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Things to do in Austin

Live music, BBQ, and Texas Hill Country swimming holes.

Austin, TX, USA· Airport: AUS
Austin — Things to do | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Austin is a year-round destination, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
  • Many of Austin's notable experiences, including Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Park, and the South Congress shops, are accessible via the city's public transport or short rideshares.
  • Explore the extensive trail system around Lady Bird Lake by foot or bike, offering views of the skyline and access to various parks and waterfront areas.
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol for a free, self-guided tour of its historic grounds and impressive architecture; it’s one of the country's largest state capitols.
  • Experience Austin's renowned food truck scene; East Austin and South Congress neighborhoods host some of the most diverse and acclaimed mobile eateries.
  • Catch a live music performance on Sixth Street, in the Red River Cultural District, or along South Congress Avenue; many venues offer free or low-cost shows.
  • Plan for bat watching at the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge from March through October, when up to 1.5 million bats emerge at dusk.

Austin offers a distinct experience within Texas, known for its live music, outdoor activities, and a food scene that extends beyond barbecue and Tex-Mex. The city maintains a balance between its relaxed, independent spirit and a growing urban landscape. While downtown and South Congress provide a good starting point for exploring, some of Austin's character is found in its neighborhood parks, food trucks, and lesser-known music venues.

Engaging with Austin's outdoor spaces is often central to a visit. Lady Bird Lake is a constant presence, providing opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and walking or cycling its extensive trail system. The city's numerous greenbelts and natural swimming holes, like Barton Springs Pool, are popular during warmer months, which comprise a significant portion of the year here.

Beyond the natural attractions, Austin's cultural identity is expressed through its music. Venues along Sixth Street, the Red River Cultural District, and South Congress Avenue host a range of performances nightly. Food experiences are equally diverse, from upscale dining to the more casual but highly-regarded food truck parks scattered throughout the city. Allow time to explore beyond the main tourist corridors to discover local favorites.

Navigating Austin is generally straightforward, whether by rideshare, the city's bus system, or on foot in denser areas. Traffic can be a consideration during peak hours, so planning travel between districts is advisable. For more complex itineraries or specific interests, consulting a travel advisor might offer additional insights.

In this guide

  • Top sights
  • Free things to do in Austin
  • Best with kids
  • Day trips from Austin
  • Food experiences

Frequently asked questions

What are some free things to do in Austin?
Austin offers several free activities. You can walk or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake, explore Zilker Metropolitan Park, or visit the Texas State Capitol building for a self-guided tour. The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas offers free admission on Thursdays. Watching the Congress Avenue Bridge bats emerge at dusk (March-October) is also a popular free spectacle.
Is Austin a walkable city for tourists?
Parts of Austin are quite walkable. Downtown, including the Sixth Street entertainment district and the Red River Cultural District, is easily navigated on foot. The South Congress Avenue area is also pedestrian-friendly, with shops, restaurants, and views of the Capitol. However, to reach attractions further afield, such as Zilker Park or areas in East Austin, you'll likely need to use rideshares, public transport, or a vehicle. The city also has an extensive network of bike paths.
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What's the best way to experience Austin's live music scene?
To best experience Austin's live music, consider visiting various districts. Sixth Street is known for its energetic atmosphere and numerous bars with live bands. For a more diverse range of genres and intimate venues, explore the Red River Cultural District. South Congress Avenue also features venues like the Continental Club, offering blues, country, and rockabilly. Check local listings for smaller venues and outdoor concerts in places like Zilker Park, especially during festival seasons.
What should I do with kids in Austin?
For families, Austin provides several options. Zilker Metropolitan Park is a large green space featuring Barton Springs Pool (a natural spring-fed swimming pool), Zilker Botanical Garden, and the Zilker Zephyr miniature train. The Thinkery, Austin's children's museum, offers hands-on exhibits. The Austin Central Library also has extensive children's areas and programming. You can also explore the food truck parks for a casual dining experience suitable for all ages.
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What are some unique food experiences in Austin?
Austin's food scene goes beyond traditional Texan fare. Explore the city's numerous food truck parks, particularly in East Austin or South Congress, for a wide range of international and fusion cuisines. Barbecue is prominent, with renowned establishments like Franklin Barbecue requiring an early start. Additionally, Austin has a strong focus on farm-to-table dining and offers diverse options from upscale Mexican to vegan eateries.
How do I get around Austin if I don't rent a car?
If you opt not to rent a car, Austin offers several transportation alternatives. Ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available. CapMetro operates the city's bus system, which covers major tourist areas and neighborhoods. The downtown core and areas like South Congress are also quite walkable. For longer distances or specific routes, combining public transit with rideshares or even electric scooter rentals in designated areas can be effective. The airport, AUS, is also well-served by rideshares and public transport to downtown.
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