Austin things to do
Austin is the state capital of Texas and full of fun things to do. Known for its live music scene, outdoor activities and great food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A visit to Austin should include a tour of the State Capitol. Tours are free and provide great insight on Texas government and the state’s history.
The Capitol was built in 1885 and stands taller than the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. For more Texas history, visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum, just a half mile away.
Also in Austin, on the University of Texas campus, is the LBJ Presidential Library.
Austin is home to many great parks, including McKinney Falls State Park, Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake. For the best views though, head up to Mount Bonnell. Climb the 100 or so steps of the limestone staircase for panoramic views of the city.
To cool off, make your way to Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre pool fed by underground springs with an average temperature of 68-70 degrees.
As it gets close to sunset, check out the area near the Congress Avenue Bridge for bat watching! Mexican free-tailed bats have made their home under the bridge and come out each evening for a nightly show.
For all the yummy restaurants, live music and funky shops your heart could desire, head to South Congress Avenue or SoCo. Grab a slice of pizza at Home Slice Pizza, a huge burger and shake at Hopdoddy or a tasty treat at Amy’s Ice Creams.
You’ve gotta have BBQ while in Austin. Franklin BBQ is very popular and Black’s BBQ is also very good. Other places to try are Veracruz for Mexican tacos and juices and Pinthouse Pizza.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Gourdough’s, which has incredible donuts with all sorts of toppings. I had the Funky Monkey! You can even get sandwiches and burgers on a donut.
For nightlife, check out 6th Street and Rainey Street. Both have lots of bars and clubs, but Rainey Street has a more chill vibe.
Finally, if you are into motorsports, catch a race at Circuit of the Americas, which hosts a Formula One race each year along with other series.
Have you visited Austin? What are your favorite things to do there?
Check out more fun places to visit in Texas: Dallas-Fort Worth, South Padre Island, College Station, Fredericksburg and Waco.
