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People are touring right here for its wealthy Texas historical past, lovely Austin nature, a number of distinctive artwork galleries, and its total vigorous really feel. With a big University of Texas campus, there’s a large younger grownup inhabitants within the metropolis, which has led to a ton of leisure in Austin.
In truth, Austin has change into a best choice for younger individuals from everywhere in the nation to maneuver to searching for a brand new metropolis and enjoyable issues to do.
Austin isn’t onerous to get to, because it’s served by its personal main airport with flights from everywhere in the nation. For street trippers or these visiting Austin as a part of a much bigger Texas journey, it’s well-connected to close by cities resembling San Antonio, Dallas, and the remainder of the state by highways.
If you’ve obtained your cowboy boots packed and also you’re in search of the very best Austin points of interest, we’ve obtained you lined right here. Read on to see a number of the finest Austin issues to do and every part you’ll want to know.
TLDR
Need a extra succinct Austin metropolis information? Here are the highlights!
- Most important landmark – Congress Avenue Bridge
- Best park – McKinney Falls State Park
- Best free exercise – Congress Avenue Bridge & Bat Viewing
- Best exercise for teenagers – Austin Zoo
- Best exercise for adults – Austin Haunted History Walking Tour
- Best meals – Jo’s Coffee
- Best nightlife – Rainey Street Historic District Bars, Restaurants, & Food Trucks
- Best all-around lodging – Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Fun & Best Things to do in Austin, Texas
If you’re questioning what to do in Austin, know that there’s way more right here than simply the Texas State Capitol and the University of Texas Austin campus. In no explicit order, listed below are some enjoyable issues to do in Austin, Texas.
1. Tour Texas Hill Country
The lovely Texas Hill Country is the a part of Texas positioned between Austin and San Antonio, also called the Edwards Plateau. This space consists of 41 counties and is finest recognized for the huge quantity of wineries discovered within the area.
The space can be a serious supply of granite rock. The crimson granite sourced from Granite Mountain was used within the building of the Texas State Capitol constructing.
Take the fear of driving out of touring and go for this Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle. Your driver and information will take you to one of the crucial widespread spots to sink your enamel into some actual Texas BBQ.
Of course, no journey to Texas Hill Country is full with out testing just a few of the realm’s finest wineries. You’ll go to Salt Lick BBQ (which additionally has its personal winery), Fall Creek Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery.
After a full day of tasting some scrumptious native wine, you’ll be blissful you opted for the shuttle as a substitute of worrying about who will drive.
This tour lasts roughly 4.5 hours, and pickup is on the Austin Visitor Center.
2. Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River positioned proper within the coronary heart of Austin. It’s a preferred place for residents and guests to get pleasure from out of doors actions like kayaking, river cruising, and stand-up paddle boarding.
The artifical lake is called after Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson, who was the primary girl of the United States from 1963 to 1969 and the spouse of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Lady Bird Johnson was a proud Texan and an alumna of the University of Texas at Austin.
The lake is the proper spot for a date or a day exterior with the household. Beyond the actions you are able to do on the lake, there are such a lot of issues to do across the lake as effectively. There are a number of miles of hiking trails and bike paths that circle across the lake.
If you’re trying to take a tour of the skyline and be taught extra concerning the metropolis of Austin, try this Austin Kayak Tour, which takes place on Lady Bird Lake.
Additionally, there’s a pretty boardwalk that crosses over the lake. The boardwalk is a part of the Ann and Roy Butler path and provides an incredible view of town. It’s positively a spot I might suggest you try for sundown.
Austin is named one of the crucial dog-friendly cities within the nation. If you’re touring along with your pup, there’s an superior canine park subsequent to the lake known as Auditorium Shores Dog Park.
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3. Lake Austin
Located to the northwest of Central Austin, Lake Austin is one other artifical reservoir with a way more laid-back vibe than Lady Bird Lake. If you’re in search of a typical day on the lake with enjoyable water actions, that is the place for you!
Unlike Lady Bird Lake, Lake Austin is positioned away from the hustle and bustle of town. Boat leases, wakeboarding, water biking, and paddle boarding are simply a number of the actions you’ll be able to anticipate to see and do whereas at Lake Austin.
Lake Austin can be a beautiful place to fish because the reservoir is stocked with a ton of largemouth bass.
The vacation season is a particular time to go to Lake Austin. You can discover numerous Christmas mild shows across the lake, particularly within the Lake Austin Spa Resort space. Check out the resort’s restaurant for his or her particular vacation eating and drink menu.
Of course, for those who’re not visiting in the course of the holidays, the resort nonetheless provides a number of the finest eating choices on the lake. Check out Aster Café for its wonderful lunch and snack choices. I like to recommend the Avocado Tartine and the home made sorbet.
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4. McKinney Falls State Park
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
In south Austin, on the outskirts of city, you’ll discover one of the crucial widespread State Parks within the metropolis. McKinney Falls State Park is a pure escape from town, the place you could find rushing waterfalls, calm creeks, and tranquil forests.
These falls should not alongside the Colorado River that runs by Austin however as a substitute the Onion Creek tributary. An exquisite panorama of limestone boulders varieties the bottom of the falls and sends water crashing into swimming pools beneath. Normally, the river water is splendidly clear, permitting you to see straight to the underside.
Some favourite actions at McKinney Falls are mountain climbing, biking, fishing, tenting, and even swimming. Visitors prefer to admire Old Baldy, an over 500-year-old cypress tree, in addition to the ruins of one among Austin’s authentic homesteads. It actually is Austin’s yard escape, whether or not you need to spend just some hours in nature or just a few days away from all of it.
If you’re trying to camp right here, you’ll be happy to know that the park is a full-service campsite with RV and trailer hookups, in addition to cabins for hire. If you’re simply planning a day within the park, make sure you reserve tickets online for a small charge, because the state limits capability to maintain the house pleasant for everybody.
5. Go on a Sightseeing Tour of the City
Touring Austin is the very best option to see town and get a really feel for the distinctive vibe that the vigorous metropolis has to supply. As the state capital, Austin is residence to many notable landmarks that you simply gained’t need to miss visiting.
If you’re quick on time, this Double Decker Single Loop Sightseeing Tour is likely to be your good resolution. It’s a fast option to get in all of your Austin sightseeing. This tour brings you to 17 main landmarks of Austin, together with The Driskill Hotel, the Texas State Capitol, the Texas Governor’s Mansion, and the LBJ Presidential Library.
The tour provides an in depth commentary alongside the way in which, so you’ll be able to be taught concerning the historical past and significance of every landmark you see.
The whole loop lasts roughly 1.5 hours, providing you with a lot of time to spend the way you’d like.
You don’t have to surrender sure sights; you’ll be able to see all of them on one tour! And for those who uncover new landmarks in the course of the tour that you simply need to return to, you’ll be able to actually try this.
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6. Umlauf Sculpture Garden
Address: 605 Azie Morton Road, Austin, TX 78704
If you get pleasure from seeing the artwork of a brand new metropolis, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is bound to be an interesting museum and cease for you. This sculpture park is the previous residence of esteemed sculptor and professor Charles Umlauf, who labored for a few years on the native University of Texas campus in Austin.
Charles Umlauf’s sculptures are displayed at a number of the most prestigious museums across the nation, together with the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. But he gifted his private assortment in addition to his studio and residential to town of Austin after his retirement, and the museum was born.
Umlauf’s work ranges “from haunting expressionism to detailed neoclassical realism, to lyrical abstraction,” in accordance with the museum. His supplies are fairly numerous as effectively, and all of this selection is a part of what makes Umlauf’s work so particular. Visitors to the museum and sculpture park can see an ideal pattern of it firsthand.
The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is open day by day besides Monday. There is a small charge for admission, and college students can get a reduction of greater than 50 p.c. Personal pictures is usually permitted, however examine with the artist if there’s a particular exhibition.
7. Zilker Park
Address: 2207 Lou Neff Road, Austin, TX 78746
If you’re in want of an city inexperienced house inside the metropolis limits, Austin is residence to a number of. Zilker Park is a neighborhood favourite, comprised of greater than 350 acres the place Barton Creek meets the Colorado River.
The metropolis has created every kind of enjoyable areas inside Zilker Park: picnic websites, playgrounds, a disc golf course, and volleyball courts, simply to call just a few. There’s additionally the domestically well-known Barton Springs Pool, a naturally fed spring inside the park, which deserves its personal part with extra particulars beneath.
Attractions inside the park additionally embody the Zilker Botanical Gardens, residence to some lovely manicured flowers, and the Zilker Hillside Theatre, the place you’ll be able to catch native concert events and performances. Above all, Zilker Park is a superb place to easily stroll round and luxuriate in a stroll or run.
The park is open all day, day by day, and is well accessible from the remainder of Austin. There’s even a shuttle bus operating in the summertime for many who choose to park on the One Texas Center constructing nearer to downtown.
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8. Zilker Botanical Garden
Address: 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78746
While we’re on the topic, there are lovely botanical gardens inside Zilker Park that make for a tranquil escape even from the remainder of the park. The Zilker Botanical Garden is 31 acres in measurement and positioned within the west of the park, alongside the Colorado River.
The gardens include a number of independently maintained gardens related by pretty trails. One favourite is the Taniguchi Oriental Garden, a Japanese-themed part with unique crops and a koi pond. Built by hand by a Japanese immigrant, Isamu Taniguchi, the ponds had been constructed within the Japanese custom to resemble a letter or phrase – on this case, they spell “Austin.”
The Hartman Prehistoric Garden is a panorama that looks as if it got here from the Jurassic period, full with sculptures of dinosaurs among the many crops. Other lovely displays to tour embody the Cactus and Succulent Garden, the Pioneer Village, and the Butterfly Trails and Garden.
An awesome new addition to the park is a meals truck serving coffee and drinks for those who want one thing to sip on throughout your stroll. There is a small, affordable entry charge to go to the gardens, and some days a yr, free excursions are given.
9. South Congress Avenue
You could know that Austin is named the live music capital of the world. If you need to expertise this Austin custom and discover a number of the finest eating places and procuring on the town, one good place to begin is South Congress Avenue.
The South Congress neighborhood is within the southern a part of Austin. It’s a foremost thoroughfare lined with boutiques, cafés, bars, and leisure venues.
You gained’t must stroll far to discover a stage with some native artists taking part in tunes, a dance flooring to have some enjoyable after darkish, or just a pleasant out of doors patio to get pleasure from some nice Austin meals.
One notable café that photographers love is Jo’s Coffee, on the nook of South Congress Avenue and James Street. Besides being a neighborhood favourite for good meals and drinks and an ideal vibe, it’s residence to the well-known “I like you a lot.” mural (we’ll get onto that somewhat later).
This Instagram-viral mural is only a easy, inexperienced wall with these phrases spray painted in crimson that has change into an iconic photograph for guests to town and the South Congress space.
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10. Congress Avenue Bridge and Bat Viewing
Address: Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78704
Now you might be questioning, why is a seemingly unremarkable bridge on the checklist of finest issues to do in Austin? Well, it’s really the placement of Austin’s hottest vacationer attraction!
The bridge is residence to what’s believed to be the biggest city bat colony. An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats name the underside of the bridge residence from mid-March to early November.
During this time of yr, the bats emerge every evening to forage for meals. Seeing the massive mass of bats take flight is not like something you’ve seen earlier than. Visitors and locals can witness this gorgeous show each night round sundown.
It is actually one of the crucial distinctive issues you’ll be able to see whereas in Austin. I like to recommend getting there roughly thirty minutes earlier than sundown, however you might need to get there a bit earlier in the summertime months when it’s most crowded.
Admirers of those wonderful creatures can select to observe the spectacle from the bridge, down beneath at a small viewing space, or from the water.
Make this distinctive expertise much more memorable by happening this Congress Avenue Bridge Sunset Bat Kayaking Tour. Enjoy the show from Lady Bird Lake by yourself kayak, away from all of the crowds.
11. Blanton Museum of Art
Address: 200 East Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78712
The gorgeous Blanton Museum of Art is without doubt one of the largest college artwork museums within the United States. It is positioned on the University of Texas at Austin campus, simply in entrance of the Jester West Residence Hall and subsequent to Clark Field.
The museum has over 21,000 items of art work and artifacts in its assortment. The assortment consists of historic Greek pottery, summary work, and every part in between.
In addition to the everlasting assortment, the Blanton Museum of Art hosts a number of touring displays all year long, so you’ll be able to usually discover a new exhibit you’ve by no means seen earlier than.
The most recognizable and notable piece of artwork on the museum is the gorgeous stone constructing with colourful glass home windows pictured above. It was gifted to the museum by American painter and sculptor Ellsworth Kelly shortly earlier than his loss of life in 2015.
The Blanton Museum of Art is without doubt one of the most inexpensive artwork museums I’ve come throughout, so I positively would benefit from this for those who’re an enormous artwork historical past buff like myself.
The museum is open each Wednesday by Saturday from 10:00 am to five:00 pm and on Sundays from 1:00 pm to five:00 pm. I extremely suggest visiting on Thursdays, when admission is free for everybody; no ticket is required!
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12. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Austin Mural Scene
If you’re a younger (or younger at coronary heart) inventive soul, chances are high you’re drawn to Austin’s vibe. Besides being the dwell music capital of the world, town is also called an enormous hub for the humanities.
Around Downtown Austin, you’ll come throughout numerous murals and avenue artwork shows. I positively suggest spending just a few hours wandering across the space along with your digicam in hand.
One of essentially the most notable murals is “Tau Ceti,” positioned at Brazos and Second Street. The mural is a number of tales tall and appears like a rainbow prism, seeming nearly prefer it’s three-dimensional. Since it’s so tall, I like to recommend getting down as little as potential and pointing your digicam to the sky.
Over in east Austin, you’ll be capable of discover many murals on a smaller measurement scale. My favourite one in east Austin is “Rhapsody,” positioned at 1021 East eleventh Street. The mural pays homage to Austin’s jazz and blues musical roots.
As we talked about earlier, south Austin is residence to one among Austin’s most Instagram-famous murals, “I like you a lot.,” positioned at 1300 South Congress Avenue. There are a number of different widespread murals positioned on this one avenue alone.
If attempting to maintain observe of all of the murals you need to see appears a bit daunting, try this Austin Mural Selfie Tour. The tour actually takes out all of the work of discovering the murals with out diminishing the enjoyable. All it’s a must to convey is your self, a cute outfit, and your digicam!
13. Barton Springs Pool
Address: 2201 William Barton Drive, Austin, TX 78746
As you in all probability know, Austin will get very, very popular in basically each season besides winter. If you’re visiting throughout one of many scorching months, you might very effectively need to quiet down just like the locals do and head over to the well-known Barton Springs Pool.
The Barton Springs Pool is inside Zilker Park in a scenic space south of the Colorado River. The pool itself is three acres in measurement, giving it greater than sufficient house to accommodate a crowd. The water happens naturally from underground springs at a constant year-round temperature of just below 70 levels Fahrenheit.
That makes the springs refreshingly cool on a scorching Texas summer season day! The metropolis of Austin has put in equipment resembling diving boards, ladders, and stairs, however swimming within the springs nonetheless has a really pure really feel to it.
There are deep ends and shallow ends, making the swimming pools accessible to swimmers of most confidence ranges. The backside can get a bit slippery, so water sneakers aren’t a nasty thought right here, however not completely required. Women are legally permitted to be topless right here, so don’t be stunned for those who see some individuals absorbing all of the solar they’ll.
The swimming pools are open throughout the identical hours because the park, from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm. An admission charge is required, which might be paid online or in money on the entrance.
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14. Bullock Texas State History Museum
Address: 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701
Most individuals know that Texas has a protracted and important historical past. The Bullock Texas State History Museum goals to protect and inform the tales of Texas, from instances lengthy earlier than its statehood to the current day.
The museum is called after a former lieutenant governor of Texas who was passionate concerning the state’s historical past and needed its story informed formally. It was established in 2001 and might be discovered just some blocks north of the State Capitol, simply throughout from the University of Texas campus.
The Bullock Texas State History Museum tells the story of over 16,000 years of Texas. It begins with the native tribes of the realm who sustained themselves on bow and arrow searching and gathering. The European colonization of Texas and the wars, offers, and geopolitics that this introduced is what brings us to the present-day progress and success of Texas.
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and tickets might be bought on-line or in particular person. However, make sure you examine their web site to see if a free admission day is going down throughout your keep. These are typically on the primary Sunday of every month, which might be nice financial savings on a really enjoyable and fascinating attraction.
While you’re right here, make sure you try the present store for Texas trinkets!
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15. Go on a Haunted History Walking Tour
Austin is understood to be residence to a number of the most haunted spots in all of Texas. This truth actually contributes to the Austin “bizarre and quirky” vibe.
Of course, the primary wrongdoer of Austin’s “most haunted” locations is The Driskill, Austin’s oldest resort. The resort first opened its doorways in 1886 and is regarded as residence to a number of ghosts and ghouls.
These ghosts embody a lady who died in room 525 and a baby who fell down the grand staircase in 1887. Guests of the resort nonetheless report listening to a baby laughing and taking part in across the foyer.
Another prime haunted spot is the Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill. The restaurant is housed in one of many oldest industrial buildings in Austin. In the early 1900s, a flash flood tore by the realm, killing many. It’s believed that the souls of those that perished within the flood nonetheless hang-out the constructing as we speak.
This Haunted Austin Walking History Tour will take you round all the very best creepy locations that this quirky metropolis has to supply. This highly-rated tour features a tour information who’s an unbelievable storyteller and can actually transport you into the midst of Austin’s haunted historical past.
16. Rainey Street Historic District
The Rainey Street Historic District is one other best choice for guests in search of the nice eating places and dwell leisure that Austin is understood for. This neighborhood is discovered simply south of downtown, the place Waller Creek meets the Colorado River.
Rainey Street and its smaller aspect streets are residence to quaint little Twentieth-century bungalow-style buildings which hold their historic appeal as we speak. Many have been changed into bars, eating places, and cafes serving a few of Austin’s finest meals and drinks.
You’ll discover loads of out of doors patios and phases internet hosting dwell music, as they love in Austin. There’s additionally a well-known car parking zone for meals vehicles that locals love.
At Town Lake Metropolitan Park, simply beside the Rainey Street Historic District alongside the river, you’ll be able to go to the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. This is a free attraction with displays and occasions exploring Mexican American artwork and heritage, an vital neighborhood group of Austin and all of Texas.
For a number of the finest cocktails within the neighborhood, cease by Half Step for a drink. Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden is a well-known place for meals, and Little Lucy’s Mini Donuts is a superb cease for one thing candy.
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17. Lake Travis
If swimming holes and chilly spring swimming pools aren’t going to do it for you, you’re in all probability in search of a spot like Lake Travis, the place there’s a lot extra room for enjoyable on the water. This flood management reservoir is on the Colorado River, about 20 miles northwest of central Austin.
Lake Travis is water sports activities heaven for many who need to be kayaking, boating, fishing, swimming, jet snowboarding, or having different enjoyable on the water. It’s additionally a popular spot to sail out and watch the sundown from a pontoon boat.
The lake covers a large space, and surrounding cities on its shores embody Volente, Hudson Bend, Point Venture, and Lakeway. You’ll discover lakeside resorts, parks, and marinas all through, that are nice locations to hire toys and even boats for those who aren’t hauling your individual. There are some lovely eating places to get pleasure from lunch or dinner at as effectively.
If you aren’t assured in your boat-driving abilities however need to get the well-known pontoon boat expertise, think about a small-group sunset cruise to see the very best. Early morning cruise tours are additionally accessible for those who’d relatively reserve sundown for a pleasant dinner on the shore.
18. Deep Eddy Pool
Address: 401 Deep Eddy Avenue, Austin, Texas 78703
There are loads of locations to chill off from the new Texas solar, and the Deep Eddy Pool was the unique of Austin. In truth, that is the oldest swimming pool in all the state – which underwent a current renovation in order that Texans and guests may proceed to get pleasure from it.
This pool, positioned in a park bearing the identical identify simply throughout the river from Zilker Park and the Barton Springs Pool, can be fed by a pure chilly spring. Its identify comes from an eddy or small whirlpool fashioned by a present that’s attributable to a big boulder at a close-by swimming spot within the river.
A businessman purchased the land surrounding the springs and the swimming gap over 100 years in the past and constructed a concrete pool over it, which shortly turned the hotspot (or cool spot) of Austin. It is operated as we speak by town of Austin, which has created swimming lanes and numerous depth areas together with picnic spots and different services round it.
Deep Eddy Pool is open day by day from 8:00 am to eight:00 pm, and a small entry charge is collected on the park. Visitors also can get pleasure from a strolling path and neighborhood gardens across the pool and park space.
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19. Watch the Sunset Over Austin from Mount Bonnell
Address: 3800 Mount Bonnell Road, Austin, Texas 78731
Just on the sting of the Austin metropolis limits, you’ll discover Mount Bonnell, the best level in Austin, Texas. The peak was named after the previous Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Texas Republic, George Bonnell.
This spot is a beautiful place to get out of town and benefit from the nice outdoor. Mount Bonnell is positioned inside Covert Park and is among the many finest free issues to do in Austin. The path to get to the height can be free and pet-friendly.
Though the trail shouldn’t be paved, it’s appropriate for many guests. Most of the path is a gravely, simply marked path with simply over 100 steps of stairs. The whole loop is simply half a mile.
The path is open day by day from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, so it’s good whether or not you’re in search of an ideal morning exercise exercise or a romantic spot to admire the sundown.
20. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Address: 3505 West thirty fifth Street, Austin, Texas 78703
If you’re in search of a tranquil escape within the coronary heart of Austin, look no additional. Mayfield Park is 2 acres of lush gardens, whereas the character protect encompasses 21 acres surrounding the park. The park can be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Within the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, you’ll discover lovely palm timber and colourful peacocks. It will actually really feel as for those who’ve been transported to a tropical island oasis.
Within the character protect space, you’ll discover a hike and bike path and several other different smaller strolling trails.
The Laguna Gloria Trail is without doubt one of the hottest trails inside the protect for chook watching. It’s solely 0.4 miles lengthy and provides guests a quiet and peaceable place to get pleasure from. Because the path is positioned inside a nature protect, canine should not allowed, even on a leash.
Mayfield Park is open day by day from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.
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21. Enjoy Live Music within the Live Music Capital of the World
One merely can’t go to the dwell music capital of the world with out having fun with some wonderful dwell music. Throughout Austin, you could find a number of theaters, bars, and eating places that host musical artists all through the day.
There’s actually no scarcity of dwell music in terms of Austin. Live music venues vary from coffee bars to theaters and even big music festivals. You also can discover music of just about each style that’s on the market.
If you’re a blues and jazz fan, try Friends Bar at 208 East Sixth Street. Enjoy some nice meals and beer whereas listening to some native artists; no cowl required.
Or perhaps you need to see a number of the world’s greatest bands and superstars. In this case, try what’s happening on the Germania Insurance Amphitheater at 9201 Circuit of the Americas Boulevard. This open-air venue is the proper place to bounce the evening away to your favourite music artists.
For a singular Austin expertise, this Austin Live Music Crawl will take you to a number of the most iconic dwell music venues all through town. The tour begins at 8:00 pm and finishes at round 11:00 pm. During this time, you’ll go to no less than three totally different music venues and find out about Austin’s historical past of music.
22. Austin Zoo
Address: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, Texas 78736
A go to to the Austin Zoo is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Austin with children. The zoo is residence to over 300 particular person animals and options over 100 totally different species.
The foremost aim of the Austin Zoo is to help rescue animals and promote conservation by training.
One of my favourite experiences that the Austin Zoo provides is its capybara encounters. The capybara is an cute animal native to South America. They are recognized for his or her good nature and temperament, making them the proper animal to fulfill whereas visiting the zoo.
The Austin Zoo is residence to a number of species native to Texas, together with the Texas rat snake and the Northern mockingbird. The zoo additionally has many animals present in North America, just like the North American black bear, Coatimundi, and Texas Longhorn cows.
The zoo is open day by day from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm with prolonged hours till 6:00 pm and 5:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.
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23. Learn to Square Dance at Broken Spoke
Address: 3201 South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78704
Looking for an genuine Texan expertise? Check out Broken Spoke!
Broken Spoke is a basic nation music dance corridor and full-service restaurant. The dance corridor has hosted some fairly huge nation music superstars, together with Garth Brooks and Dolly Parton.
Live music occurs each evening within the restaurant and the dance corridor, so that you don’t need to miss out!
If you’re new to the nation dance corridor scene, don’t fear. Broken Spoke provides two-step line dance and western swing dance classes for newbies and people who simply want a refresher. Before you recognize it, you’ll be a line dancing knowledgeable!
Dance classes occur each Wednesday by Saturday evening from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm within the dance corridor.
Broken Spoke opens Tuesdays by Saturdays at 4:00 pm. Closing hours fluctuate between 11:00 pm and 1:00 am. So, seize your favourite pair of cowboy boots and head over to the dance flooring!
24. Mexic-Arte Museum
Address: 419 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701
The Mexic-Arte Museum is a high quality artwork museum that primarily showcases modern Mexican artwork. It can be the official Mexican and Mexican-American Museum of Texas.
The museum has over 5,000 items in its assortment, together with work, pictures, sculptures, and ceramics. The museum additionally hosts a number of performative artwork displays all year long.
The foremost aim of the museum is to show to the general public the gorgeous tradition and humanities that Mexico has to supply. The museum has additionally lately expanded to incorporate works from artists inside the bigger Latin American artwork neighborhood.
The museum is open on Mondays by Thursdays from 10:00 am to six:00 pm, Fridays by Saturdays from 10:00 am to five:00 pm, and Sundays from 12:00 pm to five:00 pm. It’s actually a hidden gem inside Austin that’s simply ready to be found by you.
The quantity of artworks and numerous mediums far outweighs the low entry charge.
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25. LBJ Presidential Library and Museum
Address: 2313 Red River Street, Austin, Texas 78705
President Lyndon B. Johnson, the thirty sixth president of the United States who took over instantly following John F. Kennedy’s assassination, was born and raised in a small city simply west of Austin. It was solely applicable that town supplied to host his presidential library and museum, the place it opened in 1971.
It’s all the time fascinating to see the paperwork and artifacts from a president’s time in workplace. The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum accommodates these from his time period and is housed on the University of Texas campus simply subsequent to the LBJ Auditorium and the LBJ Fountain.
There are greater than 100,000 gadgets from LBJ’s presidency right here, in addition to a virtually full-scale duplicate of the Oval Office, precisely how he had it arrange. The former president’s precise desk is there as effectively. His spouse, Lady Bird Johnson, made most of the design and structure choices of the museum.
The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum is open seven days per week, and tickets might be bought in particular person or online. Note that admission is half-priced on Tuesdays!
26. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Address: 4801 La Crosse Avenue, Austin, Texas 78739
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the state botanical backyard and arboretum of Texas. It is positioned within the suburbs of Austin and is a superb spot for those who’re in search of someplace peaceable to spend your time.
The wildflower heart strives to create beautiful landscapes utilizing lovely flowers and crops which can be native to Texas. The 284-acre heart is residence to over 900 species of native crops. The arboretum spans over 16 acres and options 70 species of timber native to Texas.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center additionally sees a number of great species of animals passing by the gardens every day.
Throughout the yr, the wildflower heart hosts a number of giant occasions, like the sector of sunshine exhibition and the annual native plant sale. Almost day by day, you could find workshops, excursions, and even exercise courses among the many lovely wildflowers.
Texans may even buy a specially-designed license plate the place the proceeds go on to the wildflower heart for use to guard and preserve native crops.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is open day by day from 9:00 am to five:00 pm.
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27. Cathedral of Junk
Address: 4422 Lareina Drive, Austin, Texas 78745
Now, a junkyard shouldn’t be usually one thing we’d suggest. But this isn’t a junkyard; it’s simply junk…in somebody’s yard. Still not following?
The Cathedral of Junk is a residing sculpture, which means that it’s ever-changing and continually evolving. It’s a large cathedral-like construction created from every part you’ll be able to consider, together with bathrooms, dolls, and automobile components. And It’s lovely in its personal form of method.
The Cathedral of Junk is claimed to have contained over 60 tons of supplies throughout its lifetime and covers all the yard that it sits in. It’s really fairly a formidable feat when you concentrate on it.
The sculpture positively matches in with the distinctive and peculiar vibe of Austin that we’ve come to know and love, and it’s a piece in progress. You can usually see Vince Hannemann, the proprietor and creator of the sculpture, exterior including and enhancing gadgets to the cathedral!
To go to this distinctive creation, you have to name Vince forward of time to make a reservation. Check out the “Cathedral of Junk” Facebook web page to search out essentially the most up-to-date contact data.
For a aspect journey, you’ll be able to snap pictures in Austin on For the ‘Gram Photo Tour or benefit from the Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Tour.
28. Austin Nature & Science Center
Address: 2389 Stratford Drive, Austin, Texas 78746
The Austin Nature & Science Center is a nature lover’s delight! If you’re all in favour of pure historical past and studying about native crops and animals, that is the place for you. It’s additionally a wonderful place to visit for those who’re in search of issues to do in Austin with children.
The heart options a number of hands-on displays the place you’ll be able to find out about fossils, native crops and animals, and the setting.
If you’re visiting with kids, I extremely suggest stopping by the Dino Pit exhibit. This exhibit permits kids of all ages to find out about paleontology, and so they can expertise what it’s prefer to dig for fossils.
The forest path is a superb spot for the entire household to get pleasure from. The path consists of 45 timber native to Texas and educates guests on the significance of conserving native landscapes.
The Austin Nature & Science Center is open from Monday by Saturday from 9:00 am to five:00 pm and on Sundays from 12:00 pm to five:00 pm.
Where to Stay in Austin, Texas
Whether you’re right here on a meals or music tour or simply visiting to be taught extra about Austin historical past, you’ll want someplace to hold up your stetson. Check out our favourite locations to remain in Austin, plus just a few pretty leases!
Budget Hotels in Austin
Super 8 by Wyndham Austin University/Downtown Area
Address: 5526 North Interstate 35, Austin, TX 78751
If you don’t thoughts being just some miles exterior of the middle of Austin, this Super 8 motel has the fundamentals you want plus extras like a swimming pool at a unbelievable value. Breakfast is served within the foyer, and there’s a coffee and tea maker in each room.
Extended Stay America Suites – Austin – Downtown – Town Lake
Address: 507 South First Street, Austin, TX 78704
For further house and self-catering facilities like a kitchenette, Extended Stay America properties are nice decisions. This one in downtown Austin is in an ideal location with an on-site laundromat and pet-friendly rooms.
Mid-Range Hotels in Austin
Hyatt House Austin/Downtown
Address: 901 Neches Street, Austin, TX 78701
The Hyatt House model is widespread for its model new or newly renovated properties with snug, high quality facilities. This one in downtown Austin is steps from a number of the greatest points of interest. This resort additionally options an out of doors swimming pool and an ideal gymnasium.
Moxy Austin – University
Address: 2552 Guadalupe Street, Austin, 78705
If you’ve ever stayed at a Moxy, you recognize they’re all concerning the younger and hip crowd who come to be social and party. Austin couldn’t be a greater metropolis to host one among these nice resorts, and this one could have you checking in on the bar simply downstairs out of your splendidly snug room.
Luxury Hotels in Austin
The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Address: 604 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701
I like staying at Unbound Collection resorts, as they go a step past the cookie-cutter really feel of branded resorts and retain their distinctive options and native vibe. The Driskill is a real Texas lodge that has all of the consolation and luxurious that you’d anticipate from the Hyatt group.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Address: 98 San Jacinto Boulevard, Austin, TX 78701
No different luxurious resort group does it fairly like Four Seasons – for those who’ve tried it, you recognize. Their Austin hotel is in a gorgeous spot on the riverfront, has a swimming pool and state-of-the-art gymnasium, and options probably the greatest spas on the town. You can’t go fallacious with this resort for an incredible keep.
Vacation Rentals in Austin
Lake Austin Waterfront Retreat
Location: Lake Austin
If you’re in search of a quiet place to remain whereas visiting Austin, try this lovely two-bedroom home proper on the shores of Lake Austin. This dog-friendly accommodation provides you direct entry to the lake and consists of facilities resembling a scorching tub, boat dock, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes.
The Soco Studio by Lodgewell
Location: Travis Heights, Austin
Looking for further house and a extra home-like place to remain? This studio has a ton of house at an ideal value and sits in a neighborhood neighborhood amongst eating places and bars.
The Best Little Shorehouse in Texas
Location: Volente, Texas
Did Lake Travis catch your eye with its wonderful views and enjoyable water sports activities? You can hire this historic cabin, as soon as owned by an advisor to President Lyndon B. Johnson, with its nation appeal and trendy facilities.
FAQ
What is Austin, Texas recognized for?
Austin has a fame because the dwell music capital of the world due to some highly regarded music festivals and a venue, The Continental Club, that brings big artists from world wide. Rooster Teeth is famously based mostly in Austin and hosts the beloved RTX conference yearly.
Austin is also called a hotspot for younger individuals to relocate from everywhere in the nation, due to its college environment, booming economic system, low housing prices, and enjoyable issues to do. The meals in Austin can be out of this world!
What are some issues to do in downtown Austin?
Downtown Austin is the place you’ll discover the Texas State Capitol Building, the Blanton Museum of Art, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum. There are additionally loads of bars and eating places right here, in addition to the Austin nightlife well-known across the state. If you’re right here on a flying go to, downtown Austin is finest considered shortly on a motorcycle tour!
Are there good issues to do in Austin, TX with children?
Children can have a ton of enjoyable in Austin at points of interest just like the Barton Springs Pool and the Austin Zoo. Most of the Austin out of doors actions, resembling McKinney Falls State Park, are nice for the entire household as effectively!
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