe even getting a little messy, they should love all of the nifty stuff to do at this children’s museum.

Address:  1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723, United States

50. Snake Island

Patrick Lewis / flickr

Snake Island is such a hidden gem that some lifelong residents of Austin don’t even know about it.

There are no maps or signs pointing in its direction, and it isn’t acknowledged on the city’s official parks and recreation site.

What is Snake Island?

It’s basically a small, uninhabited island sitting in plain sight off the coast of Lady Bird Lake.

It isn’t illegal to visit, but since swimming isn’t allowed in the water, you’ll need to take a canoe or kayak to get there.

Once you’ve arrived, you can explore the island to your heart’s content.

It’s never crowded, so you can walk, picnic, sunbathe or paddle around the coast.

If you like rare or abandoned things, you can check out all of the debris left behind by other adventurers over the years, including swings, trapezes, picnic benches and fire pits.

There’s even a single, lonely grave for a dog named Squiggles.

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Austin, hop on a boat and check out Snake Island.

When even the locals don’t know about a place, you’ve definitely found a treasure.

Address: Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Austin, TX 78741, United States

51. Texas State Cemetery

Fotoluminate LLC / Shutterstock

The Texas State Cemetery is a love letter to the state.

Known as “The Arlington of Texas,” it’s a beautiful, ceremonial area reserved for only the most prominent of Texans.

War heroes are buried here. So are governors, senators, authors, astronauts and famous soldiers and revolutionaries.

Eventually, a former president George W. Bush and his wife Laura will join; they’ve already reserved plots.

A cemetery might seem like an odd choice in tourist attractions, but this is no ordinary burial ground.

Many of the graves have elaborate headstones that are shaped with Texan themes and colors, and state flags are everywhere.

Memorials are dedicated to Confederate soldiers. Famous residents have statues.

The Texas State Cemetery is one of the proudest places in the state.

People come from all over just to pay their respects and fill themselves with patriotism.

If you’d like to experience this atmosphere for yourself, make time for a visit.

Address:  909 Navasota St, Austin, TX 78702, United States

52. Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Covering more than 4,000 acres, the Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa is almost like a city in its own right.

It has rooms, pools, spas, restaurants, golf courses and fitness centers, so everything that you need for a fun vacation is just a stone’s throw away.

Do you want to pamper yourself during your Austin vacation?

Rent a lavishly-decorated suite.

Are you desperate to de-stress?

Schedule a massage and put yourself under the talented hands of a professional.

The swimming pools are open all year. The steam rooms never run out of steam.

The cafes have such mouthwatering aromas that you’ll be hungry every minute of the day.

If you’re looking to have a good time in Texas, consider the Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa.

It’s one of those Austin attractions that has it all, so whether you’re looking for four-star restaurants or beautifully-tended golf courses, the Omni can provide.

Address:  8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735, United States

53. Mount Bonnell

Say goodbye to Austin with a trip to Mount Bonnell .

At 775 feet tall, it offers the highest observation points in the city, so you can spread your arms and shout farewell as you take in panoramic views of the buildings, lakes, hills and rocks.

You’ll need to climb 102 stairs to reach the tallest point of the mountain.

When you find the summit, there’s a pavilion with a little rest area where you can catch your breath, eat a snack, take photos or simply hold hands with a lover and watch the sun set.

The fun doesn’t have to stop just because it’s dark outside, however.

Since you’re away from the light pollution of the city, Mount Bonnell is a fantastic spot for stargazing.

You can admire the cosmos or even the distant, glittering dots of the Austin skyline.

One thing is for sure: Mount Bonnell will be the perfect way to end your vacation.

If you want to leave Austin on a high note, make the climb.

Address: 3800 Bonnell Dr, Austin, TX 78731, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Austin

Are you ready to experience all of the weird, wonderful places of Austin?

This list doesn’t even cover half of them, but it should be enough to get you started.

Pack your bags and ready your passports! Austin awaits!

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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  

An email you’ll actually love

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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Texas Travel 365

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

October 21, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

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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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Named after the father of Texas, Stephen F. Austin, the Texas state capital has become one of the hottest destinations in the United States. Austin offers travelers the history typical of a state capital but also a music and dining scene befitting of the city’s personality and college scene.

Travelers will live a life of multiple personalities as they experience all the things to do in Austin. By day, you’ll be wandering through the city’s many urban parks and protected lands. Escaping the sun to swim in natural pools before drying off and exploring the numerous museums and galleries.

After dark, the neon lights flash and out comes one of the best nightlife spots in the US. Choose between multiple exciting districts, which all combine into one exceptional live music scene.

17. Blanton Museum of Art

On the campus of the University of Texas is a world class art museum. The Blanton Museum of Art comprises almost 20,000 works from the Europe, the United States and Latin America.

The pieces of art span centuries, going as far back as the height of the Roman Era. Visitors will discover a range of historic Roman pottery and gaze upon alluring works from the Renaissance. Afterwards, admire the amazing collection of contemporary Native American art and one of the most complete assortments of Latin American work in the United States.

But perhaps the highlight of the Blanton Museum of Art is a design by Ellsworth Kelly, called Austin, which can be found on the exterior grounds.

16. Mayfield Park

Out of the many parks we have written about, the Mayfield is arguably the most historic. It’s next to the gorgeous Laguna Gloria estate in west Austin and was established in the 1870s.

Back then, it was just a beautiful cottage with cozy lawns that we encased with stone wall. Over time, the grounds have expanded, and the park now features a large preserve and botanical garden.

The cottage is now a popular event space, and there are miles of hiking trails guiding you throughout. After taking in the ornate gardens, wander by koi ponds, under palms trees keeping an eye out of the park’s many peacocks.

15. University of Texas at Austin

With more than 50,000 students, the University of Texas has become more than just an education institution. Home to the Texas Longhorns, the school is a must visit. There’s much to see on campus, including the DKR Texas Memorial Stadium. The arena has a capacity of over 100,000 people and packs out for football in the fall.

Alongside the stadium is the Texas Memorial Museum, a part of the school’s fascinating Natural Science Center. Here, you can explore the history of Texas from a natural and cultural perspective. Other attractions, include the Blanton Museum of Art and the 307-foot UT Tower, which provides panoramic views.

14. Thinkery

Taking over the mantle from the Austin Children’s Museum, Thinkery is now the place for young minds to be inspired. In the family-friendly Mueller district, north of downtown, Thinkery is all about interactive experiences.

If the young ones are restless or it’s a rainy day, take them here and let their creativity run wild. Each exhibit is based upon science, engineering, math, arts, and technology. It makes learning fun, as the kids are in control and solving problems every step of the way.

Highlights include the Kitchen Lab and Currents, and the giant outdoor playground where the kids can blow off some steam before exploring more exhibits.

13. McKinney Falls State Park

Although Austin features a number of great local parks, it’s also surrounded by beautiful scenery. A great example of this is McKinney Falls State Park, home to a spectacular waterfall.

Just ten miles southeast of Austin is an extensive natural space that feels every bit away from the city. Splicing the state park is Onion Creek, which cascades down mini limestone cliffs through the green forest. Visitors can escape the Texan heat at both the lower and upper falls.

If it’s not too hot, walk along the Onion Creek Hike-and-Bike trail through old-growth forest and by historic ruins. Combine this with the Homestead Trail to see the former limestone of William McKinney.

12. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

A brief 15-minute drive southwest of Austin, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, was established to great fanfare in 1982. Lady Bird Johnson and Helen Hayes created the park to showcase a vibrant range of native wildflowers in a place now includes 970 unique species.

Visiting the center is both aesthetically pleasing and educational, as you learn about the different habitats needed to sustain the number of flowers. The center is home to 20 distinct habitats which you can visit on the four-mile trail system. Embark on a free guided each day at 10am or explore on a whim.

11. Zilker Metropolitan Park

After several days of exploring and long night outs, you’ll be seeking a place to unwind. Austin is home to many great parks and the best of them is Zilker Metropolitan Park. It’s an enormous natural space flanked by the flowing Barton Creek and Colorado River.

Zilker Park is the perfect place to kick back under a shady oak and watch the world go by as you wait for the hangover the reduce. After, you’ll find endless lawns to hang out on, to picnic and play games with friends.

Once you’re up for it, wander down the walking trails to disc golf, volleyball and the botanical gardens. Those with young kids will also enjoy the mini-train that roams the park.

10. Mount Bonnell

For the best views in town, put on the hiking boots and trek to the summit of Mount Bonnell. Austin’s many urban parks offer some splendid hiking, but none quite reach the height of Bonnell, which stands at 775 feet. It’s the highest elevation in Austin.

But first, hikers have to make their way up more than 100 stairs. Despite this roadblock, it’s a steady and not an overly arduous climb. A popular time to complete the hike is at sunset, when you’ll watch golden hour above the city skyline and the Colorado River. Come at sunrise for a similar view without the crowds.

9. SoCo District

Across the bat-filled Congress Bridge, south of downtown, is the bulk of Austin’s quirky personality. It’s here that SoCo, named after South Congress Avenue, showcases the city’s eccentricity through shopping, food, and music.

The district now finds itself alongside Sixth Street and downtown as the place to hang out in Austin. During the day, you can wander along South Congress to find endless local boutiques, thrift stores, art galleries, and soaring murals. At night food trucks come to play, offering mouthwatering cheap eats. While live music tunes float through town.

One place not to be missed is the Continental Club for country music and a proper Texan evening.

8. The Driskill

One of Austin’s architectural institutions, the Driskill, is the oldest still-operating hotel in the capital. Since 1886, it has stood on the corner of Brazos and Sixth Street, welcoming guests from around the state and all over the world.

It’s been a place of historic events, including where President Johnson and Lady Bird went on their first date. Johnson also watched the results from the 1964 election here.

Even if you aren’t staying at the opulent hotel, you should still explore the lobby’s luxury, featuring sparkling marble floors, and embellished columns. For date night, make a reservation at the hotel’s Driskill Gill.

7. Sixth Street

Known endearingly as the Dirty Sixth, Sixth Street (especially East 6th) is the place to go for live music and mouthwatering Tex-Mex. On any given night, the thoroughfare that splits Congress and the interstate is teeming with happening bars, providing some of the best live music in town.

From Thursday to Saturday, the busiest nights on the Dirty Sixth, the street is close to traffic, making it a haven for pedestrians. If you’re on the lookout for a pub crawl, it will likely start and end right here as you venture from bar to bar, club to club. Along the way keep an eye out for Maggie Mars, Esther Follies and Flamingo Cantina.

6. Bullock Texas State History Museum

Austin is more than just music and late nights. As the state capital, it’s also the best place to explore the story of Texas. At the Bullock Texas State History Museum, you can do just that, as you venture back to the very beginning.

Make your way through the timeline of the Lone Star State, through a collection of hands-on exhibits and multimedia displays. A highlight includes the Story Of Texas, which focuses on defining events. You can discover the hull of La Belle, a 17th century shipwreck, while also learning about Tejano culture, the Alamo and the state’s oil industry.

5. Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail

Not to confuse first timers to Austin, but Lady Bird Lake is, in fact, a part of the Colorado River. The lake and waterfront area is the crown jewel of Austin’s urban green spaces offering ample water sport, hiking and biking opportunities.

For those who wish to stay on land, the highlight of Lady Bird Lake is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. The easy trail extends for ten miles along the edge of the lake. 10% of the trail is boardwalk, a section the provides travelers with exceptional downtown views. It’s a great way to explore Austin, leading you to parks, bridges and Barton Springs.

4. LBJ Presidential Library

The whirlwind story of the Lyndon Johnson presidency is on full display at our next attraction. The LBJ Presidential Library is a thorough collection of his political career and first opened in 1971. In 2013, the library was revitalized, providing visitors with the best experience yet.

Lyndon Baines Johnson was born in Stonewall, Texas, just an hour out of Austin, the city he holds in such high esteem. So, it’s appropriate his presidential library is here, on the campus of the University of Texas.

Combining over 45 million documents, artifacts and photos, the library takes you through his ascension from Vice President to the leader of the United States following the tragic assassination of JFK. Explore his six years in office, including the important issues of the time such as the Civil Right Movement. You can also see the Oval Office exactly as it was when he was in charge.

3. Barton Springs Pool

Austin’s southern weather helps make it a year-round destination. In the height of winter, the temperature rarely drops below 60. In summer, visitors will have to make do with heat in the high 90s. So, at any time of year, you’ll be searching for a way to cool off while in town. The perfect place to do that is at the Barton Springs Pool.

Lady Bird Lake may be aesthetically pleasing, but swimming is not allowed. Therefore, the springs in Zilker Park have become a hot ticket. The natural pool stems from Barton Creek and offers visitors a balmy 70-degree temperature at all times of year.

The picture-perfect water is great for swimming and the lush green surrounds will have you feeling a world away from Austin. Check the pool’s schedule in advance as they close once a week for cleaning.

2. Texas State Capitol

In the streets of downtown Austin, the Texas State Capitol and its surrounding grounds strike a dominant presence. The building is home to the Governor’s office along with the state’s legislature chambers and was built before the turn of the 20th century.

Although it remains the centerpiece of state politics, the eye-catching capitol is a National Historic Landmark. It’s one of the tallest state capitols in the country with its embellished dome and spire giving it a height of over 300 feet. This makes the Texas State Capitol even taller than Washington D.C.’s U.S. Capitol.

The building is open every day for free guided tours (aside from holidays), and you’re also able to explore on your own terms. Afterwards, admire the striking facade of the capitol from the lush grounds, that are also great for picnics in the heart of Austin.

1. Congress Avenue Bridge

Austin may be renowned for its live music and food scene, but did you know the city plays host to the largest urban bat colony on earth? 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats reside under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge and every night they set flight.

The bridge crosses over the Colorado River, connecting downtown Austin to South River City and the fabulous SoCo District. It’s a lovely walk during the day, offering beautiful river and city views. However, come nightfall, there may be no better place to watch the sunset.

The bats live under the bridge from March until November every year. There are several ways to watch the spectacular event. Those include from the safe confines of Lady Bird Lake, on a kayak paddling along the river, or from the Statesman Bat Observation Center. Brave souls, however, take their spot on the bridge itself. It can take 45 minutes for all the bats to fly out and in combination with the colorful sunset, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Map of Things to do in Austin

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Austin Texas Attractions: Unveiling 13 of Austin’s Best-Kept Secrets

Known globally as the live music capital of the world, Austin offers a dynamic and unforgettable experience to all who visit. The city’s streets, especially the famed Sixth Street, buzz with a unique blend of history and contemporary vibes, where historic landmarks stand proudly alongside modern establishments.

Every corner, every street, and every neighborhood in Austin has its own unique story to tell, contributing to the city’s rich myriad of attractions that beckon enthusiasts and adventurers from all walks of life.

In Austin, the music never stops, the culture never fades, and the natural beauty never ceases to amaze. From the iconic music venues that have launched countless careers to the serene landscapes that offer an escape from the urban hustle, Austin is a city of contrasts and harmonies.

Its lively festivals, renowned culinary scene, and picturesque outdoor settings create an exhilarating atmosphere that captivates the hearts of visitors. Whether you’re drawn to its musical heritage, enticed by its culinary offerings, or inspired by its natural wonders, Austin promises a journey of discovery and excitement at every turn, embodying the true spirit of the Lone Star state.

Top Attractions in Austin

In Austin, each attraction tells a unique story, making the city a kaleidoscope of experiences.

From the historical landmarks that dot the city to the natural escapes just a stone’s throw away, Austin Texas tourist attractions offer an endless array of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re looking for “aquarium near me” options or “attractions Austin,” we’ve got you! Keep reading to discover the top Austin attractions.

Dive into the Austin Aquarium

Get ready to plunge into a world of aquatic wonders at the Austin Aquarium , a centerpiece in Austin’s vibrant array of attractions.

The Austin aquarium reviews aren’t lying–this underwater paradise really does let you snap awe-inspiring Austin aquarium photos and offers an intimate encounter with the ocean’s diverse inhabitants!

More than a mere aquarium, it’s an adventure into the depths of the sea, right in the heart of Austin, captivating visitors with its marine marvels.

Adventure at Austin Zoo and Aquarium

Just a stone’s throw away is the exhilarating Austin Zoo and Aquarium , a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

This unique spot merges the wild kingdom of animals with the enchanting world of marine life. It’s a place where excitement and education intertwine, earning high praise from visitors and solidifying its status as one of Austin’s top attractions.

Sunset Spectacle at Congress Avenue Bridge

As dusk falls, witness the mesmerizing sight at the Congress Avenue Bridge, where the largest urban bat colony in North America takes flight.

Related Post: Things to Do in Austin for Free: 17 Can’t-Miss Activities

This evening show is a true Austin original, offering a spellbinding experience as the sky fills with these nocturnal wonders. The bridge transforms from a simple crossing to an extraordinary wildlife observatory, making it an essential stop for an authentic Austin experience.

Science Center

The state of the art Science Center in Austin is a shining beacon of learning and discovery in the heart of the city. This modern facility captivates visitors of all ages with its interactive exhibits and educational programs.

It transforms the concept of learning about science into an engaging, hands-on experience. Whether it’s exploring the mysteries of the universe or understanding the intricacies of technology, the Science Center makes science accessible and thrilling, igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity in everyone who walks through its doors.

Historic Journey at Texas State Capitol

Prepare to be awed by the grandeur of the Texas State Capitol , a towering symbol of Texas history and culture. This architectural masterpiece, standing proudly in downtown Austin, is not merely a building but a portal to Texas’ past, presenting a rich array of stories and achievements that have shaped the state.

As you step inside, you are greeted by its stunning rotunda and intricate details, each telling tales of Texas’ journey through time. The Capitol invites you on an educational journey, showcasing the legacy and spirit of Texas in a way that captivates and educates all who visit.

Exploring the Texas State Capitol is like walking through the pages of a history book. Each corridor, chamber, and office holds a piece of the state’s political and social history, offering insights into the events and people who have influenced both Texas and the nation. Visitors can participate in guided tours, where knowledgeable guides bring to life the stories behind the state’s governance and historical events.

Austin’s Cultural and Outdoor Highlights

Austin city limits.

Immerse yourself in the soul of Austin’s music scene at Austin City Limits , the city’s most iconic music venue. Renowned as a beacon of Austin’s status as the live music capital of the world, this venue has been the launching pad for numerous legendary performances and a pilgrimage site for music lovers.

Hosting unforgettable musical experiences, it draws visitors from across the globe, eager to witness the vibrant energy and talent that grace its stage. But Austin City Limits is more than just a concert venue–it’s a cultural landmark that epitomizes the artistic spirit of Austin. Here, every performance is an intimate affair, connecting artists and audiences in a way that transcends the ordinary concert experience.

The venue’s history is intertwined with the city’s musical heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the true essence of Austin’s music culture. Austin City Limits not only showcases a diverse array of music genres but also encapsulates the city’s dedication to preserving and celebrating live music.

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell stands as one of Austin’s most stunning natural landmarks. Offering breathtaking views, it’s a must-visit destination for every tourist. As you ascend to the summit, the panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape unfold—a perfect blend of urban skyline and natural beauty. This spot is ideal for those seeking a picturesque escape and a moment of tranquility away from the bustling city life.

South Congress Avenue

Experience the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas, on South Congress Avenue. This bustling thoroughfare is a colorful tapestry of shopping, dining, and entertainment, perfectly capturing the eclectic and energetic spirit of Austin.

From unique boutiques and trendy cafes to live music venues and street art, South Congress Avenue is a destination that offers an authentic taste of Austin’s lively urban culture.

Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is a picturesque embodiment of Austin’s natural beauty. Winding along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, this trail offers a tranquil escape right in the heart of the city. It’s a favorite for joggers, cyclists, and those seeking a peaceful walk amidst lush greenery and water views, making it an essential part of Austin’s outdoor attractions.

Related Post: Best Time to Visit Austin Texas: An In-Depth Seasonal Guide

This trail not only connects various parks and recreational areas around the lake but also serves as a social hub where Austinites and visitors alike gather to enjoy the outdoors. The path is dotted with art installations and scenic overlooks, providing delightful surprises for those exploring it.

Moreover, the trail’s proximity to downtown Austin makes it a convenient and popular choice for those looking to combine urban exploration with natural tranquility.

Natural Beauty and Leisure in Austin

Lake austin.

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Austin, a beloved retreat for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, this reservoir on the Colorado River is known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Lake Austin is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying leisurely days by the water, attracting water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The lakeside views, especially during sunrise or sunset, are truly breathtaking, providing a stunning backdrop for photographers and romantics. Along its banks, you’ll find numerous parks and recreational areas, perfect for picnics, hiking, and bird watching.

Additionally, Lake Austin is lined with various waterfront restaurants and cafes, allowing visitors to dine with a view, further enhancing the lakeside experience. This makes Lake Austin not just a place for water activities, but a complete destination for relaxation and enjoyment in nature’s lap.

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake, nestled in the heart of the city, is a picturesque oasis for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. As a central part of Austin tourist attractions, it offers a myriad of activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and scenic trails.

The tranquil waters of Lady Bird Lake provide a peaceful escape from urban life, making it a beloved spot for relaxation and recreation. Its accessible location makes it a frequent destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty within the city’s confines.

Barton Springs Pool

Discover the refreshing allure of Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed oasis in the midst of Austin’s bustling environment. This popular swimming spot is an Austin staple, revered by both locals and tourists.

The pool’s cool, clear waters offer a much-needed respite from the Texas heat, making it a favorite for swimming and lounging. The pool is not just a place to cool off but a vibrant community gathering space, embodying Austin’s love for outdoor living.

Zilker Botanical Garden

Step into the Zilker Botanical Garden, a journey through various landscapes right in downtown Austin. This garden is a verdant paradise that showcases the region’s botanical diversity.

With its themed gardens and natural settings, the Zilker Botanical Garden is a living museum of plants, offering a serene and educational experience. It’s a must-visit attraction in Austin, Texas, for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to connect with nature amidst the urban landscape.

Embark on Your Austin Adventure!

Austin Texas is a city that buzzes with an infectious energy and excitement, a place where every visit turns into an extraordinary adventure. It’s a city where the unexpected awaits around every corner, offering a unique blend of experiences that cater to every taste and interest.

From the vibrant street art that colors the city walls to the hidden gems in its eclectic neighborhoods, Austin is a city that always has something new and exciting to offer. It’s a place where tradition and innovation coexist, creating a dynamic atmosphere that’s both welcoming and exhilarating.

When planning your Austin escapade, let tripster.com be your secret to unlocking the best of this amazing city. With tripster.com, you’re not just planning a trip; you’re gearing up for an adventure of a lifetime. Discover incredible deals on activities that will take you off the beaten path and accommodations that offer a true taste of Austin’s unique charm.

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an action-packed getaway, tripster.com makes it easy and affordable to experience the heart and soul of Austin. So, get ready to embark on a journey filled with unforgettable moments and thrilling experiences, all at your fingertips with tripster.com. Austin is calling, and it’s time to answer with an adventure like no other!

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25 Essential Things to Do in Austin with Kids (2024)

L ooking for kid-friendly activities in the Austin area? Austin, Texas has exciting historical sites, engaging museums, and mind-blowingly beautiful green spaces to enjoy. Maybe you’re a local Austinite looking for hidden gems that kids will love or maybe you’re a visitor seeking iconic Austin attractions. Keep reading for my list of the best things to do in Austin with kids!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Things to do in Austin TX with kids

1. learn about steam at the thinkery.

Austin’s premier children’s museum, The Thinkery , takes hands-on exploration to the next level. The museum’s exhibits revolve around STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).

There’s a Kitchen Lab where food meets chemistry and a Light Lab where children can explore color, light, and shadows. Check out the Spark Shop where families discover aerodynamics. It’s the perfect spot for children to learn through play.

For families with younger kids visiting the Thinkery Children’s Museum, there are dedicated play areas where they can play safely and enjoy age-appropriate exploration. There’s Bloom for ages 0 to 3, and the Move! Studio for kids 6 and younger.

2. Explore Zilker Park

Zilker Metropolitan Park is a must-visit destination for families. The park covers over 350 acres in the middle of the city and offers endless outdoor activities. This is where you will find the Barton Creek Greenbelt, an excellent hike and bike trail. There are also kayaks and canoes for rent.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Austin with kids, no trip is complete without a swim in the icy cold water of Zilker Park’s Barton Springs Pool! A 3-acre recreational pool created by floodgates along Barton Creek, this natural water pool remains a chilly 68 degrees year-round.

During the summer, see what performances are on tap at the Zilker Hillside Theater, or take a ride on a miniature train (the Zilker Zephyr). The park is home to the Zilker Botanical Garden, the Austin Nature and Science Center, a sculpture garden, and more! Plan on spending half a day at the park.

3. See the bats under the Congress Avenue bridge

Austin boasts the largest urban bat colony in the world. On summer evenings, tourists and locals alike line the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge to watch an estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge in search of food.

Bats usually emerge from under the bridge most evenings and create quite a scene (depending on the weather and time of year).

If you choose to base yourself near the bridge near nightfall, bring something to protect yourselves from falling guano!

Other options are a kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake , riding a Segway , or taking a boat ride to see the bats from a different point of view.

4. Learn about government at the Texas Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is a sight to behold, as it’s the 6th tallest state capitol in the U.S. and larger than the capitol in Washington, D.C. Inside is just as stunning. Free tours are offered daily, departing every 30 to 45 minutes.

It’s the perfect way to introduce older children to the legal system as they have an opportunity to view the Supreme Court and the Senate and House Chambers.

Bring your camera to take in the beautiful architectural details inside and out!

5. Austin Zoo

For family-friendly adventures in Austin, the Austin Zoo should be at the top of your list. Located just a short drive from downtown, it’s one of the best places to get up close with a variety of animals in a setting that feels more like an animal sanctuary than a traditional zoo.

What sets the Austin Zoo apart is its commitment to providing a home for rescued and displaced animals. You’ll encounter creatures from around the world, from tigers and lions to lemurs and macaws. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation and witness these exotic animals up close.

The Austin Zoo is a small sanctuary, so you’ll get through it in about an hour. Plus, the zoo is located near the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve, so you could combine your visit into a nature-filled day exploring the Texas Hill Country.

6. Soak up the local culture with a South Congress Avenue stroll

South Congress is perfect for strolling, eating, and getting a taste of Austin’s character. Kids will have so much fun at Big Top Candy Shop with its treats from floor to ceiling! You can play outdoor games at TOMS shoe and coffee shop or play dress-up at Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds (a costume shop).

Of course, there are plenty of fun spots in Austin for teens and parents. This is your chance to grab the perfect Texas souvenir at Allen Boots, where you can get personally fitted for boots and hats. Jo’s Coffee Shop is the best place to get delicious coffee and boasts a prime location for people-watching.

7. Have an Old-Fashioned Good Time at Peter Pan Mini-Golf

Peter Pan Mini-Golf has been a beloved landmark in Austin for 75 years, and playing a round is one of the most iconic things you can do here!

Open since 1948, this family-owned business was named a State Archaeological Landmark by the Texas Historical Commission. Why not take the kids for some nostalgic fun?

You can purchase 18 or 36 holes at a time, each with the classic green turf and fantastical sculptures that Peter Pan Mini-Golf is known for. There are picnic tables, and you can bring your own food and drinks (there’s also BYOB, just no glass!).

If you’re bringing kids to visit The Lone Star State capital, and are feeling adventurous, strike out and explore beyond downtown Austin. You will be amazed at the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, and your kids will love it too!

8. Hit all the best Austin food spots

Of course, I need to mention South Congress has some of the most amazing food options in the city.

One of the best things to do in Austin with kids is head to Home Slice for its massive pizza slices. Torchy’s Tacos is an Austin staple. And Hopdoddy Burger Bar is worth the lines that always seem to be out the door and down the street!

For sweet treats, there’s Gelato Paradiso and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, with unique ice cream creations.

This is also the perfect place to check out the food truck scene since Austin’s has become quite legendary in recent years! Don’t miss some of the originals, including Mellizoz Tacos, TX Shawarma, and Gourdough’s (doughnuts) .

If you want traditional Texas staples try Franklin Barbecue, frequently voted one of the best BBQ in Austin . Terry Black’s BBQ and Lamberts Barbecue are also must-tries. For Mexican food, head to Chuy’s, Fonda San Miguel, or Licha’s Cantina.

9. Ooh and Aah at the Dinosaur Park

If you have dinosaur enthusiasts in your family, you’ll want to check out The Dinosaur Park in Bastrop. This prehistoric-themed attraction is a hit with both kids and adults.

Take the Dinosaur Trail and encounter life-size dinosaur replicas hiding among the trees! Kids will love playing I-Spy-A-Saurus and looking for clues along the trail. There are informative signs and displays along the way, including child-size dinosaurs they can climb on for a picture.

You’ll find outdoor pavilions along the trail that are perfect for picnics and birthday parties. There are also indoor exhibits and the Dino Dig, where you can unearth fossils and learn about paleontology. Of course, you will find dinosaur-themed souvenirs at the gift shop.

10. Try a street art scavenger hunt

If you or your kids love street art, Austin is a fantastic place to be. There’s the “Greetings from Austin” mural and the “Before I Die” wall where kids can write about their hopes and dreams.

Austin is a fun place to get a map and go searching for all the spots! For a self-guided tour with the exact locations of many of the most popular street art in Austin, check out this post on Austin’s official website.

If you have tweens and teens who are into selfies, don’t miss the Ice Cream Museum or the Austin Selfie Museum .

11. Head up to Mount Bonnell for sunset views

Historic Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot for a panoramic view of Austin and the surrounding area. It only takes about 10 minutes to climb to the top, and seeing the city from this perspective is stunning.

Plan to arrive close to sunset before heading out for a bite to eat. The entire experience shouldn’t take more than 15 or 20 minutes.

12. Take a Swim in One of Austin’s Local Swimming Holes

One of the best things to do in Austin, Texas for kids is experience one of the area’s amazing natural wonders. A memorable way to explore is taking them swimming! 

About 45 minutes from the city is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a beautiful natural lagoon that has become quite popular. You need to make reservations to visit during the busy summer season (May to September). Also, make sure to wear good water hiking shoes, because it’s a 10–15-minute walk to reach it.

After an easy hike, you’ll come upon the collapsed grotto and waterfall at Hamilton Pool Preserve. It’s absolutely beautiful and it’s perfect for the whole family.

Small children enjoy wading along the pebble beach, and braver big kids can venture further into the depths of the natural pool for a swim.

That’s not the only natural swimming spot to consider! Of course, you can always head to Barton Springs Pool in Austin’s Zilker Park. A short drive away, there’s Krause Springs in Hill Country with 32 springs and two swimming pools.

The Blue Hole at Wimberley is a section of Cypress Creek that’s perfect for spending the day playing and swimming.

Texas State Parks are another great place to spend the day. McKinney Falls State Park offers a day full of outdoor fun, with hiking, biking, historic ruins, and a fun swimming grotto.

13. Visit the essential museum of Texas history, The Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Museum tells the history of Texas through its collection of artifacts, photos, and hands-on experiences. Kids will love the IMAX movie theatre, the La Belle shipwreck exhibition, and the ability to trace the state’s history through interactive exhibits.

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, and there’s free admission for kids ages 3 and under.

14. Inner Space Cavern

If you’re looking for a unique excursion that will make a lasting impression, take a guided tour of Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.

Explore caverns and natural wonders underground, then head up to the Inner Space Mine and pan for gemstones.

15. Hike at Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

For more outdoor activities for kids of all ages, head to Round Mountain northwest of Austin. Here, the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a unique wildlife and nature preserve that features 2 distinct ecosystems: a savanna and a lower, more diverse canyon biosphere.

Not only is Westcave stunning to see, but there’s a lot you can learn about nature. The preserve is very popular and reservations should be made in advance.

You can see the park through guided tours, and there are a few different ones to choose from!

There are great educational programs for homeschoolers, daytime and nighttime hikes, as well as hikes themed around photography or bird watching. You won’t want to miss exploring the lush grotto and seeing the 40-foot waterfall!

16. Head to an Austin Waterpark or Splash Pad

During the summer months, one of the best things to do in Austin with kids is get in the water! In the greater Austin area, you can visit a splash pad that’s perfect for younger kids in every neighborhood near downtown. And Austin’s water parks are great for families with kids of different ages.

Just a short drive north is Typhoon Texas in Pflugerville, where you can enjoy a day of play at the combined water and adventure parks. There is also Rock ‘N River Water Park in Round Rock. Or you can take the family to the indoor Splash Shack in Cedar Park any time of year!

Also, about an hour south of Austin is the ever-popular Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. This is the original Schlitterbahn , a 70-acre outdoor water park resort along the banks of the Comal River, known for having over 40 diverse water attractions that appeal to all kinds of visitors.

17. Austin Nature & Science Center

If you’re looking for free things to do in Austin, Texas with kids, an excellent choice is the Austin Nature & Science Center inside Zilker Park! This nature center is a great place to take the kids if you want to burn an hour or two.

There are hands-on activities both indoors and outdoors. The hiking trails feature local wildlife and fun installations.

18. Kayak on Lady Bird Lake

A great way to do some sightseeing in Austin is on a kayaking tour of Lady Bird Lake . Along both shores of the lake, you can find multiple vendors offering hourly rentals of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. They also provide life jackets and wet bags if you need them.

19. Visit the Cathedral of Junk

The Cathedral of Junk is undeniably one of the best things to do in Austin, Texas with kids! This quirky attraction offers an unforgettable experience for families.

It’s all made of 60 tons of found objects and is the brainchild of the artist, Vince Hannemann. You’ll see the Cathedral of Junk on his private property which he opens to the public. He doesn’t charge visitors for entry, but donations are appreciated.

You can meet Vince and explore what he’s created. The whole place is like a unique playground for kids. They can climb, crawl, and wander through this towering structure made entirely of recycled materials. This is a great stop for anyone looking for Weird Austin, but especially kids who are interested in art.

20. See the Peacocks at the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

Austin has so many beautiful green spaces where you can enjoy nature, and all of them are unique. Take Mayfield Park, for example. A big reason families visit is for the resident peacocks! Plus, it’s free to visit.

These gorgeous birds roam freely throughout the park and are known for their calm nature. Kids can often get surprisingly close to the birds, making it a unique opportunity for young animal lovers to observe and interact with wildlife in a safe environment.

The park itself is worth the visit, boasting beautiful gardens, peaceful lily ponds, and picturesque walking trails. You can explore archways into hidden gardens, watch the Koi fish in the pond, or explore stone structures. Mayfield Park is also a great spot for family photos and picnics.

21. Visit the Austin Steam Train Museum

One of the best family things to do in Austin is head to the Austin Steam Train Association Museum and ride a vintage train! The museum itself is a treasure trove of vintage railcars and artifacts. You’ll get a glimpse into the rich history of railroading in Texas and how it helped shape the state.

Most people visit the museum to go on themed train rides. Whether it’s a seasonal holiday ride like the North Pole Flyer or a Wild West adventure on the Hill Country Flyer, the whole family will have a blast. Kids can dress up, enjoy onboard entertainment, and take in the Texas Hill Country scenery.

22. Austin Aquarium

The Austin Aquarium is your chance to get up close and personal with a variety of marine life and exotic animals. It’s a small, local aquarium and the perfect size for a family. You can explore interactive exhibits featuring colorful fish, sharks, reptiles, birds, and more. There might even be animals that you can touch and feed!

23. Austin Toy Museum

For kids and adults who never grew up, the Austin Toy Museum is a must-visit location. You’ll find the storefront along Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, making it a quick, convenient stop for visitors and locals alike.

Parents will love introducing their kids to the toys they grew up with in the 80s and 90s. And kids will have fun playing vintage video and arcade games!

There’s an admission fee that gives you access to unlimited gameplay. Adults can stop by the bar inside for a local craft beer.

24. Dart’em Up

Laser tag can be a little too intense for younger players, but Dart’em Up is the solution! This unique foam dart arena is one of the coolest things to do in Austin with kids ages 5 and up.

It’s a new spot that’s become a popular destination for families, offering hours of fun with arcades, video games, ping pong, their amazing foam dart arenas, and more! Head to the armory to upgrade your weapon and enjoy hour-long games with friends.

Looking for a date night idea? There are adults-only nights with beer and wine! Just check the Dart’em Up website for times, because they hold different hours every season.

25. Austin’s

Austin’s is a fantastic family entertainment center in the Austin area, known for its exciting activities that cater to all ages. This sprawling destination offers a thrilling mix of amusement park rides, arcade games, and delicious pizza.

The park’s outdoor attractions include go-karts, bumper boats, and a miniature golf course, but that’s just the beginning. Indoors, you’ll also find a massive arcade with every game you can think of, as well as a rock-climbing wall!

Austin’s is known for its top-notch buffet that includes fresh pizza and a quality salad bar. There’s even a full bar with screens for watching the game while the kids play.

Where to Stay in Austin

• Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – This AAA Four Diamond luxury resort is located a half-hour west of downtown. With world-class golf, tennis, and spa facilities, as well as a variety of dining options, it’s a great option for families traveling with kids and teens and one of the best family resorts in Texas !
• Hyatt Regency Austin – This property has a central location downtown, about 15 minutes walking to South Congress. There’s an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center, and some rooms have river and downtown views!
• Fairmont Austin – This upscale property has gorgeous swimming pools, a coffee shop, and a fitness center. Some rooms offer beautiful city views.
• We have also stayed at the Embassy Suites Downtown which has a convenient location and great free breakfast.

Try Out All the Fun Family Things to Do in Austin!

When you’re looking for things to do in Austin with kids, I encourage you to strike out and explore beyond downtown Austin. You’ll be amazed at the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, and your kids will love it too!

Looking for more Texas things to do? Don’t miss these posts:

• 15 Fun Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids
• San Antonio at Christmas
• best weekend getaways from Dallas.

The post 25 Essential Things to Do in Austin with Kids (2024) appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

AUSTIN TOURS

From guided  walking tours  of downtown to a 3-hour walking tour of Austin's best eateries, to a family -friendly adventure on the Austin Duck, there are many ways to see the city. Find the tour that fits your personality below or view these online bookable tours.

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