From live music to hikes and tacos, here’s what to do in Austin
These days, visitors are downright spoiled with things to do in Austin. The city’s population continues to expand rapidly, and scene long ago reached the kind of hip metropolis status that no other Texan city has been able to beat.
And how could they? Austin has a crowd-pleasing live music history that attracts big-name talent the world over, a diverse restaurant scene that cooks up more than just tacos and BBQ, and let’s not forget all that fresh air and access to nature. And with downtown perched by a lake, and just a short distance to nearby swimming holes and hundreds of parks, outdoor recreation ranks high in just about every Austinite’s weekend plans.
It's no wonder that people aren't just visiting the Texas state capital—they’re interested in putting down roots (we see you, Sandy Bullock). Heading this way yourself? Our guide to the best things to do in Austin will keep you on your toes.
RECOMMENDED: the best day trips from Austin
What is it? An ATX institution. The massive park is a playground of outdoor activities and home to annual events like the ACL Festival and Blues on the Green.
Why go? Stroll the stunning Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Zilker Botanical Gardens, rent a canoe or kayak the tranquil waterways (including Lady Bird Lake), and cool off in the Barton Springs Pool. Or just bring a cooler stuffed with all your faves for a leisurely picnic in the park.
What is it? The nightly flight of 1.5 million bats that live under the Congress Avenue Bridge.
Why go? It’s an Austin ritual to gather each evening—from late March through early fall after checking the "bat emergency hotline" for times—and watch the creatures come out to feed. Hop in a kayak for a closer look from the water under the bridge. Each August, Bat Fest celebrates the little vampires with food, drink, bands and other entertainment spanning the length of the bridge.
What is it? The city’s largest and most prominently located music store is well-stocked with new releases from both indie and major label artists.
Why go? Discover a local band or pick up some weird vinyl from the dollar bin to impress your friends. Waterloo is a great place to spend an hour or two indoors, browsing the unbeatable selection of music. There are frequent in-store performances as well, so check the event calendar.
What is it? A sixth street restaurant that’ serves comfort food from brunch to dinner. Owned by everyone’s favorite Miss Congeniality and Austin adoptee, Sandra Bullock.
Why go? Because who can resist down-to-earth Sandy’s charms, especially when it comes to restaurants? Housed within an adorable century-old building, every dish feels like a hug—come for eggs at brunch, browse the boutique while you wait, and people-watch by the window.
What is it? Zilker Park’s crown jewel, this legendary natural pool is filled with fresh water from nearby springs.
Why go? Austin gets hot, and you need to cool off. Lounge on the grassy areas before diving into the cool spring water (the pool reaches depths of 18 feet in some spots). Barton Springs has played host to generations of Austinites as well as an endangered little guy called the Barton Springs Salamander. Check out the "Splash! into the Edwards Aquifer" exhibit in the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center near the bathhouse to learn more about the history and biology of the springs.
What is it? Franklin Barbecue produces some of the best brisket on the planet, and the line forms early at this lunch-only spot.
Why go? James Beard award-winner Aaron Franklin seasons and smokes his brisket to juicy perfection. It’s so good that people queue up and sometimes wait four hours for a taste. The line has become an experience in itself, as hungry patrons arrive early in the morning with chairs, drinks and a willingness to chat with strangers. Not a fan of lines? La Barbecue and Leroy and Lewis won’t disappoint.
What is it? Austin’s oldest theatre, a legendary stage that has welcomed the likes of Miles Davis and Dr. Maya Angelou.
Why go? The Paramount Theatre relives the glamour days when going to see a show was a dress-up occasion. Their annual Anniversary Gala is the hottest ticket in town (Congress Avenue is lined in red carpet leading all the way up to its doors), and they also host a variety of shows throughout the year worthy of a date night.
What is it? The staple in every Austinites’ diet; tell any Texan you went to Austin (its birthplace) and they will ask what you think of Torchy’s.
Why go? Because the tacos are big, juicy, and iconic. Whether you go down the breakfast route (such as the Chorizo, Cheese and Egg taco), the Veggie route (like the Fried Avocado taco) or the Taco of the Month, Torchy’s will hit the spot (especially if you order a margarita, too). The chain’s location on South Congress, as well as its latest opening at Oaks in Slaughter Shopping Center (its 100th location), are especially funky and perfect for all of your social media needs.
What is it? The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is one of the most spectacular of the country’s presidential libraries.
Why go? Located on a 30-acre site within the UT campus, the stately building contains a mind-boggling collection of historical artifacts from the 1960s and '70s including 45 million pages of documents and 643 hours of the former president’s recorded telephone conversations. The permanent exhibits range from an in-depth study of the Vietnam conflict to "Humor and the Presidency—"a celebration of LBJ’s lighter side featuring a life-size animatronic model of the notorious joke teller himself.
What is it? An Austin institution since 1977, Allens Boots has been selling premium leather footwear to tourists and locals alike for decades.
Why go? Head to the original location on South Congress to find what you need: Turquoise women's boots? Got 'em. Black studded men's boots? Allens has those too. Spend an afternoon trying them all before landing on the perfect pair, then hit up the rest of South Congress' popular shopping district.
What is it? A Latin-American restaurant and bar alongside Fairmont Austin’s massive rooftop pool where locals and out-of-towners party during the big events.
Why go? If you’ve landed at AUS for F1, NASCAR, ACL, SXSW, AFC, or Pride, this is where to celebrate. The hotel proudly sponsors most of the major annual events, housing incoming talent and patrons alike.
What is it? Encircling Lady Bird Lake at the center of Austin, the trail offers one of the best hikes in Austin.
Why go? The 10-mile trail is a hub for bikers, runners and hikers. Every day, thousands ride, jog and amble over the landscaped bridges and under the iconic statue of legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan as they make their way around the circuit. The route offers outstanding views of the Austin city skyline, as well as the neighboring Zilker Park. Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board if you want to cool down afterwards.
What is it? The iconic tower stands as the centerpiece of the University of Texas.
Why go? Students and employees use it for the library and administrative offices inside, but it's also an Austin landmark. Fun fact: The tower lights up orange to celebrate big UT victories. Go Horns Go!
Want to see more of the area? Book a bike tour.
What is it? Austin City Limits (ACL) is Austin’s largest music festival, held every October over two consecutive weekends in Zilker Park.
Why go? Anyone who’s anyone goes to ACL. You can’t miss this fest: With eight stages and more than 130 bands, the festival includes a full spectrum of rock, pop and hip hop. Local Austin faves are featured at the food booths, and art vendors sell their wares throughout. Tickets go on sale early, so grab yours before they sell out, and start planning your weekend.
What is it? The definitive Texan dance hall is all about letting your hair down.
Why go? It doesn’t get much more Texan than two-stepping to country music. There are dance lessons on some nights, so hesitant toe-tappers can fit right in with boot-scooting bosses. After all that dancing, grab an ice-cold Lone Star and one of the Spoke’s famous (and famously enormous) chicken-fried steaks.
What is it? Discover four centuries of Texas history through an abundance of artifacts, including an impressively renovated shipwreck.
Why go? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, learning about the fascinating history of Texas is a must. From the Alamo to the Kennedy assassination, Texas has a rich and influential past—at one point it was even its own country. From tales of the Bush family and space exploration to awesome IMAX movies and public programming, The Bullock has it all.
Want to see more attractions? Book a tour of Austin.
What is it? Located in Covert Park, Mount Bonnell is one of the top hikes in Austin, offering spectacular views of the city and Lake Austin from the summit.
Why go? The ascent to the 775-foot peak (believed to be along an old Native American trail) is easy: The path consists of 102 concrete steps and will usually take between 15 and 20 minutes. Most evenings you’ll find groups of chatty locals toasting the sunset up here, but don’t forget your bug spray—the mosquitoes enjoy the show just as much as you will.
What is it? This classic, colorful spot for mini-golf has been a family fun staple since 1948.
Why go? The course, located south of the river near Zilker Park, features handcrafted sculptures of various animals, a giant T-Rex, a Chuck Taylor-inspired shoe and, of course, Peter himself. The kids will love it and it’s a grand time for adults too, especially considering there’s a BYOB policy.
What is it? The 14-acre park features woodlands, meadows, gardens, Lake Austin waterfront, and an extraordinary collection of permanent outdoor art.
Why go? Part of The Contemporary Austin, Laguna Gloria is a 1916 villa built by Clara Driscoll who is known as the "savior of the Alamo." The Sculpture Park and grounds offer stunning natural beauty and some seriously Instagrammable sculptures. Tom Friedman’s towering steel statue, Looking Up, 2015, is something of a social media celebrity. Seek out Tom Sachs’s mischievous Miffy Fountain, too, as well as his more recent Tower of Power.
What is it? Desert Door Distillery is the US’s first and only distillery producing sotol.
Why go? Made from the desert spoon plant native to West Texas, sotol is herbaceous and slightly floral. It’s a unique spirit with deep roots in Native American history and culture. Visit the distillery for tours and tastes, then stick around for cocktails in the stylish tasting room that features comfy couches, a fireplace and regional art.
What is it? Standing 14 feet taller than the U.S. capitol building in Washington DC, this Renaissance revival landmark is impossible to miss.
Why go? You’ll confirm that everything is bigger in Texas. Wander around on the immaculate terrazzo floors and gaze up at the star-crested rotunda. Or, if you're after a deeper understanding of the place, join one of the many official tours of the building, from a basic half-hour introduction to specialized theme tours such as Heroes of the Texas Revolution or Women in Texas History.
See this iconic Texas landmark from Zilker Park on a bike tour.
What is it? Located in Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, this stunning natural pool is easily accessible from downtown.
Why go? Nature lovers will adore the Preserve, one of Austin's best parks and a protected area for rare birds and wildlife. There are hiking trails and picnic tables, but the most popular attraction is Hamilton Pool. It’s a natural pool created thousands of years ago when the ceiling of an underground river collapsed. Take note: There is an entrance fee, reservations are required in the summer, and occasionally bacteria levels make it impossible to swim.
What is it? It's one of Austin's most famed live music venues that’s been open since 1955.
Why go? Whatever you're looking for, you'll find something to satisfy your tastes at the Continental Club. The iconic club has been home to performances from the likes of Double Trouble, Paul Ray and the Cobras, Robert Plant, Wanda Jackson and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons. Always packed, the 200-capacity space is the spot for intimate, electric evenings.
What is it? This historic cottage, garden and nature preserve is perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Austin.
Why Go? A picnic in this West Austin park is peaceful, even inspirational. The landscaped gardens surrounding the historic cottage feature lush green trees, palms, water lilies, and plenty of spots to stretch out and relax. Best of all, the beautiful peacocks—introduced to the park in 1935—roam the grounds freely. The vibrant males strut their stuff most prominently in late winter and early spring.
What is it? This standout taco truck is revered for everything from their migas to their al pastor made with fresh, clean ingredients.
Why go? The breakfast offerings include a migas taco with a cult following: the tortilla stuffed with eggs, tortilla chips, avocado, pico de gallo and cheese will make you a fan too. Try a fresh juice to complete your breakfast, and you’ll see why they’ve earned a loyal following that's led to additional outposts, including six brick-and-mortar locations. Plus, their tacos are available at a few coffee shops around town.
Temporarily closed, reopening later in 2022
What is it? An outdoor graffiti park across from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Why go? In 2019, Graffiti Park at Castle Hill, an outdoor art park that attracted thousands for its colorful graffiti and murals, closed its doors. Thankfully, not for good. Set to open in 2022, Graffiti Park has transformed into the HOPE Outdoor Gallery. This full-service events center will offer art classes and cultural events, as well as an outdoor art park with plenty of walls for Austin muralists and street artists to create joy through art.
