Things To Do in Austin

Welcome to Austin, Texas! A city where creativity meets southern charm, and every street corner hums with live music, sizzling BBQ, and vibrant culture. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin is more than just a city; it’s an experience. With its laid-back vibe, diverse food scene, scenic outdoor escapes, and eclectic art, Austin continues to attract millions of visitors each year.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning an extended stay, this guide covers the best things to do in Austin, TX. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

 

Top Tourist Attractions in Austin

Texas State Capitol: Bigger than the U.S. Capitol, this historic building offers free guided tours and beautiful grounds to explore. Don’t miss the breathtaking rotunda and legislative chambers.

Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or take a scenic walk along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. It’s a relaxing escape right in the heart of the city.

The University of Texas at Austin: Stroll through one of the top universities in the nation. Be sure to check out the Blanton Museum of Art and the Texas Memorial Museum.

Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: Watch 1.5 million bats emerge at sunset from beneath the bridge between March and October. It’s one of the most unique wildlife shows in the U.S.

 

Explore Austin’s Food Scene

Food Truck Parks: Austin is a food truck paradise. Visit The Picnic or South First Food Court to taste everything from gourmet donuts to Korean-Mexican fusion tacos.

BBQ Joints: You can’t leave Austin without trying world-famous BBQ. Franklin Barbecue is the holy grail, but if the line is too long, head to Micklethwait Craft Meats or La Barbecue.

Tex-Mex Favorites: Fuel up with legendary breakfast tacos from Torchy’s Tacos or Veracruz All Natural. Don’t forget the queso!

Local Tip: Many of the best bites are hidden in gas stations or trailers — always trust a crowd.

 

Dive into Live Music & Nightlife

6th Street: Known as Austin’s Bourbon Street, 6th Street is lined with bars, clubs, and venues offering live music every night of the week.

The Continental Club: Since 1955, this South Congress staple has been a haven for rock, blues, and country.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater: Catch a concert or take a guided tour of this iconic venue.

Rainey Street District: Historic bungalows turned into quirky bars with food trucks, craft cocktails, and string lights make this a chill alternative to 6th Street.

 

Outdoor Adventures and Parks

Zilker Park: A 351-acre oasis offering kayaking, playgrounds, and picnic spots. It’s also home to Barton Springs Pool and the Zilker Botanical Garden.

Barton Creek Greenbelt: A haven for hikers, swimmers, and climbers. Visit Twin Falls or Sculpture Falls for a refreshing dip.

Mount Bonnell: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Lake Austin. It’s especially stunning at sunset.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Explore native Texas plants and walk peaceful trails in this scenic botanical garden.

 

Unique Austin Experiences

Cathedral of Junk: A true expression of Austin’s weird spirit, this towering art installation is made entirely of found objects.

Museum of the Weird: Located on 6th Street, this quirky museum showcases oddities, shrunken heads, and even a live sideshow performance.

Uncommon Objects: An antique store like no other — expect the unexpected with rare, strange, and vintage finds.

Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In: Watch classic movies in a vintage setting under the stars. Perfect for date night!

 

Family-Friendly Activities

Thinkery Museum: A hands-on science and tech museum that kids will love.

Austin Zoo: A rescue zoo that offers an intimate and educational animal experience.

Austin Nature & Science Center: Free and fun, this outdoor center offers interactive exhibits and wildlife education.

Toy Joy & Epic Fun: Brightly colored toys, arcades, and indoor playgrounds offer hours of fun for all ages.

 

Day Trips from Austin

Dripping Springs: Known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” this area offers wineries, breweries, and the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve.

Fredericksburg: A charming German town with boutique shops, wine tasting, and access to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Wimberley: A peaceful escape with swimming at Blue Hole and unique art galleries.

Lockhart: Home to the best BBQ in Texas. Make a pit stop at Black’s, Kreuz, or Smitty’s.

 

Seasonal Events and Festivals

South by Southwest (SXSW): A massive celebration of music, film, and tech held every March.

Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival: Two weekends of epic performances in Zilker Park each October.

Pecan Street Festival: A free, family-friendly arts and crafts festival held twice a year on historic 6th Street.

Trail of Lights: A dazzling holiday tradition in Zilker Park featuring over 2 million lights.

 

Where to Stay in Austin

Downtown: Great for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action.

South Congress (SoCo): Trendy boutiques, coffee shops, and great photo ops.

East Austin: Artsy and eclectic, filled with murals, cafes, and indie shops.

Budget & Boutique: Check out Hotel San Jose, The LINE Austin, or local Airbnb rentals.

 

Tips for Visiting Austin

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November).
• Getting Around: Use e-scooters, bikes, or ride-shares like Uber/Lyft.
• What to Pack: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and light clothing.
• Local Etiquette: Be friendly, patient in traffic, and keep things weird!

 

Final Thoughts: Why Austin Should Be on Your Bucket List

Austin is a city that defies expectations. It mixes Southern hospitality with indie spirit, natural beauty with live music, and history with innovation. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, a music lover, or a laid-back traveler, Austin has something for you.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your unforgettable Austin getaway today!