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Explore Fun Things to Do in Austin, TX - Complete Guide

Written by Rob Shapiro | Nov 15, 2024 8:50:36 PM

Texas’s capital and home to close to one million people; Austin is a diverse city that brims with Texas charm. It offers a unique world of entertainment, whether you love being outdoors, partying, good food, or immersing yourself in arts and culture. The live music scene deserves special mention, as it spans genres like rock, country, blues, and more. Whether you are testing solo waters, exploring the world as a new couple, or running around town with kids, there is an endless amount of fun things to do in Austin, TX.  

So, if you are looking for the best things to do in Austin, TX, know that it has over 500 parks, three massive lakes, over 40 museums, and more than 50 craft breweries. That’s not even mentioning the amazing arts festivals that take place in Austin every year.

This guide offers valuable insights into the most fun things to do in Austin, TX, for every taste and budget. 

Best Things to Do in Austin, TX

Let's explore some of the best things to do in Austin, TX for families, foodies, adventurers or anyone looking for a Texas-sized good time.

Fun Outdoor Activities in Austin, TX 

Peppered with tranquil lakes, scenic parks, stunning limestone cliffs, and more, Austin offers you ample opportunities to walk, hike, swim, and explore freely.  

 

 

Fun Family Things to do in Austin, TX

If you are looking for fun family things to do in Austin, TX, there are numerous options. 

  1. Hamilton Pool Preserve and Barton Springs: A historic swimming hole, Hamilton Pool Preserve is essentially a canyon grotto with gorgeous teal-colored waters. Splash around in it as you admire the nearby waterfall. Or head to Barton Springs in Zilker Park and wash away any stress in a pool that is spread across 3 acres. Fed by natural springs in the vicinity, the pool welcomes dogs too. Don’t forget to explore the botanical garden in the park.  
  2. Mount Bonnell: A popular tourist haunt since the 1850s, Mount Bonnell takes your breath away with mesmerizing views of Lake Austin, the cityscape, as well as nearby hills. Hiking up the stone steps here is worth it. 
  3. Lady Bird Lake: Enjoy kayaking with loved ones on this placid lake, while soaking in the beautiful city skyline. You can also hike or bike along Ann and Roy Butler Trail, which is a 10-mile stretch while admiring panoramic views. 
  4. Austin Nature & Science Center: Looking for free things to do in Austin, TX? Well, you are in luck. Sprawled across 80 acres, this nature center has plenty of exciting trails to explore for free. Kids can learn about wildlife, rocks, space, and more through indoor and outdoor exhibits that include replicas of dinosaur tracks and fossils! 
  5. Peter Pan Mini-Golf: If you have kids in tow, a visit to this miniature golf course is a must. Comprising a couple of 18-hole courses, it’s perfect for playing your way around quirky obstacles and fun characters, including teapots, clowns, a tortoise, and a giant T-Rex. 
  6. Mayfield Park: A lush nature preserve spread across 23 acres, Mayfield Park delights with ponds where waterlilies bloom, stunning peacocks, and a quaint cottage from the 1870s. Picturesque walking and hiking trails invite you to connect with nature.   

Top Eats in Austin

One of the best things to do in Austin, TX, is to gorge on delicious barbecues and tacos and wash it all down with craft beer and wine. Home to chefs who have won the prestigious James Beard Award, the city boasts an unparalleled food scene teeming with diverse flavors and aromas. 

Here are some of the best places to eat in Austin. 

  1. Food Trucks: To eat like a local, head to food trucks, which are practically everywhere in the city. From Mexican, Italian, and Thai, to Mediterranean and Greek, you will find these Austin restaurants joints serving it all. Some of the famed food truck hubs include South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery, East Side Food Park, Thicket Food Truck Park, and The Picnic. 
  2. Farmers’ Markets: Shop for fresh produce at local farmers’ markets. It can be one of the most fun family things to do in Austin, TX, as you introduce your kids to gorgeous fruits and veggies and healthy eating habits. You can also pick up ready-to-eat foods or artisanal jewelry and soaps. Barton Creek Farmers Market and SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown are highly regarded for their produce quality and shopping experience. 
  3. Barbecue: When it comes to enjoying tender, juicy, and sumptuous barbecues, Austin spoils you for choice with iconic places like Franklin Barbecue. La Barbecue is famed for flavored sausages, brisket, and pulled pork, while Micklethwait Craft Meats is known for its Brisket Frito Pie served up with chili and cheddar cheese. Also, visit Stiles Switch for Texas-style beef ribs. 
  4. Tacos: If you are looking for one of the top 10 things to do in Austin, TX, eating a plate of tacos needs to be part of your plan. At Veracruz, you can dig into some of the freshest tacos made with completely natural ingredients and rich, flavorful salsas. Torchy’s Tacos and Discada are also popular. 
  5. Tex-Mex: In Austin, you can indulge in delicious Tex-Mex, an exciting blend of Texan and Mexican flavors. Visit the family restaurant Matt’s El Rancho for burritos, enchiladas, and nachos. Or head to Maudie’s for fajitas and quesadillas.
  6. Craft Beer: Going on a brewery tour is a refreshing and memorable experience in Austin. You can sample different kinds of craft beer under the sun. The Austin Craft Beer Trail is well-known or take your pick from over 200 craft beers at Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden. 20 kinds of sausages are grilled here during brunch time. Lazarus and Zilker are among the other popular breweries.   

Nightlife in Austin, TX 

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Austin, TX, thanks to upscale pubs, bars, and dance clubs. Whether you want to sip on cocktails while enjoying a live concert, unwind at a comedy show, or tap your feet to chart-topping songs, you won’t be disappointed. 

 

Here are some ways to experience the nightlife in Austin, TX: 

  1. 6th Street: Locally known as Dirty 6th, this is a historic entertainment neighborhood.  Bar-hop the street lined with a variety of establishments to make you happy. Live music is one of its staples and if you are up for a few laughs, head to Esther’s Follies. 
  2. East Austin: Dotted with many live music venues, East Austin is one of the coolest areas in the city. Catch a concert at Parish, soak in a soulful performance at Monks Jazz Club, or dance at Drinks Lounge & Records. To wet your whistle, head to Texas’s oldest bar–Scoot’s Inn or sip on innovative cocktails at Whisler’s. 
  3. Rainey Street: Visiting Rainey Street is among the best things to do in Austin, TX, if you have a soft spot for craft cocktails and indie music. Many of the bars that host live music on Rainey Street are laidback converted homes. Head to Icenhauer’s, Parlor Room, and Half Step for the most memorable experiences. If you feel hunger pangs, there are plenty of food trucks in the area. 
  4. Stubbs BBQ: Interested in something a little off the beaten track? Go for the Sunday Gospel Brunch at Stubb’s and listen to inspirational live tunes as you dig into briskets and cheese grits. Chug cold beer or sip on a mimosa.  
  5. South Congress: Whether you are passionate about the blues, honky-tonk, or Indie rock, South Congress has live music venues for all tastes. Enjoy live jazz at Elephant Room or visit Continental Club, which has been hosting live music for 60 years and is prone to celebrities dropping in. Play pool at the Nightcap Lounge and don’t forget to get close to Congress Avenue Bridge right before sunset, as millions of free-tailed bats fly out to feed, create a spectacular swarm, and put on a show.   
  6. Alamo Drafthouse: Dancing the night away is undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in Austin, TX. The Alamo Drafthouse was once a movie theater but its South Lamar location in Austin features The Highball, a venue offering a variety of entertainment options. The Highball hosts events such as video dance parties. Sip on unique cocktails and have fun with quirky props and glow sticks to truly feel the party vibes.  

More Fun Things to Do in Austin, TX 

Whether you are keen to dive into the Lone Star state’s history or soak in Austin’s artistic and cultural vibes, Austin’s numerous museums and galleries will keep you hooked for hours. 

Going around admiring the many murals in the city and participating in artistic workshops and festivals are some of the other fun things to do in Austin, TX. 

Have a blast in Austin, TX by enjoying these attractions:

  1. South by Southwest: Known worldwide, SXSW is Austin’s popular event for music, film, and interactive media. The event attracts artists, entrepreneurs, and creators from across the globe. It is hosted every spring with live performances, screenings, tech showcases, and conferences.
  2. Austin City Limits: Austin City Limits Festival brings the top music industry artists from diverse genres for two weekends of unforgettable live performances at Zilker Park. In addition to music, you can enjoy art installations, local food stalls, and amazing shopping experiences.
  3. Texas Capitol Visitors Center: A majestic building constructed of pink granite, the Texas Capitol houses the chambers and offices of the state governor and the Texas Legislature. Go on a free tour to learn about the site’s history and admire the ornate architectural details and the gorgeously landscaped surroundings. Check out the interesting exhibits and sample local delicacies at Texas Chili Parlor.  
  4. Brush Square Museums: If you are interested in free things to do in Austin, TX, and have a literary passion, visit Brush Square Museums. The O. Henry Museum was once the famous writer’s abode and showcases different archives and artifacts. Another museum is dedicated to Susanna Dickinson, the only Anglo adult who survived the Battle of the Alamo. 
  5. University of Texas at Austin: There are multiple museums to explore here for history and culture buffs. Blanton Museum of Art is sure to catch your eye with its stone construction and windows made of colorful glass panes. The LBJ Presidential Library boasts impressive exhibits based on Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th U.S. President. 
  6. Thinkery: The Thinkery is considered to many to be one of the top 10 things to do in Austin, TX with children. A bold red building, the museum houses tons of engaging activities and interactive exhibits involving science and technology. Both you and your kids can enjoy a hands-on experience as you decode the world of logic. There is an onsite playground too. 
  7. Bullock Museum: There is no better place to learn about Texas’s history and culture than the Bullock Museum. A massive lone star installation welcomes you to this three-story building that houses interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational resources. You can also visit the Texas Spirit Theater, catch a movie at the IMAX Theatre, or eat at The Star Café. 
  8. The Contemporary Austin: Head to the Jones Center here to get up close to a mesmerizing collection of contemporary artworks. You can also enter Laguna Gloria for free on the same day. This Mediterranean-style villa comes with an open-air sculpture park overlooking Lake Austin. 

Shopping in Austin, TX

From cowboy boots and hats to vintage guitars, gourmet cheeses, barbecue sauces, and music-inspired clothes, shopping in Austin is a lot of fun. 

Wondering where to get started? Here are some suggestions. 

  1. South Congress Avenue: Visiting this commercial area is one of the best things to do in Austin, TX, as there are numerous boutiques and hip stores to explore. Check out the funky shoes at Allens Boots, the old-timey treats at Big Top Candy Shop, and apparel and jewelry made by local artisans at Paper Work. 
  2. Whole Foods Market: One of the original flagship Whole Foods is in Austin on Lamar Blvd. It is one of the best places to get organic food. The place is also known for many restaurants and hosts live music events for free on its rooftop. 
  3. Waterloo Records: Also on Lamar Blvd, this store is famed all over Texas for its incredible collection of vinyl records. You are sure to find your favorite record here. The place also hosts many free live gigs from emerging musicians. 
  4. 2nd Street District: This warm, welcoming neighborhood boasts a live music scene as well as trendy boutiques selling beautiful ornaments from Eliza Page, music-inspired clothes from Austin Rocks, and sweets and toys from Yummi Joy and Toy Joy. 
  5. North Loop: If you are looking for fun things to do in Austin, TX, visit this quaint yet vibrant neighborhood. It is home to book and record stores as well as vintage boutiques. You will also get a sneak peek into Old Austin while shopping here. Check out Blue Velvet and Room Service Vintage for pocket-friendly décor accents and apparel. Relax at one of the bars or restaurants in the area after your shopping spree. 
  6. SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown: Held every Saturday at Republic Square, this market is the go-to place if you want to shop for local produce, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods. There is a play area for kids and you can catch live music performances.  

Explore Fun Things to Do in Austin, TX Today

While this guide is a great place to start exploring Austin, there is plenty more to do in Texas’s capital. Whether exploring its legendary live music, checking out quirky museums, or indulging in its fantastic food and drinks, you will never run out of things to do in Austin.

Austin is also known as a place where history, art, and entertainment converge, promising endless adventures for both locals and visitors. Whatever your passion, its vibrant spirit makes it a great place to indulge in new experiences and create unforgettable memories.

 

 

FAQs

What are the fun things to do in Austin, TX, with kids?

You can kayak around Lady Bird Lake, visit Austin Nature & Science Center, or hike up Mount Bonnell. You can also take your kids to Peter Pan Mini-Golf or Thinkery, the interactive science museum. 

What are the best things to do in Austin, TX, as a foodie?

Try various cuisines from the many food trucks in the city and visit farmers' markets for fresh produce. Enjoy brisket from La Barbecue, tacos from Veracruz, or Tex-Mex from Matt’s El Rancho. 

Are there any free things to do in Austin, TX? 

Yes, you can hike up Mount Bonnell, explore Zilker Park, and visit the Texas Capitol and Brush Square Museums for free. There is no charge to visit the Austin Nature & Science Center either. 

What are the best things to do in Austin, TX, if I love music?

You can visit East Austin, Rainey Street, and South Congress to catch live music performances, whether you like jazz, Indie, or rock. Monks Jazz Club, Parlor Room, Continental Club, and Elephant Room are especially popular.  
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