Published: November 04, 2024
Austin is known for many things—from being the top music capital of the world to having a delicious food scene, there are always things to do in Austin on any budget. Maybe you’re interested in a beautiful nature hike, or perhaps you want to take in the city’s unique and unconventional spirit, affectionately known as “Keep Austin Weird.”
Whether you are traveling to Austin for work, moving on a whim or have lived in "The City of Lakes" your whole life, there are plenty of things to do in Austin, Texas, that will have you getting out and about to travel the city.
Escape the mundane indoor life and travel to the outdoors, where Austin has plenty of fun and relaxing activities. Go by yourself, bring a date or plan a day with the whole family—these activities are sure to be enjoyed by all.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 2201 William Barton Drive
If cooling off on a hot day is your idea of relaxing, then Barton Springs Pool is for you. This astonishing pool is more than 3 acres in size and because it’s fed from underground springs, it stays at a perfect 68 to 70 degrees year-round.
This attraction also has a huge following—over 800,000 people visit annually to take a dip in the pool where Robert Redford learned to swim.
Barton Springs Pool ranges from water you can soak your feet into to an astonishing 18 feet. Naturally, with depths that large, a diving board is always a fun time. There’s a grassy area to have a picnic or sunbathe and you might even catch a glimpse of the Barton Springs salamander or other wildlife in their natural habitat.
This fun and relaxing outdoor adventure is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., except on Thursday when the hours are 5 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Time needed: 45 minutes to an hour
Address: South Congress Avenue
One of the top free things to do with kids in Austin is to visit the Congress Avenue Bridge. While this structure is impressive to see in itself, it also happens to be home to roughly 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats.
The best time to see one of the most iconic Austin attractions is late March to early fall, when their numbers are at their highest. At sunset, these bats pour out and set sail over Lady Bird Lake.
You’ll want to arrive at the Congress Avenue Bridge well before sunset, but know that the cavalcade of bats can happen anytime between 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. (on average). Bat tours are available that take you across Lady Bird Lake for a one-of-a-kind experience and typically last between one and three hours.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 1820 S. Lakeshore Blvd
A true happy place for nature lovers, Lady Bird Lake offers the best of the outdoors: birdwatching, canoeing, paddleboarding and fishing. No lake would be complete without an area to walk—you can head to the Anne and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail located on the lake for a low-grade, 10-mile route.
If you happen to be visiting Austin in August, you can’t miss the rubber ducky derby that takes place on this lake. It's almost impossible to miss —over 20,000 rubber duckies are dumped into Lady Bird Lake off of the Congress Avenue Bridge, making it a sight to see.
Time needed: One to four hours
Address: 2100 Barton Springs Road
Zilker Park is perfect for an afternoon of walking, picnicking, swimming, biking or sunbathing. This beautiful escape-from-reality landscape covers 351 acres and offers lots to do for families and solo travelers.
A miniature train takes you around the park, offering some of the best views in Austin. Or, you can take a guided bike tour around the lake to learn about its rich history.
Zilker Park hosts several festivals throughout the year for all to attend. Some notable ones include the ABC Kite Festival, Austin City Limits Festival and the Annual Trail of Lights. With so much to do, you might need a full day or two to enjoy everything you can with this park.
Time needed: One to two hours
Address: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Road
For a spectacular view and budget-friendly Austin activity, check out Mount Bonnell in Covert Park. The peak of Mount Bonnell stands at 781 feet, making it one of the highest points in the entire city of Austin. While reaching that height might seem somewhat intimidating, you’ll climb the 102 stairs to the 360 Bridge for a breathtaking view that's well worth the trek.
The hike to the top of the peak only takes about 20 to 30 minutes, making this an excellent location to visit when you’re short on time.
Time needed: One to two hours
Address: 2201 Barton Springs Road
If you are an avid hiker and want to explore South Austin, you should be exploring Barton Creek Greenbelt—after all, it is one of the ten best hiking spots in Austin. You’ll enjoy 12 miles of trails, which are perfect for walking, running or riding a bike. This location has many different access points, making getting in and out easy for all travelers.
If hiking isn’t your jam, there are plenty of other activities to explore at Barton Creek. Bring your swim gear to take a dip, or bring along a hammock for a lovely, relaxing afternoon. If you’re an avid reader, bring your book and a blanket and curl up under the shade of the trees.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 2220 Barton Springs Road
Located in Zilker Park, the Zilker Botanical Garden is undoubtedly one of the top things to see in Austin. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this 28-acre wonder hosts themed gardens like the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Rose Garden and Riparian Streambed.
Walk through the gardens to see streams, Koi ponds and overflowing roses. You can either take a casual walk or take a tour to view the beauty with a pro.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Road
An excursion off the beaten path in Austin, the Hamilton Pool Preserve is nothing short of a historical landmark. This leisurely spot to swim was formed when an underground river collapsed; in its place is a 50-foot waterfall leading to a deep gorge.
While you’ll never see the waterfall fully dry, it might slow down to a trickle pace. However, if you want to soak or swim, you will be happy to know that the pool’s water levels stay constant.
Reservations are required to visit, but you should know that swimming is not guaranteed with any reservation. You can see wildlife like native birds and fish and be astonished by the surrounding limestone slabs.
Time needed: Two to three hours
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway
McKinney Falls State Park is the place to be if you have time to spend in the great outdoors. There is plenty to do—from exploring waterfalls to hiking along the trails (a total of 9 miles worth.) and enjoying a lovely picnic, this state park is the ultimate place to relax and unwind.
Whether you are an Austin native or just traveling through, you can camp at any of the 81 different campsites.
Time needed: One to two hours
Address: 4801 La Crosse Avenue
If exploring wondrous gardens brings you tranquility, visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. This stunning 284-acre setting is home to a vast collection of native plants from all over North America. You can also walk through wildflower gardens that promote several varieties of wildflowers that bloom throughout the year.
For true nature enthusiasts, guided tours, workshops and classes focused on sustainable landscapes and native plants are available.
Even though there is plenty to see and do throughout the year, the best time to visit Austin for this experience is from March to May and again from September to November. These months will offer you the most vibrant flower options, not to mention the best weather.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 3505 W. 35th Street
If exploring the seven best parks in Austin is on your to-do list, you better head to Mayfield Park and Preserve. Known for its lush gardens and scenic trails, there’s plenty to do for solo travelers and families.
In addition to the several historic sites the park has to offer, you can explore the gardens and admire the plant and animal life, hike or bike along the trails; and attend one of the many events the park offers. This is one thing to do in Austin that shouldn’t take more than an hour, but you can extend the visit by wandering and exploring.
Austin isn’t only known for its breathtaking nature—it’s also the hot spot for food and entertainment. Pull up a chair, grab some grub and explore what Austin has to offer.
Time needed: Two to four hours
Address: South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue (SoCo) is the place to shop, grab a bite to eat, take in live music and explore unique attractions. This vibrant street in Austin is unique in its own right and has something for just about everyone. Shopping options include everything from vintage and antique to trendy offerings.
If you are in the mood for food, you can take your pick—there’s a wide range of options like Tex-Mex, barbeque and international. And if you’re in the mood for something quirky, SoCo has you covered. Visit the iconic "I Love You More" mural and don’t forget to grab a souvenir.
Time needed: Two to three hours
Address: Varies
It’s no wonder why Austin is dubbed the Live Music Capital of the World. This vivacious city has various unique music venues, like the Continental Club and the Austin360 Amphitheater, where musicians of all kinds play.
The city is diverse in its music offerings—you can find live country, Latin, rock and even blues music playing throughout the city. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, check out one of Austin’s many music festivals. You won’t be disappointed.
Time needed: One to two hours
Address: 900 E. 11th Street
While you’re checking out the music scene and enjoying nature, you’ll surely work up an appetite. While checking out the eight best BBQ restaurants in Austin, stop by Franklin BBQ for their world-renowned brisket and delicious pulled pork.
Be warned that Franklin BBQ is one of the top fun things to do in Austin for native Austinites and travelers, so you’ll want to arrive early to avoid the lines. If you’re looking for a quick in-and-out experience, avoid weekends and holidays, as they are the busiest then. And don’t forget about the sides—the beans and potato salad are especially delightful.
Time needed: Two to three hours
Address: 400 W. 2nd Street
If you are looking for a fun and unique date night activity, check out the Alamo Drafthouse. Here, you can order food and drinks from your movie seat. There are plenty of movie options, including movie marathons and midnight screenings.
For a different experience, Alamo Drafthouse offers costume contests, trivia games and audience participation during their movies, making this theater one-of-a-kind.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: Rainey Street
Travel down one of Austin’s most historic streets and explore Rainey Street, famed for its variety of bars, restaurants, live music, festivals and unique venues. Rainey Street's more popular attractions include The Roosevelt Room, with its beautiful rooftop bar, The Highball, featuring a speakeasy-style atmosphere; and The Ginger Man, with its ample outdoor patio space.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 900 East 1st Street
When thinking about what to see in Austin, what could be better than live music in a multilevel concert venue? The Mohawk has indoor and outdoor stages; indoor, patio and roof deck bars; and the best entertainment acts from around the country. Catch a show, hang out with friends or just stop by for the atmosphere—you’re sure to have the time of your life.
Time needed: One to four hours
Address: Sixth Street
If you love the nightlife, you’ll love Sixth Street in Austin. On Sixth Street, you can drink at one of the many bars, enjoy some flavorful Austin cuisine and dance the night away to live music. There’s always something happening and there’s something for everyone, making Sixth Street the place to be.
Some of the most popular spots on Sixth Street include The Dizzy Rooster, which has a rooftop patio; The Iron Works, which hosts large concerts and events; and The Broken Spoke, which has live country music and line dancing.
Time needed: One to five hours
Address: 11600 Domain Drive
The Domain is a popular shopping and entertainment destination for Austin locals and visitors since it provides many things to do in one place. You can spend countless hours shopping at retailers like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus, dining at casual and upscale establishments, catching a movie in the movie theater or even bowling a few frames at the bowling alley.
And if all the excitement from the shops and venues wears you out, plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces exist to rest your feet and enjoy the weather. This is undoubtedly one location that you’ll be frequenting often.
Austin is known for more than just its parks and entertainment—the city has a rich history dating back to 1839, when it was founded. If you’re a historical buff or just want to learn more about your city, add these locations to your itinerary.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 1100 Congress Avenue
The Texas State Capitol is the largest state capitol building in the U.S., towering 311 above Austin. It was built between 1882 and 1888 and is home to many historical state artifacts. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn more about the capitol’s history, explore the grounds of the capitol to see the beautiful gardens and even attend historical lectures and events.
Time needed: Two to three hours
Address: 2313 South IH 35
Easily rated one of the top nine attractions in Austin, the LBJ Presidential Library is a must-see attraction for those interested in presidential history. This library focuses on President Johnson’s life and career through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts and guided tours. Even if you’re a presidential history newbie, you’ll walk out of this library with new knowledge of LBJ and his legacy.
At the LBJ Presidential Library, you can view some of President Johnson’s personal belongings, like his famous Stetson hat, watch videos, join hands-on activities and attend special lectures and book signings.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
If you’d like to see a world-class art museum, look right in your Austin backyard. The Blanton Museum of Art is regarded as one of the best museums in Austin, thanks to its vast and diverse collection of over 24,000 works of art from around the world.
Museumgoers can view paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings from many different art periods and can engage in educational programs like guided tours and workshops. Beyond the artwork itself, you’ll see the captive beauty of the building's architecture and sculpture garden, truly making this an experience to dedicate an afternoon to.
Time needed: Two to three hours
Address: 1800 North Congress Avenue
If you’re a Texas buff wondering what to do in Austin, add visiting the Bullock Texas State History Museum to your calendar. Perfect for visitors of all ages, this museum offers many different ways to learn about the history and culture of Texas, from interactive exhibits, guided tours and educational programs.
You’ll learn about the Texas Revolution and the Civil War, plus how the state has developed over the last few centuries. Watch videos and listen to recordings about the state and if you’re in the mood, you can even watch a movie in the Bullock IMAX theater located in the museum.
Time needed: One to three hours
Address: 2100 Guadalupe Street
Whether you’re a former Texas Longhorn, a prospective student or just want to explore the campus, your Austin activities bingo card is incomplete without going to the University of Texas at Austin. While you’re there, be sure to attend a sporting event—the UT Austin fanbase is incredible. You can explore the campus with a guided tour or enjoy the great outdoors with all the lush greenery.
Time needed: One to two hours
Address: 400 River St.
If you’re trying to find something unique to do, look no further than the Cathedral of Junk. This one-of-a-kind sculpture takes up the size of a city lot, towering with recycled materials, including old appliances, furniture and toys. Perhaps the best part of this experience is that it’s not just a museum—visitors are encouraged to interact with the Cathedral of Junk by climbing on it and exploring hidden passageways and secret rooms to find surprises along the way.
With AAA Travel Services, booking your next trip is easy. There are so many things to do in Austin that you may need to visit more than once to accomplish them all. Your AAA Membership can help you with travel, hotels and more to make your Austin experience fun and memorable.
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