austin near by places to visit

Austin   Travel Guide

Courtesy of RoschetzkyIstockPhoto | Getty Images

26 Best Things To Do in Austin

With more than 300 days of sunshine, it's no surprise Austinites and many of Austin's top activities are outdoors. From Zilker Metropolitan Park to the Butler Hike and Bike Trail to Mount Bonnell, visitors mingle with dogs on leashes, teens

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Zilker Metropolitan Park Zilker Metropolitan Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Austin City Limits Music Festival transforms Zilker Park for the first two weekends in October. Some attractions like the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and the Zilker Botanical Garden will be closed for those dates. – Catherine Parker

Sitting on the banks of the Colorado River, this beloved park spans more than 350 acres and buoys Austin's reputation as one of the Best Places to Live . Zilker Metropolitan Park shelters some of the city's most popular attractions – from the Zilker Botanical Gardens to Barton Springs Pool – as well as several athletic fields and plenty of open space for strolling. You'll be able to spend a whole day here thanks to a range of activities such as swimming, canoeing or digging for fossils at the Austin Nature and Science Center 's Dino Pit. Art aficionados can peruse the works housed within the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum while garden enthusiasts can peruse the specialty gardens in the Zilker Botanical Garden. After a day spent strolling the park, cool down with a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre natural swimming hole. A theater, train for children and sports courts are also on-site. The park hosts several popular events, including the Austin City Limits Musical Festival, the ABC Kite Fest and the holiday Trail of Lights  (each affect the park's accessibility so plan ahead).

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake free

A cherished outdoor space in the center of the city, the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (locals refer to it as the Lady Bird Lake trail) serves as a popular place for runners, walkers and cyclists, for both locals and visitors. The urban path takes visitors along the water's edge and passes by plenty of places to relax and picnic. Part of the trail is a 1.3-mile boardwalk, which offers amazing downtown views along with bronze belts emblazoned with Texas song lyrics. There are several restrooms and water fountains along the path, plus scenic overlooks.

Outdoor enthusiasts raved about the peace and quiet beauty the trail affords. Recent visitors jumped on wherever convenient and enjoyed the trail's views. Most said the trail was busy enough to feel safe. It is also a good place to see the Austin bats . 

Texas Capitol Texas Capitol free

Standing stoically in the heart of central Austin is Texas's legislative center, the State Capitol. Opened in 1888, this landmark (made of Texas sunset red granite) stands 14 feet taller than the  U.S. Capitol  in  Washington, D.C.  Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Texas Capitol was designated at National Historic Landmark in 1986.

The structure underwent a massive restoration starting in the 1990s, including replacing the zinc statue of the Goddess of Liberty that sits atop the dome with an aluminum one. The restoration also included a 667,000-square-foot underground extension to accommodate how much the state government had grown.

Popular Tours

Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

(623 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour

(576 reviews)

from $ 36.81

Austin Biker Gang E-Bike Tour

(1114 reviews)

from $ 89.99

University of Texas at Austin University of Texas at Austin free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visitors should research and purchase parking ahead of their UT event as there is no free parking on campus. Ride-share and public transportation are also options. – Catherine Parker

In addition to being home to 52,000 college students, the University of Texas also shelters several attractions and venues that appeal to residents and visitors alike. Concert-goers head to the newly completed Moody Center for big name musical acts and UT basketball games. Meanwhile, the Bass Concert Hall hosts Broadway shows and smaller traveling acts. The open-air Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium vibrates on UT football game days with seating for more than 100,000 fans.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater

Odds are your favorite band has played at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. It's home to the legendary "Austin City Limits" television series, which holds the title of the longest running music series in American television history. The theater seats more than 2,700 people. The balcony level houses the Jack & Jim Gallery, which showcases the portfolio of Jim Marshall, a photographer with a passion for music. If you can't secure seats to a show, take a tour of the venue. The tour covers ACL history along with visiting the galleries. Tours depart from Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and last 90 minutes.

Music buffs praise the acoustics at ACL Live, claiming that there is not a bad seat in the house. Others said it was a bucket-list venue, similar to those in Nashville . A few note that some security staff was rude.

Lake Travis Lake Travis

Texas believes bigger is better and its lakes are no exception. Lake Travis is nearly 64 miles long and boasts 271 miles of shoreline. First-time visitors can get a good idea of its scale if they drive by Mansfield Dam, the dam that created Lake Travis while taming the Colorado River. After seeing the massive dam, stop by Mansfield Dam Park for impeccable lake views and activities like picnicking, swimming and scuba diving. Numerous other parks line the lake, offering everything from picnic tables and hiking trails to water sports and swimming. (Note: Hippie Hollow Park is a clothing optional beach and access is restricted to patrons 18 and older.) Travelers who want to enjoy the scenery with a drink should try The Oasis on Lake Travis. It's perched above the lake and calls itself the "Sunset Capital of Texas."

Recent visitors enjoyed their time on the lake, especially when viewing the sunset. It didn't seem to matter too much which park patrons picked, as many of the spots offer clean beaches and good amenities. Some recommended water shoes for slippery and jagged rocks underfoot.  

Best Austin Tours

Austin Tours

The 16 Best Austin Tours

March 5, 2020

Circuit of the Americas Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is primarily a Formula One race track, though it hosts events year-round ranging from motor sports to concerts to its holiday-themed Peppermint Parkway lights display. The Lenovo United States Grand Prix race, which COTA has hosted since 2012, is a three-day Formula One event held in October that features heart-pounding race action paired with top musical acts and immersive experiences for attendees.

Beyond Formula One, COTA also hosts NASCAR and MotoGP events, as well as concerts at the on-site Germania Insurance Amphitheater, the largest outdoor concert venue in Austin. Behind the amphitheater, visitors can head up the COTA Tower for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and racetrack 250 feet below; it costs $35 to visit the observation platform. 

Mount Bonnell Mount Bonnell free

For great views, head to Mount Bonnell at Covert Park, which provides sweeping vistas of the city, Lake Austin and the surrounding hills. The 5.1-acre linear park is home to a 781-foot outcrop, considered one of the highest spots in the area. Mount Bonnell is designated a Texas Historic Landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The point has proven to be an enduring tourist destination since the 1850s.

Recent visitors said Mount Bonnell offers great views that are best on clear days. Others suggested a sunset visit for the top experience. Regardless of when you hike up, make sure to take water. Additionally, make sure to take your valuables with you when you park.

Private Lake Austin Boat Cruise - Full Sun Shading Available

(95 reviews)

from $ 485.00

Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour from Austin w / Riverwalk Boat

(50 reviews)

from $ 259.00

The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!

(134 reviews)

from $ 125.00

South Congress Avenue South Congress Avenue free

South Congress Avenue is the section of Congress Avenue after it passes over Lady Bird Lake. With amazing views of the Texas State Capitol , South Congress, or SoCo as the locals call it, plays a vital role in the city's culture. From the murals around every corner – like "Willie for President" (Nelson that is) to the iconic "I Love You So Much" – people are snapping pictures everywhere. Shopping along SoCo ranges from authentic boot shops to curated boutiques attracting both travelers and locals who are in search of conversation-starting outfits. Another top activity is patio dining where you can grab delicious bites from morning to night along with choice vantage points for people-watching. When you're not shopping, eating or strolling, swing by the Continental Club to grab a drink and enjoy some live music.

Recent visitors appreciated their time along SoCo, some for shopping, others for its restaurants or live music. The murals along South Congress are a top must-see for travelers. Others enjoyed the vibe that they described as "Americana."

Blanton Museum of Art Blanton Museum of Art

Located on the  University of Texas at Austin  campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is a must-see for any art enthusiast. It's considered one of the largest university art museums in the country, and is home to more than 21,000 works of art. Its collection of Latin American art (totaling more than 2,000 works) is one of the oldest, largest and most comprehensive collections in the U.S. with artists from Mexico and the Caribbean along with Central and South America. For some first-time visitors, Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin" grabs a lot of attention: "Austin" is a 2,715-square-foot stone structure with colored glass windows. Sometimes referred to as "the Kelly Chapel," this freestanding building features three sets of stained-glass windows, a totemic wood sculpture and 14 marble panels hanging on its interior walls.

In May 2023, the museum unveiled several new exterior features, including shade structures that stand three stories tall and look like flower petals; an outdoor sound gallery; a path that leads to a nearby parking garage, and the Lookout, a large window that allows visitors on the museum's second floor to gaze down at the newly upgraded plaza.

Sixth Street Sixth Street free

A trip to the "Live Music Capital of the World" wouldn't be complete without discovering some of Austin's up-and-coming talent along Sixth Street. After a drastic restoration took place in the 1960s to save the area from its grungy reputation, it became the hub of Austin's music scene in the 1970s. Today, Sixth Street between Congress Street and Interstate 35 (known as Dirty Sixth to locals) is the center of the musical action in Austin. The area buzzes with activity from shops, restaurants, bars and live music joints, such as Maggie Mae's, Pete's Dueling Piano Bar and the historic hotel, The Driskill (rumored to be haunted).

Another standout is Esther's Follies, a longstanding Texas tradition that combines comedy, music and magic. The show began in 1977 and still showcases its satirical blend of politics and pop culture .

LBJ Presidential Library LBJ Presidential Library

U.S. News Insider Tip : Visitors should be mindful of the University of Texas home football games since the LBJ library is in the same area. Traffic will congested and the ride-share drop-off location will be closed. – Catherine Parker

While the thought of visiting a presidential library may sound like a bore, this one is an exception. Dedicated to the 36th president of the United States, the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library houses all the expected artifacts – such as presidential papers – as well as several quirkier exhibits like LBJ's limousine. Visitors wander from a display depicting the day he became president (after John F. Kennedy’s assassination) to his oval office to a talking LBJ animatronic that tells tales. In addition to the wealth of information about the president, you can learn about former first lady Lady Bird Johnson in both a gallery about her and her former office.

Barton Springs Pool Barton Springs Pool

Nestled in  Zilker Metropolitan Park , Barton Springs Pool has been a favorite swimming hole for locals and out-of-towners for generations. Native Americans used the springs for thousands of years before European colonists arrived. William Barton first developed it as a swimming hole in the 1830s. Fed by underground springs, the 3-acre pool consistently stays between 68 and 70 degrees. The grounds also feature grass areas for lounging, bathhouses and an educational exhibit about the history of the Barton Springs, including its endangered salamander.

Recent swimmers said the experience is one of the things that makes Austin unique. Even on a hot summer afternoon, the water felt a bit cold (especially for little kids), according to reviews. Some suggested wearing water shoes. Multiple visitors also warn of sizeable crowds and recommend arriving early.

Best of Austin Small-Group Driving Tour with Local Guide

(1910 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour in Austin

(164 reviews)

from $ 69.00

Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl

(63 reviews)

from $ 35.00

Bullock Texas State History Museum Bullock Texas State History Museum

Named for Texas's 38th lieutenant governor, the Bullock Texas State History Museum explores the Lone Star State's vibrant past with artifacts ranging from the original Goddess of Liberty statue that resided at the top of the  State Capitol's dome to a 1960s missile control console from the space center in Houston . Along with galleries featuring more than 700 artifacts, the museum features rotating special exhibits to reflect the diverse history of Texas. The museum is also home to the largest IMAX screen in the state as well as the Texas Spirit Theater, a cafe with an outdoor patio and a souvenir shop. 

Native Texans and out-of-towners alike say the museum has a good layout and many recommend setting aside a few hours to take in all there is to see. Moviegoers enjoyed their IMAX experience.

Rainey Street Rainey Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Grab one of Austin's scooters, a pedicab or walk to Rainey Street, especially on weekend nights. Traffic can grind to a standstill and cheap parking is nonexistent. –  Catherine Parker

As the Live Music Capital, Austin offers more than one entertainment district. Sixth Street oozes into Fourth's Warehouse District, packed shoulder-to-shoulder with bars and clubs. South Congress Avenue across Lady Bird Lake offers more dining and boutique shopping paired with classics like The Continental Club. Meanwhile, Rainey Street attracts a younger crowd, blending dog-walking locals cutting out early with visitors in town for a bleisure trip. This area features many of its original bungalows repurposed into venues and restaurants. The vibe might be laid-back, but the sound systems are cranked up. In between venues, Austin's ubiquitous food trucks offer a sampling of the city's dining scene. Several high-rise hotels cast their shadows down on Rainey, such as  Hotel Van Zandt , and the Austin Convention Center is nearby.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Named for its co-founder Claudia Alta "Lady Bird" Johnson (wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson ), the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the place to visit if you're a flower enthusiast. The former first lady co-founded the center with Helen Hayes to educate others about the benefits of planting native plants, a project that has revolutionized gardening habits in central Texas. The center features North America's most diverse collection of Texas native plants. Visitors flock from all over the country to enjoy more than 900 species of Texan flora – including bluebonnets and evening primrose – that flourish on more than 280 acres of gardens. There are also walking trails and an observation tower. The 16-acre arboretum features 50 types of oaks found in Texas. For the kids in the group, head to the Luci and Ian Family garden for play structures and a maze.

Visitors say it's pretty year-round, but the spring and early summer provide the best chance to see the most flowers in bloom. They advise spending an hour or two here and to bring the kids so they can explore.

Austin Bats Austin Bats free

According to experts, Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Approximately 1.5 million bats make the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge their home for part of each year. The bats settled here after a renovation of the bridge in 1980 created crevices that were perfect for bats to take refuge in against predators. Every spring, the Mexican free-tailed bats migrate north to the bridge to give birth and raise their babies. Come summertime, the bats can be seen each evening at dusk as they emerge for their nightly excursions to rid the city of pesky insects before heading back to central Mexico in the fall.  Evening kayak trips on Lady Bird Lake are a great way to observe the bats. Alternatively, head to the Statesmen Bat Observation Center (free) to watch: It's located next to the bridge on the south side of Lady Bird Lake.

Past visitors and locals alike who have taken the time to watch the bats say it's an interesting sight to see. Others remind future travelers that the bats are a natural phenomenon and therefore unpredictable, so you could be waiting a while. Many said to arrive early to grab a prime spot to watch.

The Contemporary Austin The Contemporary Austin

The first thing to realize when planning a visit to The Contemporary Austin is that the art museum actually occupies two separate sites that are miles from each other. There's the west side Laguna Gloria and the downtown Jones Center. The 14-acre Laguna Gloria houses the Art School at Laguna Gloria and is a beloved location for its art-in-nature setting. Laguna Gloria also houses the historic 1916 Driscoll Villa and the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park. Most of the sculptures at Laguna Gloria are outdoors, and fans of modern art will appreciate the beauty of its location close to Lake Austin.

Set on the corner of Congress Avenue and 7th Street, the Jones Center is hard to miss with neon script glowing from Jim Hodges's "With Liberty and Justice for All (A Work in Progress)" steel installation. The 8,000-foot Jones Center features two floors, including the Moody Rooftop, a favorite for views. This facility offers a robust calendar with exhibitions and films.   

Austin Boat Tour with Full Sun Shading Available

(114 reviews)

from $ 84.00

Clear Kayak Sunset Glow Tour

(37 reviews)

from $ 65.00

Half-Day Hill Country Wine Shuttle From Austin

(143 reviews)

UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum

The works of Charles Umlauf, a University of Texas art professor for 40 years, intermingle with native Texas landscaping and water features on Umlauf's former property. Umlauf and his wife, Angeline, gifted their property, house and Charles' studio along with 168 sculptures to the City of Austin in 1985. The garden features 59 of Umlauf's sculptures, mainly in bronze using the lost wax method. The collection also includes thousands of his drawings.

Recent visitors called the garden "peaceful," particularly noting the sounds of water as they strolled. Most guests advised it would take about an hour to see the sculptures.

Elisabet Ney Museum Elisabet Ney Museum free

Back in 1892, Elisabet Ney, a German-born sculpture artist, built a neoclassical limestone home and studio in Austin's Hyde Park neighborhood that ultimately earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. She went on to create sculptures of notable Texans, like Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston (both namesakes to Texas cities). Those life-sized marbles statues can be found in the Texas State Capitol foyer, blocks away. The Elisabet Ney Museum includes sculptural works, maquettes, medallions and some of Ney's personal effects and furniture. Located just north of the University of Texas , the castle-like home is one of the Hyde Park's must-sees. It sits on 2.5 acres of a restored Texas prairie that features native plants similar to what Ney would have seen upon arriving in Austin in the late 1800s.

This "hidden treasure" museum attracts many art lovers, who don't mind making the trek north of downtown. Several of the visitors were intrigued by the noted female artist working in the late 1800s Texas, when that was uncommon. Museum-goers enjoyed the grounds and the unique home.

Mexic-Arte Museum Mexic-Arte Museum

The Mexic-Arte Museum is devoted to the conservation of Mexican, Latinx and Latin American art and culture, including artists based in Texas. It's home to a permanent collection of more than 5,000 contemporary works, which includes photographs, sculptures, decorative arts and Mexican dance masks as well as works from local artists. The museum also hosts theatrical and musical performances year-round. 

Recent travelers said the museum was a pleasant surprise and recommend stopping in the eclectic gift shop. Many described the museum as "small, but mighty." Most recent visitors said it took about an hour to explore the collection.

Austin Nature & Science Center Austin Nature & Science Center free

Nestled in a corner of Zilker Park , the Austin Nature & Science Center cultivates a passion for the outdoors, especially for kids. The center provides hands-on exhibits designed to foster connections with the natural environment. One outdoor option is the Forest Trail, which includes information about the 45 types of native trees planted along the path. Visitors with kids should not miss the Dino Pit, which allows children to dig up an assortment of fossil casts, introducing them to paleontology. The Austin Nature & Science Center also houses several animal exhibits, including small fish, reptiles, birds of prey and mammals like bobcats. Additionally, visitors can observe a honeybee hive and walk along the pond.

Travelers appreciate how well the park caters to children, as the array of exhibits are sure to keep even the antsiest kids entertained. Several parents comment their kids spent hours wandering around the facility, especially the Dino Pit. Several recommend bringing hats and water bottles on hot days.

The Domain The Domain free

For high-end boutique shopping in Austin, head to The Domain, a collection of more than 100 retailers sheltered in an outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment district in North Austin. Neiman Marcus anchors the center, but shoppers will also find Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Louis Vuitton. In addition to luxury shops, The Domain offers more affordable staples like H&M, Macy's and Zara. Shopping isn't the only activity here: Travelers will also find the Museum of Ice Cream at The Domain, where visitors can learn about the history of ice cream in 12 different multi-sensory exhibits and enjoy unlimited ice cream treats. Located adjacent, the Domain Northside's Rock Rose District offers a strip of bars and eateries ranging from Velvet Taco to Lavaca Street Bar.

The Domain also houses four different lodging options:  The Westin Austin at The Domain ; the retro-inspired Lone Star Court; The Archer Hotel , a dog-friendly boutique property; and Aloft Austin at The Domain.

Austin Sightseeing and Capitol Segway Tour

(210 reviews)

from $ 69.95

Haunted Austin Walking History Tour

(678 reviews)

from $ 27.50

From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle

(681 reviews)

Mayfield Park and Preserve Mayfield Park and Preserve free

Despite its listing on the National Registry of Historic Places, Mayfield Park and Preserve attracts travelers primarily because of its exorbitant population of peacocks (around two dozen!). The peafowl roam the entire park; keep your eyes peeled as you explore and don't forget to look in trees and on roofs. The historical cottage and gardens sit in a 2-acre parcel of land, which Mary Mayfield Gutsch donated to the city of Austin in 1971. There are plenty of ponds and gardens to explore. Mayfield Preserve is a 21-acre natural landscape that travelers can access via walking trails.

The beautiful peacocks, who stayed relatively calm despite the steady stream of gawkers, impressed past visitors. Several parkgoers were able to snag photos of the peacocks spreading their feathers. Keep in mind a visit here in summer could get hot, so bring plenty of water.

McKinney Falls State Park McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls is a nature fix for many Austinites. Onion Creek provides spots for swimming on hot summer days. As a bonus, fishing is allowed and you don't need a state fishing license. In addition to the creek, nearly 9 miles of trails take hikers and bikers around the park's limestone formations and wooded areas. After an active day, visitors at McKinney Falls can wind down at one of the park's 81 campsites or six cabins.  

Parkgoers recommend checking out both the upper and lower falls, calling both beautiful. Travelers also suggest planning your trip to coincide with the wet season (spring) to see the waterfalls at their best.

Thinkery Thinkery

Consider Thinkery Austin's children's museum. It offers activities that combine science, technology, engineering, arts and math, aimed at children up to age 11. Permanent exhibits at Thinkery range from Train Town and the Fresh! Farmers Market to Innovators' Workshop to Currents, which focuses on water. The museum also houses an enormous outdoor playground for kids to enjoy. In all, the Thinkery offers 40,000-square feet of space for babies, toddlers and kids to explore with their people.

Recent visitors appreciated Thinkery's assortment of hands-on activities, which they claimed did an excellent job of keeping children entertained. Museumgoers also recommend bringing a change of clothes, as the museum's water exhibit may soak your children. Overall, the museum makes an excellent destination on a rainy (or exceptionally hot) day in Austin.

Things to Do in Austin FAQs

Explore more of austin.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

32 Interesting Day Trips from Austin, Texas

Looking for the best day trips from Austin, Texas?

Discover amazing destinations in the Texas Hill Country and beyond within easy reach of Austin in this epic guide.

When it comes to day trips in Texas, Austin is our favorite base.

The city’s location in the center of the Texas Hill Country ensures you have numerous options for day trips at your disposal from state parks and waterfalls to museums and amusement parks.

Also Read: 21 Best Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Enjoy a dip in Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley or visit the Alamo in San Antonio. Admire the Christmas lights in Johnson City or float down the San Marcos River.

Visiting Austin? Read below city guides! Weekend in Austin Itinerary Best Things to do in Austin, Texas Austin to Big Bend Road Trip

Most of the Austin day trips are within Central Texas but you can also visit attractions such as Brenham and College Station in Eastern Texas.

Looking for a break from Downtown Austin and looking for fun things to do outside the city?

Plan a trip to these amazing destinations near the Big City for a breath of fresh air, natural beauty, and unique attractions!

Also Read: Best Things to do in the Texas Hill Country

Best Austin Suburbs that make amazing day trips

Austin’s many suburbs make excellent day trips if you are looking for a quick and easy getaway.

Here is our list of amazing day trips just an hour away from Austin, Texas.

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Round Rock is the top day trip destination for Austinites to enjoy a day outdoors.

There are many things to do in Round Rock and great places to eat at the same time.

Some of the most popular activities include playing a round of golf, fly fishing, exploring nature trails, enjoying a game at Old Settlers Park, and shopping at The Arboretum.

Georgetown is one of the best day trips from Austin for those who love nature, architecture, and good Tex-Mex.

Downtown Georgetown is famous for its pretty Town Square, old architecture, historic courthouse building, and small town charm.

A must see stop in Georgetown is the Inner Space Cavern where you can go on cave tours, enjoy zip lining, and even see fossils.

During spring, the town is ablaze with red poppies and is an amazing sight.

Another one of our favorite day trips from Austin is to San Marcos .

This college town has a hip vibe and plenty of attractions.

Float down the San Marcos River for a relaxed fun day. Visit the museums to learn about the history of San Marcos.

Enjoy shopping at boutiques or check out one of its many local breweries.

One of the best day trips from Austin, Texas for foodies is to Lockhart!

Lockhart is famously known as the barbecue capital of Texas and a must for smoked meat lovers.

Find the best bbq in Lockhart at Smitty’s Market, Kreuz Market, and Black’s BBQ.

Best Dinosaur Attractions to visit on a day trip from Austin with kids

The Texas Hill County and surrounding areas are home to the best dinosaur attractions in Texas!

Visit some of these awesome places to dig for fossils, see life-sized dinosaurs up close, and learn more about prehistoric times.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Texas with kids

Dinosaur Park, Cedar Creek

The Dinosaur Park near Bastrop features several acres with over 40 life-sized dinosaurs.

Kids can walk on the trail to see the dinosaurs including T-Rex, Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Triceratops.

There is also a fossil dig pit where kids can search for fossils and more.

Dinosaur Tracks, Leander

In Leander, you can see preserved dinosaur tracks in the bed of the San Gabriel River.

This is a hidden gem and you will often find the area to yourself.

Best time to visit to see the tracks is in summer when the water level is pretty low.

The exact address to the parking lot is 601 S. Gabriel Dr, Leander, Texas; from there follow the unmarked trail to the river bed under the highway bridge.

Canyon Lake

Love dinosaurs? Take younger kids to see dinosaur tracks at the Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country in Canyon Lake.

At the museum, they can see fossilized tracks made by acrocanthosaurus and iguanodon.

They can also dig for their own fossils on the Fossil Ridge tour.

The Canyon Lake Gorge Tour is another favorite to see preserved tracks and fossils.

Canyon Lake is also one of our favorite day trips from Austin for outdoor lovers.

The lake has excellent fishing and boating. Canyon Lake also offers good swimming in the summer months.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco, Texas is a great place to visit for kids of all ages.

This makes it one of the best day trips from Austin if you are looking for something outdoorsy, cool, and educational.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument preserves the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths.

You can go on a ranger-led tour to see their skeletons, learn about life back then, and even dig up fossils yourself!

There are also replica mammoths for children to play with in the park.

Other Waco attractions include Dr. Pepper Museum, Magnolia Market at Silos , Texas ranger hall of Fame and Museum and cruise on the Brazos River.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Museums in Texas

Best State Park Day Trips from Austin

Enjoy nature? Go on one of these day trips from Austin to some of the best state parks around the state capital.

Also Read: 17 Best State Parks near Austin, Texas to Visit Now

Pedernales Falls State Park

One of our favorite day trips from Austin for nature lovers is to Pedernales Falls State Park.

The park offers many short and long hikes to the waterfalls , swimming holes, cliffs, and the Pedernales River.

Don’t forget to bring your mountain bikes for a spin down one of the many trails in the park.

Inks Lake State Park

Located near the town of Burnet, Inks Lake State Park is our favorite Austin day trip for those looking to get outside and enjoy nature.

The jewel of Inks Lake State Park is Inks Lake. The lake offers excellent fishing and boating.

Other things to do in Inks Lake State Park include jumping from the cliffs at Devil’s Hole, camping, kayaking and hiking.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Another one of our favorite day trips from Austin is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

The pink granite dome, which is a designated wildlife sanctuary and natural landmark, is the highest point in the Hill Country.

There are over 80 miles of trails to explore Enchanted Rock State Park. Pick up your rock climbing permits at the visitor center.

The park is a favorite among families and very popular for wildflowers in spring.

Guadalupe River State Park

Guadalupe River State Park offers excellent camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

More than 9 miles of the park’s 40 mile loop are available for mountain biking.

The water in the river often reaches 80 degrees during summer making it perfect for tubing.

The park is our top pick for autumn day trips from Austin, Texas.

During fall, you can enjoy vivid colors on the river bank trees, making this one of the best fall destinations in Texas .

Colorado Bend State Park

Located in the Texas Hill Country, Colorado Bend State Park is a perfect day trip for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park offers scenic hiking trails, wildflowers, swimming holes, and an abundance of wildlife!

The highlight of a visit here is Gorman Falls, the tallest accessible waterfall in Texas.

This 70 foot tall beauty cascades down the cliffs and can be seen after a moderate 2.5 miles round trip hike.

Other hiking trails along the banks of the Colorado River are also popular with outdoor lovers.

The park makes one of the most fun day trips from Austin.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Another unique attraction near Austin is the Natural Bridge Caverns. While not a state park, this area has amazing natural attractions.

The attraction is home to one of the largest natural bridges in the world.

On a visit, you can admire a spectacular cave system and see geological formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, and much more.

Natural Bridge Caverns is located between San Antonio and Austin in New Braunfels.

Other attractions at Natural Bridges include zip lining, gem mining, and bat flights at dusk.

Also Read: Best Bat caves in Texas

Best Spring Day Trips from Austin for nature lovers

Austin is the perfect place to scout for bluebonnets and other wildflowers in the Texas Hill Country.

Here are our favorite places to see the state flower near Austin.

Marble Falls

Marble Falls is an amazing day trip from Austin for those who love exploring hidden gems.

This small central Texas town, located on the shores of Lake Marble Falls, has a charming downtown area.

Admire the sculptures on Main Street, browse through local shops, and pick strawberries at Sweet Berry Farm while in Marble Falls.

During spring, Marble Falls is one of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas .

Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail

Looking for the perfect day trip from Austin to see the gorgeous bluebonnets in spring?

Drive the Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail!

The route will take you through the cities of Marble Falls, Burnet, and Llano.

The small town of Burnet is known for its bluebonnet festival while Llano is the bluebonnet capital of Texas.

Along the way, stop at Turkey Bend Recreation Area in Marble Falls.

Located on the northern shore of Lake Travis, it is known for gorgeous wildflower fields along the water.

Best Swimming and beach day trips from Austin

Looking for the perfect summer day trips from Austin to cool off on hot days?

Here are some of our favorite nearby swimming spots!

Wimberly, located in the Texas Hill Country, is one of our favorite day trips from Austin.

Wimberley is home to Texas famous swimming hole, Blue Hole.

This spring-fed natural pool is perfect for a refreshing dip and extremely popular in the summer!

Other things to do at Blue Hole Park include picnicking, hiking as well as play areas.

Wimberley itself is also an amazing destination with scenic drives, rugged landscapes and wildflower fields blooming in springtime.

Lake Travis

Lake Travis itself is another fun day trip from Austin for water lovers.

Take a tour of the lake on board a paddle wheel cruise.

Launch a boat from the Emerald Point Marina and enjoy a day on the water.

Other popular lake activities include fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

In fact, Lake Travis is one of the best kayaking destinations in Texas .

End the day with a romantic meal at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Probably one of the most popular Austin day trips is to Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs.

This is one of the most famous swimming holes in the Hill Country.

There is nothing better on a hot summer day than to splash in the great swimming hole and admire the views of the waterfall and the cliffs.

Make sure to reserve your tickets before planning a trip to Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs.

Spicewood Springs

Spicewood Springs, located between Austin and San Marcos, is the perfect day trip for those who love to swim.

Take a dip in the natural spring swimming pool at Krause Springs or enjoy boating on Lake Travis at Muleshoe Bend .

Spicewood Springs is also home to several wineries.

Best Small Town Day Trips from Austin

Several Texas Hill Country small towns are great day trips from Austin.

Admire the charming Main Street, shop local, and have a romantic day exploring these destinations.

Johnson City

Johnson City is the right choice for anyone looking for a family day trip, especially if you love American history.

One of the famous attractions in Johnson City is the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

At Johnson National Park, visitors can tour the LBJ Ranch which served as the Texas White House for the President, see a living history farm, pay respects at the Johnson Family Cemetery and learn about the LBJ Presidency.

Other fun things to do in Johnson City include the Science Mill museum for children, charming downtown, and plenty of wineries.

Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs makes an excellent day trip near Austin.

The city is quickly becoming one of the top spots to visit in Texas for its natural beauty, local wineries, and bustling restaurants.

Popular things to do in Dripping Springs include taking a stroll in the historic downtown district, antiquing, checking art galleries by local artists, and checking out the local breweries.

The small town of Gruene is a must if you are visiting the nearby city of New Braunfels on a day trip.

Gruene is located just 10 mins away from New Braunfels.

The Gruene Historic District is home to several landmarks including the Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas.

Enjoy shopping at the general store and have a romantic dinner at the Gristmill restaurant while in Gruene.

Luckenbach is a great one stop shop if you are looking for cool ideas for day trip ideas from Austin.

This small Texas town is known for its handful of buildings and locals.

The town is a must for country music fans; on weekends you will find country, western, and Texas swing musicians playing to full crowds.

Driftwood, Texas is home to the famous Salt Lick bbq and a must.

Salt Lick bbq is considered by many to be one of the best bbq’s in Central Texas.

They are famous for all types of smoked meats including the Texas brisket.

Other Driftwood attractions include a vintage Texaco gas station, charming downtown, and plenty of wineries.

The town is also home to the Desert Door Distillery which is famous for sotol, a distilled Mexican spirit similar to mezcal.

If you are looking for a day trip from Austin, Texas to enjoy the beautiful scenery of farm lands and nature, we suggest heading out to Brenham.

At Blue Bell Creameries, tour their impressive facility, learn what makes their ice cream so famous, and sample different flavors.

Besides Ice Cream, there’s plenty of other fun things to do in Brenham including bluebonnet trails, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, and beautiful murals downtown.

Lampasas, located west of Austin, makes an excellent day trip from the city.

The small town is most famous for the natural mineral springs swimming pool at Hancock Springs Park.

Lampasas also has a pretty downtown with plenty of murals and public art.

Also Read: 20 Awesome Things to do in Lampasas, Texas

Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Austin

Several Texan cities are also located close enough to see on a day trip from Austin.

They are home to popular urban attractions, shopping, nightlife, and a great culinary scene.

Here are the best cities near Austin, Texas.

San Antonio

San Antonio is the gem of Texas.

It makes a great day trip destination from Austin because of the proximity.

The city is home to several famous attractions including the Alamo and the San Antonio River Walk .

Visit The Alamo and learn about the famous Battle of Alamo that was fought there.

Admire the Spanish architecture on the San Antonio River Walk and stroll along the path enjoying the scenery.

Take a cruise down the San Antonio River and visit the many museums in the city.

San Antonio, with its urban attractions, makes the perfect day trip for families.

New Braunfels

New Braunfels , with its unique German heritage, is one of our favorite day trips from Austin.

This charming city is especially great in the fall when you can enjoy Oktoberfest in the Lone Star State.

There is nothing like sipping on some German beer and eating pretzels while listening to traditional polka live music.

New Braunfels also puts on amazing Christmas celebrations and is our top pick for those looking for festive day trips from Austin, Texas.

Because of its many attractions such as Schlitterbahn Water Park, Railroad Museum, Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo, and Landa Park mini golf course, New Braunfels also makes a great weekend trip from downtown Austin.

Also Read: Best German Towns in Texas to Visit Now

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg , the gem of Central Texas, is one of our favorite Austin day trips.

The city has a strong German heritage which is seen in its architecture, historic buildings, German cuisine, and Christmas traditions.

The charming Main Street with shops, eateries, and breweries is perfect for a stroll.

Visit attractions such as the National Museum of the Pacific War, Japanese Garden, and the Pioneer Museum.

Enjoy wine flights in the tasting rooms or drink craft beer at the many local breweries.

The city also makes a fun weekend getaway from Austin.

Also Read: Best Christmas destinations in Texas

College Station

College Station is home to Texas A&M University and one of the best day trips from Austin for families.

During spring, you can experience bluebonnet trails in Aggieland.

Other College Station attractions include George Bush Presidential Library, Aggieland Safari, and Texas World Speedway.

Short on time? Did you know that you can visit Houston on a day trip from Austin?

There’s a ton to do in the country’s 4th largest city.

Visit NASA Johnson Space Center, Kemah Boardwalk, The Galleria, and Downtown Aquarium.

Read our post on best things to do in Houston for more information.

Austin is a prime location for exploring the amazing scenery, natural attractions, and charming small towns of Central Texas.

Be sure to include some of these on your trip while visiting Austin.

Know of any other fun places within an hour’s drive from Austin? Let us know in the comments!

Love this post? Share it!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Cookie banner

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy . Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use , which became effective December 20, 2019.

By choosing I Accept , you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies.

Share this story

16 small towns near Austin you need to visit

Something for everyone in the heart of Texas

This post was originally published in October 2016 and has been updated.

Sure, there's no shortage of things to do in Austin, but sometimes it's fun to get away—especially, this time of year, in an air-conditioned vehicle. Luckily, Central Texas is a full of interesting small towns with distinct cultures, highlights, and histories.

Important note: A stop at a Buc-ee's is absolutely mandatory on any Texas road trip. We'll let you discover those on your own.

Are we missing any of your favorite small-town Texas destinations? Tell us in the comments, or drop us a line .

Even if it’s too hot to hike (and for you, it might not be), a trip Enchanted Rock, near the town of Llano, is a must. A rock formation caused by the Llano Uplift, when granite pushed its way to the surface around the area, Enchanted Rock is a favorite of hikers and mystical wisdom-seekers. In addition to the odd formation itself, the area has a whole “rock culture” due to the fact that there are rare earth minerals that are scattered all over the county—including “Llanite,” a kind of granite unique to the area. The charming town square has a rock shop and other quaint stores, as well as the legendary Dabbs Hotel, part of the Historic Railyard District and reputed Bonnie-and-Clyde stop (as well as home to many an Austin-instigated overnight punk rock party in the 1980s and 90s), and the LanTex Theater, a classic theater still showing current movies. Cooper's Pit Bar-B-Q is also some of the best you'll find.

• Open in Google Maps

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neurodivergent Rebel ️‍ (@neurodivergentrebel) on Jan 26, 2020 at 7:55am PST

Long known as the original location of Louie Mueller Barbecue, which is in perpetual contention for the coveted (and unofficial) “best barbecue in Texas” label, Taylor has of late become a mecca for some of the coolest kids of Old Austin, who have been relocating (shhh) to its remarkable Victorians and other old-timey homes in the area. Visitors will find plenty enjoy in that vein, as well, especially on its self-guided architectural walking tour, which features buildings dating back to the 1870s. Plenty of diverse restaurants, bars, and live-music spots have expanded the culinary scene, though a stop at Mueller’s in ore or less mandatory for first-timers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Made Texas (@visittaylormadetexas) on Dec 10, 2018 at 8:55am PST

Oh, Elgin. How we take you for granted. Some see you as a bedroom community, but you are so, so much more than that. Yes, you are known for your formidable sausages, but few know that just half an hour or so from Austin lies a quite picturesque, still quite operational downtown whose businesses include restaurant, general store, and unofficial city history center Elgin Local Goods and retail gems like the Owl Wine Bar & Home Goods.

A post shared by Elgin Local Goods (@elginlocalgoods) on Jan 13, 2015 at 9:13am PST

Johnson City

Known as the “Crossroads of the Texas Hill Country,” Johnson City claims the LBJ National Historical Park, the place President Lyndon Baines Johnson made his “Texas White House” when he was in office. He grew up in the town, which was founded by one of his uncles. For those not inclined to tour the house and grounds, the Pedernales State Park nearby offers a refreshing dip in a cool, clear river. Pecan Street Brewing and Garrison Distillery offer still more forms of entertainment. As do longhorn sightings.

A post shared by Nick H (@drainbownick) on Oct 21, 2017 at 11:38am PDT

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg has long attracted visitors who appreciate its natural beauty, old-timey downtown strip, cute B&Bs, vineyards, and wineries. Lately, it has become a bit of a culinary destination as well. Along with nearby New Braunfels, it keeps alive and celebrates the heritage of German immigrants who came to Central Texas in the 1800s.

A post shared by Fredericksburg CVB (@visitfredtx) on Aug 25, 2017 at 10:02am PDT

If you’re passing through the Hill Country, you might as well stop in Luckenbach, which is more of a country music reference and operating performance hall than a town. The town was primarily a trading post with a general store and a saloon for most of its life and was purchased by a rancher when the town’s population allegedly dwindled to 3. Country musician Jerry Jeff Walker recorded a live album there (somewhat confusingly called Viva Terlingua, after a different tiny Texas town), and it was made most famous in a song recorded by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. The concert hall is hosts regular shows, and there are reportedly jam sessions there on Sunday nights. Also: great place for selfies.

A post shared by Dave Klaus (@davklaus) on Oct 23, 2017 at 3:18pm PDT

A trip to the Lost Pines, including the ones in Bastrop State Park, is practically mandatory for Austin residents and visitors alike. Like many towns on this list, it has a charming downtown, good local restaurants, live music, and, perhaps most awesomely, the Sherwood Forest Faire in nearby McDade. But it’s also a place where Central Texas starts transitioning to East Texas (hence the pines) with some especially marvelous outdoor exploring to be done.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Angela CaDavid (@angela7cadavid) on May 30, 2019 at 7:32am PDT

Only a few miles north of San Antonio, Blanco nevertheless retains a small-town feel, partly due to its proximity to the gorgeous Blanco State Park. It’s home to the Real Ale Brewing Company as well as several lavender farms (being “The Lavender Capital of Texas” and all), horseback riding opportunities, and hiking and swimming opportunities galore.

A post shared by Nan Hanus (@namelia55) on Sep 29, 2017 at 1:32pm PDT

Known country-wide (seriously) for its annual fall and spring antiques festivals (where many of Austin's most upscale home stores scoop up plenty of goods for resale), Round Top is also a beautiful Central Texas destination and home to the longtime Shakespeare at Winedale program, a summer residential program of the University of Texas wherein participants live onsite while developing performances of the Bard's plays in a local barn.

A post shared by Round Top Texas (@visitroundtop) on Mar 17, 2017 at 7:23am PDT

Also featured in:

Where to Eat and Drink in Round Top

In addition to being home to some of the area’s best swimming spots (The Blue Hole, Jacob’s Well) and other lovely stretches of cool water, Wimberley has wine tours and tastings galore, lots of laid-back meandering through vintage, thrift, and handcraft stores, and an entrance point to the Devil’s Backbone, one of the most scenic drives in the state.

Fayetteville

Located almost exactly halfway between Austin and Houston, Fayetteville offers a magic triad of Texas tourism: historic buildings, antique shopping, and nearby outdoor recreation (at Fayette Lake). Be sure to check out the understated courthouse, the historic Hugo Zapp Building/Country Place Hotel, and Red & White Gallery square, which shows mostly Texas artists and the occasional movie in a restored old building that retains its original sloped wood floor.

A post shared by DJ Stout (@djpentagram) on Oct 14, 2017 at 10:13pm PDT

Before Austin decided to get its BBQ on, Lockhart was the self-declared "Barbecue Capital of Texas," boasting three, then more (as family schisms multiplied the smoked bounty) purveyors of the preciously regarded Texas meat. But Lockhart has also long boasted some of the sweetest historic residences in the area, not to mention a town square that just says "small-town Texas," and has verily been featured in numerous movie and TV productions, from  What's Eating Gilbert Grape? to  Waiting for Guffman  to  The Leftovers . As Austin housing prices have pushed out many of its musicians, Lockhart has become a sort of satellite music capital, with many musicians moving, performing, and in some cases opening recording studios there.

A post shared by Laurel In Lockhart (@lockhart.texas) on Oct 22, 2017 at 5:21am PDT

Well. If you have ever used and/or appropriated via graphic design the term "Come and Take It," you really should know about Gonzales. Created by another empresario, it was one of the first European-American settlements in Texas and was the site of the first skirmish in the Texas war for its (brief) independence, from which the "Come and Take It" and graphic accompaniment (a cannon) derives (Google it and learn lots). It's also home to Discovery Architecture, one of the area's best historic/architectural salvage outlets, and so many intact historic homes that in 2012, HGTV show  This Old House  named it one of its Best Old House Neighborhoods.

A post shared by Tony Ramirez (@t_ramz777) on Oct 7, 2017 at 5:28pm PDT

Most of us have at least heard of Shiner beer, produces by the Spoetzl Brewery, which was local craft beer before that term really existed. The town is still the home of the state's oldest independent brewery, which continues to produce beer under the Shiner name, though it's now owned by San Antonio's Gambrinus Company. The town is also home to the historic Gaslight Theatre, a cigar factory, and the Wolters Museum. Let's also give props to local gas-station hangout Howard’s, which offers Shiner historical memorabilia, live music, and nine beers on tap.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Liana Chalker (@lianawithacamera) on Jan 24, 2019 at 1:34pm PST

Castroville

First of all, Castroville was established by an empresario (Henri Castro, 1844), a word we love (it means, basically, a 19th-century developer). Further, Castro populated the town with immigrants from the Alsace region of Europe (bordering Germany and Switzerland in France) and the Grand Duchy of Baden. The local population maintained the distinctive architecture—think mostly tiny houses, but in the Alps—and, to a lesser extent, the Alsatian language and cuisine over the years. It's not exactly trapped in amber, and its Landmark Inn State Historic Site, typical of its architecture, is state-owned, inexpensive bed & breakfast, but it's uncanny how much influence from a very specific European regions remains.

Sometimes known as “the other Alamo,” Goliad is perhaps best known of site of a massacre in Texas’ battle for independence from Mexico. These days, it has much more life-affirming activities on offering, including a look at the restored, historic Presidio La Bahia and Mission Espiritu Santo. Built in 1749, they are the only Spanish Colonial mission-fort complex still in existence in the Western Hemisphere. It also has a recently established brewery, a lively town square, and a hike-and-bike trail.

A post shared by Joey Kammerer (@sketchnb) on Aug 18, 2017 at 3:55pm PDT

Site search

• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Archive.curbed.com
• Homes for sale
• Homes for rent
• Curbed Comparisons
• Neighborhoods
• Development

• Architecture
• Transportation

Stand out from the crowd with our advertising deals!

• Free Fun Calendar
• More Family Fun
• Things To Do
• Texas Travel
• Keep Austin Weird
• Submit an event

• Today’s Events
• Music & Shows
• Film & TV
• Wild & Weird
• Eat & Drink

Top Places Near Austin You Must Visit

Curious about the best day trips or weekend getaways from the capital of Texas? From tranquil nature preserves to dynamic, historic districts, we reveal the places near Austin you must visit to truly experience Central Texas’s diversity. Dive in to discover where adventure and cultural enrichment lie just a short drive away, all handpicked for travelers like you eager to expand their Austin adventures.

Escaping the Wait: Online Gaming While Traveling

Traveling ofte­n brings moments of waiting – whether in line­s at airports, train stations, or during downtime in hotel rooms. Thankfully, the digital e­ra has opened avenue­s for entertainment fitting conve­niently in our hands. Online gaming provides a delightful escape during the­se intervals, providing travele­rs immersion in virtual worlds, connections with others, and e­njoyable time passing. Taking risks by betting at slots.lv or playing immersive multiplaye­r games provide welcomed distractions, making waits fe­el shorter.

Exploring the Heart of Texas Hill Country

Nestled just a stone’s throw from the bustling center of Austin, Texas Hill Country unveils an oasis brimming with picturesque landscapes and homespun allure. The area offers spectacular vistas and an ambiance that radiates serenity, making it an essential destination for aficionados of nature and those keen on outdoor adventures.

Begin your journey into the essence of Hill Country by exploring towns like Fredericksburg and Marble Falls, each serving as quintessential examples of what this enchanting region has to offer.

Fredericksburg: A Sip of History

Fredericksburg is a not so hidden treasure renowned for its delightful wine experiences. With more than 50 wineries on hand, this haven promises to impress even the most sophisticated wine aficionado. 

Whether indulging in tastings or embarking on vineyard tours, visitors have plenty of chances to relish the regional tastes and gain insight into the artistry behind winemaking.

Marble Falls: Nature’s Canvas

Situated merely an hour from Austin, Marble Falls presents a delightful appeal for outdoors enthusiasts. The area features numerous activities that contribute to its charm and draw adventurers worldwide.

Visitors to Marble Falls can partake in: Boating, fishing, golfing, hiking, biking, and more. Adventure awaits those who venture into Marble Falls!

Austin’s Natural Wonders: Swimming Holes and State Parks

Just outside the city limits of Austin, a treasure trove of natural beauty is poised for discovery. The tranquil Hamilton Pool Preserve and the exhilarating trails for hikes and biking at Pedernales Falls State Park represent just a few of the exceptional experiences available.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: Oasis of Serenity

Situated in Dripping Springs, the Hamilton Pool Preserve offers a breathtaking view. It features a calm oasis, with its dome collapsing from an underground river to create a jade-green swimming hole complemented by a 50-foot waterfall, nurturing abundant biodiversity. 

Pedernales Falls State Park: Trails and Falls

Outdoor aficionados seeking a wilderness adventure will find Pedernales Falls State Park an alluring destination. 

Situated near Austin, the state park boasts picturesque pathways that welcome both novice wanderers and experienced trekkers, providing an ideal setting for individuals passionate about nature’s allure at any experience level.

The Allure of Lady Bird Lake and Zilker Park

Nestled in the heart of Austin, Lady Bird Lake , and Zilker Park are two urban treasures offering a vast array of leisure pursuits. From engaging workouts to peaceful nature excursions, these locations promise unforgettable experiences for health buffs and those who revel in the great outdoors.

A Stroll Down South Congress Avenue

Take in the distinctive allure of Austin by meandering along South Congress Avenue , commonly referred to as SoCo. This lively district is a central spot for foot traffic where visitors can discover an array of one-of-a-kind stores and boutiques featuring artisanal goods from Texas, such as custom-made cowboy boots and hats.

Unwinding at Lake Travis and Lake Austin

Shift gears and find tranquility in the peaceful environment of Lake Austin and Lake Travis. These well-liked destinations provide various recreational options, including water sports, boating, fishing, and picnicking, all enveloped by the breathtaking scenery that defines Austin’s natural landscape.

Artistic Retreats: Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Blanton Museum

Art enthusiasts in Austin are treated to exceptional havens like the Blanton Museum and Umlauf Sculpture Garden, where they can immerse themselves in various artistic expressions. These destinations showcase an array of art forms spanning from contemporary European and American pieces to the creations of Charles Umlauf, a renowned 20th-century American sculptor. They offer visitors a unique opportunity to engage with various artworks encompassing Latin American art.

The Thrill of Live Music Capital: Venues and Festivals

Austin, often heralded as the ‘Live Music Capital of the World®,’ lives up to its name by providing a vibrant music scene with numerous venues featuring live music performances nightly. 

Iconic spots like the Broken Spoke and Paramount Theatre create an atmosphere ripe for memorable musical moments.

Historical Exploration at the State Capitol and LBJ Library

For history enthusiasts, the State Capitol and LBJ Library provide a comprehensive exploration of the heritage of Texas. These notable sites present an insight into the historical importance of the state and its respected position within the Union.

Adventure Awaits in New Braunfels and Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Adrenaline enthusiasts will find their perfect adventure at New Braunfels and Schlitterbahn Waterpark, where river tubing and exhilarating water attractions offer a rush for both thrill-seekers and family visitors.

San Antonio’s Rich Heritage

Just beyond the outskirts of Austin, the storied past of San Antonio beckons. With its historic significance, sites such as the Alamo and the River Walk in San Antonio provide a window into the city’s historical narrative. There’s event some free fun to be had there!

Gruene Historic District: A Step Back in Time

A short journey from Austin will take you to a bygone era in the Gruene Historic District . Celebrated for its authentic flavor. Texas allure, this area draws guests both domestically and abroad, epitomizing the quintessence of small-town life in Texas.

• Share on Tumblr

Latest news

Posts you may also like

• Neighborhoods

We Are Austin's Web Address. If It's Interesting or Happening In Austin We Cover It On Austin.com.

Join the Community!

Texas Travel Talk

Let's Talk Texas Travel!

Adventure & travel are all about forging ahead, trying something new. Let’s Texas!

Central Texas

Places To Visit Near Austin

Take a peek at these fabulous places near austin for a day trip..

Places to visit near Austin.

Austin, TX, is known for barbeque and Tex-Mex and is a fun city to play in. It’s a diverse city with so much to do. But you may want to get out and enjoy other parts of Texas. Just minutes outside the borders of Austin is a paradise of hotspots, including scenic drives and wildflowers.

After reading about these places to visit near Austin, I bet you’ll want to skip the busy city altogether.

Austin is one of the most visited cities in Texas. In case you’re not aware, Austin is quite a busy city. Interstate 35 can be frustrating when driving into and away from the city. With happenings on 6th Street, the University of Texas, the eclectic live-music scene, and not to mention the Capitol, it’s easy to see why many people flock to the area year-round. But if you want to get out of the busy city to relax and maybe soak up some meditation, there’s much to do outside of Austin that’s worth visiting.

You can drive north to tour a cave, south to play in the river, into the deep Texas Hill Country, or west for antiques. I’ll give you some suggestions after you’ve had enough of the busy city.

I suggest you not get in a hurry when driving in or away from Austin. Take your time, and adjust your schedule to allow more time on the road. If it’s not traffic, it’s construction — consider this your warning.

1. Stop By The Texas Travel Information Center

Before heading out of Austin, your first trip might be to the Texas Travel Information Center . You’ll find a wealth of brochures on things to do near Austin and around Texas, probably more than you want to know! The travel center is at the Capitol Visitor Center, 112 E. 11th St., Austin, TX 78701. Did you know there are only 12 Texas information centers? Most are around the border of Texas, but Austin’s is inside the city.

2. Head To Lake Travis

West of Austin is Lake Travis, a famous lake for locals. There are many great places to eat in Lake Travis , where you can also rent a party boat for the afternoon. However, Lake Austin is also nearby. I’m sure both are busy on weekends.

3. See The View From Mount Bonnell

You can head over to the nearby Mount Bonnell and go for a hike. Once you reach the top, you’ll see a nifty pavilion and jaw-dropping views of Lake Austin and downtown Austin. Plus, visitors get a picture-perfect view of the Colorado River and the illustrious mansions that line its shores from the top of Mount Bonnell.

Adeina and her friend’s recent visit to Bastrop. Photo Credit: A. Anderson

4. Visit Bastrop

In about thirty minutes, you’ll be in Bastrop, where you can enjoy kayaking on Lake Bastrop, enjoying your favorite beverage just about anywhere in town, and doing lots of shopping. That’s what these two did on a recent girl’s trip.

Related: Things To Do In Bastrop, TX With Kids

5. Head To Deep Texas Hill Country

A few short miles from Austin in Dripping Springs, known for the “Gateway to the Hill Country.” Someone told me it’s the only Hill Country town with all three: wineries, brewers, and distilleries. I think your drinking is covered in this town. I’ll be headed there in a few short weeks and can’t wait to visit the Hamilton Pool Reserve . After looking it up, I’m almost positive you’ll want to see it. I believe reservations are needed.

6. Swing A Putter Or Go Caving In Georgetown

Besides being a small-town charmer, Georgetown has three distinguished 18-hole golf courses, Inner Space Caverns, and Texas’s most beautiful town square. And, if you plan your visit around April, the red poppies are out, and the town celebrates with a Red Poppy Festival.

7. San Marcos

Pack your swimsuit! San Marcos is only thirty minutes from Austin, where you can take a scenic drive on RM 12 NW to 32 – also called Devil’s Backbone for gorgeous views of the Hill Country and spring wildflowers. And while you’re there, dip your toes in the crystal-clear water of the San Marcos River or swim.

NOTE: A reader told me that Devil’s Backbone is a ways from San Marcos but closer to Wimberley.

8. Pedernales Falls State Park

About 30-40 miles west of Austin is Pedernales Falls State Park , a popular destination for locals and visitors. The park offers camping, hiking, biking, and excellent wildlife viewing. Swimming in the river is allowed, but it’s a rough 1/4 mile walk to get to the area. The admission fee is $6 for people 13 years old and up.

Travel Pro Tip: You MUST buy your entrance pass online, especially if you want to go on the weekend. The park gets super busy then, and they sell out fast.

9. Bee Cave

Less than a 20-minute drive west of Austin, you’ll be in Bee Cave unless the traffic is terrible! This town is new to me. Not that it’s new, but I had not heard of it until an event I was invited to was held there last year. Bee Cave has fantastic places to stay, great shopping, dining, golfing, water sports, and hiking. It’s the perfect place to escape the big city for a day. The Bee Cave Sculpture Park is a sight to see. I have not been there, but the town boasts excitement about it.

10. Blue Hole Regional Park

After wandering through Dripping Springs and doing everything you wanted to in town, drive about 17 miles south to Wimberley.  That’s where the natural spring-fed swimming hole at Blue Hole Regional Park is located. Swimming opens up in May, and you’ll need a reservation. Day passes are $6-$12.

11. Round Top

Set out early and head east on Hwy 290 for Round Top if you love antiques. It’s about an 80-mile car ride, so bring a snack or two and get ready to be dazzled in the antiques. If you plan your visit right, the Round Top Antique Show will be held in January, April, and October. See the site for the exact dates. I can’t believe I’ve never been to this. You’ll want to bring a big enough car for all the cool things you buy!

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More From Our Authors

Best 15 Winter Trip Ideas In Texas (2024)

It's time to start thinking about winter travel trip ideas in Texas for 2024! If

Ultimate Road Trip To Big Bend

Your ultimate road trip to Big Bend Country starts here. Road-tripping to Big Bend

Texas’ Favorite Family Waterpark

Things to do at Texas' favorite family waterpark - Schlitterbahn New Braunfels. New

Gaylord Texan Resort Family Review

Gaylord Texan Resort Family Review— Grapevine, TX On the outside, the resort is

Things To Do In Texas At Least Once

Make your move and check out these top things to do in Texas at least

Best Places For Fall Camping In East Texas

8 Popular Guided Cave Tours In Texas

Places To Go In Boerne TX

15 Top Things To Do In Baytown, TX

Small Texas Towns With Great Food

• Terms & Conditions

Kim Croisant, Owner, DFW, TX. Contact me at [email protected] .

· © COPYRIGHT 2022-CURRENT Texas Travel Talk  · ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Guide Overview: Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Guide
• Formula 1 Racing Is One of the Most Exciting Sports to Travel for — Here's the 2024 Lineup
• The 31 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas, From Gondola Rides to Epic Stage Shows
• 11 Best Shows in Las Vegas Right Now

30 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas — From Nightlife to Barbecue Restaurants

• I Visited a Secret Wellness Oasis in Austin, Texas — and Here's Why You Should, Too
• 25 Best Things to Do in Miami, From Art Museums to Food Halls
• This Florida City Has the Best Beach in North America
• 31 Best Things to Do in Barcelona — From Gaudí Landmarks to Cava Bars
• Destinations
• Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Guide Formula 1 Racing Is One of the Most Exciting Sports to Travel for — Here's the 2024 Lineup The 31 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas, From Gondola Rides to Epic Stage Shows 11 Best Shows in Las Vegas Right Now 30 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas — From Nightlife to Barbecue Restaurants I Visited a Secret Wellness Oasis in Austin, Texas — and Here's Why You Should, Too 25 Best Things to Do in Miami, From Art Museums to Food Halls This Florida City Has the Best Beach in North America 31 Best Things to Do in Barcelona — From Gaudí Landmarks to Cava Bars CLOSE Part of Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 Guide

Outdoor adventures, insightful museums, and lively dance halls await.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin lures those from near and far with its vast array of culture and history. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," you're sure to find plenty of places here to grab a drink and hear some tunes, but you'll also find scenic hiking trails, world-class art, and plenty of tasty food to keep you coming back time and time again. Whether you're a museum lover or an outdoor enthusiast, here are the 30 best things to do in Austin, Texas.

Watch the bats emerge at Congress Avenue Bridge.

From late March through early fall, the largest urban bat population in North America can be seen emerging from under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge every night. Thousands of bats flutter through the sky, eating bugs along the way, while bat lovers watch from the bridge or below on Lady Bird Lake.

Tour the Texas Capitol building.

Taking a free, guided tour of the Capitol is one of the best things to do in Austin — especially if you're a history lover. The Texas Capitol building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986 and is one of the largest capitol buildings in the country.

Have life-changing Tex-Mex cuisine.

You can't come to Texas and not try some Tex-Mex cuisine – a delicious blend of Mexican classics with Texas twists, found across the state. Austin has some real gems, including Matt's El Rancho , Juan in a Million , and Fonda San Miguel .

Attend SXSW.

Every March, Austin welcomes creatives from around the world for film screenings, music, exhibitions, speakers, and all things tech, education, and culture. SXSW is a great opportunity to bring your creative ideas to the table and turn that dream into a reality. Keynotes have included Michelle Obama, Willie Nelson, and Mark Cuban.

Visit the Blanton Museum of Art.

With more than 19,000 works in the permanent collection, the Blanton is known for its European paintings, modern and contemporary American and Latin art, and a wide range of prints and drawings. Don't forget to snap a picture of Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin," a stone building with colorful glass windows that's a must for your Instagram feed.

Make a splash at the Barton Springs Pool.

Austin's favorite swimming hole is definitely Barton Springs , a three-acre pool fed from underground springs. The pool keeps an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, comfortable for year-round swimming. Recent years have seen record attendance, with visitor numbers almost at 800,000 people per year.

Spend some time on South Congress.

South Congress, or SoCo, is a lively district south of Lady Bird Lake full of great restaurants, boutiques, vintage shops, bars, and live music venues. Visitors and locals alike love this part of the city. The famous "I Love You So Much" mural is found here at Jo's Coffee , and Monkey See Monkey Do is a treasure trove of vintage toys and gifts.

Buy a pair of cowboy boots.

If you're ready to hit the honky tonks, getting a fresh pair of authentic cowboy boots is a must. Allens Boots has a large selection, while Heritage Boot Co. offers handmade, vintage-inspired cowboy boots. Want to customize a pair of boots to fit your style? Texas Custom Boots can help you out.

Shop the Austin City-Wide Vintage Sale.

Held at the Palmer Events Center almost every month, the Austin City-Wide Vintage Sale is the place to find anything vintage and collectible. Since 1977, decorators, designers, college students, families, and anyone looking for unique items head to the sale for everything from furniture and kitchenware to vintage jewelry and art.

See art in nature at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum.

In 1985, 20th-century American sculptor Charles Umlauf and his wife Angie Umlauf donated their home, Charles' studio, and hundreds of sculptures to the City of Austin. Today, the Umlauf is a museum in a garden setting complete with over 2,000 drawings and 273 sculptures by the artist.

Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

On 284 acres in the Hill Country, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center boasts beautiful gardens of Texas native plants, trails, an arboretum, and a savanna meadow where you can learn about karst landscapes. The center has recorded sightings of more than 143 species of birds, 15 species of mammals, and 1,800 species of insects.

Lounge by Lady Bird Lake.

Paddleboard, kayak, or canoe your way across Austin's Lady Bird Lake for views of the skyline and outdoor recreation right in the city. Take a hike or bike ride along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, which borders the lake, or float down the Lady Bird Lake Paddling Trail .

Attend ACL.

Austin is known for its live music scene, and Austin City Limits Music Festival , held in Zilker Park, is a must for music lovers. More than 100 performances take place across eight stages each year. Past performers have included Radiohead, Lionel Richie, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Head to Rainey Street.

In downtown Austin, this strip of bungalow-houses-turned-bars is a popular destination for drinks, delicious grub, and of course, live music. Lucille Patio Lounge , Half Step , and The Container Bar are all great places for a cocktail or two.

Visit McKinney Falls State Park.

Within Austin's city limits is an outdoor oasis that's perfect for unplugging from technology and connecting with nature. Visitors can hike, bike, boulder, stay overnight at one of 81 campsites, or swim in Onion Creek. Check out "Old Baldy" while you're here. It's one of the oldest bald cypress trees in Texas and is more than 500 years old and 103 feet tall.

Cheer on the Longhorns at a game.

Texans are passionate about football, and Austin's University of Texas brings the school spirit every season. In a sea of burnt orange, enthusiastic fans cheer on the Longhorns with storied chants and the "Hook 'Em" hand symbol swaying through the air.

Hang out in Zilker Metropolitan Park.

Austinites love spending time in Zilker Metropolitan Park , located in downtown Austin near Lady Bird Lake. The park's 351 acres are great for picnicking, meeting a new dog friend or two, disc golf, hiking, biking, and even paddling. The Barton Springs Pool is also located here.

Learn your Texas history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Known as the official history museum of Texas, the Bullock is the place to learn about the story of Texas. See the 300-year-old ship of French explorer La Salle that sank in Matagorda Bay, numerous Indigenous artifacts, and more.

Have a night on Sixth Street.

While Sixth Street tends to be a bit rowdy, it's long been the place to party in Austin. The street closes to through traffic from Thursdays through Saturday nights, meaning there's lots of people parading up and down the street in search of cheap drinks, entertainment, and that late-night slice of pizza.

Go dancing at Broken Spoke.

Put your dancin' boots on and head to Broken Spoke , a dance hall that's been open since 1964 and has seen performances from legends such as George Strait, Garth Brooks, and Dolly Parton. They even offer dance lessons for those new to two-steppin'.

Visit the LBJ Presidential Library and Museum.

On the University of Texas campus, the LBJ Presidential Library houses 45 million pages of historical documents, 650,000 photos, and 5,000 hours of recordings from President Johnson's political career. There are also over 54,000 objects to see, such as the desk used for the signing of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Hike Mount Bonnell.

Among the top things to do in Austin is get a bird's-eye view of the metropolis at Mount Bonnell , one of the city's highest points at 781 feet. After climbing 102 stairs you'll reach the top, where you can take in breathtaking views of downtown and the 360 Bridge. A pavilion and viewing deck allow you to rest up before descending.

Visit the Harry Ransom Center.

Hone into your intellectual side at the Harry Ransom Center , which houses almost 1 million books, over 42 million manuscripts, millions of photographs, and 100,000 works of art. Highlights include some of Einstein's unpublished notes and calculations on general relativity, original works by Frida Kahlo, and Jack Kerouac's notebook from writing "On the Road."

Eat craft barbecue.

Texas is known for its unbeatable barbecue scene, and Austin is home to some of the best 'cue in the state. Leroy and Lewis , Distant Relatives , Valentina's Tex-Mex Barbecue , and La Barbecue are just a few of the top BBQ joints.

Visit a honky tonk.

For a true Texas experience, visiting a honky tonk is a must-do activity, and Austin has some of the best. Strap on your boots and head to the dance floor for country music and a good time. The White Horse , Sam's Town Point , Giddy Up's , and The Little Longhorn Saloon are all great for a boot-scootin' good time.

Stay over in style.

While the live music and dining scene in Austin is thriving, the city is also home to some great hotels. Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt , Heywood Hotel , and Austin Proper Hotel are all gorgeous, while Lake Austin Spa Resort stuns on Lake Austin.

Sip your way through local breweries.

You can't be the "Live Music Capital of the World" and not have great beers to go alongside an evening of fun. Thankfully, Austin is packed with one-of-a-kind breweries across the city. Jester King offers up top-notch farmhouse ales in Hill Country, while Pinthouse , St. Elmo , and Austin Beerworks are just a few of the big hitters in town.

Go mural hopping.

Across the city, vibrant murals don the walls of buildings, displaying everything from Janis Joplin and Willie Nelson to an enormous golden-cheeked warbler. One of the most fun things to do in Austin is a self-guided tour of the best street art around town.

Grab a glass at local distilleries.

Austin and the surrounding Hill Country area are home to a number of great distilleries, and many of them have excellent tasting rooms where you can relax and have a cocktail. Desert Door Distillery , Deep Eddy Vodka , and Garrison Brothers are all fantastic distilleries just outside of town.

See a show at the Paramount Theatre.

Since 1915, patrons have been coming to this storied theater to see performances from legends like Harry Houdini, Duke Ellington, and Katharine Hepburn. Today's shows include musical performances, magic shows, interviews, and more.

Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 Guide

Related articles.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things to do in Austin right now

Explore the Texas capital with our guide to the best things to do in Austin, from outdoor activities to annual events

Everyone wants to come away from their trip feeling like they saw it all and hope they never stumble across a TikTok post-trip highlighting a destination and making them ask, “Did I even go to [blank]?”

Austin, Texas, is one of the cities you don't want to miss out on. With its crave-worthy restaurants and vibrant bar scene , it's the kind of place to spur a first-timer to consider moving here to save on making frequent trips back. It's also a big city with a rural feel. Think natural wonders punctuating a lively downtown, where some of the country's largest festivals happen to take place.

Below, you'll find Texan landmarks that’ll make any wannabe cowboy hoot n' holler and spots that buck all expectations. Whether it's your first time here or you're a newbie looking to get a lay of the land, these are the best things to do in Austin. 

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Austin The best hotels in Austin The best Airbnbs in Austin The best spa hotels in Austin

This guide was updated by Austin-based writer Deven Wilson . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Austin

1.  Congress Avenue Bridge

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 from the water under the bridge for a closer look. Each August, Bat Fest celebrates the little vampires with food, drink, bands and other entertainment spanning the length of the bridge.

2.  Barton Springs

• Things to do

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 and an endangered little guy called the Barton Springs Salamander. The "Splash! into the Edwards Aquifer" exhibit in the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center near the bathhouse teaches guests about the history and biology of the springs. This will be relocated to the main entrance of the pool in 2024.

3.  University of Texas Turtles

View this post on Instagram A post shared by HenrikJaron (@henrikjaron)

What is it? On the north side of the UT Tower, there’s a collection of ponds home to the iconic campus's unofficial mascot .

Why go? A free and sporadic reason to explore the historic center of UT’s campus, these turtles are the perfect touch of Austin's “weird.” Relax and watch the collection of a few dozen different species of turtles as they swim and run around their lush grounds with the old greenhouse in the background and the looming tower above.

4.  Waterloo Records

• Music and entertainment
• Greater Austin
• price 2 of 4

What is it?  The city’s largest and most prominently located music store is well-stocked with new releases from indie and major-label artists.

Why go? Discover a local band or pick up some weird vinyl from the bargain 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.

5.  Continental Club

• Travis Heights
• price 1 of 4

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.

6.  Pease Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 365 Things Austin (@365thingsaustin)

What is it? Proud home to the Eyore's Birthday Party , this historic park offers year-round reasons to explore its limestone cliff-lined grounds.

Why go?  The celebrated Danish artist Thomas Dambo has added to the growing collection of interactive sculptural elements like the all-ages Treehouse with his latest troll, Malin . Offering a calming presence to an already peaceful park, the reclaimed sculpture is the newest addition to the park's history of blending conservation with culture. Beyond the troll, explore the trials, meander around Shoal Creek's banks and walk downtown without ever seeing a car.

7.  Zilker Park

• Rollingwood

What is it? An ATX institution. The massive park is a playground for outdoor activities and is 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 bring a cooler stuffed with all your faves for a leisurely picnic in the park.

8.  Allen’s Boots

• South River City
• price 3 of 4

What is it? An Austin institution since 1977, Allen's 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.

9.  The Little Gay Shop

What is it? As the storefront suggests, The Little Gay Shop sells art, apparel, books, magazines, and more exclusively from LGBTQIA artists.

Why go? Austin’s famously been a safe space for the queer community in Texas, where y’all truly means y’all. If you’re going to get a quirky souvenir or cheeky gift, this is where you can get it. The owners believe in making art accessible to all, and you’ll also find both original and limited prints at exceptional prices.

10.  Austin City Limits Live

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Austin PBS (@austinpbs)

What is it? Broadcasting long before Austin was trendy, PBS showcases a variety of artists on national TV with a year-round calendar of performances .

Why go? Now, with two stages, one at the Moody Theater downtown and the other a bit more intimate at 3TEN, there’s double the chance of catching a taping of the iconic show. Moody mainly shows off current stars, but get ahead of the music curve and see rising and/or local bands at 3TEN before they get big.

11.  Texas Capitol

• Attractions

What is it?  Standing 14 feet taller than the U.S. capitol building in Washington, D.C., 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 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.>

12.  The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake

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 paddleboard  to cool down afterward.

13.  Franklin BBQ

• Central East Austin

What is it?  Franklin Barbecue produces some of the best brisket in Texas, 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 offer equally delicious meats for a shorter wait time.

14.  Walton's Fancy & Staple

What is it? A Sixth Street restaurant that serves comfort food from brunch to dinner. Everyone’s favorite Miss Congeniality and Austin adoptee, Sandra Bullock, owns it.

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.

15.  Paramount Theatre

• Performing arts space
• Congress Ave District

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 seeing a show was a dress-up occasion. Their annual Anniversary Gala is the hottest ticket in town (Congress Avenue is lined with red carpet leading up to its doors), and they also host a variety of shows throughout the year worthy of a date night.

16.  Austin City Limits

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? Every Austinite has been to ACL at least once in their lives. You can’t miss this fest: With multiple 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.

17.  Broken Spoke

• South Lamar

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.

18.  Higher Ground

What is it? Higher Ground is a spiritually themed restaurant, bar, and nightclub rolled into one huge downtown venue.

Why go?  You’re in the Bible Belt, so you may as well keep with holy themes. Higher Ground promises a sinfully good time, with a space that’s intricately decorated with religious artifacts, stained glass windows, and a DJ booth made from a vintage organ. As for spirits, there are a ton of them here (the liquor sort). Go bananas.

19.  Veracruz All Natural

• East Cesar Chavez

What is it?  This standout taco truck is revered for everything from its migas to its 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.

20.  Mount Bonnell

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.

21.  Bullock Museum

• Arts District

What is it?  Discover four centuries of Texas history through abundant 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 . 

22.  Desert Door Distillery

What is it?  Desert Door Distillery is the U.S.’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 deeply rooted in Native American history and culture. Visit the distillery for tours and tastes, then stick around for cocktails in the stylish tasting room with comfy couches, a fireplace and regional art.

23.  Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum

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 joketeller himself.

24.  Hamilton Pool

• Parks and gardens

What is it?  This stunning natural pool is located in Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and 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, and occasionally bacteria levels make swimming impossible.

25.  Laguna Gloria

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, 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 .

26.  Mayfield Park

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 freely. The vibrant males strut their stuff most prominently in late winter and early spring.

27.  Peter Pan Mini-Golf

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.

28.  University of Texas Tower

• Walks and tours

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 . 

More great things to do in Austin

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out Products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

50 Fun Things to Do in Austin

There’s truly something for everyone in Austin. Whether you’re looking for live music , must-see museums , authentic Texas cuisine , scenic outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun , our city offers it all.

Here are 50 of the best things to do in Austin to kick-start your trip.

Restaurants

Local shopping, live music & nightlife, arts & culture, outdoor activities.

1. Try Austin’s favorite food: tacos ! Some of the best are served up by Veracruz All Natural , Fresa’s Chicken al Carbon and Torchy’s Tacos .

2. Sample a variety of food trucks in one location at The Picnic , where you’ll find homemade pasta from  Cannone Cucina Italiana   and authentic Thai cuisine at  Coat & Thai .

3. You’re not doing Austin right if you don’t try some of our world-famous barbecue . Get in line for the ultra-tender brisket crafted by James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Aaron Franklin at Franklin Barbecue . Try the Brisket Frito Pie topped with chili and cheddar cheese at Micklethwait Craft Meats . Or sample Texas-style (and sized) dino beef ribs at Stiles Switch .

4. Dine alfresco (even in winter!) on the heated patios at Grizzelda’s (Tex-Mex cuisine) and Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill (American fare), or sip on craft cocktails and slurp oysters on the oak-tree shaded patio at Perla's (seafood).

5. Taste your way along the scenic Texas Hill Country wine trail , home to more than 50 wineries. Or sample the brews from local microbreweries on the Austin Craft Beer Trail .

6. Dine at Fareground , Austin’s very first food hall, featuring outposts of some of the city’s favorite eateries, including a variety of bite-size sammies at Jewboy Sliders .

7. Enjoy brunch with a side of music at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q , serving up lip-smacking barbecue during its rousing Sunday Gospel Brunch. Or meet the locals at  Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden , where 200+ craft beers are served, and 30 varieties of sausage are grilled during the Sunday Big Band Brunch.

8. Don’t leave Austin without sampling some of our town’s best Tex-Mex cuisine , including barbecue breakfast tacos from Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ , Bob Armstrong queso at Matt’s El Rancho and sizzling fajitas from Maudie’s .

9. Make your first stop at the Austin Visitor Center and get insider tips on the best Austin has to offer, hop on a tour and shop locally made items. You can also check out the online Gift Shop for Austin-themed goodies.

10. Shop  South Congress Avenue , known for its funky stores and chic boutiques. Check out the kicks at  Allens Boots , one-of-a-kind jewelry and clothing by local artisans at  Paper Work  and vintage treats at Big Top Candy Shop .

11. Flip through the extensive selection of vinyl at Waterloo Records and catch a free in-store performance by an emerging local musician.

12. Spend some time at the original flagship Whole Foods Market , where you’ll find restaurants, a beer and wine bar, a food truck, and free rooftop live music and events.

13. Shop ‘til you drop in the 2ND Street District , teeming with Austin-owned boutiques that offer everything from music-inspired apparel at Austin Rocks to gorgeous jewelry from Eliza Page and tailored menswear from League of Rebels .

14. Start your day with farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, colorful flowers and live music at the  SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown , held Saturdays in Republic Square .

15. Search for retro treasures in the North Loop neighborhood, where  Room Service Vintage  and  Blue Velvet  are good bets for affordable clothing and home decor finds.

16. Listen to Texas singers, songwriters and musicians perform in the Oak Garden at  Güero’s Taco Bar  on Wednesdays as part of the  Texas Radio Live  series presented by Sun Radio. Limited seating available.

17. Get a taste of Austin’s cocktail culture at Whisler's , known for creative concoctions with unique ingredients, and the reservations-only Midnight Cowboy , serving classic libations in a sultry speakeasy.

18. Slip into a real honky-tonk and go two-stepping at Broken Spoke , known for its chicken-fried steak and free dinner show; do some boot-scootin' at  The White Horse , with live country jams; or drop in at Little Longhorn Saloon  during its six-days-a-week happy hour, with $2.50 Lone Star beers.

19. Watch a band at the legendary Continental Club on South Congress Avenue, which has been hosting live music ranging from rock to country for 60 years, and is often the site of surprise celebrity performances.

20. Hit some of Austin’s best LGBTQ+ bars on Fourth Street in the  Downtown Warehouse District , with dancing and drag queens at hot spots that include Rain on 4th , Highland Lounge and Oilcan Harry’s .

21. Toast the latest Texas Longhorn victory at  Scholz Garten , Austin’s oldest drinking establishment and the  place to celebrate University of Texas football wins since 1893.

22. Fall brings exciting events to Austin. Tune in for this year's hybrid edition of the annual Texas Book Festival , held November 11-12; explore galleries, museums and artist workshops around Austin at the Austin Studio Tour , November 4-19; and get a jump on your holiday shopping at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar , running from November 17 through Christmas Eve.

23. View a stunning collection of modern art at  The Contemporary Austin  at the Jones Center and get free same-day entry to  The Contemporary Austin–Laguna Gloria , a Mediterranean-style villa with an outdoor sculpture park on Lake Austin. Advance tickets are required.

24. Stop in at the historic Texas Capitol Visitors Center  and get a Lone Star State history lesson during a free guided tour of the handsome pink granite Texas State Capitol .

25. Play it smart at the Thinkery , Austin’s hands-on children’s museum that incorporates science and technology into the fun with interactive exhibits and engaging activities. Open Tuesday-Sunday.

26. Visit the free Brush Square Museums that include the limited-entry  Susanna Dickinson Museum (the only Anglo adult survivor of the Battle of the Alamo) and the O. Henry Museum , former residence of the famed short story writer.

27. Visit an impressive collection of museums at the University of Texas at Austin , including the Blanton Museum of Art , featuring Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin , a stone building with brilliantly colored glass windows (advance tickets required); the Harry Ransom Center , housing cultural archives that include the first photo; and the LBJ Presidential Library , with inspiring exhibits on President Lyndon Baines Johnson photo.

28. Snap a selfie in front of one of Austin’s iconic  murals . The popular  I love you so much  mural is painted on the wall of  Jo's Coffee  on South Congress Avenue.  Hi, How Are You  features a bug-eyed bullfrog named Jeremiah, originally drawn by outsider folk artist Daniel Johnston, near the  University of Texas at Austin  campus. And the colorful  Greetings from Austin  postcard is a must-shoot in  South Austin .

29. Celebrate African-American heritage at the  George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center  through exhibits, programs and theatrical productions.

30. See a classic film at the  Paramount Theatre , a century-old performance venue and movie theater located in the heart of downtown Austin.

31. Get an insider’s look at the history and culture of Texas at the  Bullock Museum , containing three floors of interactive exhibits, the Texas Spirit Theater, an  IMAX Theatre  and the Story of Texas Cafe. Limited capacity, with timed-entry tickets.

32. Take a free guided tour (with  advance reservations ) of the elegant  Texas Governor’s Mansion , built in 1854 as the official residence of Texas governors and their families.

33. See a comedy show at  Esther's Follies , specializing in political satire and hilarious musical numbers, or  Fallout Theater , presenting sketch, stand-up and improv comedy shows by new and seasoned comedians.

34. View Mexican and Latin American artworks at the  Mexic-Arte Museum , and snap a photo with one of the revolving murals painted on the side of the museum.

35. Catch a limited-seating concert at ACL Live at The Moody Theater , named for the long-running Austin City Limits television music series filmed here, which hosts artists of every genre and offers behind-the-scenes tours .

36. Browse the vibrant galleries that showcase local emerging artists, including  Austin Art Garage   (open limited hours),  Women & Their Work  and the  Old Bakery & Emporium  (located in an 1870s national landmark on Congress Avenue), which presents juried art shows.

37. See everything from opera to dance and family musicals at the Long Center , one of Austin’s leading performance venues. This state-of-the-art venue offers both indoor and outdoor performances on their three stages.

38. Tour the free  Elisabet Ney Museum , housed in what was once the German-born sculptress’ studio, and see portrait sculptures of notable 19 th  century Texans.

39. Bike or hike along the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake, which winds along the shoreline and boasts panoramic views of Austin’s skyline.

40. Hike up the stone steps of  Mount Bonnell   and get a sweeping view of the city from atop this Lake Austin landmark that has been a popular attraction since the 1850s.

41. Explore Mayfield Park , home to incredible gardens and colorful preening peacocks that make the perfect backdrop for your photos.

42. Putt your way through the kitschy Peter Pan Mini Golf , featuring two 18-hole mini golf courses filled with fun obstacles and colorful characters that include a towering T. rex.

43. Hike or bike along the  Barton Creek Greenbelt  to find Gus Fruh, a swimming hole known for its famed Urban Assault limestone rock wall that’s a favorite of climbers. Explore further to discover the hidden Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls areas.

44. Join fellow Texas Longhorn fans in cheering on the beloved University of Texas at Austin Longhorns. Limited seating available at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium   for football games. 45. Harness the cowboy spirit in the Texas Hill Country during a guided horseback trail ride with  Maverick Horseback Riding  in Lockhart or  Texas Trail Rides , just outside downtown Austin.

46. Take a swing at the  Harvey Penick Golf Campus , featuring a PGA Tour-designed nine-hole golf course and Austin’s first-ever, 18-hole Footgolf course, which combines the best elements of soccer and golf for a high-energy game.

47. Make tracks to the free  Austin Nature & Science Center  to explore nature trails, see small wildlife creatures and dig for “dinosaur fossils” in the Dino Pit.

48. Wander around  Zilker Park , a 360-acre oasis in the heart of the city that’s home to the  Zilker Botanical Garden  and leafy trails that lead to outdoor artworks at the  UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum .

49. Hike through a Texas Hill Country landscape of limestone cliffs and stone river beds along the Pedernales River at  Pedernales Falls State Park . Follow Juniper Ridge Trail, which leads to the park’s rushing Pedernales Falls.

50. For an adrenaline rush coupled with an awesome view,  Lake Travis Zipline Adventures  offers five pulse-pounding ziplines (one being the longest in Texas) to whisk you away on an exciting outdoor adventure.

Discover more things to do in Austin today, this week and this weekend with our online event calendar here . 

Guest Blogger

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Texas Chevron

Austin Chevron

19 Best Things to Do in Austin

By Mandy Ellis and Jonathan Thompson

Between sets in the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin’s motley medley of outdoor routes fill up your itinerary fast. Lace up your combat boots or converse to stroll public art installations, get some work done on a lake-view butterfly terrace, or hear a pride of peacocks call to each other by day and watch Austin’s famous bat colony fly by sunset. Don’t fret, there’s always time to shop for cowboy boots ahead of your two-step lesson, grab a locally-inspired craft drink on a shady patio, or dip into one of the city’s naturally chilly swimming holes. Not sure where to start? Here are the best things to do in Austin according to our experts.

Read our complete Austin travel guide here.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Congress Avenue Bridge Arrow

Crowds gather nightly on the Congress Avenue Bridge, at sunset, to watch Austin’s urban bat colony fly out from their home on the underside of the bridge over Lady Bird Lake . The 45-minute spectacle is one of those only-in-Austin happenings. The colony of Mexican free-tailed bats is the largest in an urban environment in North America—about 1.5 million bats take flight each night to feed (on pesky insects like mosquitoes, making the animal a local hero). Note that the spectacle is seasonal, typically from May through October; during the winter, the bats migrate elsewhere. And even though the whole thing lasts 45 minutes, you get the idea in under five. If you can pair your viewing with another activity downtown —not difficult, as this part of town is extremely lively—it's worth making time to watch.

The Continental Club Arrow

The red front doors and solid black exterior set the tone for this well-worn, slightly gritty concert venue. But the surrounds fit right in with the storied past of the place—it's internationally acclaimed for launching the careers of the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan, as well as musicians from all kinds of genres (blues, jazz, rock, country). The crowd varies based on the show (so do the cover charges, so check ahead of time ), but everyone is here for the nightly live music and the bottled beers—usually as part of a night of bar-hopping on the lively South Congress Avenue, or ‘SoCo’ (‘First Thursdays’ are particularly big, when the entire street turns into an enormous block party, with late openings, special offers ,and live music seeming to pour from every doorway).  

Blanton Museum of Art Arrow

This museum at The University of Texas has a compact collection that does an excellent job covering numerous genres. There are early Renaissance paintings, Roman-era pottery, modern works housed in the contemporary gallery, a vast prints collection, and Native American and Latin American works. It's impossible to miss (as in, you should not skip, as well as it is literally not possible to miss since it's at the front door) Teresita Fernández Stacked Waters : acrylic panels in ombre shades of blue that cover the walls and staircase in the museum's atrium to create a submerged-in-water feeling. 

Firehouse Lounge Arrow

Tucked behind the fold of a secret bookshelf door in Austin’s oldest fire station built in 1885, Firehouse Lounge harkens history with turn-of-the-century Singer sewing machines holding up tables, an old oxygen tank tucked in the spirits shelf, and rich red damask wallpaper glowing against tiny candles. Black leather benches and slim lacquered wood stools surround the multicolored wood bar for a mix of 1920s speakeasy district meets underground dive bar. As you grab drinks, you hear jazz or blues, or is that a DJ, or maybe rock from their live music stage.Since it’s hiding in a hostel, you’ll find all kinds of atrons, from 20-something travelers and locals all the way to music-loving elders, depending on who’s playing live that night and which old-timey drinks they’re imbibing in.

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Matt Ortile

Emily Saladino

Barton Springs Municipal Pool Arrow

This massive public swimming pool, fed by a natural spring, is one of Austin’s most prized outdoor settings. It's set within well-kept Zilker Park, which has lots of shade and lawns for sunbathing, and remains blissfully undisturbed by the city's whiplash growth. Not to mention the water temperature is a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it a much-needed respite during extremely hot summers, and perfectly pleasant in the wintertime, too. The pool is also famously topless-friendly, though sightings are rare. Be prepared for a bit of a walk if you can't park close by, as the parking lot fills up with locals quickly. 

Franklin Barbecue Arrow

A standout star within  Austin’s heavyweight barbecue scene , Franklin draws lines that are as epic as its world-renowned brisket. Take a tip from the regulars: come early, come hungry, and come with a collapsible chair (you don't want to stand for three or four hours if you can avoid it). The good news is that you can now preorder  up to six weeks in advance, as long as you’re committed to at least three pounds of meaty treats. Just don’t miss that luscious oak-smoked brisket with its distinctive peppery exterior; it’s tender enough to cut with a spoon.

Read our entire guide to Austin's best barbecue here .

Rainey Street Arrow

At first glance,  Rainey Street  looks like a sleepy suburban avenue with quiet wooden verandas and picket fences, but at night, it  really  wakes up. Here, the craftsman-era bungalow homes, many dating back to the late 19th Century, have been renovated into a string of hipster-friendly bars and restaurants. Wander around and you’ll see food trucks tucked in alongside renowned nightlife spots like  Half Step , Geraldine’s , Lustre Pearl, Emmer & Rye , and Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden . It’s a spot to relax on a porch or picnic table with your kids or your dog during the day, and party with friends or your significant other at night.

Allens Boots Arrow

The first thing you'll notice when you walk into this Austin institution on South Congress Avenue is the smell of leather. Then the shelves that house thousands of pairs of cowboy boots, from exotic Caiman crocodile skin to trendy Western booties. Texans will recognize brands like Lucchese and Tony Lama; the uninitiated might gravitate toward Frye. Need a whole head-to-toe look? There are cowboy hats, belts, leather jackets, jeans, and other accessories. If you've never owned cowboy boots, try on a pair even if you have no intention of buying them. It's an experience from beginning to end, right down to the art of removing them. 

Austin Central Library Arrow

Brilliant bright windows illuminate more than 500,000 books inside the award-winning LEED-certified library with vast views of Lady Bird Lake and Shoal Creek. Its metal and glass exterior striping and industrial structure fit the Seaholm District, and the 37-foot-tall red kinetic sculpture with an enormous cuckoo clock taken over by blackbirds is a must witness. Six stories are cut across by zig-zagged staircases that wiggle up to a rooftop butterfly garden, rotating art exhibits, and a kid’s area with life-sized chess and a technology petting zoo with 3-D printer. Accessible programming from cooking to music to puppet shows happens here, as does reading and work while lounging in the dozens of different types of colorful seating dotting the contemporary concrete, metal, and wood interior.

The White Horse Arrow

This is perhaps the coolest honky-tonk in Austin. The simple space puts newcomers at ease, while regulars take to the dance floor when live music is playing every night on a very small stage. A photo booth, pool tables, and a small yard with seating allow for breathers between sets. With a full bar that serves whiskey on tap, the energy at this dive never seems to wane; neither does the flow of cheap drinks. And the dynamic crowd is one of the best surprises here—a multigenerational mix of hipsters, ranchers, rockabillies, and bikers convene nightly. 

Meanwhile Brewing Arrow

You may come to Meanwhile’s dark gray warehouse for their ultra-cool, vintage-industrial taproom of 20 rotating beers, but you’re staying a few hours for the rest of their 3.7 acres. Their dog- and kid-friendly patio includes a mod-style live music stage that sets the tone with strings of lights, plenty of picnic seating over woodchips and under shady oaks, and a wooden playground with log bridges and tunnels. You can rent their turf soccer field, dine at some of the city’s best food trucks, or hang out at one of their many free events from workouts to art to differently-abled experiences. Food trucks to pair with beers are sprinkled around the outdoor patio offering some of Austin’s best like Distant Relatives’ pecan- and hardwood-smoked barbecue, Bésame’s rotating ice creams, Pueblo Viejo’s street and breakfast tacos, wood-fired pizza with organic sauces and meats from Side Eye Pie, and Songbird’s sandwiches and salads.

"You're My Butter Half" Mural Arrow

Insta-famous East Austin outdoor mural created in 2012 by local designer John Rockwell and the Creative Suitcase team as a love letter to Austin. It’s less tourist-y, but still gets plenty of likes thanks to bright aquamarine paint surrounding a heart between a slice of bread and a pat of butter emoting, “You’re My Butter Half.” The mural lives on the side of the brick United Way Building, and is surrounded by walkable restaurants and coffeeshops like Bennu Coffee, Thunderbird Coffee, Sour Duck Market, Salty Sow, Nixta Taqueria, Birdie’s, Bird Bird Biscuit, Dai Due, Este, and Haymaker. If you need to wait for your photo, pick up delectable coffee or food, or hang out at the picnic table.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake Arrow

Crowds flock to Lady Bird Lake all year to kayak and paddleboard on the Colorado River. Multiple companies, like Rowing Dock and Texas Rowing Center, have kayaks and paddleboards for rent, and the area is dog-friendly. While you're out, check the birds, fish, and other wildlife around the lake, and enjoy the tree-lined shores as well as the striking lakefront homes. If you’re paddling at night, don’t miss bat season from May to October. You can watch 1.5 million of them fly overhead as they head out to hunt. Rentals range from $10 to $20 per hour, or up to $45 for the day. It’s a rather inexpensive way to enjoy Austin’s outdoors without breaking your budget. Active travelers with kids or pets, or those who just want a closer view of the scenery, this activity is ideal for you.

Birdie's Arrow

Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and Arjav Ezekiel form the power couple morphing a New York fine-dining background into a strong focus on local artisan farmers and winemakers. The result is lavish-approachable, forever-changing seasonal American menu with French and Italian influences. Don’t miss the handmade pasta of the day (it’s first-come-first-serve until sold out), steak aligned with peppercorn sauce and fingerlings, or swirling seasonal vanilla soft serve with guest appearances by citrus-flavored olive oil or gala apples. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of their popups folded in during the year consisting of one-time menus with creative edge.

The Contemporary Austin Arrow

The Contemporary is composed of two different venues: The Jones Center, a striking building on a busy downtown street corner, and Laguna Gloria, a 14-acre outdoor site on Lake Austin that houses a sculpture park and 14th century Italianate-style villa. The museum also runs a program called "Museum Without Walls," which aims to bring art out into the community, as well as a public art collaboration with Waller Creek Conservancy, a chain of parks around a restored Waller Creek in downtown Austin. You can cover the small number of artworks at the Jones Center in particular pretty quickly, so this is a stop to add on to an already planned itinerary.

Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater Arrow

Musicians of all genres perform in this intimate theater for live tapings of the longstanding PBS concert series, Austin City Limits . If you're lucky enough to snag a ticket through the lottery system, grab a drink at the bar on the outdoor patio overlooking downtown Austin before the show. Then take your seat inside the intimate venue, where the atmosphere is charged as some of the biggest names in music take the stage. They'll often perform stripped-down or acoustic sets, so you can really see their talents shine through.

Whisler's Arrow

East 6th is the coolest place to be in Austin, and Whisler's is the coolest place on East 6th. The cocktails are expertly crafted, particularly in the dedicated Mezcal bar upstairs (Mezcaleria Tobala). They do the basics very well (an outstanding Old Fashioned, for example, and a great hot toddy during the winter months), with some interesting additions that will pique the curiosity (and tickle the taste buds) of more experienced cocktail drinkers. Come here for a night out with a friends, but not the messy kind.

Uncommon Objects Arrow

Completely and utterly idiosyncratic, this is the hippest flea market you will ever visit. Picture a sprawling emporium full of fascinating items you could easily spend hours poring over. With jewelry, retro toys, and neon signs to brighten up your space, it's a  temple to American hipster weirdness and it's absolutely brilliant. There are 24 professional antique sellers permanently based here, so if you're after something specific (or to fill a specific corner in your home), then seek one out for the insider intel. Otherwise, be warned that you could easily lose hours on end in this place.

Violet Crown Trail Arrow

Over 13 connected miles of flourishing green spaces start at Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt and snake down to Slaughter Creek and Dick Nichols Park. Shortly, when the 30-miles of trail with giant oaks and winding creeks is completed, it’ll be the longest in Central Texas running from downtown Austin to Onion Creek. Manicured and wild trails, paved and smoothed dirt are hiking, biking, cycling, running, or rollerblading options along with walking your dog (or family) amongst wildflowers and wildlife. Favorite spots in Barton Creek like Campbell’s Hole and the Flats as well as climbing walls, creeks and urban wildlands, open green spaces, and off-trail pathways are here to venture into. Trail maps stand at different inflection points, but because Violet Crown is extensive, each piece varies in what you see in the surrounding area.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

10 Must-Do Adventures Near Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is one of those towns where once you know, you know.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Austin has a well-established reputation as a live music mecca and foodie paradise. What flies a little bit under the radar is Austin's adventure-loving heart. From swimming in natural pools to hiking Mount Bonnell, you'll find that the nights in Austin may belong to music, but the days belong to adventure. 

Here are some of our favorite places to explore in and around Austin.

The Barton Creek Greenbelt runs through south Austin, and the 12-mile trail is the lifeblood of the city's urban outdoor adventures. Take a break from the Texas heat with an easy 1.5 mile hike on the Greenbelt to Sculpture Falls, a large swimming hole that is always a refreshing 70 degrees. 

Speaking of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, you can use to access the rock climbing at Gus Fruh. Urban outdoor rock climbing? Yes, please! This a trad climbing spot, so be sure your party has experience in lead climbing and belaying.

For panoramic views of the city, take the short hike up Mount Bonnell. The trail climbs 300-plus feet to the summit via a series of manmade and natural stairs. Don't forget your camera, and water. It's hot in Texas!

I mean, is there any better way to "Keep Austin Weird" than to visit the Cathedral of Junk? This art piece is open to visitors by appointment, and it's worth the trip. 

McKinney Falls is the perfect place to spend a day away from the bustle of the city. Two falls run best when the water is high, but this is a great spot for swimming and hiking during the hot summer months. Camping is available within the park, too.

Austin is chock full of artistic murals and graffiti, and there's no better way to explore it (and the city itself) than by hopping on a bicycle. Austin's "B-cycle" program has pick up and drop off spots all over the city, and for $12 for a 24 hour pass, it's a no-brainer.

To see and be seen (and to cool off!), head to historic Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Plan to spend the day, because once you arrive you won't want to leave. Zilker Park also has a disc golf course, volleyball courts, botanical gardens, and open-air performance venue that pretty much always has live music or theater on the schedule.

To get a bit off the beaten path, check out the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. This 2.5 mile hike through the woods includes a waterfall, woodlands, and the Wild Basin Creative Research Center . 

Lady Bird Lake isn't so much a lake as a wide section of the Colorado River, but it's the place to watersport in Austin. The calm water is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, plus, you'll get spectacular views of the Austin skyline. 

If you're willing to go a little further afield, don't miss checking out Hamilton Pool Preserve. This swimming hole is in an overhanging rock cave which is fed by a 50 foot waterfall. It is as amazing as it sounds, so get there early to claim a spot on the small beach.

Cover photo by Sarah Williams

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

Erin's Travel Guide to Austin, Texas

Erin Newman-Mitchell

Austin, Texas is renowned for being the Live Music Capital of the world, but what many don't know are the multitude of adventures Austin holds aside from its night scene.

Top 20 hikes near Austin, Texas

Aurora Slaughter

Austin is known for music and food, but it's also full of incredible places to hike! Check out these hikes near Austin to get out of the city and into nature.

25 Must-do hikes in Texas

The Outbound Collective

You've got a lot of ground to cover on Texas hikes!

72 Hours of Adventure in Dallas, Texas

Korey Taylor

Get outside and enjoy the Texas sunshine.

5 Must-Do Adventures Near Houston, Texas

Sarah Vaughn

Escape the city and get outside.

• Local Adventures
• Tours and trips
• Camping Nearby
• Outbound PRO Membership
• Add your property

Mobile Apps

© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy

The 10 best things to do in Austin, Texas

Apr 24, 2024 • 9 min read

A night out is a must on a trip to Austin © Harmon Li for Lonely Planet

Austin has been slowly turning the heads of travelers for the last ten years. It first attracted folks with its quirky slogan of "Keep Austin Weird," and this was followed by music lovers who wanted to experience the live music capital of the world . Today, it draws people who love the city's outdoor offerings, want a Tex-Mex and barbecue foodie experience, or just simply want to have a good time.

No matter your reason for visiting Austin , we want you to experience the very best the city has to offer. We cover all the bases – art, music, hiking, and festivals. While you may not be able to do them all in one trip, we're sure that Austin would welcome you back with open arms time and time again.

1. Float upon Lady Bird Lake

When the city of Austin turned part of the Colorado River into a reservoir, the intention was to create a cooling pond for a power plant. Little did they know how the reservoir, named Lady Bird Lake , would become such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Lady Bird Lake is located just south of downtown Austin, and the 468-acre reservoir is a go-to destination for water sports enthusiasts. Expect to see kayakers, canoers, rowers and paddleboarders on the water every day of the week. Six watercraft rentals, like Zilker Park Boat Rentals and EpicSUP , are located along its shores, making it easy for visitors to rent a watercraft and get out there.

If canoeing and kayaking aren't your thing, you've still got options. Enjoy the serene views of the reservoir via the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and the many lakeside parks that it meanders through.

Planning tip: Experience Lady Bird Lake with someone else at the reins –  Lone Star Riverboats offers sunset and bat-watching cruises, whereas Capital Cruises is a local go-to for dinner and lunch cruises. Austin Duck Adventures is a fun option that takes you on a land and water tour in a Hydra Terra vehicle, which is basically a vehicle that drives right into the reservoir and turns into a boat.

2. Bar hop through Rainey Street

Rainey Street is a charming little district that cozies up to Lady Bird Lake and isn't too far from the Austin Convention Center. It is comprised of historic little bungalows that have been renovated and turned into bars like Half Step and Clive Bar and restaurants such as Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden and Emmer & Rye . Because of the neighborhood's compact size, it's easy to hop from place to place on foot. The lively district feels cozy thanks to the house-style bars – like you're having a drink in your friend's backyard.

3. Take a dip in the Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool , a three-acre spring-fed pool in the city limits, is a truly natural wonder. Fed by four different springs, the average temperature of the water is 68-70°F, which means you can swim here year-round. The water is clear and has an almost turquoise color, with depths of up to 18ft. It opens at 5am and closes at 10pm, which means you can effectively watch the sun rise and set floating in the water. While there is a small fee to swim here in the summer, it's completely free from November 1 to spring break.

Planning tip: Lifeguards are on-site between 8am and 6pm – outside of those hours, you swim at your own risk. Buy your ticket online or at a kiosk when you arrive. Veterans and children under one year old get in free.

4. Have a night out on 6 th Street

Ask any Texan where to party in Austin, and they'll point you to 6th Street . Lovingly referred to as "Dirty Sixth," this entertainment district is located between Congress Avenue and I-35 in Downtown Austin. It's often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans because it's full of bars with live music, restaurants and clubs that bring out visitors during the day and well into the late hours of the night. And like Bourbon Street, 6 th Street closes to through traffic Thursday through Saturday night.

Maggie Mae's may be the most iconic bar on 6 th Street with its five bars, two stages and multiple floors, but there is no shortage of incredible establishments on Dirty 6 th . Dive fans will love The Jackalope , while  Esther's Follies serves up vaudeville acts, comedy and satirical shows. And don't miss  Midnight Cowboy , a reservations-only lounge with a phenomenal cocktail menu.

5. Surround yourself with culture at SXSW

Every March, thousands from around the globe descend upon Austin for South by Southwest (SXSW). Founded in 1987, SXSW is a combination of conferences and festivals; people come together for big discussions on tech, climate change, education, energy, travel, cannabis, the workplace, startups and more. Three different festivals coincide with the conferences – a film and TV festival, a music festival and a comedy festival.

Detour: Austin doesn't shut down just because SXSW is going on – take a break from your packed SXSW itinerary and celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the St. Patrick's Day Austin Festival.

6. Learn about Austin's Chicano and Latine history

As with many parts of Texas, Austin has been influenced by its Chicano and Latine residents since its founding. You can't visit the city without seeing this influence in the town's food, street names, art and music.

Start your journey into the Latine community at the Mexic-Arte Museum , which showcases Mexican and Latine artists from the US and beyond. La Peña Gallery exhibits similar artists on a smaller scale, while Teatro Vivo is a phenomenal destination for English and Spanish performances that focus on the Latine experience. Round out your trip with a self-guided East Austin Barrio Landmarks historic walking tour via Preservation Austin . This tour honors the Mexican-American community of East Austin by taking travelers to important places like the Holly Street Murals, Parque Zaragoza and the Herrera House.

Detour: Austin's Black history is equally as enthralling. Javier Wallace is the founder of Black Austin Tours  – his tours recount how people of African descent have shaped ATX, and he even takes travelers onto the Colorado River to show how the waterway was used in race-based enslavement and as an important gathering spot in Austin's Black community.

7. Hike to waterfalls and swimming holes without leaving the city

Most US cities don't have hiking destinations within the city limits, but Austin does. Southwest of Downtown Austin is a 7.25-mile green space called the Barton Creek Greenbelt . Barton Creek runs through this public land area, creating a fantastic geological destination full of 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, forests, waterfalls, swimming holes and cliffsides for climbing.

For this reason, Barton Creek Greenbelt is incredibly popular – especially on weekends and in the summer. Steep ascents make for strenuous hikes while swimming holes bring folks together to swim and relax. Twin Falls, Sculpture Falls, Gus Fruh and Campbell's Hole are some of the most popular destinations within the park, but they're just a few of the beautiful and magical aspects of this truly magnificent outdoor destination.

8. Listen to amazing bands at Austin City Limits Music Festival

The "live music capital of the world" offers tunes at a wide range of bars every day of the week, but die-hard music fans should consider attending the Austin City Limits Music Festival.

In 1974, KLRU-TV created Austin City Limits, a televised concert series on PBS that's been going strong ever since. In 2002, Austin City Limits launched a Music Festival and has since featured over 100 artists at Zilker Park . The festival brings out 225,000 patrons every year for a two-weekend event. It's the ultimate music festival, one that will have you listening to world-famous and Texas-based musicians at nine different stages.

Planning tip: There is no parking at Zilker Park during the festival (except for a limited amount of accessible parking spaces), so you'll have to consider other transportation options. The most sustainable transportation method is to rent a MetroBike and park it with the MetroBike valet. A free shuttle runs between downtown and the festival, meaning you can walk to the pick-up spot from your downtown Austin hotel or a parking garage and it'll take you to one of the entrances. CapMetro has some public bus routes that stop near Zilker Park, but you'll have to walk the rest of the way. The festival usually partners with Uber and has specific areas where you can be dropped off and picked up by your rideshare.

9. Shop along South Congress Avenue or the other amazing independent shops in Austin

Austin isn't without malls, but the most "Austin-y" experience you can have is shopping down South Congress Avenue. Nicknamed "SoCo," it is the ultimate shopping destination for hipster boutiques, funky shops and western wear.

When you buy a beautifully made outfit at Cove Boutique , you're supporting an Austin woman-owned shop. Go full cowboy and get your hat at Maufrais and your boots at Heritage Boot Co. or Tecovas . And if thrift store or vintage shopping is for you, Prototype Vintage is a must-visit. Don't forget to support Austin authors at South Congress Books , a great place to decompress after some time spent in the overwhelming and colorful costume store, Lucy in Disguise .

We also love these suggestions from writer  James Wong with all the best independent shops in Austin. If you're trying to decide the best one to go to, Nina Beranato Jewlery is a fave with Beyoncé, so....

Detour: South Congress is home to one of Austin's oldest and most famous attractions: Peter Pan Mini Golf . Since 1946, this local treasure has been serving up kitschy mini golf over two 18-hole courses. Don't think this is just a destination for families  – the BYOB policy makes it a fun option for adults, too.

Want more shopping recs for Austin?  Head to these beloved local shops

10. Cheer on the Longhorns at a UT Football Game

We know that attending a football game in Texas is a bit on the nose – "football is king in Texas" and all. But even so, cheering on the University of Texas Longhorns is a pretty cool experience. The Darrell K Royal Memorial Stadium is a massive space full of students and fans in orange and white cheering on the most beloved college football team in the state. The chants, the food and the entire atmosphere will knock your socks off in the way that only Texas football can.

Planning tip: Dive into the UT football game well before kick-off with some tailgating fun. Bevo Blvd  is the ultimate pre-game street party, located on San Jacinto Blvd from 20 th Street to the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. Not only is there a street parade, but you get to greet the players as they enter the stadium and maybe even get their autographs, order food and drink from food trucks and watch other football games on two giant screens. The best part? You don't need a ticket to visit Bevo Blvd. All are welcome, even those not attending the game.

Keep planning your trip to Austin:

Explore Austin's surroundings on these day trips Plan your city takeover  in these top neighborhoods  Dive into family fun with  these kid-friendly activities Keep things wallet-friendly with  these free experiences  

This article was first published Jul 26, 2021 and updated Apr 24, 2024.

Explore related stories

Sep 7, 2023 • 4 min read

From unique handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind artworks, explore Austin's diverse and inclusive shops that support local talent.

Aug 31, 2022 • 6 min read

Jan 9, 2020 • 4 min read

Sep 9, 2019 • 4 min read

Apr 24, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 1, 2024 • 12 min read

Feb 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Austin (Road Trip Ideas!)

As absolutely fantastic of a city as Austin is, everyone needs a change of scenery once in a while! These weekend getaways from Austin, including everything from national parks to beach towns, are the perfect way to enjoy a change of pace.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a quick family trip, a vacation with friends, or even a solo adventure, one of these road trips from Austin is no doubt right for you.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

How We Structured Austin Weekend Getaways Guide

We intentionally structured this guide to the best weekend getaways from Austin to cover destinations between roughly 3 and 8 hours from the city (with a couple of small exceptions).

While there are dozens of destinations closer to Austin that could certainly justify a fantastic weekend escape, including Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Waco, and San Antonio, we have already covered those in our Austin day trips guide , so chose not to include them here.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Austin

Garner state park.

Encompassing more than 1700 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country, nearly 3 miles of the stunning Frio River, and roughly 16 miles worth of trails, Garner State Park is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Whether you’d like to hike, camp, float the river, or simply enjoy a picnic and a swim, Garner State Park’s unforgettable beauty will be on full display.

Driving Distance From Austin

Big Bend National Park (+ Beyond)

Home to some of the most stunning views in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a fantastic place to hike and explore–don’t miss the incredible Santa Elena Canyon or the Lost Mine Trail while you’re there!

In addition to the national park, the immediate area surrounding the park has plenty more to see, including Big Bend Ranch State Park and the ghost town of Terlingua. 

If you’d like to go a bit out of your way, this road trip from Austin can also hit up the ultimate Instagram darling of West Texas–the small town of Marfa.

7 hours, 30 minutes.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located just half an hour from Amarillo , not far from Route 66, sits the second-biggest canyon in the USA and one of the best weekend trips from Austin: Palo Duro Canyon!

There are plenty of hikes and overlooks to choose from, but be sure to prioritize hiking to the lighthouse formation! The trail is scorching and can be a bit grueling, especially during the final ascent, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Set just south of the New Mexico border in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas and some incredible hiking trails.

Depending on how long you plan on exploring, you could extend your Austin road trip into New Mexico, as well: just over the border sits Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which features more than 100 caves and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Caverns of Sonora

The founder of the National Speleological Association, Bill Stephenson, once said this about the Caverns of Sonora: “This is the most indescribably beautiful cave in the world, its beauty cannot be exaggerated, not even by a Texan.”

With a sales pitch like that, it’s not hard to see why the Caverns of Sonora are among the most famous caverns in Texas!

Even though they don’t take long to tour, they’re a bit far from the capital for a practical day trip–but they are among the best overnight trips from Austin!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park

While Texas may be classically characterized as a place of desert landscapes and cowboys, at Caddo Lake State Park, you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Austin for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

5 hours, 15 minutes.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Park makes for a beautiful weekend getaway from Austin year-round, but never more so than during the fall, when the park becomes one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Texas!

The foliage is typically best from late October through mid-November and lasts 3-4 weeks, but the season does vary by year, so if you have your heart set on catching the foliage at its best, be sure to check its status before heading out.

2 hours, 45 minutes.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Austin

As the largest city in Texas, the fourth-largest city in the USA, and one of the most diverse cities in the country, it’s safe to say that Houston is packed with enough fun things to do to fill more than one weekend trip from Austin!

Be sure to check out the Space Center Houston and NASA–the most famous of all the attractions in Houston–as well as sample some of Houston’s other top museums and parks.

Head to Kemah Boardwalk for a charming slice of Americana, and be sure to enjoy the food scene: Houston’s diversity is perhaps best displayed through its enormous collection of fantastic restaurants featuring cuisines from across the world.

New Orleans

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in the USA, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Austin is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: New Orleans is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

During your weekend in NOLA , consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’ boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway.

Known for big hair, big (oil) money, and big buildings, Dallas is a quintessentially Texan city–and also one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA, with an excellent food scene and plethora of things to do.

Of course, no weekend trip to Dallas would be complete without a somber exploration of the assassination of President Kennedy, whose murder in Dallas in 1963 is one of the most haunting in the USA’s collective memory.

On a lighter note, though, Dallas offers far more than morbid history: with phenomenal shopping, excellent skyline views at Reunion Tower, walkable neighborhoods like the Bishop Arts District, and great gardens and museums (the Dallas Arboretum is stunning), you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during a weekend in Dallas.

Best Beach Road Trips from Austin

South padre island.

The only tropical island in Texas is, hands down, one of the best road trips from Austin. 

Here, you’ll find 34 miles of sandy beaches with calm, beautiful water, dolphins to watch, recovering sea turtles to visit, the opportunity to take a horseback ride on the beach, and some stupendous sunrises.

South Padre Island is one of the most popular beaches in Texas for good reason, and though it is known for its raucous Spring Break parties during March, outside of those weeks, the island is a far more laid-back escape.

5 hours, 30 minutes.

One of the most popular weekend getaways from Austin, but even more so from Houston, Galveston is home to some of Texas’ best-known beaches!

With miles of coastline, a small, picturesque theme park on the Galveston Island Pier, the East End Historic District that features beautiful Victorian-era homes, and tons of family-friendly attractions and parks, Galveston is a favorite for families looking for a quick beach trip in Texas.

Corpus Christi

As one of the closest beaches to Austin, Corpus Christi is popular with visitors looking to enjoy the beach for a bit while still retaining access to some small tastes of city life, like the beautiful Art Museum of South Texas and the interesting USS Lexington, a WWII-era aircraft carrier turned museum.

Mustang Island

Just a bit further from Austin than Corpus Christi–really, so close that you can conceivably visit both places in one trip if you’d like to–sits Mustang Island, a barrier island that is a popular Austin road trip for those looking for beach towns a bit quieter than Corpus Christi.

Port Aransas, the largest town on the island, has a population of merely 4,000, making Mustang Island a laid-back retreat for those looking to fish, go boating, or simply take a swim.

Best Small Town Weekend Trips from Austin

Of all of the weekend getaways from Austin outlined here, this one is the closest to the city–but the best thing to do in Bandera definitely justifies more than a day trip!

As the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera is known for its horseback riding, outdoor activities, and dude ranches!

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at staying on a dude ranch, a weekend in Bandera may be the perfect road trip for you.

As the home of the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail, Ennis (located about 45 minutes from Dallas) is the ultimate road trip from Austin when the flowers are blooming each spring.

Even outside of bluebonnet season, though, Ennis still has plenty of charms that make it worth visiting, including Bardwell Lake, a drive-in movie theater, and historic downtown.

Drive into Dublin, and you’ll be greeted with a gigantic sign in the shape of a 4-leaf clover that reads “Welcome to Dublin, Texas”, making it immediately obvious that Dublin considers it the Irish capital of Texas!

Home of Dublin Bottling Works, which bottled the original Dr. Pepper, Dublin features a Dr. Pepper museum, a bottling tour, beautiful shops and restaurants, and a historic downtown.

Without a doubt, Dublin is one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Map of the Best Weekend Getaways from Austin

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Last Updated On
• September 29, 2023

10 Best Things to Do Near Austin, TX: Fun Places to Visit Nearby!

So you’re in Austin, and let’s face it – the city’s cool, but who can resist the allure of exploring beyond? 

I’ve sauntered my way through Texas, and I can vouch that some of the best things to do near Austin, TX are not to be taken lightly. 

The city is pretty much a gateway to Texas’ greatest hits. 

Think vintage Americana melding with natural sights that’ll have your camera working overtime. 

And because of its primo location, you don’t have to venture far to get a taste of Texas’ legendary history and those “Oh, wow” landscapes. 

Whether it’s for the ‘Gram or pure wanderlust, stepping outside Austin’s borders is like treating yourself to an all-you-can-experience buffet of Americana.

Discover the best attractions near Austin by checking out my tips and reviews below. 

Best Things To Do In Near Austin, TX Compared 

Looking for the best things to do near Austin, TX? 

Check out our top picks for family-friendly fun below.

Editor’s Choice

San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour

San Antonio Alamo Tower & River Cruise Tour is a combination of bus, boat, and viewing tower experience that showcases the city’s highlights.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Educational Value: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour

Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour is a scenic drive through vineyards, orchards, and historic towns that explores the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a theme park with thrill rides, shows, and activities for all ages that opened in 1992 in San Antonio.

• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 2/5

Here are the top 10 things to do near Austin.

1. San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour (Editor’s Choice)

San Antonio, TX (289) 271-9767 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Historical significance: The San Antonio Alamo holds immense historical significance as the site of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. 
• Scenic river cruise: You can enjoy the beautiful views, learn about the history and culture of the area, and even spot some local wildlife.
• Crowds: The Alamo is a popular tourist destination, so it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. 
• Time constraints: The tour may have time constraints due to the combination of visiting the Alamo, the tower, and taking a river cruise. 

Why We Recommend Going Here

The San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour should be at the top of your family’s travel list. 

The Alamo, a legendary symbol of Texas, takes you back to the thrilling Battle of the Alamo. 

As you explore its hallowed grounds, you’ll sense the bravery and sacrifice that shaped American history. 

But the adventure doesn’t stop there.

Hop on a river cruise along the enchanting San Antonio River, where the city comes alive in vibrant colors. 

Marvel at the stunning Tower of the Americas, a soaring icon that offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. 

It’s the perfect backdrop for your Instagram-worthy family photos.

Distance from Austin

The distance between Austin, TX, and San Antonio, where the Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour is located, is approximately 80 miles. 

It’s a manageable drive of around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the route you take.

Recommended Hotel Near San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour: Grand Hyatt San Antonio

Related: Best Things to Do in Austin

2. Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour

1343 Hallmark Dr San Antonio, TX 78216 (800) 341-6000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Scenic beauty: This tour provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.
• Historical and cultural insight: The LBJ Ranch, also known as the Texas White House, offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson. 
• Travel time: The Texas Hill Country is located outside of Austin and requires a significant amount of travel time to reach. 
• Limited activities: If you’re looking for a more action-packed itinerary or a variety of entertainment options, this tour might not be the best choice.

If you’re seeking a delightful blend of history, scenic beauty, and good ol’ Texas charm, the Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour should be at the top of your list.

This tour is like a time machine that transports you back to the days of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States. 

The Texas Hill Country is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and this tour allows you to immerse yourself in its natural splendor.

Furthermore, the tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the stories and anecdotes that bring the LBJ Ranch to life. 

Their enthusiasm is infectious, making the journey all the more captivating for visitors of all ages.

The distance between Austin and the LBJ Ranch is approximately 68 miles, which translates to roughly an hour and a half drive depending on traffic conditions.

Recommended Hotel Near Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour: DoubleTree by Hilton San Antonio Downtown

Related: Best Restaurants in Austin

3. Six Flags Fiesta Texas

17000 IH-10 West San Antonio, TX 78257 (210) 697-5050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Thrilling rides: If you’re an adrenaline junkie or enjoy amusement park experiences, this is a great place to visit and have a fun-filled day with friends or family.
• Entertainment options: From live music to spectacular shows, there’s always something happening at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
• Crowds and wait times: Being a popular amusement park, Six Flags Fiesta Texas can get extremely crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. 
• Additional expenses: Food, drinks, parking, and souvenirs can all contribute to a higher overall cost, potentially impacting your budget for the day.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable family getaway, let me introduce you to Six Flags Fiesta Texas—the ultimate thrill-seeker’s paradise. 

With heart-pounding roller coasters, dazzling live shows, and attractions for all ages, Six Flags Fiesta Texas has it all.

Nothing quite matches the adrenaline rush you’ll get from conquering the twists and turns of Batman: The Ride or soaring through the sky on Superman: Krypton Coaster. 

The sheer variety of rides, from gentle spins to mind-bending drops, ensures everyone in the family finds something to enjoy.

Beyond the rides, the park boasts incredible shows and entertainment, captivating audiences with acrobatics, music, and special effects. 

You can take a breather and enjoy a spectacular live performance before diving back into the adrenaline rush.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is located in San Antonio, Texas, which is approximately 80 miles southwest of Austin. 

It’s a relatively easy and scenic drive for 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a great day trip or weekend excursion for families visiting Austin.

Recommended Hotel Near Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Home2 Suites By Hilton San Antonio At The Rim, Tx

Related: Best Restaurants in Bastrop

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Austin

4. San Antonio Aquarium

6320 Bandera Rd Leon Valley, TX 78238 (210) 310-3210 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for more family-friendly options besides exploring the best things to do in Austin with kids ?

Why not pay a visit to the San Antonio Aquarium?

Home to thousands of intriguing creatures, this aquatic museum also has interactive exhibits and family-friendly attractions.

From San Antonio’s lakes to the world’s deep oceans, the aquarium will take you on a memorable underwater adventure.

Our personal favorites include the moray eels, jellyfish, and blacktip reef sharks.

You and your kids will also have a blast touching the facility’s friendly mammals, especially its latest addition: Kiwi the sloth.

Not to mention, it has an incredible medley of activities for the whole gang, like Mermaids at the Aquarium.

From Austin, take I-35 S to get to San Antonio Aquarium.

Travel time is 1 hour and 18 minutes, and the distance is around 83 miles.

Recommended Hotel Near San Antonio Aquarium: Comfort Inn and Suites Fredericksburg

5. Blanco State Park

101 Park Rd 23 Blanco, TX 78606 (830) 833-4333 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Blanco is home to some of our favorite attractions near Austin, Texas.

And, to me, there’s no attraction in this city more appealing and well-known than Blanco State Park.

From canoeing to camping, the state park has a host of cheap activities for everyone.

This state park is a fun and family-oriented outdoor recreation area in Blanco.

And, guess what?

It has plenty of activities that showcase the beauty of nature.

You may paddle, boat, fish, or swim on the water.

Plus, it also has exciting land experiences for visitors of all ages, including geocaching, wildlife spotting, camping, hiking, and taking picnics.

There are special events and junior ranger programs for the little ones at this park as well.

The fastest way to this state park from Austin is via E Hwy 290.

The route is 51.1 miles long and has a travel time of 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Blanco State Park: Blanco Riverside Cottages

Related: Best Water Parks in Austin

6. Morgan’s Wonderland

5223 David Edwards Dr San Antonio, TX 78233 (210) 495-5888 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Morgan’s Wonderland is, in my opinion, one of the can’t-miss things to do and see near Austin with kids.

Known as the first ultra-accessible theme park in the world, Morgan’s Wonderland offers a world of fun to guests of all abilities and ages.

Morgan’s Wonderland is simply one-of-a-kind.

After all, it’s the world’s first-ever theme park designed mainly for those with special needs.

Plus, it’s totally wheelchair accessible and is free for folks with special needs.

Of course, the park has a variety of attractions to appease everyone.

Highlights include rides, gardens, an amphitheater, a playground, and an 8-acre fishing lake.

Morgan’s Wonderland is 68.2 miles away (1 hour and 4 minutes of driving) from Austin.

Recommended Hotel Near Morgan’s Wonderland: Best Western Garden Inn

7. Blue Hole Regional Park

333 Blue Hole Ln Wimberley, TX 78676 (512) 660-9111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Texas Hill Country is famous for its refreshing swimming holes.

And, Wimberley’s Blue Hole is among the best and cool places to go for a dip in Texas.

Be mesmerized by the sight of sparkling, spring-fed blue water encircled by old-growth, towering cypress trees.

Aside from sightseeing and swimming, the park also has tons of activities to offer to its visitors.

The park has miles of trails, an amphitheater, a sand volleyball court, a basketball court, a playscape, a community pavilion, and picnic areas.

Blue Hole Regional Park is 38 miles away from Austin, with a travel time of 46 minutes, via I-35 S.

Recommended Hotel Near Blue Hole Regional Park: Comfort Inn & Suites San Marcos

Related: Best Beaches Near Austin, TX

8. Enchanted Rock State Park

16710 Ranch Rd 965 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 685-3636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No list of the top places to see near Austin is complete without Enchanted Rock State Park.

Designated in 1970 as a National Natural Landmark, this natural rock formation has an interesting history with early settlers and native people.

With stunning sunset views and an easygoing vibe, it’s also one of the most romantic places to visit in Texas.

Hiking is, no doubt, the park’s most popular recreational activity.

But, there are plenty of other outdoor activities available in the park, including rock climbing, bird watching, and camping.

And, did I mention that the views there are nothing short of breathtaking?

The Enchanted Rock State Park is 96.4 miles away from Austin via TX-71 W.

Travel time is around 1 hour and 43 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Enchanted Rock State Park: Comfort Inn and Suites Fredericksburg

9. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd San Antonio, TX 78266 (830) 438-7400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers an extraordinary experience for everyone.

Not only is it home to African creatures, but it’s also a unique drive-through experience.

With miles of fun driving pathways, this wildlife ranch lets you see an array of exotic creatures without leaving your vehicle.

Over 40 species of animals call this ranch home, including lions, wildebeests, rhinos, zebras, ostriches, and giraffes.

Driving I-35 S is the fastest way to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch from Austin.

Distance is 66.8 miles and travel time is around an hour.

Recommended Hotel Near Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch: Crowne Plaza Hotel San Antonio Airport

10. San Antonio Grand Historic Tour

1343 Hallmark Dr San Antonio, TX (800) 341-6000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Trace the historic roots of San Antonio with a half-day coach tour.

We love this tour because it passes by countless historic sites as well as modern-day attractions.

One of my favorite stops on the tour is La Villita, the first neighborhood in San Antonio.

Plus, it includes stops at Hemisfair Park, the Alamo, and Saint Joseph Parish.

For foodies, you’ll also be treated to a ast lunch at a top-notch Mexican restaurant.

On top of it all, the tour comes with a well-versed guide who’ll share an informative breakdown of the city’s history.

The tour starts at La Villita Historic Arts Village, which is an hour away from Austin.

I suggest that you take I-35 S (79 miles) since it’s the fastest route to San Antonio.

Recommended Hotel Near La Villita Historic Arts Village: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Venturing out from the vibrant city of Austin, TX, you’ll find an abundance of engaging activities that will create lifelong memories.

The San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour is an immersive journey into Texas’s rich history. 

My family and I marveled at the heroic tales of the Alamo and took in the stunning cityscape from the tower.

Alternatively, the Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour provided a tranquil and educational experience. 

As we roamed around the picturesque ranch, our guide shared captivating anecdotes about the life of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

For the thrill-seekers, Six Flags Fiesta Texas promises a day of adrenaline-pumping excitement. 

I still remember the whooshing sound of rollercoasters, my kids’ infectious laughter, and the endless fun we had during our visit.

Whichever option you lean towards, ensure it resonates with your family’s interests and budget. 

The beauty of Austin’s surroundings lies in its variety, and there’s always an adventure waiting to suit you.

How I Picked The Activities

As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve spent considerable time exploring and writing about the best things to do near Austin, TX. 

I engaged in countless conversations with locals, soaking up their firsthand experiences and valuable suggestions. 

Concurrently, I conducted thorough online research, cross-verifying facts and diving into multiple sources to ensure authenticity. 

I combed through reviews, ratings, and testimonies, piecing together a well-rounded perspective of each attraction.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly activities near austin.

Families can enjoy a day at the Austin Zoo, explore the exhibits at the Thinkery children’s museum, or embark on a scenic train ride through the Hill Country aboard the Austin Steam Train.

Where Can I Experience Nature Near Austin?

Apart from the Greenbelt, visit McKinney Falls State Park to hike, swim, and explore beautiful waterfalls. The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers serene hiking trails, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center showcases native plant species in a tranquil setting.

What Are Some Popular Cultural Attractions Near Austin?

Explore the historic sites of San Antonio, such as the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. You can also visit the LBJ Presidential Library in nearby Stonewall or immerse yourself in Texan history at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin.

What Are Some Popular Food And Drink Options Near Austin?

Explore the culinary scene in nearby towns like Lockhart, known for its famous BBQ, or Fredericksburg, where you can enjoy German-inspired cuisine and visit local wineries. You can also find unique dining experiences in the charming towns of Wimberley or Dripping Springs, just outside of Austin.

Conclusion 

I can honestly say there’s no shortage of amazing experiences for families seeking the best things to do near Austin, TX. 

From history-rich tours to adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone. 

Although each activity has its own charm, the San Antonio Alamo, Tower & River Cruise Tour stood out as our top choice. 

This immersive tour truly showcases Texas’s deep-rooted history, natural beauty, and captivating culture. 

Compared to other options, its unique blend of historical education, scenic river cruising, and stunning panoramic views make it an unforgettable family adventure. 

So, pack your bags; adventure awaits just beyond Austin’s city limits.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austin, TX

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Austin, the capital of Texas, sits where the Colorado River leaves the Edwards Plateau in Central Texas. It's the second-largest state capital in the United States by population and was founded in 1839. Today, this longstanding history interweaves with a vibrant community that's only growing by the day.

Austin has a million ways to enjoy a vacation or long stopover. From traditional tourist attractions like the red-granite State Capitol or the Bullock Texas State History Museum to simply spending the day walking near the shores of Ladybird Lake , the city offers a new experience around every street corner – like watching millions of bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge .

There's a reason why so many people are moving to Austin. Consistently nice weather mixes with the city's natural spaces and downtown sidewalks, casting a Texas glow across the city late into the evening – this and a friendly, eclectic community that invites creative types and sightseers to join the crowd.

Whether for a quick weekend visit or a lifelong move, enjoy the capital of Texas with these top attractions and things to do in Austin, Texas:

1. The State Capitol and Visitors Center

2. lady bird lake, 3. go for a dip at barton springs pool, 4. lyndon baines johnson library and museum, 5. bullock texas state history museum, 6. see the bats from congress avenue bridge, 7. hop on a sightseeing tour, 8. zilker metropolitan park attractions, 9. explore the attractions at the university of texas at austin, 10. mexic-arte museum, 11. mckinney falls state park, 12. umlauf sculpture garden and museum, 13. mount bonnell, 14. tour the museum of the weird, 15. day trip to texas hill country, where to stay in austin for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in austin, tx, austin, tx - climate chart.

The State Capitol and its 22 acres of grounds and monuments are home to the office of the State Governor and the Chambers of the Texas Legislature. The building was completed in 1888 and today is protected as a National Historic Landmark. It impresses with its dimensions; and at 308 feet tall, it ranks as the sixth tallest state capitol, taller even than the US Capitol in Washington, DC.

Visitors stroll the capital park via the tree-lined path called the Great Walk and admire the numerous monuments. A Texas African American History Memorial , the Vietnam War monument , and a bronze statue of a Texas Ranger all capture attention along the Great Walk , as well as a miniature Statue of Liberty that was presented in 1951 by the Boy Scouts of America.

The visitor center is located on the grounds and features exhibits about the history of Austin and the state of Texas. Free tours of the Capitol Building are given daily, except on holidays. Visitors are also welcome to take a self-guided tour anytime the capital is open.

Nearby, the recently restored Texas Governor's Mansion is also an area of interest, accessible via free guided tours (reservations required).

Address: 112 East 11th Street, Austin, Texas

Named after the wife of President Lyndon Johnson, Lady Bird Lake is actually a section of the Colorado River. This flowing reservoir covers 416 acres and has become one of the city's top recreation areas.

Although lined with hotels and residential complexes, the majority of its shoreline is open to the public, with miles of excellent trails for pedestrians and cyclists. The main pedestrian path along the shores is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail and Pedestrian Bridge , which crosses the river and connects downtown Austin with the southern shore.

The Ann and Roy Butler Trail connects many of the city's parks, including Zilker Metropolitan Park , the Town Lake Metropolitan Park's Vic Mathias Shores, Lamar Beach, Butler Shores, Waller Beach, and Eilers Neighborhood Park .

The Ann and Roy Butler Trail also leads to popular tourist sites near the river, like the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue , Congress Avenue Bridge , the Long Center of Performing Arts , and the Barton Springs Municipal Pool .

Motorized boats are prohibited on Lady Bird Lake. On the north shore, the Texas Rowing Center provides kayak and canoe rentals and lessons. And on the lake's south shore in Zilker Park , the Rowing Dock offers rentals and instruction for paddleboards, kayaks, and paddleboats.

Canoe and kayak rentals are also available for use on Barton Creek, which is within the park.

Although swimming in Lady Bird lake is prohibited, nearby Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park is Austin's favorite place to cool off.

Barton Springs is a spring-fed pool along Barton Creek, covering an area of three acres with an average temperature of 70 degrees year-round. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the grassy tree-lined perimeter and perfect water that reaches up to 18 feet deep.

The area is also considered a protected habitat for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, which is only found in this specific aquifer. Because of the delicate balance between recreation and nature, the pool is closed for most of the day once a week for a specialized cleaning that protects the wildlife form harsh chemicals while keeping swimmers safe.

Location: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, Texas

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum is one of the most visited attractions in Austin and boasts more than 45 million pages of historical documents and papers from President LBJ's lengthy career.

The museum, dedicated in 1971 and refurbished in 2013, contains exhibits relating to the president's time in office, as well as important issues of the day, including the rise of the civil rights movement.

Also of interest is an impressive scale replica of the Oval Office as it would have been during Johnson's presidency, and many temporary exhibits related to American history are hosted throughout the year.

The library and museum are open every day of the week, excluding major holidays.

Address: 2313 Red River Street, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.lbjlibrary.org

The Bullock Texas State History Museum tells the state's story through a variety of interesting interactive exhibits, along with audio-visual displays and film.

The permanent Story of Texas exhibit is home to artifacts and displays that feature defining events in the state's history. Artifacts include the preserved hull of the 17th-century La Belle, which was shipwrecked at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Other exhibits and presentations include the fall of the Alamo, Tejano culture, and the history of the Texas oil industry.

The museum's IMAX theater shows educational and popular new-release films. The museum also hosts many special events throughout the year, including children's activities and public presentations.

Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.thestoryoftexas.com

One of Austin's most unique things to do is spectating the evening flight of the Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge . up to one-and-a-half million of these insect-devouring critters take to the sky at dusk each evening from March through November, comprising the world's largest urban bat colony.

The result is a stunning display as they fly from beneath the bridge and up to two miles high in massive formations so they can dine on mosquitoes, moths, grasshoppers, and other flying pests. It can take up to 45 minutes just for the fuzzy mammals to all exit their home. Once the pups (babies) are old enough, they accompany their mothers on the evening flight.

There are many vantage points from which to enjoy the sight, with the area surrounding the bridge the most popular. Others enjoy watching from boats on Lady Bird Lake or from the Statesman Bat Observation Center , which sits at the southern end of the bridge.

In conjunction with Bat Conservation International, the center is an eco-tourism destination, striving to increase awareness of bats and educate the public on their importance.

Location: South Congress Avenue, off West Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, Texas

Austin has several sightseeing tour options to aid in exploring the city without a car. These narrative journeys also provide valuable insight along the way, perfect for first-time visitors or those who want to know more about Austin's legacy. Tour options include walking tours, tasting tours, and bus tours, as well as aquatic Duck Tours.

Double Decker Austin is always a popular choice to get around. This locally owned tour company offers a single-loop, hop-on-hop-off tour throughout the day, stopping at several downtown top attractions. A few recommended hop-offs include downtown 6th street, the Texas State Capitol, and South Congress District.

Another amphibious option is Austin Duck Adventures . This Coast Guard-approved Hydra Terra tour takes to land and sea with a unique 75-minute expedition. Passengers on this floating vessel tour the streets of downtown before splashing into Lake Austin. Duck tours depart from near the Austin Visitor Center.

Advance reservations are recommended no matter the tour, especially if you're visiting during the busy summer season.

The 351-acre Zilker Park is Austin's most popular green space and recreation area. The park's grassy expanses and picnic space sit alongside Lady Bird Lake and are ideal for lazy afternoons, but there are also many recreational facilities for the public to enjoy. Riverside walking trails, volleyball courts, and a disc golf course are all within park boundaries.

The 26-acre Zilker Botanical Garden is the park's most beautiful area, open daily for a small entrance fee. Within, there are several individually themed gardens. Specialty gardens include the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which is built around ancient dinosaur footprints found embedded in the rock, and the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden, which features serene waterfalls and ponds. There are also gardens dedicated to butterflies, cacti and succulents, herbs, and roses.

Water recreation for all ages is popular at the park as well, with canoe and boat rentals available, as well as the family-favorite Barton Springs Pool . Zilker Park is also home to the Zilker Playscape , a large playground with its own section designed for kids aged two to five years. Kids will also love the Zilker Zephyr, a miniature train that runs along the water's edge.

The Austin Nature and Science Center is also on the grounds, open daily with no admission charge. It is celebrated for its interactive exhibits and programs, as well as its numerous trails and special events designed for all ages. Kids especially enjoy the Dino Pit, where they can be amateur archaeologists.

The park is also host to several major music events, including the Zilker Hillside Theater's annual Zilker Summer Musical, Blues on the Green, and the celebrated Austin City Limits Music Festival . Also known as ACL, Austin City Limits takes place over two consecutive weekends in October.

The park grounds are also home to another one of Austin's top tourist attractions, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum.

Address: 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas

In addition to being the first of the Texas University System campuses, the University of Texas at Austin is home to several top tourist attractions. The Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art has a permanent collection of 17,000 pieces of European, American, and Latin American art. The museum also hosts numerous temporary exhibits.

Also on campus is the Harry Ransom Center , which houses a permanent collection of rare literature and printed materials. The Ransom Center also has numerous temporary exhibits and collections on display. Among the museum's most prized pieces are a Gutenberg Bible from the mid-fifteenth century and the First Photograph, a heliograph developed on a pewter plate that was created in 1827 by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce.

The Texas Memorial Museum is part of the Natural Science Center at the University of Texas and features a huge collection of items representing the natural and cultural history of the Lone Star State. Highlights include numerous dinosaur displays, fossils, gems, and minerals, as well as the famous Wichita County meteorite, a large space rock regarded as a medicine stone by Comanche Indians.

Another impressive tourist site at the university is the landmark UT Tower , infamous for the tragic shooting in 1966. With a height of 307 feet, the tower provides beautiful 360-degree views of the city of Austin; tours are self-guided and include information on the architecture and history of the structure.

For sports fans, the spirit of Longhorn athletics is unrivaled throughout the state. Football games at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium feature trembling bleachers and deafening crowds of pigskin fans.

The university also just opened the new Moody Center multi-purpose arena in April 2022, offering a state-of-the-art venue for sports games and more.

Representing one of the city's largest cultural influences and populations, the Mexic-Arte Museum showcases traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture.

Founded in 1983, the museum features rotating exhibits, many of which are thought-provoking statements about current issues, like immigration, border control, and acceptance of Mexican culture in Texas.

Numerous installations and topic-focused galleries include the artwork or sculptures of one or more artists, and several are collections of photography, painting, and multimedia work that represent populations within the culture.

The museum also hosts free "family days" several times a year, when the public can participate in hands-on activities that help visitors get a deeper understanding of the artists' work.

Address: 419 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.mexic-artemuseum.org

Another must-visit outdoor attraction in Austin is McKinney Falls State Park , home to one of the best waterfalls in Texas . This natural landscape is in the southeastern corner of Austin and provides a perfect place to get away from the city and explore some picturesque Texas scenery.

The state park has over 80 campsites available with water and electric hookups. Six cabins on-site also provide a rustic way to spend the night. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is the main corridor for exploration, with many side trails leading off from the gravel path.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum is dedicated to the understanding and appreciation of American sculpture and features several works by 20th-century sculptor Charles Umlauf.

The sculpture garden and museum are within Zilker Metropolitan Park . The outdoor sculptures nestle among the trees, gardens, and ponds that surround the museum. Inside, visitors see more of Umlauf's work in addition to exhibits about the artist's life and displays of personal artifacts and mementos.

The museum also features temporary exhibits of other artists' work and hosts events such as concerts, workshops, and even yoga classes among the sculptures outside. Guided tours are available.

Address: 605 Robert E Lee Road, Austin, Texas

Official site: www.umlaufsculpture.org

Mount Bonnell is one of many best hiking trails in Austin and is one of the most popular with tourists because of its numerous photo ops and proximity to the city center. Standing at 775 feet, Mount Bonnell is the highest point in the city and provides excellent views of downtown Austin and the 360 Bridge. It also looks out across the Colorado River and is the perfect place to take photos of Austin's skyline.

Although the lookout deck and pavilion are at the top of 102 stairs, it is not a steep or strenuous climb. Pets are welcome on the path and on the observation deck, and many visitors enjoy picnicking while admiring the view. Expect to encounter crowds if visiting on the weekend.

Address: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Drive, Austin, Texas

For a big taste of the "weirdness" presented in the capital city, head to Historic 6th Street and the Museum of the Weird. This certified roadside attraction sits squarely in the middle of the hustle and bustle of downtown, and provides halls upon halls of curiosities.

Among the displays are wax statues, two-headed creatures, and mysteries from around the world.

The museum is open seven days a week and experienced with a self-guided tour, with a few different paths to follow. Visiting mid-week is a way to enjoy the museum at a less-crowded pace. Expect to spend at least two hours wandering the halls and seeing the live demonstrations from "professional human oddities."

West of the city, the sprawling Texas Hill Country sits atop the Edwards Plateau and invites day trips from Austin .

This beautiful area has a strong German heritage, as can be seen at prominent places to visit like New Braunfels . Other fun cities to visit in Texas Hill Country include Fredericksburg and Wimberley. With many charming places to stay, these destinations are also some of Austin's best weekend trips.

Outdoor activities are abundant in Texas Hill Country. Popular recreation destinations include Hamilton Pool , Enchanted Rock , and Pedernales Falls . These three destinations offer unique landscapes and popular places to spend the entire day.

Thanks to a unique limestone bedrock, Texas Hill Country is also home to all the best caverns in Texas . Subterranean spaces open to the public here include Inner Space Cavern and Cave Without a Name.

If you are visiting Austin to enjoy the famous live music shows or for general sightseeing, the best place to base yourself is right downtown. The city is relatively compact, and many of the top attractions are in close proximity to each other. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• Looking out over Lady Bird Lake and not far from the entertainment districts, the Four Seasons Hotel features lovely grounds, a saltwater pool, and luxury suites.
• The InterContinental Stephen F. Austin , conveniently located between the 2nd Street District and the state capitol, is one of the city's iconic hotels, with an Art Deco façade, large rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness facility complete with a lap pool.
• The W Austin is as close to the music scene as you can get, with Austin City Limits right next door, and for something a little different, the Hotel Ella is a converted mansion dating from 1910, just a little outside the city center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Mid-range hotels are scarce in the city center. At the upper end of this category is the Hyatt Regency , with a prime location on the Colorado River waterfront and just a short walk over a bridge to downtown.
• The Crowne Plaza , a large property with a great outdoor pool, is just over five miles out from the city center and easily accessible at the intersections of two major highways, I35 and 290.
• A great option only three miles from downtown is the Best Western Plus, which was completely renovated in 2013.

Budget Hotels:

• Just steps from the capitol building and about a five-minute walk from the 6th Street area, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a good budget option in downtown.
• A short distance outside the city center are the Rodeway Inn & Suites and the recently renovated Red Roof PLUS+ , both with outdoor pools.

More on Texas

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Places Near Austin You Must Visit For A Vacation Worth Remembering

23 Mar 2023

Austin, the capital of Texas has a plethora of jaw-dropping places ranging from natural parks to the bright cities which are worth spending your nightlife at. One can go on a Kayak tour at Lady Bird Lake, can witness numerous species of aquatic life in the Austin Aquarium, and can also be part of numerous sightseeing tours while in Austin. However, the state of Austin has gained so much attention of tourists worldwide that the places near Austin often get isolated in the thoughts of many.

Several places around Austin Texas including Fredericksburg, Bee Cave, Burnet, San Antonia, and Spicewood are some of the prime destinations which offer a once in a lifetime experience to travelers. These destinations despite having so much to explore and experience, are some of the underrated places in Texas.

Places To Visit Near Austin Texas

Austin is not only a paradise for the traveler but also a neighborhood to some of the most happening places in Texas. Here is a list of top places located at just a 1-hour drive from Austin which are worth the visit.

1. Cascade Caverns

Image Source

This historical and geological cave near Austin witnesses numerous public tours and events annually being one of the highly visited places near Austin. Known to be one of the first commercial caves open to the public in Texas, the Cascade Caverns features wide flowstone stone corridors and meandering chambers which lead tourists to the Cathedral room. Below the Cathedral room is another cave that can be explored with the expert cavers. Do pay a visit to this spot. Who knows, you may find something never seen before?

Location: 226 Cascade Cavern, Boerne, TX

Must Read: 10 Pocket-friendly Hotels In Austin That Are Packed With Amenities

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Willow City Loop

Wish to go on a romantic drive with your hubby? Well, then you must visit the Willow City Loop. This place in Texas is a dream destination especially during the spring, boasting meadows filled with colorful flowers and scenic valleys. Its natural beauty makes it one of the hottest places to see near Austin among couples planning to head out for a romantic trip. The wide variety of flowers ranging from the whites to the blues is a treat to watch.

Location: Willow City, Fredericksburg, TX

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Austin For An Avid Traveler

3. Devil’s Waterhole

Don’t get carried away by the name. There is nothing demonic about the place except its alarming rocks surrounding its water. The place witness canoe tours for tourists and is a great place for boating, diving, and swimming. The mighty rocks featuring red, orange, and pink colors add to the beauty of the place making it one of the best places to visit near Austin Texas. Not just this, the place is also home to various mesmerizing waterfalls which you can visit.

Location: Burnet, TX

Suggested Read: Snorkeling In Austin: Top 3 Places Where You Can See The Underwater World

4. Krause Springs

If you want to have a peaceful time away from city life then it is time you should give a shot to Krause Springs. This popular family-owned site in Spicewood features around 32 on-site springs, several man-made pools, and a natural pool which flows into Lake Travis. From cliff jumping to swimming, there are so many activities you can indulge in if you are at the Krause Springs. The site manages to secure a spot in the National Register Of Historic Places and is one of the top places to go around Austin.

Location: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX

Suggested Read: 8 Austin Temples To Visit On Your Next Mystical Ordeal!

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.

Ramya Narrates The Story Of 6 Girls On An Extraordinary Trip To Thailand

Bangkok. Phi Phi. Krabi. Why should guys have all the fun?

Sandeep Illustrates On The Best Activities For A Family Trip To Mauritius

Water sports. Cocktail parties. And unlimited fun at Casela.

Nisarg Can't Stop Praising His Honeymoon Trip To Maldives

There was snorkeling, sightseeing, luxury, comfort, & much more!

Sabyacsachi's Romantic Trip Proves Europe To Be The Mother Of All Vacations

For Art, Culture, Luxury, & more...

Srishti Talks Of Her Amazing Trip To Singapore With Her Mother & Niece

A fun-filled destination for ages indeed!

67-Year Old Sridhar Tells How He Beat The Odds & Took A Solo Trip To Dubai

Desert safari. Burj Khalifa. Welcoming locals. Tell me more!

Not Adventure Lovers? Saurabh's Family Trip Proves Hong Kong To Still Be Full Of Fun

Your kids will love Disney Land & Ocean Park!

Ravi's Tale Of A Sri Lanka Family Tour Is All You Need To Know About Ramayana Tour

For the love of Ramayana & Travel!

5. Jacob’s Well Natural Area

This artesian spring has a 1-mile long limestone cave at around 140 feet below it. You can pay a visit to this place to enjoy diving and swimming in its 12-foot swimming hole which is a safer area. Only professional and experienced divers are allowed to go deep into the cave but you can always enjoy some quality time with your friends around the swimming hole.

Location: 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX

Suggested Read: 6 Austin Water Parks Where You Can Spend Summer While Splashing Water & Sliding Rides

Places To Stay Near Austin

1. omni la mansion del rio riverwalk.

This lavish accommodation in San Antonio aims to provide you the utmost sensation of lavishness, boasting amenities like a fitness center equipped with modern machines and a spa and wellness center offering the perfect body massage. In addition to this, the outdoor pool adds to the luxurious factor of the hotel. With well-equipped business centers and meeting halls, the property is the perfect accommodation for you if you are planning a business trip.

Location: 112 College Street, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Suggested Read: Shopping in Austin: 8 Places Which Are Perfect For A Shopping Spree

2. Horseshoe Bay Resort

Jam-packed with world-class features and top-notch services, the Horseshoe Bay Resort is one of the best places to stay near Austin. The property features plush features including a private beach area, kid’s playground, tennis court, and a fitness center offering you everything you can expect from a dream accommodation. The resort also features a jacuzzi and a spa and wellness center where you can relax your body after a tiring day of exploration.

Location: 200 Hi Circle North, Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657, USA

Suggested Read: Austin Wedding Venues: 7 Destinations Which Are Ideal To Tie The Knot At

3. The Westin RiverWalk

The hotel’s stunning design and elegant features will leave you wonderstruck. With luxurious features like a commodious jacuzzi and a lush green golf course located near the property, the hotel stands apart from other hotels in terms of providing a top-class experience to the guests. Featuring some lively restaurants and bars, the hotel is a perfect place to stay for you to make the most of your vacation near Austin.

Location: 20 West Market Street, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Further Read: 10 Churches In Austin, Texas For Those Looking For Redemption & Faith

Austin is not just a home to numerous recreation sites and fine hotels but is also a neighborhood to some of the most charismatic and astounding places which cannot be described in words. Featuring an array of scenic beauties and plush accommodations, the places near Austin are surely some of the must-visit destinations travelers can consider for their next trip to Texas .

People Also Read

Places Near Tokyo Places Near Texas Places Near Jacksonville

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

Recent Posts

Chennakeshava Temple: Exploring The Magnificence Of Belur’s Architectural Gem

Prathyangira Devi Temple: Unveiling The Mystique Of Divine Power

Top 7 Places To Visit Near Akshardham For Additional Tour

Famous Landmarks In Turkey: Turkish Delights Unlocked

With Beautiful Places To Visit In Sri Lanka With Family Make The Most Of Your Trip

Beach Clubs In Dubai For A Luxuriously Relaxing Vacation

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Destinations » USA »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Texas Hill Country News
• Spirits & Libations
• Places to Eat
• Hill Country Happenings
• Places to Stay
• Things To Do
• Online Magazine
• Caussey’s Corner
• Our Writers
• Real Estate

Things to Do

10 places around austin everyone should visit.

Austin is a city teeming with art, culture, and well…weirdness. It’s why we love it. Quirks and all. From gardens to towering cathedrals of junk, Austin truly has it all. That being said here are some of the best places in the Austin area that absolutely everyone should visit.

1. The Cathedral of Junk

Photo: freefuninaustin.com

The Cathedral of Junk brings new meaning to the phrase,”one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” This eccentric bungalow is a haven of unique knick-knacks and wonderful pieces of scrap metal. A visually stunning example of recycling at it’s finest.

2. The Driskill Hotel

Photo: driskillhotel.com

The Driskill Hotel was built in 1886 and is a jewel in the crown of downtown Austin. Spend a week, spend a weekend, or simply enjoy a cocktail at the bar. Either way, it is a fantastic place to explore.

3. Krause Springs

Photo: krausesprings.net

Located in Spicewood, Texas, this spectacular camping location is a mecca of stunning scenic views. It is an absolute gem.

4. The Natural Gardener

Photo: naturalgardeneraustin.com

A breathtaking panorama of beauty complete with a butterfly garden bursting with flowers and winding trails that lead through fantastic foliage no matter what the season may be.

5. The HOPE Outdoor Gallery

Photo: hopecampaign.org

This collaborative art project is a community paint park that is constantly evolving. This educational project was started  in March 2011 with the help of contemporary artist Shepard Fairey. The primary goal of the HOG is, “to provide muralists, street artists, arts education classes and community groups the opportunity to display large scale art pieces driven by inspirational, positive & educational messaging” (hopecampaign.org).

6. Mayfield Park

Photo: F acebook/Mayfield Park

Among the hiking trails shaded by trees and numerous ponds replete with lily pads roams a family of peacocks. Now, who doesn’t love peacocks?

7. The Inner Space Caverns

Photo: Facebook/Inner Space Cavern

Undiscovered for thousands of years then finally discovered by the Texas Highway Department in 1963 during the construction of Interstate 35.  What a discovery it was. These majestic caverns are a sight to behold. A variety of tours are available – just don’t forget your walking shoes.

8.  Zilker Botanical Garden

Photo: Facebook/Zilker Botanical Garden

Zilker Botanical Gardens boasts, “26 acres of diverse topography depicting different habitats and displaying an array of native, hybrid and exotic plants” (zilkergarden.org). It’s an ideal spot to find that all too elusive inner peace.

9. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden

Photo: Facebook/UmlaufSculpture

Not far from Zilker Botanical Gardens lies the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. This enchanted space celebrates the life and work of sculptor, Charles Umlauf. Today it shows his work and the work of other contemporary sculptors in a natural setting. Meanwhile, the on-site museum provides educational experiences that promote the understanding and appreciation of sculpture.

10. Sweet Berry Farm

Photo: Facebook/Sweet Berry Farm

Sweet Berry Farm is a haven for family fun. A “pick your own strawberry farm” in the spring and a pumpkin patch in the fall, there is never a bad time to visit.

We are your resource for Hill Country travel, things to do, places to eat, places to stay, tourism, events, lodging, and we feature Texas Hill Country info of all manners. Our Texas Hill Country Facebook page is growing by over 1,000 fans per day! We also run the premiere real-estate site in the hill country at HillCountryRealestate.com . We are born and bred in The Hill Country, and we welcome you to our family. Join the discussion on our new social platform Texjas.com !

Latest News

Do you know the meaning of gtt left on abandoned homes, ride the fastest ziplines in all of texas, from texas to the tetons: tony maples, dr pepper jalapeno beef jerky is the most texan recipe there is, do you know what was named the official dog breed of texas, lubbock book festival: free, two-day event on the south plains.

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Things to Do Outside

Hiking Near Austin

Top Museums

Theater Guide

Annual Events

The Best Food to Try in Austin

The Best Bars in Austin

The Best Breweries in Austin

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

48 Hours in Austin: Itinerary

Day Trips From Austin

Tours to Take in Austin

Top Things to Do

The Top 14 Things to Do in Downtown Austin, Texas

TripSavvy / Austen Johnson

In addition to holding the title of Texas's state capital, Austin has fully evolved from a hippie university town to a booming, hip metropolis. While much of the action is focused in up-and-coming neighborhoods like South Congress, downtown Austin offers a wealth of amusing possibilities, too. Whether you're a fan of Texas state history and 19th-century architecture, live music, or traditional Texas barbecue, there's plenty to do here. And while ATX's city center is easy to navigate on foot, pedicabs and ride-sharing services are also readily available for short trips.

Venture on The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Tom Pennington / Getty Images

Those looking to get some exercise while seeing a mix of lovely natural and urban spots will enjoy the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. This popular path passes by Lady Bird Lake, a 416-acre (168-hectare) reservoir, as well as Austin neighborhoods, buildings, and cultural attractions. One option is to start your journey at the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, with views of downtown Austin and the Colorado River. The popular 10-mile (16-kilometer) trail is named after the city's former mayor and his wife.

Take a Double Decker Bus Tour

Courtesy of Double Decker Austin

Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, one fun way to see the city without having to drive is on an open-air ride with Double Decker Austin . Learn about the city and its history from friendly tour guides as you cruise along. Easily hop on and off the bus to get a closer view of an attraction such as The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum or the Texas State Capitol. The red buses depart from the Austin Visitor Center and Museum of the Weird on Fridays and Saturdays (closed major holidays).

Get Spooked at Museum of the Weird

Bruno Ribeiro / EyeEm / Getty Images

If you'd like an entertaining and possibly creepy type of day in Austin, head to Museum of the Weird on Sixth Avenue, which emulates dime museums made popular by people like Barnum & Bailey Circus founder P.T. Barnum. Check out bizarre artifacts such as shrunken heads, fossils, and wax figures of classic movie monsters. There is even a famous carnival exhibit displaying a frozen caveman in a block of ice that toured the country from the 1960s through the 1980s. The admission price includes a visit to the Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts shop.

Admire the Texas State Capitol

The pink-granite building is the centerpiece of downtown Austin, perched on a hill at 12th Street and Congress Avenue.

Free guided tours are held daily, starting in the South Foyer, but brochures are also available on the first floor for self-guided tours. The Texas Legislature meets every two years, so you’ll have to check the schedule if you want to see an actual session in progress.

If you're hungry, there are some restaurants nearby serving up everything from Indian food to sandwiches and chili.

Barhop in the Warehouse District

Sometimes referred to as “Sixth Street for grown-ups,” the Warehouse District is centered around West Fourth and Lavaca Streets.

If you’re interested in dancing to ’80s and ’90s cover bands, head to Cedar Street Courtyard, a hybrid space of two bars with an outdoor courtyard in the middle. For a little less dancing and more drinking, try Midnight Cowboy.

The Fourth Street area is also home to several gay bars, including Oilcan Harry’s, which has been around since 1990.

People-watch on Sixth Street

The Sixth Street entertainment district—especially the businesses between Interstate 35 and South Congress Avenue—is a popular stop for first-time visitors. This bustling area is packed full of bars of every shape and size, including famous outposts like Maggie Mae's , where you will find many bars and floors, along with three stages. Whether you’re interested in listening to live music, dancing, or drinking, it’s hard to go wrong. 

Plus, the people-watching is free. The area is generally very secure, but if you plan to stick around until 2 a.m., keep an eye out for your safety.

Catch a Show at the Paramount

The historic Paramount Theatre on Congress Avenue hosts red-carpet movie premieres, plays, live music, ballets, and stand-up comedy. Built in 1915, the roughly 3,000-seat venue still has many of the initial Art Nouveau stylistic touches and was inducted into the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. One of Austin's oldest theaters, the Paramount displays an elaborately ornate ceiling and the original stage curtain.

Chow Down at Stubb's Bar-B-Q

Located on the eastern edge of downtown, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q is one of the  best concert venues in town  as well as an excellent barbecue joint. High-profile national acts usually play on the outdoor stage, which sometimes hosts as many as 2,000 fans. There’s also a smaller stage indoors.

If you’re just here to eat, make sure you try the slow-cooked brisket. Vegetarians can dine on some sides such as potato salad and coleslaw. To enjoy music and food together, show up on Sunday for the gospel brunch at the amphitheater stage.  

Listen to Some Live Music at the Moody Theater

Home of the long-running Austin City Limits Live series, which airs on PBS, the Moody Theater is also the site of big-name concerts. Everyone from Peter Frampton to Beach House to Lyle Lovett has played on this stage.

Even though there are 2,750 seats, the three-level theater is remarkably intimate. Plus, with multiple bars, you'll almost never have to wait in line for a drink.

Explore Austin's Culinary Scene on Rainey Street

What started as a few old houses turned into bars has grown into a full-blown entertainment district on the southeastern edge of downtown.

Rainey Street is primarily a place to drink. There's even a bar made of metal shipping containers. However, an increasing number of gourmet restaurants have opened up, earning the stretch the title of Restaurant Row. Standouts include Emmer & Rye, named one of Bon Appétit magazine's Best New Restaurants in 2016, and Geraldine's, where Southern-inspired fare takes on a distinctly Austin accent.

Raise a Toast at the Historic Driskill Bar

Whether you’re interested in meeting high-tech entrepreneurs or cattle barons, people from every corner of the spectrum show up at the Driskill Bar , a beautifully elegant locale on the second floor of the historic 1886 Driskill Hotel.

Though it’s located within steps of the madness on Sixth Street, the Texas-style bar is fairly low-key. Sit at one of the chairs around the piano to enjoy the performance and an occasional sing-along. During SXSW and the Austin Film Festival, this is one of the best places to spot celebrities. The bar is open Thursdays through Saturdays.

Watch an Indie Film at Alamo Drafthouse

The Alamo Drafthouse is a unique movie theater that got its start in ATX and evolved into various locations in the city and many across the U.S. If you're in downtown Austin, that outpost is in a funky vintage theater. While it’s slightly smaller than most Alamo theaters, you can expect all the same fun stuff: goofy quote-alongs, quirky theme nights, and food and drinks delivered to your chair. Choose the balcony seats for the best view.

Observe Austin's Famous Bats by a Bridge

Austin's most famous flying mammals make an appearance nightly from March to October, when 1.5 million bats fly out of the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue bridge just before sundown.

The best vantage point is the walkway on the east side of the bridge, but you can also bring a blanket and enjoy the show from the hillside below the bridge. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also rent a canoe or kayak and watch the bats from the water.

Watch Now: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Austin's Bat Bridge

Immerse yourself in texas history.

The three-story Bullock Texas State History Museum tells the story of Texas from prehistoric times up until the present.

Using interactive displays, audio recordings, dioramas, and short films, the museum explains how three major industries—ranching, cotton, and oil—played key roles in the state’s evolution.

For a more immersive experience, you can also enjoy an IMAX movie at the museum's Bullock IMAX or Texas Spirit Theater. Both historical films and major motion pictures are featured.

Must-See Austin Attractions

Your Trip to Austin: The Complete Guide

Austin's Bat Bridge: A Viewing Guide

Nightlife in Austin: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

Austin's Top Annual Events

Top Movie Theaters in Austin

Best Places for Live Music in Austin

The Best Neighborhoods to Visit in Austin

The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From San Antonio

Weekend Getaways Near Austin

The Top 19 Things to Do in Atlanta

5 Best Bus Tours in New York City

Best Places to Visit in Central Texas

Guide to Halloween in Texas: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

15 Places to Visit in Southern California

Top Cities to Visit in Texas: A Travel Guide

A rare geomagnetic storm may bring Northern Lights to parts of Texas. See where

The aurora borealis may be viewable to the naked eye in the northern panhandle and amarillo. cities around lubbock and dallas may see the northern lights with a good camera in a low-light setting..

Skywatchers get ready: Thanks to heightened solar activity, the  aurora borealis  could be coming to the skies above parts of Texas this weekend, space weather forecasters said Thursday.

A rare severe geomagnetic storm will trigger auroras, making it possible for some Texans in the northernmost parts of the state to view the spectacle with the naked eye. Federal forecasters from  NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center  said that during previous solar activity of this magnitude, the "aurora has been seen as low as Alabama and northern California." The aurora could be visible on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.

Previously forecast as a G2, or moderate, geomagnetic storm, this weekend's event has upgraded to G4, or severe. This is the first time that a geomagnetic storm has rated a magnitude of G4 since 2005, according to USA TODAY .

Will the geomagnetic storm impact us in Texas?

There are now at least four storm clouds heading our way, according to astronomer Tony Phillips, who detailed the storm's activity on SpaceWeather.com. This could disrupt radio communications and harm satellites – and possibly knock out power systems, according to USA TODAY.

Where in Texas can you view the Northern Lights?

This weekend, residents in the northernmost parts of Texas, including Amarillo and cities north, can possibly view the Northern Lights with the naked eye. Texans on the South Plains, including Lubbock and surrounding regions, as well as cities north of Dallas-Fort Worth, may capture the aurora borealis with a good camera in low-light conditions.

Tips for viewing the Northern Lights

"Go out at night," NOAA said. "And get away from city lights."

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases.

• KSAT Insider
• KSAT Connect
• Entertainment

KSAT Connect: Aurora borealis spotted in South Central Texas due to geomagnetic storm

This weekend’s geomagnetic storm is the strongest recorded since october 2003.

Mia Montgomery , KSAT Weather Authority Meteorologist

Sarah Spivey , KSAT Weather Authority Meteorologist

SAN ANTONIO – It was a rare sight across parts of the South Central Texas sky Friday night: the aurora borealis!

A strong geomagnetic storm — the strongest since October 2003 — occurring this weekend allowed these colorful waves to extend farther south than usual.

According to the NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a cluster of sunspots has ejected solar flares, plasma, and magnetic fields towards Earth over the past few days, causing this strong geomagnetic storm.

“CMEs (coronal mass ejections) are explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona. They cause geomagnetic storms when they are directed at Earth... Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface, potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations... Geomagnetic storms can also trigger spectacular displays of aurora on Earth.” NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center

Sightings have also been reported across the country and all over the world.

With more opportunities to spot them into the weekend, the best way to view the aurora borealis in South Central Texas is at a location away from city lights. Because of the sensitivity to light, phone cameras have also been proven to spot the colors better than the naked eye. Best timing is 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., but clouds may block viewing Saturday and Sunday night.

Sign up for the 'Whatever the Weather' newsletter here.

Check out some of the photos sent into KSAT Connect:

Spring Branch, Tx

BlessedLife78003

Aurora Borealis, Bandera Tx Shot straight up at the sky

Coach Trevino

Northern Lights

Robert Lozano

The Northern lights taken from our driveway in Bulverde!

Julie Kuehn Gormley

Aurora borealis in Boerne !

Some shots of the Northern Lights in Spring Branch.

Mariposazul1210

Not sure how to upload to KSAT Connect? Here is a guide to posting:

• Open the KSAT Weather Authority app OR visit the KSAT Connect web page . We recommend using the app for regular access to KSAT Connect!
• If you’re on the KSAT Weather Authority app, click the camera icon on the navigation bar at the bottom of the screen. You can also upload from the KSAT News app. Click here for instructions.
• Sign in or sign up for a FREE KSAT Insider (member) account by clicking the orange button with the text “Log in to Upload a Pin.”
• Once you’re signed in, you’ll click the orange button that now reads “Upload a Pin.”
• Click the blue button at the top to choose the photo or video you’d like to share.
• Select “Weather” as the channel and one category.
• Tell us about your photo or video by including a description.
• The last step: Click the orange button at the bottom to upload.
• Read more from the meteorologists on the Whatever the Weather page
• Download KSAT’s weather app for customized, accurate forecasts in San Antonio, South Texas or wherever you are
• Find the latest forecasts, radar and alerts on the KSAT Weather Authority page

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Mia montgomery.

Meteorologist Mia Montgomery joined the KSAT Weather Authority Team in September 2022. As a Floresville native, Mia grew up in the San Antonio area and always knew that she wanted to return home. She previously worked as a meteorologist at KBTX in Bryan-College Station and is a fourth-generation Aggie.

Sarah Spivey

Sarah Spivey is a San Antonio native who grew up watching KSAT. She has been a proud member of the KSAT Weather Authority Team since 2017. Sarah is a Clark High School and Texas A&M University graduate. She previously worked at KTEN News. When Sarah is not busy forecasting, she enjoys hanging out with her husband and cat, and playing music.

Recommended Videos

Watch CBS News

Maps of northern lights forecast show where millions in U.S. could see aurora borealis this weekend

By Alex Sundby

Updated on: May 11, 2024 / 8:54 PM EDT / CBS News

Americans as far south as Alabama and Northern California were being treated to a show of the northern lights this weekend from a powerful geomagnetic storm which reached Earth, officials said. If the weather conditions are right, people in wider areas on the map could look up and see the aurora borealis .

The storm prompted government forecasters to warn of potential disruptions to communications systems, the power grid and satellite operations, but it also put on a fantastic light display in the night sky Friday. 

"The aurora is when we get energized particles that have left the sun in more quantities than usual, and they interact with Earth's magnetic barrier," Shawn Dahl, senior space weather forecaster for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, explained to CBS News.

The geomagnetic storm reached Earth Friday evening as an "extreme" G5 , according to the NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. Geomagnetic storms are ranked from G1 to G5.

"This one is pretty large, It think it's pretty extreme, we got to the G5, which is the highest in terms of strength," said Dr. Nour Rawafi, an astrophysicist with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.

It marks the first G5 geomagnetic storm to reach Earth since October 2003. A G5 is so large it can disrupt satellites we rely on for communications and GPS. Elon Musk's Starlink satellites were reporting "degraded service."

Dahl explains a G5 storm can potentially disrupt the GPS we use on our phones.

"It could, because most of our phones are single-frequency GPS systems," Dahl said. 

Experts say the aurora borealis will likely be viewable again Saturday night, with the best chance to see the northern lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Sunday. 

"If you happen to be in an area where it's dark and cloud free and relatively unpolluted by light, you may get to see a fairly impressive aurora display, and that's really the gift from space weather, is the aurora," Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with the NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center, told reporters Friday morning.

Northern lights map for Friday night

A map from the center showed the aurora would be visible for much of the northern half of the U.S. Friday night. A red line on the map shows how far south the aurora forecast went.

The National Weather Service's St. Louis office said people in the area should leave the city for the best possible chance to view the northern lights.

"Get away from city lights into a dark, rural surrounding and look north," the office said on social media . "Aside from some clouds associated with a passing front, much of the time looks mostly clear."

The prediction center notes on its website that people don't need to be directly underneath the aurora to see it. Instead, it can be observed from as much as 620 miles away.

The weather service's office for the San Francisco Bay Area had been less optimistic when asked if there was a chance for a nighttime show there. 

"Probably not, but I'll still look up while walking my dog," the office said . But the weather service turned out to be wrong, the northern lights were visible from the Bay Area. 

Northern lights map for Saturday night

Friday night wasn't the only opportunity for a northern lights show. The storm was expected to last through the weekend, and the prediction center released a forecast map for Saturday night.

Officials said people in the southern U.S. who can't see the aurora with their naked eyes could still take some dazzling pictures with their phones.

"Cellphones are much better than our eyes at capturing light," the Space Weather Prediction Center's Brent Gordon told reporters Friday. "Just go out your back door and take a picture with a newer cellphone, and you'd be amazed at what you see in that picture versus what you see with your eyes."

Stunning photos showed the vivid display of the northern lights over Europe and the U.K. after nightfall there on Friday.

— Michael George contributed to this report. 

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• National Weather Service
• Aurora Borealis
• Northern Lights

Alex Sundby is a senior editor at CBSNews.com. In addition to editing content, Alex also covers breaking news, writing about crime and severe weather as well as everything from multistate lottery jackpots to the July Fourth hot dog eating contest.

More from CBS News

Solar storms can affect electronics and the power grid – an expert explains

Sun emits its largest X-class flare of the solar cycle

Alleged archaeological theft at national park caught on camera

Mysterious origin of the "tree of life" revealed

Filed under:

• Airport Dining Guides

Where to Eat at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA)

Best airport dining and drinking bets, including barbecue, breakfast tacos, coffee, and bloody marys

Share this story

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: Where to Eat at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA)

The still small but mighty Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) really aims to embody the city it serves without seeming inauthentic. The terminal smells like barbecue, the walls are full of local artwork, and, often, there’s some twangy singer-songwriter strumming a guitar for departing and arriving travelers. And even better: there are plentiful local restaurants and shops.

The number of people flying has been increasing steadily to the point where there are oftentimes major lines at TSA (plan accordingly, especially in the mornings or during big events in the city and in light of all the construction at the airport now ). Memorial Day weekend is soon, which kickstarts the spring/summer travel season, — Eater presents this updated dining guide of the 14 most promising places to grab food and drinks at ABIA (including one in the completely separate South Terminal for those flying Allegiant or Frontier airlines) as well as outside of the airport (nine within, five nearby). Outside of the airport, everything from barbecue to burgers to fun French cuisine is just a quick car ride away.

Traveling elsewhere or stuck with connections and layovers? Browse through Eater’s other city airport guides.

Best Bets Inside Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Barbara jordan terminal (aka the main terminal).

Where to Grab Food:

Salt Lick Barbecue No, it's nothing like heading out to the original Driftwood restaurant and loading up on piles of smoked meats, but if a quick taste of Texas is required, the airport's Salt Lick stand will do just the trick. It comes with a mostly Texas-wine bar too. (But also, if you’re spending time in Austin or live in Austin, there are excellent barbecue spots elsewhere .) Service Style: Takeout, dine-in Location : Between Gates 21 and 22 Hours : 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. or last flight daily

Tacodeli Breakfast tacos are very, very, very important for those with early flights. Austin's favorite new-school taco chain has ’em, with favorites like the Otto and migas, plus salsa and its famous doña sauce. For quicker service, take advantage of the digital kiosks. Service Style: Takeout, dine-in Location: Next to Gate 23 Hours: 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily

The Peached Tortilla The Southern-Asian fusion restaurant branched out with an airport location . On deck are tacos filled with brisket, and crispy pork belly, along with familiar, favorite dishes like barbecue brisket or pad Thai tacos, banh mi bowls, that JapaJam burger, and bacon jam fries. Service Style: Takeout, dine-in Location : Across and between Gates 16 and 17 Hours: 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. or until last flight daily

Noble Sandwich Another one of those shuttered-in-Austin-proper-restaurants - that-now-exist-in-the-airport places, the beloved sandwich spot offers an easy menu of, well, sandwiches, including the fantastic turkey one, alongside sides like mac and cheese. Service Style : Takeout, dine-in Location : Between Gates 12 and 14, within Austin City Market Hours : 5 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. daily

Amy’s Ice Creams To satiate sweet cravings, head to the airport location of the favorite local ice cream chain. Its signature Mexican vanilla ice cream is available, alongside an array of other flavors plus vegan options, smoothies, and to-go pints. Service Style: Takeout, dine-in Location : Across from Gate 21 Hours : 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday

Where to Grab Drinks:

Jo’s Coffee The Austin cafe’s airport location features a strong menu of coffee drinks — including its refreshingly sweet iced Turbo concoction — as well as breakfast tacos and pastries. Service Style : Takeout Location : Across from Gate 19 Hours : 4 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily

The Beer Drop The airport beer bar focuses on offerings from beloved local brewery Austin Beerworks , as well as other local and national breweries, available in cans, bottles, and drafts. Service Style : Dine-in Location : Across from Gate 13 Hours : 8 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. daily

Second Bar + Kitchen The Austin-born-and-grown New American restaurant mini-chain expanded into the airport after its original one closed in 2020 . This airport iteration is the best place for a good cocktail, from a Negroni to the choose-your-own-spirit Painted Mule to a bloody mary. Food-wise, there’s a solid grab-and-go menu and a full menu. Service Style: Takeout, dine-in Location: Between Gates 15 and 16 Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. Thursday through Friday; 4:30 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 4:30 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. Saturday; 4:30 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Sunday

South Terminal

Food Truck Court The South Terminal is completely separate from the main ABIA space, accessible through a different entrance. As an ode to the city , there’s an alfresco on-site food truck with outdoor dining areas — De Nada Tacos — plus a concession area with grab-and-go snacks and drinks. Service Style : Takeout, dine-in Location: 10000 Logistics Lane Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, but keep in mind hours are dependent on flight schedules.

Best Bets Outside Austin-Bergstrom International

(You’ll need at least three hours to get there, eat, and get back.)

Live Oak Brewing Company Right across the street from the airport is Austin’s oldest brewery, brewing up German- and Czech-style beers, along with German food truck Black Forest. Take advantage of the spacious beer garden. Service Style : In-door and outdoor dine-in services; to-go beer Location : 1615 Crozier Lane, five minutes from the airport Hours : noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday; noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday; noon to 10 p.m. Friday through Saturday.

Dan’s Hamburgers Burgers in Austin should get more credit, and nobody argues about this longtime joint, with a convenient location in Govalle. If you’re in a pinch, the drive-thru is about the best you could ask for. Order that cheeseburger and spring for a side of spiced curly fries. Early birds can grab an omelet. Service Style : Takeout, drive-thru, dine-in Location : 844 Airport Boulevard , Del Valle; 13 minutes from the airport Hours : 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Distant Relatives One of the city’s best barbecue spots is luckily a short drive from the airport with plentiful parking and seating available. The award-winning food truck focuses on modern African American smoked meats, leading to dishes like pulled pork with tamarind molasses and beef brisket sandwiches with hot mustard. And it happens to be parked at Meanwhile Brewing, which offers great beers. Service Style : Takeout, dine-in Location : 3901 Promontory Point Drive, McKinney; 13 minutes from the airport Hours : noon to 8 p.m. or until everything is sold out, Wednesday through Thursday; noon to 6 p.m. or until everything is sold out, Friday through Sunday

Justine’s Brasserie For a slightly fancier option, this French-inspired East Side classic is an easy cab ride away with nice outdoor seating, an excellent menu, and good drinks. Service Style : Reservations available for dine-in Location : 4710 East Fifth Street, Govalle; nine minutes from the airport Hours : 6 to 11 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday; 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday and Sunday

Jacoby’s Restaurant and Mercantile Ranch-to-table dining is made easier with the New Texan restaurant in Govalle, which sources all of its beef from the owner’s family farm out in Melvin. Nothing beats that view of the Colorado River. Service Style : Takeout , dine-in Location : 3235 East Cesar Chavez Street, 13 minutes from the airport Hours : 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 5 to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday

Amy's Ice Creams

The peached tortilla, live oak brewing company, austin-bergstrom international airport's south terminal, jo's coffee, distant relatives, second bar + kitchen [east austin hotel], jacoby's restaurant & mercantile, noble sandwich co., dan's hamburgers, austin beerworks, the salt lick, austin-bergstrom international airport, of course willie nelson is writing a cannabis cookbook, the austin chef gets lost in the cranberry sauce on ‘top chef: wisconsin’, austin bakery swedish hill is expanding into westlake.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Solar Storm Intensifies, Filling Skies With Northern Lights

Officials warned of potential blackouts or interference with navigation and communication systems this weekend, as well as auroras as far south as Southern California or Texas.

By Katrina Miller and Judson Jones

Katrina Miller reports on space and astronomy and Judson Jones is a meteorologist.

A dramatic blast from the sun set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere on Friday that is expected to make the northern lights visible as far south as Florida and Southern California and could interfere with power grids, communications and navigations system.

It is the strongest such storm to reach Earth since Halloween of 2003. That one was strong enough to create power outages in Sweden and damage transformers in South Africa.

The effects could continue through the weekend as a steady stream of emissions from the sun continues to bombard the planet’s magnetic field.

The solar activity is so powerful that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, issued an unusual storm watch for the first time in 19 years, which was then upgraded to a warning. The agency began observing outbursts on the sun’s surface on Wednesday, with at least five heading in the direction of Earth.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday morning.

For people in many places, the most visible part of the storm will be the northern lights, known also as auroras. But authorities and companies will also be on the lookout for the event’s effects on infrastructure, like global positioning systems, radio communications and even electrical power.

While the northern lights are most often seen in higher latitudes closer to the North Pole, people in many more parts of the world are already getting a show this weekend that could last through the early part of next week.

As Friday turned to Saturday in Europe, people across the continent described skies hued in a mottling of colors.

Alfredo Carpineti , an astrophysicist, journalist and author in North London, saw them with his husband from the rooftop of their apartment building.

“It is incredible to be able to see the aurora directly from one’s own backyard,” he said. “I was hoping to maybe catch a glimpse of green on the horizon, but it was all across the sky in both green and purple.”

Here’s what you need to know about this weekend’s solar event.

How will the storm affect people on Earth?

A geomagnetic storm watch or warning indicates that space weather may affect critical infrastructure on or orbiting near Earth. It may introduce additional current into systems, which could damage pipelines, railroad tracks and power lines.

According to Joe Llama, an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, communications that rely on high frequency radio waves, such as ham radio and commercial aviation , are most likely to suffer. That means it is unlikely that your cellphone or car radio, which depend on much higher frequency radio waves, will conk out.

Still, it is possible for blackouts to occur. As with any power outage, you can prepare by keeping your devices charged and having access to backup batteries, generators and radio.

The most notable solar storm recorded in history occurred in 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, it lasted for nearly a week, creating aurora that stretched down to Hawaii and Central America and impacting hundreds of thousands of miles of telegraph lines.

But that was technology of the 19th century, used before scientists fully understood how solar activity disrupted Earth’s atmosphere and communication systems.

“That was an extreme level event,” said Shawn Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. “We are not anticipating that.”

Unlike tornado watches and warnings, the target audience for NOAA’s announcements is not the public.

“For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” said Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

The goal of the announcements is to give agencies and companies that operate this infrastructure time to put protection measures in place to mitigate any effects.

“If everything is working like it should, the grid will be stable and they’ll be able to go about their daily lives,” Mr. Steenburgh said.

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

It is possible that the northern lights may grace the skies this week over places that don’t usually see them. The best visibility is outside the bright lights of cities.

Clouds or stormy weather could pose a problem in some places. But if the skies are clear, even well south of where the aurora is forecast to take place, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Another opportunity could be viewing sunspots during the daytime, if your skies are clear. As always, do not look directly at the sun without protection. But if you still have your eclipse glasses lying around from the April 8 event, you may try to use them to try to spot the cluster of sunspots causing the activity.

How strong is the current geomagnetic storm?

Giant explosions on the surface of the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, send streams of energetic particles into space. But the sun is large, and such outbursts may not cross our planet as it travels around the star. But when these particles create a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, it is known as a geomagnetic storm.

NOAA classifies these storms on a “G” scale of 1 to 5, with G1 being minor and G5 being extreme. The most extreme storms can cause widespread blackouts and damage to infrastructure on Earth. Satellites may also have trouble orienting themselves or sending or receiving information during these events.

The current storm is classified as G5, or “extreme.” It is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface — that is about 16 times the diameter of Earth. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why is this happening now?

The sun’s activity ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle, and right now, it is approaching a solar maximum. Three other severe geomagnetic storms have been observed so far in the current activity cycle, which began in December 2019, but none were predicted to cause effects strong enough on Earth to warrant a watch or warning announcement.

The cluster of sunspots generating the current storm is the largest seen in this solar cycle, NOAA officials said. They added that the activity in this cycle has outperformed initial predictions .

More flares and expulsions from this cluster are expected, but because of the sun’s rotation the cluster will be oriented in a position less likely to affect Earth. In the coming weeks, the sunspots may appear again on the left side of the sun, but it is difficult for scientists to predict whether this will cause another bout of activity.

“Usually, these don’t come around packing as much of a punch as they did originally,” Mr. Dahl said. “But time will tell on that.”

Jonathan O’Callaghan contributed reporting from London.

An earlier version of this article misstated the radio frequencies used by cellphones and car radios. They are higher frequencies, not low.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .