27 things to do in Austin for children, couples and adults

Beautiful landscapes at museums and music, don't miss these things to do in Austin.


I wonder the bestThings to do in Austin? You're lucky. We recently combed the best attractions in the region to helpPlan your next trip. From an artistic scene flourishing with unique culinary staples, there are many things that kept Austin bizarre and deserve to be visited.

Funny fact: the popular slogan "Keep Austin weird"was inspired by the comments made byRed Wassenich After promising money at a local radio station. After the interview, he started making stickers for bumpers and even published a book entitledKeep Austin Weird: a guide on the strange side of the city.

It was in 2000. Before, Austin was better known as "the city of the Violet Crown" to honor the colorful glow that strikes the surrounding hills just after sunset. Ideally, there are locations across the city to enjoy the view, but we will soon enter it all. For the moment, continue to read to find out more about the city with the best places to visit in town.

Read this then: 38 things to do in Dallas during your next trip.

Best things to do in Austin, tx

Refer to this Austin City guide for more information on popular destinations during your next visit. If you are looking for someTexas History, Live Music Lieus or advice on the best local cuisine, we are covered to you.

Spend a few hours walk in the city center of Austin

downtown austin
Shutterstock / Roschetzky photography

One of the best ways to launch your time in Austin is to explore your city center. You can refer to the Austin Visitor Center for all the information you need to embark on a self -guided tour. In addition toFree cards and brochures, the center also offers clean bathrooms and a place to load your phone.

The city center of Austin offers some of the city's best purchases, artistic and cultural institutions and tons of places to eat and drink. You can also expect a good majority of places to provide specialized cocktails, craft beers and live music.

Although the city is not known for its walking, its city center remains the most accessible to people traveling on foot. It is also useful that the region is home to clusters of restaurants, shops and accommodation. The walkers should make a duty to visit the sixth street during the weekend - the region is in fact closed to traffic from Thursday to Saturday evening.

Swim in the Barton Springs swimming pool in Zilker Metropolitan Park

things to do in austin - barton springs pool
Shutterstock / Trong Nguyen

The Zilker Metropolitan Park has been nicknamed "Austin's most popular park."The 358 acres plot also contains one of the mostFamous attractions, Barton's spring swimming pool. The swimming pool itself extends over about three acres. Filled with water flowing underground springs, it maintains an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees, all year round.

In the past, the region has attracted visitors from all walks of life, from the legislators who reflect the laws of states to naked breasts turning their heads in the 1970s. This is even whereRobert Redford I learned to swim!

Today, the region is listed as a habitat protected by the federal government and houses the Salamander of Barton Springs endangered. The swimming pool, which rises as deeply as 18 feet, is surrounded by grassy areas where visitors can play, picnic or Bobatter. The patterns also contain an educational exhibition that details the history and biology of Barton Springs. Canoeing and kayak rentals are also available.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

Visit the center of Austin Nature and Science

austin nature center
Twitter / @Austingarksp

If you are looking for a little more outdoor pleasure, you can always go to Austin Nature and Science Center. Its mission is simple - to increase awareness and appreciation of the natural environment.

Ideally located next to Zilker Nature Preserve, the attraction offers practical exhibitions, education programs and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Visitors can hike and explore the region for themselves, but we suggest that you stick to formal activities for a more guided tour of the region. The other strengths include a fossil excavation, exhibitions on fauna and a naturalist workshop.

Discover the battles of Pont du Congress worldwide

things to do in austin - see the Congress Bridge bats
Shutterstock / Hayeseyes

Of course, the observation of bats may not be for everyone, but if you are interested in these animals, it is really something that is worth it.

The Congress avenue bridge, which connects the city center to South Austin, is home to some 1.5 million Brazilian-tailed bats. It is in fact the concrete beams of the structure that attract bats in this area. Not only do the beams offer dark and calm areas for animals, but they also serve as thermal dissipators, offering the ideal temperature ranges for young farming.

The bats would have arrived in the region shortly after the construction of the bridge in 1982. Almost immediately after, a civic petition began to have bats eradicate. In response,Merlin Tuttle, PHD, a wildlife environmentalist and photographer, started a foundation to stop the initiative.

Thanks to his incredible knowledge of the subject and the non-conflict approach, Tuttle won his campaign to save bats. Today, critters are credited for making major ecological contributions to the city. Bats eat more than tens of thousands of insects per day, including butterflies that lay eggs that eat crops as well as corn ear worm that attacks corn, cotton and tobacco.

Read this then: 34 things to do in Kansas City.

Spend a few hours on the Roy Butler Roy and Roy's hiking and bike path

Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
Shutterstock / Trong Nguyen

The Roy Butler Roy and Roy bicycle trail is an entirely natural path located alongside the beautiful shores dressed in Pierre de Lady Bird Lake. It is a fantastic place for walking, hiking, cycling or simply sitting and enjoying nature.

The 10 -mile path serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting more than 2.6 million visitors per year. It also provides another transport route for the entering and out of the city.

In 2008, the city appropriated the funds to add part of the walk to the path. The gap of 1.3 mile offers an additional vision zone, as well as a throw accessible to ADA, and perhaps above all, a catering room specific to the start of the path!

Visit the greetings of the Austin Murale '

Greetings from Austin mural
Twitter / @roaminghapply

If you are not already on Instagram, this is the right time to download the application. One of the most photographed areas of the city, the "Greetings of Austin" wall was inspired by a postcard from the 1940s containing images of popular monuments such as the Congress avenue bridge, the Tower of the University of Texas and Barton Springs.

You can find the image located on the side of the art gallery Roadhouse Rélics. Gallery ownerTodd Sanders Created the mural alongside its other artistRory Skagen.

Pro advice: stand in front of the fountain of the Capitol building and on the left of the word "capitole" for the best shot.

Climb Mont Bonnell

things to do in austin - hike mount bonnell
Shutterstock / Oschetzky photography

If you want to see an incredible view, head to Mont Bonnell. The benchmark is 775 feet above sea level and is considered the highest point within the limits of the city of Austin. The region has served as a popular tourist destination since the middle of the 19th century and continues to attract tourists, locals and hikers to date. The peak is also surrounded by a 5.1 acres park, with a story dating from the 1830s.

Although difficult, the trek can be completed by hikers of variable variations. All you have to do is climb the limestone staircase in 100 steps to enjoy a panoramic view of Austin's monuments such as the PennyBacker bridge, Lake Austin and the surrounding region of Texas Hill.

Read this then: 28 fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

Visit some of Austin's legendary breweries

Austin beer works brewery
Shutterstock / stock_photo_world

Austin is famous for his artisanal beer scene, so it would be a shame to miss the many famous breweries of the city. Having reached this status is in fact quite impressive, given the position of the State during the ban. Before this time, Texas maintained some of the mostStrict alcohol laws In the country, going back in the 1840s.

Although things have certainly evolved since then, it was only after the 2008 economic crisis that Austin's affinity for craft beer seemed really to take off. Today, the city is home to more than 55 breweries that offer a wide range ofLocally brewed beers and specialized verses.

Some of the city's most popular places include Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden, Live Oaks Brewing Company and Central Machine Works.

Visit the Austin Zoo

things to do in austin - the austin zoo
Twitter / @chiefsexton

What originally started like a goat ranch has now become the 15 acres Austin zoo, attracting more than 237,000 people each year. Its animals include wild cats, primates, large reptiles and other domestic animals.

The collection includes animals from other establishments that have been withdrawn due to age, health or other problems. The zoo also helped save creatures subject to cruelty to animals and to laboratory research, as well as abandoned exotic animals.

Explore Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

things to do in austin - Ladybird johnson wildlflower center
Shutterstock / Leslie Carter Lentz

Founded in 1982, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center now serves as a botanical garden and texas arboretum. Efforts to inspire the conservation of native plants are carried out through gardens development, research, education and awareness programs.

The organization also maintains a complete database of native plants for North America. Their experts have implemented various resources to which budding gardeners can access the house. Whether you need to find a local supplier or identify more plants suitable for bees for your garden, we promise Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center staff covered you!

Listen to live music outside

things to do in austin - listen to live music
Shutterstock / Gsphotography

As a live music capital in the world, it is quite important to see a show in the city. Of course, with more250 places To choose, it should not be too difficult to plan.

Live music is so widespread in Austin, that you are almost guaranteed to meet a performance, even at the airport! Seriously, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport hasLive music performance Scheduled at different doors every Monday to Friday.

Of course, you will want to go to the city center to discover the most popular sites in the city, which include the Inn, Antone's and Stubbs Bar-q scooter. Or wander in neighborhoods like the southern congress until you find a place you like. The region is a major contributor to the live musical culture in Austin, housing some of the oldest sites in the city.

Read this then: 8 state parks that are better than national parks.

Visit Jacob's well

Jacobs Well
Shutterstock / Erin Donahue Photography

If you want another place to swim, keep reading. Located just 45 minutes outside Austin in the surrounding country of Texas Hill, the Jacob well contains the longest underwater cave in the state. We will note that to help preserve the area, the county limits the number of people authorized at the same time, it is therefore important to make reservations before your visit.

In total, the area covers just over 81 acres. The Artesian spring releases thousands of gallons of water a day. The source comes from the Trinity aquifer, which moves from a vast system of underground caves. In some areas, the cave system is 140 feet deep.

Make sure you bring appropriate shoes if you plan to do the trek. It is a 15 -minute hike from the parking lot to the swimming area. The area surrounding the well can also be stiff and slippery.

Break a few selfies in Texas State Capitol

things to do in austin - visit the texas capitol building
Shutterstock / Lmphoto

Although the original building of Texas State Capitol was burned in 1881, the more recent structure was placed in the national register of historic places in 1970 and appointed a national historical benchmark in 1986. The building of 392 rooms is Accompanied by the goddess of Liberty Statue, made from 80 pieces of welded zinc. Today, he is recognized as one of the most distinguished state capitals in the country.

It is also open to the public seven days a week. Guided tours are available for those interested in a more historic overview of the building and its most important spaces.

Do not forget to explore the land. The Capitol lawn is decorated with a range of monuments, from the Hood brigade to the heroes of Alamo, a miniature statue of freedom, and more.

Try the tacos of a catering truck

austin food truck park
Shutterstock / Barbara Babala

Austin's cultivation of food trucks dates back to a single hot dog stand that appeared in the 90s. Today, there isWhole parks Dedicated to the service, offering different types of cooking across the city.

These renovated air currents and concession trailers give talented chiefs the ability to present their most popular dishes in an affordable and unpretentious manner. In total, more than 1,200 mobile food sellers are stationed in Austin. This range means that visitors can enjoy a wide variety of dishes, contemporary Mexican cuisine on Korean barbecue, classic Italian and more tons.

Visit Texas Memorial Museum

things to do in austin - texas memorial museum
Shutterstock / Ken Wolter

The idea of ​​a Texas commemorative museum emerged for the first time in 1936, when politicians who predict Centennial celebrations of Texas realized that there was no state museum in Texas. Plans to preserve the natural and cultural treasures of the state were soon in progress.

In 1939, the museum finally opened to the public with dioramas of Texas history, rare insect exhibitions, plants and animal life of Texas, and exhibitions of anthropological objects from all over the world.

The building itself was built entirely in limestone from Texas in the popular Art Deco style of the 1930s, 75 feet high, 116 feet long and 80 feet wide. Today, the museum contains assets of more than five million specimens. Fossils, jewels, minerals and meteorites are displayed through a variety of engaging and immersive experiences.

Keep Austin Weird and visit South Congress avenue

South Congress Neighborhood in Austin, Texas
Shutterstock / Gsphotography

The South Austin Congress district is located just south of Lady Bird Lake and has become a popular meeting place for residents and tourists.

Its eccentric culture is highlighted by an eclectic collection of shops, restaurants and art galleries bordering South Congress avenue. The region, nicknamed Soco, also houses some of the most famous street arts in Austin, including "Portrait of Mr. Rogers" and "I love you so much"Wall.

Read this then: The least crowded American national parks.

Get culture at the Blanton Museum of Art

blanton museum of art
Shutterstock / Faina Gurevich

The Blanton Museum of Art contains more than 21,000 permanent pieces, ranging from ancient Greek pottery to more modern works of abstract expressionism. There remains the most important and complete art collection in Texas.

The museum serves as an extension of the University of Texas to Austin and maintains a team of educators made up of volunteers, graduate scholarship holders and professional artists who offer learning experiences to visitors throughout the year.

The museum also houses the Ellsworth Kelly temple for light. The structure serves as a final work of Kelly and building only.

Discover the Majesty of Zilker Botanical Garden

things to do in austin - visit the Zilker botanical garden
Shutterstock / Jacqueline F Cooper

The Zilker Botanical Garden is located in the Zilker Metropolitan Park in downtown Austin. The garden extends over 28 acres and shelters living heritage oaks, sunny lawn areas and ponds filled with Koi. The region also offers an incredible panoramic view of the city roofs.

While the ideas of the city garden were born in the 1950s, it was not until 1964 that the work finally began on conservation.

The Japanese garden Isamu Taniguchi finally opened to the public in 1969, the ponds of the first half of the garden speaking the word "Austin". The other themed gardens include the riparian stream bed, the prehistoric garden of Hartman and the Mabel Davis Rose Garden.

See the peacocks at Mayfield Park

peacocks in mayfield park in austin, texas
Shutterstock / Stephaniefarrell

The Mayfield Park and Precsert was initially served as a summer and weekend house for a leading political figure and a former Secretary of State of TexasAllison Mayfield.

In 1922, the daughter of Mayfield and her husband inherited the intrigue of 23 acres. Shortly after, she started working on the 30 garden plots while he supervised the construction of the signing stone walls of the property, ponds and characteristics of the garden.

In 1935, the couple received a few peacocks, whose descendants are still traveling the property today. In 1971, the two owners died. The house and the area have been left in the city of Austin to be used as a park.

Take advantage of a football match at the University of Texas

austin longhorns playing at Darrell K. Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
Shutterstock / Barbara Kalbfleisch

If you are in sport, you will probably want to participate in this Austin tradition. Go to Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (formerly War Memorial Stadium, Memorial Stadium and Texas Memorial Stadium) to have the chance to see the Austin Longhorns play.

Located on the University of Texas campus, the stadium is now in its 92nd operating season. It also contains several other facilities, including a cutting -edge gymnasium, a force complex and a nutrition center.

Hike along the Barton Creek greenery belt

the barton creek greenbelt in austin, tx
Shutterstock / Trong Nguyen

The Barton Creek green belt is an important part of the Green Space initiative in Austin. It also houses the Barton Springs swimming pool and the Barton Springs natural park, the only natural sources and the nature reserve in Austin, respectively.

In addition to the manyHiking possibilities It presents, the area is also known for climbing, mountain biking, bird observation, swimming and picnic.

The city has even selected the greenery belt to host some of the most famous events in Austin, including theAustin City Limits Music Festival and Texas Training Programs Conservation Corps.

Read this then: 8 national parks that you can do in one day.

Discover the cathedral of the spur

cathedral of junk in austin, tx
Twitter / @theustinot

OK, so it's not a cathedral in the traditional sense, but the next destination on our list is really worth a visit. The infamous "junk cathedral" is unpretentious in the backyard of a suburban district on the south side of Austin. It is not even visible from the street.

The structure was created byVince Hannemann, which started working on the project in 1988. Today, it contains more than 60 tonnes of waste and stands more than three stories in certain regions. The cathedral also contains several staircases, vaulted ceilings, observation platforms and a infamous "throne", where visitors can ask questions to its creator.

We will note that you will have to call to make an appointment to visit the cathedral. There is also a donation of $ 10 requested. Although street parking is available, you will probably have to park at a few houses if things become crowded.

Try dancing in two steps in Broken Speaking

Two-step dancing at the Broken Spoke
Shutterstock / TLF images

Broken speech is one of the most spoken Honky-Tonks in Austin. Famous musicians likeGarth Brooks,,Dolly Parton, andDale Watson have all played on his stage. Perhaps even more famous, the place offers dance lessons in two stages every night, from Wednesday to Saturday (instructorTerre White was even presented on thesixth season from Netflix HitQueer eye).

This decision, also known asTexas Polka, is taught with Western Swing and the Joe in cotton eyes - the only line dance authorized on Dancefloor!

And don't forget, there is a full menu waiting for you after the lesson. Customers will appreciate a variety of plates, steak dinners with Mexican basic foods, barbecue plates, etc. Beers and wine are also available.

Go to the happy hour at Little Longhorn

the little longhorn saloon in austin
Twitter / @tllonghorn

Little Longhorn is another famous Austin Honky-Tonk. The show offers dance, cold beer and live music six nights a week.

It is also the original house of something called chicken s *** bingo, where the crowds come together to look at the coca chickens on numbered squares. Although it may not be everyone's cup of tea, the event has become strong for more than 15 years. SomeoneCreated a soundtrack will play.

Make a day trip to McKinney Falls State Park

McKinneys Falls State Park in Austin
Shutterstock / Silvio Ligutti

Located just over 10 miles from the city center of Austin is McKinney Falls, one of the most popular state parks in Texas. Visitors are traveling everywhere to see Onion Creek water, a flush flow from the Colorado river, flow on natural limestone rim.

Popular activities include fishing, pleasure navigation and swimming. The region also offers many opportunities for pleasure on land, including hiking, cycling, campsite and even geocaching - a real world based on the web,outdoor adventure game.

History enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that humans began to occupy the region about 8,750 years ago. The artifacts found in the park indicate a long history of Amerindians in the region. Many are supposed to be part of the modern Texane tribes, such as Tonkawa.

Watch a film at Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In

bluestar urban drive-in experience in austin
Twitter / @urbandrivein

According to their website, the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In has been classified "one of the coolest cinemas of cinema in the world" in Conde Nast. If that lets you intrigue, you will probably want to add it to the route.

The Theater store has been in business for over 11 years now, focusing on driving classics, childhood favorites, independent films and art cinema. The place only allows 15 to 40 cars per night, so you don't have to worry that things are overcrowded.

There are also different screens to choose, some with dining table seats and lounge chairs. The company even created a set with two screens on a local roof, offering moviegoers a 360 view.

Private rental options are also available. You can even bring your dog, as long as they stay on a leash and silent throughout the show.

Buy cowboy boots from Allens Boots

cowboy boots at allen boots
Twitter / @AllensBoots

Austin is perhaps known as a liberal enclave in a more conservative state, but it is still very Western. Allen Boots has been present in the city since 1977. Located on the popular shopping band along South Congress Ave, the store has an impressive collection of authentic Western equipment, including boots, hats and belts.

Once inside, you will see thousands of leather boots bordering the walls, as well as photos of famous guests who have visited in the past. If you are not in the neighborhood, you can always try to stop in the second location in Round Rock, Texas.

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Wrap

It is an envelopment on the best things to do in Austin, but be sure to come back with us soon!Travel, supported byBetter life, is committed to helping you find your next adventure.Subscribe to our newsletter To take advantage of advice supported by experts to navigate our favorite American destinations!

Faq

What are the best things to do in Austin, Texas for couples?

With some of the most famous artistic and cultural institutions in the country, as well as a flourishing nightlife scene, there are a lot to do in Austin for couples. Some of our favorite activities are listed below:

  • Treat yourself to a day of couples spa at the Viva Day Spa
  • Enjoy a picnic in the Zilker Metropolitan Park
  • Samp up local beers in a city center brewery
  • Learn at two steps together at Speaking Broken
  • Enjoy a romantic meal in Fonda San Miguel
  • Book a weekend getaway in one of Austin's luxury stations
  • Cuddle Up during a cinematographic experience while driving

What are the funny things to do in Austin for adults?

People flock to Austin around the world for his nightlife, live music and culinary culture. Adults in Austin can go to the broken brokenness to drink drinks and dance or the Longhorn living room for a s *** bingo chicken game.

For more outdoor activities, think of the bike around Zilker Park or swimming and boating opportunities at Barton Springs Pool.

Austin also is full of arts and culture, from the numerous murals around the city to world -class artistic institutions such as the Blanton Museum of Art and the Umlauf sculpture gardens.

What are the best things to do in Austin, Texas with children?

Austin also happens to be an incredibly family city. Parents traveling with small children should consider the following activities:

  • Take advantage of a practical exhibition in Thinkery, the first children's museum in Austin
  • Make a trip to the Kalahari water park and the complex
  • Cap around the Barton Springs swimming pool
  • Run in the Zilker Metropolitan Park
  • Get chicken offers at the picnic, a famous catering truck park located in the city
  • Rally Mont Bonnell for an incredible view in town
  • See some animals at Austin Aquarium

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