Hello, here we are discussing the BEST THINGS TO DO IN AUSTIN. Texas’ capital, Austin, boasts vibrant roots, warmth, and adventure outdoors. It’s a city that never fails to surprise. This guide is for you, newbie or local alike. It’ll walk you through Austin’s. I finally got around to writing this highly requested guide to the best things to do in Austin.
Explore the Lively Music Scene
“World’s Live Music Capital, “Is a maze of music. It’s brimming with venues featuring local bright stars and touring musicians. Endure the performance at an iconic place on Sixth Street, at Moody Theater, or the Continental Club, and you will feel that electric buzz.
This table provides an overview of the various music venues in Austin:
| Venue | Location | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Far Out Lounge | 8504 S Congress Ave | Historic venue with two stages | Outdoor seating, dogs welcome, Austin Psych Fest |
| Hotel Vegas | 1502 E 6th St | Backyard venue with lush green outdoors | Tasty food, serene atmosphere |
| Empire Control Room | 606 E 7th St | Indoor and outdoor stages | Indie rock, diverse music genres |
| Mohawk | 912 Red River St | Indoor, outdoor, and balcony stages | Alternative rock, all ages |
| The Ballroom | 2906 Fruth St | Cozy spot for music and comedy | Vegan food truck, college-oriented |
| Waterloo Records | 600 N Lamar Blvd | Record store with live music | Free live music, best record store in Austin |
Let’s Walk and Enjoy the Scenery: Barton Creek Greenbelt Trails.
Right in the city center, you’ll find Barton Creek Greenbelt. It’s a peaceful haven with numerous hike and bike paths winding through rich green spaces and calm creeks. Don’t miss the large variety of plants and animals there. Swim in refreshing swimming holes and relax from the bustles of urban life in this most-deserved retreat.
Guide to navigating the Greenbelt and making the most of your visit:
| Trail Section | Access Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Zilker Park to Campbell’s Hole | Zilker Park (2201 Barton Springs Rd.) | – Wide, flat trail with little shade<br>- Popular with cyclists<br>- Barton Springs Pool nearby |
| Campbell’s Hole | Spyglass Dr. (1601 Spyglass Dr.) or Homedale Dr. (2009 Homedale Dr.) | – Less trafficked swimming hole<br>- Limited parking in residential areas |
| Gus Fruh | Barton Hills Dr. (2632 Barton Hills Dr.) | – 1.4-mile hike from Main Access Point<br>- Sometimes deep swimming hole |
| Hill of Life and Sculpture Falls | Camp Craft Rd. (1712 Camp Craft Rd.) | – Steepest section of the Greenbelt<br>- 300-foot ascent/descent in 0.5 miles<br>- Sculpture Falls is a popular destination |
Enjoy the Food Truck Trail
Whether that be the food-truck scene—with everything from traditional Texas BBQ and fusion food to just a little bit of everything to whet any appetite—or just the city itself, Austin truly lives up to its reputation. The city represents somewhat of a treasure trove for any visiting food enthusiast. Wander through the abundance of food trucks around, and you’re bound to see your new favorite food.
Highlighting some of the top food truck destinations in the city:
| Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Arbor Food Park | – Brings together several of Austin’s tastiest food trailers<br>- Offers a variety of options like Cuantos Tacos, Dough Boys pizzas, and fajitas from Comal ATX<br>- Provides a shady, lively atmosphere with picnic tables |
| The Picnic Food Trailer Park | – Features a rotating selection of 9 different food trucks throughout the year<br>- Includes options like Cannone Cucina Italiana, Yapa Artisan Empanadas, and Coat & Thai<br>- Located near Zilker Park, making it a great spot to refuel after exploring the city |
| Ira & Bevs Food Court | – Home to longtime favorites like the Torchy’s food truck<br>- Offers a variety of rotating food trucks, including Bananarchy, Pig Pen BBQ, and Eggman ATX<br>- Provides ample parking and picnic table seating |
| South First Food Court | – Features an iconic sign showcasing some of Austin’s best-known food truck names<br>- Includes options like TX Shwarma and Manolis Ice Cream<br>- Offers a convenient gathering spot for food truck enthusiasts |
| Thicket Food Truck Park | – Provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a stage for live entertainment<br>- Boasts a sizable jungle gym and play area for kids<br>- Offers a diverse selection of food trucks, including Brooklyn Breakfast Shop and Revolution Vegan Kitchen |
Visit – Texas State Capitol Building
You absolutely cannot visit Austin without visiting this towering icon in the city. Using limestone in its construction specifically in the late 19th century, the building accommodates offices for the state government and provides free guided tours, which throw up some really interesting insights into the diverse heritage of Texas.
Key points about visiting the Capitol:
| Specs Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Place | 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 |
| Visit | – Catch a free guided tour, Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tours start every 30-45 minutes.<br>- Explore on your own, weekdays 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or weekends 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., for free. |
| Parking | – A parking garage is just two blocks out (1201 San Jacinto St.).<br>- The first two parking hours are on us! |
| Features | – It’s the biggest state capitol building in the US.<br>- Built using sunset red Texas granite.<br>- Impressively detailed with huge brass door hinges and “TEXAS” chandeliers in the House of Representatives Chamber. |
| Land | – 22 acres of artfully maintained lawns, and gardens.<br>- 22 monuments, and historic buildings await your discovery. |
| Visitor’s Spot | – Tucked in the refurbished 1856-57 General Land Office building.<br>- Changing and constant exhibits featuring Texas history and culture. |
| Local Food | – Texas Chili Parlor: Famous for Texas chili since 1976.<br>- Clay Pit: Offers some of Austin’s top Indian food in a remodeled 1853 building. |
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Murals and Street Art
This city is very much a living, breathing canvas that Austin offers to street artists. The murals, each color of the rainbow, and installations that dot the building’s walls across the city are thought-provoking. Take a self-guided tour in search of the changing tapestry of street art throughout the city, capturing Instagram-worthy shots as you go.
Murals and Street Art” in Austin:
| Rank | Mural/Street Art | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greetings From Austin | 1720 S. First St. |
| 2 | Love From Austin | 1912 S. Congress Ave. |
| 3 | I Love You So Much | 1300 S. Congress Ave. |
| 4 | Willie For President | 1415 S. Congress Ave. |
| 5 | Women Vote | 111 E. Cesar Chavez St. |
| 6 | Tau Ceti | Brazos & Second Streets |
| 7 | Willie Nelson & Janis Joplin Mural | 407 E Seventh St |
| 8 | La Lotería | 1619 E Cesar Chavez St |
Enjoy the Nightlife on Rainey Street
As the day veers its headlights out, the real deal of Rainey Street becomes alive with bars, restaurants, food trucks galore, and some awesome vibes to add to the cake. Pass by this tree-lined street, sip in some craft cocktails, and absorb some of the easy vibes that will make it feel so darned special to Austin nightlife.
This table provides an overview of the various activities and locations to enjoy the nightlife on Rainey Street in Austin:
| Category | Description | Examples/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Live Music | Enjoy live music on the back patios of local bars. | – |
| Food Trucks | A variety of food trucks dishing out a whole range of tasty grub. | – |
| Bungalow Bars | Old homes now serving a new purpose as bars. | – |
| Cocktail Bars | Bars that shake up all sorts of drinks. | Half Step, Idle Hands, The Tipsy Alchemist, Augustine |
| Fine Dining | High-end dining spots. | Emmer & Rye, Geraldine’s |
| Nightlife | Bars and eateries open late for nightlife activities. | – |
| Entertainment | Special events are held annually, such as the SXSW Conference & Festivals every March. | – |
| Special Events | Old homes now serve a new purpose as bars. | SXSW Conference & Festivals |
Explore the Eclectic South Congress Avenue
This South Congress Avenue is always filled with various shops, boutiques, and eateries that shout a lot about the city, which smells peculiarly of quirk and creativity. Check out resale garment stores, independent bookstores, and artisanal craft vendors, and don’t miss that photo opportunity in front of the lone red-painted wall that everybody is vying for: the one that says “I Love You So Much.”
Overview of the various activities and highlights of South Congress Avenue:
| Activity | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping | Eclectic mix of shops | Vintage shops, high-end boutiques, true Texas vibes |
| Restaurants | Variety of dining options | South Congress Hotel, Cafe No Se, Central Standard, Otoko |
| Events | First Thursdays event | Pop-up shops, street vendors, live music, block party atmosphere |
| Historical Significance | Dates back to the 1930s | Revitalized in the 1990s, iconic shops |
| Landmarks | Views of the Texas State Capitol | Unique backdrop for shopping and dining |
| Cultural Experience | Uniquely Austin experience | Live music, people-watching, street art |
Relax at Zilker Park.
Encompassing over 350 acres, Zilker Park is a stunning outdoor foothold in the middle of Austin. Picnicking is superb with soft, green grass throughout the park, and should one rent a kayak or paddleboard, the tranquility of Lady Bird Lake is theirs to discover. Swim in Barton Creek Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming hole.
Here are some of the best things to do to relax and enjoy the park:
| Activity | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Picnicking | Lay a blanket on vibrant, soft grass for a calm picnic with loved ones. | – |
| Strolling | Enjoy a calm walk on the shady Ann & Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail along Lady Bird Lake. | – |
| Swimming | Dive into the chilly waters of Barton Springs Pool, maintained at 68-70°F year-round. | – |
| Disc Golf | Engage your skills on the park’s comprehensive 18-hole disc golf course. | – |
| Watching Events | Join annual favorites like the ABC Kite Festival in March, Blues on the Green in summer, and Trail of Lights. | – |
| Exploring Nature | Visit the Austin Nature & Science Center to discover local plants and animals. | – |
| Wander through the Zilker Botanical Garden to enjoy the beauty of various plants. | – |
Discover the Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
Every summer, the Congress Avenue Bridge hosts loads of Mexican free-tailed bats. It’s one of North America’s biggest city bat colonies. Come any evening, watch as the sun sets, and behold thousands of bats filling up the sky in a captivating display. This show of nature happens, truly, at twilight.
Key Facts about the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats:
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Bat Colony Size | Estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats |
| Maternity Colony | The bridge hosts a maternity colony, with female bats giving birth to around 750,000 pups/year |
| Emergence Time | Bats typically emerge from the bridge at dusk, timing can vary |
| Viewing Locations | Top of the bridge, Statesman Bat Viewing Area (southeast side), or along the river trail |
| Boat Tours | Bat-watching cruises available from Lone Star Riverboats and Capital Cruises |
| Visitation | Attracts around 140,000 visitors annually, generates $10 million for the Austin economy |
Experience the Local Craft Beer Scene
With its booming craft beer scene, this is highly unlikely to be a miss for any beer enthusiast. Stop in some of the local breweries like Jester King, Austin Beerworks, and Hops & Grain to sample a few nice, varying brews. Learn about this city’s huge brewing tradition.
Overview of the notable breweries, and their locations:
| Brewery | Location | Notable Beers | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jester King Brewery | Dripping Springs | Noble King, Atrial Rubicite | Farmhouse brewery, barrel-aged sour and wild ales |
| Austin Beerworks | North Austin | Pearl Snap, Peacemaker, Fire Eagle IPA | Spacious taproom, core lineup of beers |
| Austin Beer Garden Brewing | South Austin | Industry Pils, Hell Yes | Consistently delivers high-quality lagers |
| Zilker Brewing Company | East Austin | Rotating selection of beers | Inviting taproom, approachable beers |
| Lazarus Brewing Company | East Austin | Crazy Horse, barrel-aged offerings | Combines craft beer with artisanal coffee |
Include these top 10 best things to do in Austin and make it a comprehensive program for visitors to your city which features all the basics of its diverse culture, active outdoor fun, and exuberant entertainment. Wherever time brings you to this town, whether a first-time visitor or local, there always is something new waiting to get unraveled in this energetic destination city of Texas.
