Welcome to Austin, Texas – a city where the unofficial motto “Keep Austin Weird” isn’t just a catchy phrase, it’s practically a way of life. Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, Austin manages to be quintessentially Texan while simultaneously marching to the beat of its own quirky drum. Whether you’re a curious tourist looking to soak up some Southern charm, a local family seeking weekend adventures, or someone considering making Austin your new home, this vibrant city has something special waiting for you around every corner.
Austin is a place where cowboy boots and tech startups coexist in perfect harmony, where you can start your morning with a peaceful paddle on Lady Bird Lake and end it two-stepping at a honky-tonk. It’s a city that takes its breakfast tacos as seriously as its live music, and where swimming holes and hiking trails are just as much a part of the cultural fabric as its world-class museums and historical landmarks.
In this guide, we’re diving into 25 must-do adventures that capture the essence of Austin. From outdoor escapades that showcase the city’s natural beauty to mouth-watering culinary experiences that will have you loosening your belt, from family-friendly attractions that will delight the little ones to quirky spots that embody Austin’s unique character – we’ve got you covered. We’ve also included practical information like costs, best times to visit, and insider tips to help you make the most of your Austin adventures.
So grab your sunscreen (you’ll need it), bring your appetite (trust us on this one), and get ready to explore the capital city that proudly keeps it weird. These 25 adventures aren’t just activities to check off a list – they’re experiences that will give you a true taste of what makes Austin, well, Austin. Let’s dive in!
Outdoor Adventures
1. Paddle on Lady Bird Lake
Right in the heart of downtown Austin lies Lady Bird Lake (technically a river, but don’t tell the locals), offering one of the most quintessential Austin experiences. Grab a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard and glide across the calm waters while enjoying spectacular views of the Austin skyline.
If you’re new to paddling, don’t worry – the lake is beginner-friendly with minimal current. Rental shops like Rowing Dock and Congress Avenue Kayaks offer hourly rentals starting around $15-20 per hour. For the best experience, go early morning when the water is calmest and the temperatures are cooler, especially during summer months.
Pro tip: Time your paddle for sunset, then hang around the Congress Avenue Bridge to witness another Austin spectacle – the nightly bat exodus (more on that later).
2. Take a Dip at Barton Springs Pool
When temperatures soar in Austin (which happens, oh, about 9 months of the year), locals flock to Barton Springs Pool, a natural limestone pool fed by underground springs that maintain a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round. This three-acre swimming hole in Zilker Park isn’t just a place to cool off – it’s a cultural institution.
The pool is open daily except Thursdays (when it closes for cleaning), with admission ranging from $5-9 for non-residents. Early mornings are perfect for lap swimmers and nature lovers who might spot the endangered Barton Springs salamander. Afternoons bring a more social atmosphere with sunbathers sprawled across the grassy hills surrounding the pool.
Fair warning: part of the pool is clothing-optional, so if you’re visiting with kids, you might want to stick to the family-friendly main area. Or hey, maybe this is your chance to embrace Austin’s free-spirited nature – we won’t judge!
3. Hike to the Top of Mount Bonnell
For the best views in Austin without breaking too much of a sweat, head to Mount Bonnell. Despite its grand name, this “mountain” is more of a modest hill, but the panoramic views of Lake Austin and the surrounding Hill Country are anything but modest.
A short but steep climb of about 100 steps brings you to the summit at 775 feet. Once at the top, you’ll find a pavilion and several lookout points perfect for photos. Bring a small picnic and time your visit for sunset when the changing colors reflect off the water below.
Entrance is free, parking is limited, and there are no facilities at the top, so plan accordingly. This is a popular spot for romantic outings and proposals, so don’t be surprised if you witness someone getting down on one knee while you’re there!
4. Explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is Austin’s natural playground, offering over 12 miles of trails that wind alongside limestone cliffs, through dense forests, and past several swimming holes. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or just looking for a place to escape the urban hustle, the Greenbelt delivers.
Access is free through several entry points around the city, with the most popular being the Spyglass entrance. The trail difficulty varies from easy to moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels. During spring and early summer when water levels are high, don’t miss swimming spots like Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls – natural limestone pools that offer a refreshing break from the Texas heat.
Remember that water levels are dependent on recent rainfall, so check conditions before planning your swimming adventure. And please, as the locals say, “leave no trace” to keep this natural treasure pristine for future visitors.
Cultural & Historical Adventures
5. Visit the Texas State Capitol
Standing tall and proud in downtown Austin, the Texas State Capitol isn’t just a government building – it’s a stunning architectural marvel that tells the story of the Lone Star State. At 14 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. (because everything’s bigger in Texas, naturally), this pink granite landmark offers free guided tours that take you through the rotunda, legislative chambers, and historical exhibits.
Tours run every 30-45 minutes and last about 30 minutes. While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended for larger groups. The grounds surrounding the Capitol are equally impressive, with 22 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, monuments, and shady spots perfect for a picnic after your tour.
Pro tip: Look for the brass floor plates in the rotunda marked with “Whispering Spot” – stand on one while a friend stands on another, and you can whisper to each other from across the room thanks to the dome’s acoustic properties. It’s like texting, but from 1888!
6. Step Back in Time at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
If you want to understand Texas (a tall order, admittedly), the Bullock Museum is your one-stop shop. This impressive institution walks you through the state’s rich history, from indigenous cultures and Spanish colonization to the famous Texas Revolution and beyond.
The museum’s three floors of exhibits include artifacts like the original Goddess of Liberty statue that once topped the State Capitol and an authentic 17th-century French shipwreck. Don’t miss “Becoming Texas,” the first-floor exhibit that explores 16,000 years of Texas history.
Admission runs $13-17 for adults with discounts for seniors, military, and students. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here, and if you’re feeling fancy, catch a film at the museum’s IMAX theater or Texas Spirit Theater for an immersive experience.
7. Explore the LBJ Presidential Library
Politics aside, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most consequential presidencies in American history. Located on the University of Texas campus, this library houses millions of documents and artifacts from LBJ’s time in office, including a replica of the Oval Office as it looked during his administration.
The museum does an excellent job of contextualizing the turbulent 1960s, covering the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and Johnson’s ambitious “Great Society” programs. Perhaps most entertaining is the collection of LBJ’s infamous telephone conversations – the man was known for conducting business from the bathroom, and yes, sometimes you can hear the flush.
Admission is $10 for adults with various discounts available. Audio guides are included with admission and add rich context to the exhibits. Plan for about 2 hours to fully experience the library.
8. Wander Through the Blanton Museum of Art
Art lovers, rejoice! The Blanton Museum of Art on the University of Texas campus houses one of the largest university art collections in the country, with over 19,000 works spanning from ancient Greek pottery to contemporary installations.
The museum’s crown jewel is “Austin,” an ethereal stone building created by artist Ellsworth Kelly as his final work and only building. This luminous space with colored glass windows creates an ever-changing light show throughout the day and has quickly become one of the city’s most Instagram-worthy spots.
Admission is $12 for adults, with free entry on Thursdays. The museum is closed on Mondays, and guided tours are offered several times a week. Even if you’re not usually a museum person, the Blanton’s diverse collection and stunning architecture make it worth a visit.
Food & Dining Adventures
9. Devour Breakfast Tacos Like a Local
In Austin, breakfast tacos aren’t just a meal – they’re practically a religion. These handheld delights stuffed with eggs, cheese, potatoes, beans, and various meats have fueled Austinites for generations, and sampling them is a non-negotiable part of any Austin adventure.
For an authentic experience, head to Veracruz All Natural, where the migas taco (eggs, tortilla chips, avocado, and pico de gallo) has earned national acclaim. Alternatively, join the line at Torchy’s Tacos for their famous “Trailer Park” taco (fried chicken, green chilies, and queso – get it “trashy” to add queso on top). Juan in a Million in East Austin serves their legendary Don Juan taco, a massive pile of eggs, potatoes, and bacon that could easily feed two people.
Expect to pay $3-5 per taco, and don’t be surprised to find lines at popular spots, especially on weekends. The good news? The wait is always worth it, and you’ll be participating in one of Austin’s most heated debates: who really does make the best breakfast taco in town?
10. Experience Dinner and a Show at The Dinner Detective
For a meal with a side of mystery, book an evening at The Dinner Detective, Austin’s interactive murder mystery dinner show. Unlike traditional murder mystery dinners with obvious actors and costumes, this experience plants performers among the guests, meaning anyone could be the killer – even the person sitting right next to you!
The evening includes a four-course meal, interactive sleuthing, and plenty of laughs as you work to solve the crime before dessert arrives. Tickets run about $60-70 per person, which includes dinner, the show, and gratuity. Performances typically happen on Saturday evenings, and reservations are required.
Come prepared to participate – the more you engage, the more fun you’ll have. And who knows? You might even be named the evening’s top detective if you crack the case!
11. Sample World-Class BBQ
You can’t visit Austin without paying homage to its legendary barbecue scene. While the city is home to dozens of excellent smokehouses, a few stand out as true pilgrimage sites for meat lovers.
Franklin Barbecue has achieved mythical status with its melt-in-your-mouth brisket, drawing daily lines that form before dawn. If you’re not up for the wait, La Barbecue offers equally impressive smoked meats with slightly shorter lines. For a more under-the-radar experience, Micklethwait Craft Meats serves exceptional barbecue from a vintage trailer in East Austin.
Expect to pay $20-30 per person for a proper barbecue feast, and remember that many popular spots sell out by early afternoon. The cardinal rule of Texas barbecue: no sauce needed (though it’s usually provided). The meat should speak for itself, and in Austin, it definitely does.
12. Dine with Robots at Space Cowboy
For a dining experience that feels straight out of The Jetsons, head to Space Cowboy on East 7th Street. This futuristic bistro bar combines internationally inspired tapas with cutting-edge technology – namely, robot servers that deliver your food and drinks right to your table.
The menu features creative dishes like Wine Braised Short Ribs and Space Balls (crispy potato pani puri with various fillings), all brought to you by AI-assisted robots that zoom efficiently between tables. The novelty factor is high, but the food quality doesn’t suffer for it.
Prices are moderate, with small plates ranging from $8-18. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the place fills up with curious diners eager to be served by their mechanical waitstaff. It’s a hit with kids and tech enthusiasts alike!
Music & Entertainment Adventures
13. Catch Live Music on Sixth Street
No trip to the “Live Music Capital of the World” would be complete without experiencing Austin’s legendary music scene. Sixth Street, particularly the stretch known as “Dirty Sixth,” is lined with bars and venues offering live performances every night of the week.
The Continental Club, operating since 1955, is an Austin institution featuring blues, rock, and country acts in a vintage setting. For a more intimate experience, check out the Elephant Room, an underground jazz club with nightly performances and excellent acoustics. If you’re looking for up-and-coming artists, The Mohawk offers an eclectic mix of indie, rock, and hip-hop shows on its indoor and outdoor stages.
Most venues have cover charges ranging from $5-20 depending on the act, though you can often find free shows, especially on weeknights. The beauty of Austin’s music scene is its diversity – within a single evening, you can hop between venues and experience everything from traditional country to experimental electronic music.
Pro tip: Thursday through Saturday nights are busiest, with peak hours from 10 PM to 2 AM. If crowds aren’t your thing, try a Sunday afternoon show when the vibe is more relaxed but the talent is just as impressive.
14. Witness the Congress Avenue Bat Colony
Every evening from late March through early November, Austin puts on one of nature’s most spectacular shows – the emergence of the largest urban bat colony in North America. Approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats call the underside of the Congress Avenue Bridge home, and their nightly exodus to hunt for insects is a sight to behold.
The best viewing spots are on the bridge itself, from the grassy hill at the Austin American-Statesman, or from the water on a bat-watching boat tour (around $15-20 per person). The bats typically emerge around sunset, though timing varies based on season and weather conditions.
This natural phenomenon draws crowds of tourists and locals alike, so arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot. And don’t worry – despite their numbers, the bats are harmless and more interested in mosquitoes than humans. Just maybe don’t wear a hat… for obvious reasons.
15. Two-Step at The Broken Spoke
Dust off your cowboy boots and channel your inner Texan at The Broken Spoke, one of the last authentic Texas dance halls. This honky-tonk has been serving up cold beer, chicken-fried steak, and live country music since 1964, with legends like Willie Nelson and George Strait gracing its stage over the years.
If you’re new to two-stepping, arrive early for dance lessons (typically offered Wednesday through Saturday evenings for $8) before the live music starts. Once you’ve mastered the basics, join the locals on the dance floor as they twirl and glide to traditional country tunes.
Cover charges range from $8-12 depending on the night and performer. The venue is cash-only, so come prepared. And don’t worry about looking like a novice – Austinites are friendly folks who appreciate anyone willing to embrace their cultural traditions, even with two left boots.
16. Attend a Show at ACL Live at the Moody Theater
For a more upscale music experience, catch a show at ACL Live at the Moody Theater, home to the famous Austin City Limits television show, the longest-running music program in television history. This state-of-the-art, 2,750-seat venue hosts both established stars and rising talents in an intimate setting where there truly isn’t a bad seat in the house.
The theater’s exceptional acoustics and lighting make it one of the premier music venues in the country. Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performer, ranging from $30 for lesser-known acts to $150+ for major artists. The venue is located in the heart of downtown, surrounded by restaurants and bars perfect for pre-show dining or post-show drinks.
Check their calendar well in advance, as shows often sell out quickly. If you can’t score tickets to a performance, consider taking a guided tour of the venue (offered select days for $25) to learn about its history and get a behind-the-scenes look at this Austin landmark.
Family-Friendly Adventures
17. Explore The Thinkery Children’s Museum
The Thinkery in East Austin’s Mueller neighborhood is a paradise for curious kids and their equally curious parents. This modern children’s museum reimagines play as a powerful learning tool, with hands-on exhibits covering science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).
Little ones can splash in the water feature, build contraptions in the Innovators’ Workshop, create colorful masterpieces in the art studio, or explore physical science concepts in the Light Lab. The outdoor play space offers additional opportunities for exploration and energy-burning.
Admission is $14 for adults and children over 2, with discounted rates on Wednesday evenings. The museum can get crowded on weekends and during school holidays, so weekday mornings are ideal for a more relaxed experience. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here, and be prepared for your kids to beg to stay longer!
18. Visit the Austin Zoo
Unlike traditional zoos, the Austin Zoo functions primarily as a rescue and rehabilitation center, providing a forever home to animals that have been rescued, rehabilitated, or rehomed from other facilities. This makes it not only a fun family outing but also an opportunity to teach kids about animal conservation and welfare.
The zoo houses over 300 animals representing more than 100 different species, including big cats, monkeys, bears, and native Texas wildlife. The compact size makes it manageable for families with young children, and the shaded pathways provide relief from the Texas sun.
Admission is $12.50 for adults and $8.50 for children ages 2-12. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6 PM, with the last admission at 5 PM. Bring quarters to purchase feed for the petting zoo animals – a highlight for most kids!
19. Splash at Zilker Park’s Splash Pad
When Austin temperatures soar, Zilker Park’s splash pad offers free aquatic fun for families. Located near the Barton Springs Pool, this zero-depth water playground features sprinklers, fountains, and water jets that delight children of all ages.
The splash pad is surrounded by grassy areas perfect for picnicking and relaxing while the kids play. Nearby, you’ll find the Zilker Playground with its unique fire truck structure and the Zilker Zephyr miniature train that circles the park (tickets are $3-5).
The splash pad operates seasonally from March through October, weather permitting. Parking can be challenging on weekends and holidays, so arrive early or consider using public transportation. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water – the Texas sun doesn’t mess around!
20. Take a Duck Adventure Tour
For a unique way to see Austin with kids, hop aboard an Austin Duck Adventures tour. These amphibious vehicles travel on both land and water, offering a 75-minute narrated tour of downtown Austin before splashing into Lake Austin for a cruise.
The tour guides are known for their entertaining commentary that blends historical facts with humorous anecdotes, keeping both kids and adults engaged. You’ll see landmarks like the State Capitol, Governor’s Mansion, and the famous “I Love You So Much” mural before the exciting moment when your vehicle transforms into a boat.
Tickets run about $36 for adults and $19 for children ages 3-12, with tours departing from the Austin Visitor Center. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season. The tours run rain or shine, and kids especially love making quacking noises with the provided duck whistles (parents, consider yourselves warned).
Quirky & Unique Adventures
21. Explore the Cathedral of Junk
Hidden in a South Austin backyard is one of the city’s most eccentric attractions – the Cathedral of Junk. This ever-evolving structure is the brainchild of artist Vince Hannemann, who began building it in 1988 and has continued adding to it ever since. Today, the cathedral consists of over 60 tons of discarded items ingeniously assembled into towers, tunnels, and chambers that visitors can explore.
The cathedral is located on private property, so you’ll need to call ahead to arrange a visit (512-299-7413). A suggested donation of $10 per person helps maintain this unique attraction. Photography is welcome, and you’ll definitely want your camera – every angle offers a new perspective on this monument to creative recycling.
Remember, this is someone’s backyard, so be respectful during your visit. And wear closed-toe shoes – you never know what you might encounter in this delightful jumble of American consumer culture!
22. Visit the Museum of the Weird
Continuing the tradition of the classic dime museums and cabinets of curiosities from the past, the Museum of the Weird on Sixth Street showcases an eclectic collection of oddities that will leave you scratching your head (in the best possible way).
Inside, you’ll find everything from shrunken heads and mummies to Fiji mermaids and wax figures of famous movie monsters. The museum also features live performances, including a classic sideshow act that might involve sword swallowing or fire eating, depending on the day.
Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children, with the full experience lasting about an hour. The museum is open daily from noon until midnight, making it a perfect quirky detour during your Sixth Street adventures. Skeptics and believers alike will find something to marvel at in this celebration of the strange and unusual.
23. Hunt for Iconic Street Art
Austin’s vibrant street art scene offers a free, self-guided adventure that showcases the city’s creative spirit. Grab your camera and set out to find some of the most Instagram-worthy murals in town.
Start with the famous “Greetings from Austin” postcard mural on South First Street, then head to the “I Love You So Much” wall at Jo’s Coffee on South Congress. The “Hi, How Are You” frog mural on the Goodall Wooten building (created by musician Daniel Johnston) is another must-see, as is the colorful “You’re My Butter Half” mural in East Austin.
For a more comprehensive experience, download one of several Austin street art maps available online or join a guided tour (around $25-35 per person). The beauty of this adventure is that it’s constantly evolving – new murals appear regularly, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.
24. Play at Pinballz Arcade
Channel your inner child at Pinballz Arcade, home to the largest selection of pinball machines and arcade games in Texas. With three locations around Austin, Pinballz offers a nostalgic gaming experience that appeals to all ages.
The original location on Research Boulevard houses over 150 vintage and modern pinball machines, along with classic arcade games, modern console gaming, and redemption games. The Lake Creek location adds bowling and a full restaurant, while the Kingdom location features a bar and outdoor patio.
Most games cost between 50 cents and $1 per play, with the option to load money onto a reusable card. The arcades operate on a BYOB policy (except at Kingdom, which has a full bar), making it a unique adult hangout after the younger crowd heads home. Whether you’re a serious pinball wizard or just looking for some retro fun, Pinballz delivers hours of entertainment.
Day Trip Adventures
25. Explore the Natural Beauty of Hamilton Pool Preserve
Just 30 miles west of Austin lies one of Texas’ most stunning natural wonders – Hamilton Pool Preserve. This collapsed grotto and canyon formed thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed, creating a 50-foot waterfall that now spills over limestone outcroppings into a jade-green pool.
Visiting requires advance reservations (made through the Travis County Parks website), with entry fees of $12 per vehicle plus $8 per person. During summer months, reservations can fill up weeks in advance, so plan accordingly. Swimming is sometimes permitted, depending on water quality and safety conditions.
The hike from the parking lot to the pool is about a quarter-mile and moderately challenging, with some steep sections. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your camera – the otherworldly beauty of this natural landmark makes for unforgettable photos.
Pro tip: Combine your Hamilton Pool visit with stops at nearby Westcave Preserve and Reimers Ranch Park for a full day of Hill Country exploration.
Conclusion
From natural swimming holes to quirky art installations, from world-class museums to legendary music venues, Austin offers an adventure for every interest and age group. The 25 experiences we’ve shared barely scratch the surface of what this dynamic city has to offer, but they provide a solid foundation for understanding why so many people fall in love with Austin’s unique charm.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or considering making Austin your home, embrace the city’s unofficial motto and “Keep Austin Weird” by diving into these diverse adventures. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant capital city that somehow manages to be quintessentially Texan while marching confidently to the beat of its own drum.
So grab your sunscreen, bring your appetite, and prepare to be surprised – Austin is waiting to show you a good time, y’all!
