Welcome to Austin! If you’ve just moved here or are thinking about it, you’re in for a treat. Austin is packed with exciting things to do, see, and experience. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, amazing food, or live music, there’s something here for you. In this video, I’m sharing my top 10 things to do in Austin for new residents to help you dive right into the city’s culture. Let’s go!”

1. Explore Barton Springs Pool

Start your Austin adventure with a visit to Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre, spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park. This spot is a local favorite for cooling off, especially during those hot Texas summers. The water stays a crisp 68-70°F year-round, making it a refreshing dip no matter the season.

Why It’s a Must-Do:

• A natural oasis in the middle of the city
• Great for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing
• Iconic Austin experience

Quick Tips:

• Entry Fee: $5 for residents
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds
• Bring a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes (the rocks can be slippery)

Local Insight: “It’s refreshing, picturesque, and the perfect spot to experience Austin’s laid-back lifestyle.”

2. Stroll Down South Congress Avenue

No visit to Austin is complete without a walk down South Congress Avenue (SoCo). This lively street is packed with boutique shops, quirky art galleries, vintage stores, and some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in town.

Things to Do on SoCo:

• Grab a coffee at Jo’s Coffee and snap a selfie at the ‘I Love You So Much’ mural
• Try gourmet donuts at Gourdough’s
• Listen to live music at The Continental Club, a legendary venue since the 1950s
• Shop at Allen’s Boots for an authentic pair of cowboy boots

Local Insight: “SoCo is where Austin’s creative and hipster culture meets history. It’s an awesome spot to people-watch and soak in the city’s energy.”

3. Check Out Live Music

Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, so catching a live show is a MUST. From small, intimate bars to massive music festivals, there’s a venue for every taste.

Where to Catch Live Music:

• The Continental Club – Classic rock, blues, and country
• ACL Live at the Moody Theater – Hosts big-name artists & events
• The White Horse – Two-stepping and honky-tonk vibes
• Mohawk Austin – Indie and alternative music
• Stubbs BBQ – Great music with even better brisket

Pro Tip: Check out the local events calendar to find free live shows happening around town.

4. Visit Lady Bird Lake

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lady Bird Lake is a paradise. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking, this scenic lake offers stunning views of the Austin skyline.

Best Ways to Experience Lady Bird Lake:

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Rowing Dock or Live Love Paddle
• Walk, bike, or run along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (10 miles)
• Picnic at Auditorium Shores, one of the best places for skyline photos

Local Insight: “Sunset paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake is one of the most peaceful and beautiful experiences in Austin.”

5. Feast at Austin’s Food Trucks

Austin’s food truck scene is legendary, offering everything from tacos to barbecue to vegan eats. Some of the best food in the city comes from these small but mighty kitchens.

Must-Try Food Trucks:

• Veracruz All Natural – Some of the best tacos in town
• Micklethwait Craft Meats – Incredible Texas barbecue
• Dee Dee – Authentic Northern Thai food
• Arlo’s – Delicious vegan comfort food
• Kerlin BBQ – Famous for their brisket kolaches

Local Insight: “Austin’s food trucks give you top-tier flavors without the fancy price tag. Find a food truck park and try a little bit of everything!”

6. Tour the Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is not only a stunning landmark, but it’s also the largest state capitol building in the U.S. Free tours are offered daily, giving you a chance to learn about Texas’ rich political history.

Why It’s Worth Visiting:

• Beautiful Italian Renaissance Revival architecture
• Learn about Texas history and government
• Great photo spot, especially at sunset

Local Insight: “Even if you’re not into politics, the Capitol is a must-see for its architecture and history.”

7. Enjoy the Austin Farmers’ Market

Austin’s farmers’ markets are a foodie’s dream, featuring local produce, artisan goods, and live music.

Best Farmers’ Markets:

• Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller (Sundays)
• Downtown SFC Farmers’ Market (Saturdays)

Local Insight: “A great way to support local businesses while discovering unique Austin flavors!”

8. Experience Mount Bonnell

For one of the best views in Austin, head to Mount Bonnell. It’s a short but steep climb, and the views at the top overlooking the Colorado River and downtown Austin are breathtaking.

Best Time to Visit:

• Sunset for the most beautiful golden hour views
• Early morning for a peaceful experience

Local Insight: “Bring a picnic and watch the sunset—it’s one of the most romantic spots in the city.”

9. Discover Austin’s Street Art

Austin has a vibrant street art scene, with murals all over the city. These colorful works of art reflect Austin’s creative and weird culture.

Best Murals to Visit:

• Greetings from Austin (South 1st St.)
• I Love You So Much (Jo’s Coffee on SoCo)
• You’re My Butter Half (E. MLK Blvd)
• Willie Nelson & Stevie Ray Vaughan murals (Various locations)

Local Insight: “Austin’s street art is like a visual love letter to the city!”

10. Watch the Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge

One of Austin’s most unique attractions is the bat colony that lives under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Every evening from March to October, around 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats fly out at sunset, creating a spectacular natural show.

Best Viewing Spots:

• Congress Avenue Bridge (topside or below on the trail)
• Lady Bird Lake kayak tours for a unique perspective

Local Insight: “It’s one of those ‘only in Austin’ experiences that you’ll never forget!”

Are You A New Austin Resident?

“From outdoor adventures to live music and incredible food, Austin has something for everyone. If you’re new to the city, this list will help you jump right into what makes Austin so special.”

Which of these are you most excited to try?