10 Best Things to Do in Austin Texas For Families, Adults, Couples, Foodies, Nightlife, For Free
Are you planning a trip to Austin, Texas, and looking for some fun and exciting activities to do? Or are you a local who wants to discover new places and experiences in your city? Either way, you’re in luck, because Austin is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re into history, culture, art, music, food, or nature, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in the Texas capital. In this article, we’ll show you the best things to do in Austin Texas, based on local experts and travelers’ recommendations.
You’ll learn about the iconic landmarks, the hidden gems, and the must-tries that make Austin one of the most amazing cities in the world. So, get ready to explore, relax, and have fun in Austin!
Consider reading: 23 Best Places to Visit in Texas
Visit the Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is one of the most iconic landmarks in Austin Texas and a must-see for anyone interested in the history and politics of the Lone Star State. The Capitol building is the largest in the United States, and features a stunning dome, a grand rotunda, and impressive statues and paintings.
You can take a free guided tour of the Capitol, or explore it on your own with a self-guided brochure. You’ll learn about the history of Texas, the architecture of the Capitol, and the stories behind the monuments and memorials on the grounds.
The Texas State Capitol is not only a historical and cultural attraction but also a working seat of government. You can watch the Texas Legislature in action when it’s in session, or visit the offices of the governor and other state officials. You can also enjoy the Capitol’s beautiful gardens, which feature native plants and flowers, and offer a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
The Texas State Capitol is one of the best things to do in Austin because it showcases the pride and heritage of Texas, and offers a glimpse into the state’s past, present, and future. It’s a place where you can learn, admire, and be inspired by the people and events that shaped Texas.
Take a Hike in Zilker Park
Zilker Park is the most popular park in Austin, and for good reason. It’s a sprawling green space that offers something for everyone, from hiking and biking trails, to sports fields and playgrounds, to botanical gardens and museums. You can spend a whole day in Zilker Park, enjoying the fresh air and the scenic views of the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake.
One of the best things to do in Zilker Park is to take a hike on the Barton Creek Greenbelt, which runs through the park and connects to other trails in the city. The Greenbelt is a natural oasis, with lush vegetation, rocky cliffs, and flowing water.
You can hike along the creek, or venture into the woods, where you’ll find hidden caves, waterfalls, and swimming holes. The Greenbelt is a great place to escape the urban hustle and bustle and experience the beauty and diversity of Austin’s nature.
Taking a hike in Zilker Park is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it allows you to enjoy the outdoors, exercise, and relax. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, yourself, and others, and appreciate the wonders of Austin’s environment.
Consider reading: Hidden Falls Adventure Park Off-Roading ATV, Camping and Map
Explore the Austin Museum of Art
The Austin Museum of Art, or AMOA, is the premier destination for art lovers in Austin. The museum features a collection of contemporary art from local, national, and international artists, as well as rotating exhibitions that showcase the latest trends and innovations in the art world. You can explore the museum’s galleries, which display a variety of media, styles, and themes, and discover new perspectives and insights on art and society.
The Austin Museum of Art is not only a place to see art, but also to make art. The museum offers a range of educational programs and workshops for adults and children, where you can learn new skills, express your creativity, and have fun.
You can also attend the museum’s events, such as lectures, films, and performances, which enrich your cultural experience and connect you with the local art community.
The Austin Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it celebrates the diversity and vitality of art, and inspires you to explore your own artistic potential. It’s a place where you can enjoy, learn, and create art, and be part of Austin’s vibrant and dynamic culture.
See a Live Music Show at the Moody Theater
Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, and the Moody Theater is one of the best places to experience it. The Moody Theater is the home of the famous Austin City Limits, a live music television show that features some of the biggest names and emerging talents in the music industry.
You can watch a live taping of the show, or catch a concert by your favorite artist, at the state-of-the-art venue, which has a capacity of 2,750 and offers excellent acoustics and views.
The Moody Theater is not only a place to see live music, but also to feel it. The venue has a lively and intimate atmosphere, where you can dance, sing, and cheer along with the performers and the crowd. You can also enjoy the Moody Theater’s amenities, such as the bars, the lounge, and the rooftop terrace, which offer drinks, snacks, and stunning views of downtown Austin.
The Moody Theater is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it showcases the diversity and quality of live music, and offers a memorable and exhilarating experience. It’s a place where you can discover new sounds, relive old favorites, and be part of Austin’s musical legacy.
Go Shopping on South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is the ultimate destination for shopping in Austin. It’s a hip and eclectic street that features a mix of vintage shops, boutiques, art galleries, and more. You can find anything from clothing and accessories, to books and records, to souvenirs and gifts, on SoCo, and enjoy the unique and quirky vibe of the street.
South Congress Avenue is not only a place to shop, but also to eat, drink, and play. The street is lined with some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in Austin, where you can sample the local cuisine, sip a coffee or a cocktail, and relax.
You can also have fun on SoCo, by visiting the famous murals, such as the “I love you so much” and the “Greetings from Austin” ones, or by catching a show at the legendary Continental Club, one of the oldest and most iconic music venues in Austin.
South Congress Avenue is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it reflects the diversity and creativity of Austin, and offers a fun and colorful experience. It’s a place where you can shop, eat, drink, and play, and be part of Austin’s weird and wonderful culture.
Have a Drink at the Driskill Hotel
The Driskill Hotel is one of the oldest and most elegant hotels in Austin, and a great place to have a drink and soak up some history. The hotel was built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, and has hosted many famous guests, such as presidents, celebrities, and musicians. The hotel is also rumored to be haunted by some of its former residents.
The Driskill Bar is the main attraction for drinks at the hotel. It’s a cozy and classy spot, with leather couches, cowhide barstools, and a Texas Longhorn on the wall. You can enjoy a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers, as well as appetizers and entrees from the hotel’s kitchen. The bar also features live music every night, from blues and jazz to country and rock.
Having a drink at the Driskill Hotel is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it offers a taste of the city’s history, charm, and culture. It’s a place where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy the music.
Consider reading: Top 10 Best Austin Food Tours
Visit the Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a natural swimming pool in Zilker Park, fed by underground springs that keep the water at a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round. The pool is three acres in size, and has depths up to 18 feet. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, especially in the summer, when the pool provides a welcome relief from the heat.
Barton Springs Pool is also a place of ecological and historical significance. The pool is home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander, which is only found in this area. The pool also has a long history of being used by various groups, from Native Americans to Spanish missionaries to early settlers. The pool was expanded and improved by the city in the 1920s, and has been a public park ever since.
Visiting the Barton Springs Pool is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of the city. It’s a place where you can swim, sunbathe, picnic, and have fun.
Take a Boat Tour on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River that runs through the heart of downtown Austin. The lake offers scenic views of the city skyline, the bridges, and the hike and bike trail. One of the best ways to experience the lake is to take a boat tour, which can range from relaxing to adventurous.
There are several companies that offer boat tours on Lady Bird Lake, such as Lone Star Riverboat, Capital Cruises, and Live Love Paddle. You can choose from different types of boats, such as electric cruisers, paddle wheelers, kayaks, and canoes.
You can also choose from different themes, such as sightseeing, sunset, bat watching, and moonlight. Depending on the tour, you can learn about the history, culture, and wildlife of Austin, or just enjoy the views and the breeze.
Taking a boat tour on Lady Bird Lake is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it showcases the beauty and diversity of the city. It’s a place where you can explore, relax, and have fun.
Consider reading: Best Austin Date Ideas
Eat at Franklin Barbecue
Franklin Barbecue is widely regarded as one of the best barbecue joints in the world, and a must-try for any meat lover. The restaurant specializes in brisket, which is smoked for hours over Texas post oak wood, and seasoned with salt and pepper.
The result is a tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. The restaurant also serves other meats, such as ribs, pulled pork, turkey, and sausage, as well as sides, such as beans, slaw, and potato salad.
Franklin Barbecue is so popular that it often sells out before noon, and the line can stretch for hours. The restaurant opens at 11 am, but people start lining up as early as 7 am. The wait can be long, but many people say it’s worth it. You can also order online, but you have to do it months in advance. The restaurant also offers catering and delivery services for large groups.
Eating at Franklin Barbecue is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it offers a taste of the city’s barbecue tradition, which is considered one of the best in the country. It’s a place where you can savor the meat, chat with fellow barbecue fans, and experience the hype.
Consider reading: Top 10 Best Austin Restaurants with a View
Visit the University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the country, and a major hub of education, research, and culture in Austin. The university has more than 50,000 students, 3,000 faculty, and 18 colleges and schools, offering a wide range of academic programs and degrees. The university is also home to many notable alumni, such as former presidents, Nobel laureates, astronauts, and celebrities.
The university’s campus is located in the heart of Austin, and covers about 431 acres. The campus features many historic buildings, sculptures, and points of interest, such as the Tower, the Main Building, the Littlefield Fountain, and the UT LBJ Library.
The campus also hosts many museums, such as the Blanton Museum of Art, the Harry Ransom Center, and the Texas Memorial Museum. The campus is open to visitors, and offers guided and self-guided walking tours, as well as online tours.
Visiting the University of Texas at Austin is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas because it showcases the academic excellence, diversity, and spirit of the city. It’s a place where you can learn, admire, and be inspired by the people and events that shaped Texas.
Final Thoughts on Best Things to Do in Austin Texas
As someone who has had the pleasure of exploring the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, I can personally attest to the incredible range of activities and attractions available to visitors.
From the stunning natural beauty of the Barton Springs Pool and Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, to the rich cultural experiences at the LBJ Presidential Library and Blanton Museum of Art, there truly is something for everyone in Austin.
No trip to Austin would be complete without indulging in the incredible local food scene or taking part in one of the city’s many festivals.
FAQs on Best Things to Do in Austin Texas
What is Austin best known for?
Austin is best known for its vibrant live music scene, earning the title of Live Music Capital of the World. The city hosts countless live performances across various venues, with The Continental Club being a historic highlight since 1955.
Is 2 days enough in Austin?
Two days in Austin can be sufficient to explore key attractions, savor local cuisine, and experience its vibrant music scene. Planning ahead for a focused itinerary is recommended to maximize your trip, ensuring a taste of what makes Austin a beloved destination in a short time.
What is Austin known for today?
Austin is renowned today for its vibrant live music scene, earning the title Live Music Capital of the World. This dynamic city offers an eclectic mix of venues, from iconic dance halls to lively bars, where music enthusiasts can enjoy genres spanning country to indie rock every night.
What is the most famous street in Austin Texas?
The most famous street in Austin, Texas, is Sixth Street. Known for its vibrant nightlife, live music venues, diverse bars, and eateries, Sixth Street epitomizes Austin’s unique culture and pulsating energy, drawing locals and tourists alike for an authentic Austin experience.
