Activities
Discover Austin
Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. As an active travel spot, Austin offers a plethora of activities that cater to various interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, thrilling adventures, or cultural explorations, Austin has something for everyone. This guide will detail the top 10 activities in Austin, including the best time to visit, how to get there from the city center, contact information, and unique features that make each activity special.
The Top 10 Must-Do Activities
Exploring Lady Bird Lake
Address: 2101 Jesse E Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702
Contact: 512-974-6700
Description: Lady Bird Lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling along the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
History: Named after Lady Bird Johnson, this urban lake was created in 1960 and has become a central recreational spot in Austin.
Amenities: Kayak and paddleboard rentals, restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby food trucks.
Good For: Families, adventure seekers, nature lovers.
Unique Features: Scenic views of the downtown skyline, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained trails.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Rentals start at $15 per hour.
Booking: Walk-up rentals available at multiple spots along the lake.
Advice: Wear comfortable clothing, bring water, and apply sunscreen. Life jackets are provided with rentals. For a less crowded experience, visit on weekdays.
Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Contact: 512-463-0063
Description: The Texas State Capitol, a stunning example of Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, offers free guided and self-guided tours.
History: Completed in 1888, it is one of the largest state capitols in the US and a National Historic Landmark.
Amenities: Guided tours, restrooms, gift shop, and nearby cafes.
Good For: History enthusiasts, families, cultural explorers.
Unique Features: Beautiful rotunda, historic legislative chambers, and expansive grounds.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Cost: Free.
Booking: No booking required for self-guided tours; guided tours are available first-come, first-served.
Advice: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Photography is allowed. Check the schedule for special exhibits or legislative sessions.
Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: 512-867-3080
Description: Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed pool with a constant temperature of 68-70°F, perfect for swimming year-round.
History: Used by Native Americans for centuries, it was developed into a swimming pool in the 1920s.
Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, picnic areas, and a concession stand.
Good For: Families, swimmers, nature lovers.
Unique Features: Crystal-clear water, natural limestone bottom, and historic bathhouse.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming; spring and fall for a quieter experience.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Cost: $5-$9 for adults; $2-$5 for children.
Booking: No booking required; entrance fee payable on-site.
Advice: Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. Be cautious on slippery rocks. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
Address: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Contact: 512-477-8672
Description: This 26-acre garden features themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, and native plant garden.
History: Established in the 1960s, it showcases a variety of plant species and garden styles.
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby Zilker Park attractions.
Good For: Families, gardeners, nature enthusiasts.
Unique Features: Scenic walking paths, koi ponds, and historical structures.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming flowers; fall for pleasant weather.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Cost: $6 for adults; $4 for children and seniors.
Booking: Tickets available on-site or online.
Advice: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a camera for the beautiful scenery. Check the schedule for special events and guided tours.
Experiencing the Live Music Scene on Sixth Street
Address: Sixth Street, Austin, TX 78701
Contact: Varies by venue.
Description: Sixth Street, also known as “Dirty Sixth,” is famous for its live music venues, bars, and vibrant nightlife.
History: This historic street has been the heart of Austin’s music scene since the early 1900s.
Amenities: Numerous bars, clubs, restaurants, and restrooms in establishments.
Good For: Music lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, adults.
Unique Features: Eclectic mix of music genres, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings and weekends.
Duration: 2-4 hours.
Cost: Varies by venue; many have no cover charge.
Booking: No booking required; arrive early for popular spots.
Advice: Check venue websites for event schedules. Be mindful of noise levels and crowds. Use ride-sharing services for convenience and safety.
Address: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: 512-974-6700
Description: The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers 12 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, with popular spots like Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls.
History: Established as a park in the 1970s, it’s a beloved outdoor escape within the city.
Amenities: Parking, restrooms at trailheads, and nearby dining options.
Good For: Hikers, bikers, nature lovers.
Unique Features: Beautiful limestone cliffs, swimming holes, and lush greenery.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather.
Duration: 2-4 hours.
Cost: Free.
Booking: No booking required.
Advice: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water and snacks, and stay on marked trails. Be aware of weather conditions and trail closures.
Exploring the Blanton Museum of Art
Address: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
Contact: 512-471-5482
Description: The Blanton Museum of Art houses a diverse collection of contemporary and classic art, including European paintings and modern American works.
History: Established in 1963, it’s one of the largest university art museums in the U.S.
Amenities: Guided tours, restrooms, gift shop, and café.
Good For: Art enthusiasts, families, cultural explorers.
Unique Features: Extensive art collections, rotating exhibitions, and educational programs.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Cost: $12 for adults; discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Booking: Tickets available on-site or online.
Advice: Check the website for special exhibitions and events. Photography is allowed in some areas. Use public transportation or nearby parking garages.
Address: South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704
Contact: Varies by shop.
Description: SoCo is a vibrant shopping district known for its eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and unique local stores.
History: South Congress has transformed from a quiet street to a bustling retail and dining hub.
Amenities: Parking, restrooms in stores, and numerous dining options.
Good For: Shoppers, families, fashion enthusiasts.
Unique Features: Unique local goods, iconic murals, and lively street performers.
Best Time to Visit: Weekends for a full experience; weekdays for quieter shopping.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Cost: Free to explore; costs vary by shop.
Booking: No booking required.
Advice: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a shopping bag for purchases. Visit early to find parking more easily.
Discovering the History at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Contact: 512-936-8746
Description: This museum offers exhibits on Texas history from prehistoric times to the present, including an IMAX theater.
History: Opened in 2001, it’s dedicated to telling the story of Texas.
Amenities: Guided tours, restrooms, gift shop, café, and IMAX theater.
Good For: History buffs, families, educational trips.
Unique Features: Interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and engaging storytelling.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and mornings.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Cost: $13 for adults; discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Booking: Tickets available on-site or online.
Advice: Plan to catch an IMAX film. Use public transportation or parking garages. Check for special events and temporary exhibitions.
Taking a Day Trip to the Hill Country Wineries
Address: Various locations in the Texas Hill Country
Contact: Varies by winery.
Description: The Texas Hill Country is home to numerous wineries offering tours and tastings of local wines.
History: The region’s wine production dates back to the 1970s, now renowned for its varietals.
Amenities: Wine tastings, guided tours, restrooms, and on-site dining.
Good For: Wine enthusiasts, couples, day-trippers.
Unique Features: Scenic vineyards, award-winning wines, and charming countryside.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for vineyard tours; summer for indoor tastings.
Duration: Full day.
Cost: Tasting fees typically $10-$20 per person.
Booking: Advance booking recommended for tours and tastings.
Advice: Designate a driver or join a guided wine tour. Bring water and snacks. Wear comfortable clothing for walking through vineyards.
