Austin, Texas, is a city bursting with life, music, and culture. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers a unique blend of attractions that appeal to a wide range of interests. From the iconic Texas Capitol to the vibrant music venues and renowned parks, there is something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Visitors can explore various points of interest, such as the Bullock Museum and the scenic Hill Country. Whether enjoying the culinary delights on a tour or experiencing the history of the city through its landmarks and museums, Austin promises unforgettable experiences.
1. Stand in Line at Franklin Barbecue
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Franklin Barbecue stands out as a must-visit spot for anyone in Austin who loves barbecue. The line at Franklin is famous for being long, often starting as early as 6 or 7 a.m. It’s not just any line—people bring chairs, coolers, and sometimes even breakfast to pass the time.
Waiting in line at Franklin isn’t just about the food; it’s also about the experience. The anticipation builds as you wait to taste some of the best brisket you’ll find. Aaron Franklin, the owner, sometimes opens the doors himself, adding a personal touch to the experience.
The barbecue served at Franklin is worth the wait. From the tender brisket to the rich, smoky flavors that define Texas barbecue, each bite proves why it’s earned so many awards. If you’ve got the time, join the line and savor one of Austin’s iconic dining experiences.
Location: 900 E 11th St, Austin
2. Shop on South Congress
South Congress Avenue in Austin is a shopping paradise. This bustling street is lined with a mix of old and new shops, offering everything from vintage clothing to high-end boutiques.
Some well-known stores include Allen’s Boots, famous for its wide selection of cowboy boots, and Maya Star, a must-visit for those interested in women’s fashion. For men’s fashion, Stag Provisions for Men offers timeless and stylish clothing. Those looking for unique gifts and jewelry should check out Limbo Jewelry and Paper Work, both offering exclusive items from Texas-based artists.
In addition to these, South Congress also hosts larger chain stores like Lululemon and luxury shops such as Hermes. Despite the changes over the years, the street has retained its charm and continues to be a key destination for both locals and tourists.
3. Get tickets to an Austin FC game
To catch an Austin FC game, head to Q2 Stadium in north Austin. This modern venue offers a vibrant spot to enjoy local eats like Valentina’s and One Taco while cheering for Austin Verde. The fan base is lively and enthusiastic, ensuring an unforgettable matchday. For an extra intense experience, get tickets in the supporter section, where fans cheer continuously. Austin FC, the city’s first professional sports team, has been performing well. Ensure all tickets are accessed via the Austin FC & Q2 Stadium Mobile App.
Location: 10414 Mc Kalla Pl, Austin
4. Swim at Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool, nestled within Zilker Park, covers three acres and remains a refreshing 68 degrees all year. The pool is sourced directly from an underground spring, providing fresh, cold water even on the hottest days. This natural swimming hole is a popular Austin destination located conveniently in the heart of the city.
Key Information:
- Temperature: Approximately 68 degrees year-round
- Size: 3 acres
Visitors can enjoy the ideal spot for cooling off before heading to nearby attractions, such as Terry Black’s BBQ. Barton Springs Pool is an essential visit for anyone in the area.
Location: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin
5. Enjoy Breakfast Tacos…Skip Torchy’s
Austin boasts an incredible array of breakfast tacos. While Torchy’s is a common recommendation, especially for those unfamiliar with the city, there are superior options available.
For a more authentic Austin experience, consider these alternatives:
- El Primo: This local taco truck offers a genuine Tex-Mex flavor with a casual vibe.
- Lazarus Brewery: Known for its in-house roasted coffee, the brewery also serves delightful breakfast tacos every morning.
Popular Recommendations:
- Veracruz All Natural: This food truck is known for its fresh, flavorful tacos made from quality ingredients.
A Few Must-Try Tacos:
- Machacado and eggs
- Black bean, egg, and cheese
- Carnitas tacos with a twist
Note: Torchy’s does have some of the best queso in town, which is a must-try for any foodie visiting Austin.
6. Paddle Board on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake, part of the Colorado River, is located in downtown Austin and offers a serene spot for paddle boarding and kayaking. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail circles the lake, providing stunning views of the city skyline. Rent equipment from Austin Paddle Shack, known for its friendly staff and convenient location by the water. Paddle around the lake to enjoy outdoor activities and take in the scenic beauty. Experience the calm waters and captivating surroundings, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
7. Visit a Craft Brewery
Austin is a hub for craft breweries, offering a diverse range of award-winning beers and unique experiences. Here are three standout options:
- Hold Out Brewing: Located in downtown Austin, this brewery features a large free parking area and a variety of excellent beers and food.
- Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company (ABGB): Just 2 miles south of downtown, ABGB is renowned for its internationally awarded Pilsners. Visitors can also enjoy tasty pizza and live music on the indoor stage.
- Meanwhile Brewing: Situated in east Austin, Meanwhile Brewing has quickly become a favorite, even winning gold medals at the World Beer Cup and Great American Brewing Festival. The brewery boasts a large outdoor playground, several food trucks, and a soccer field.
These breweries showcase the rich and varied craft brew offerings in Austin, making each visit a unique experience.
8. See the view from Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell, located at 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd in Austin, offers a stunning view of the Colorado River. Visitors can reach the summit after climbing 102 stone steps, a quick three-minute ascent. At the top, there is ample space to explore and enjoy the scenery. From this vantage point, you can see the Austin skyline, the river, and impressive mansions along the water.
This spot is great for families with children, but keep an eye on the little ones as there are some areas near the cliff edge. Mount Bonnell, standing at 775 feet above sea level, is not only one of Austin’s highest points but also a popular destination for watching the sunset.
9. See a movie at Alamo Drafthouse
At Alamo Drafthouse, moviegoers can enjoy a unique theater experience. From blockbuster hits to indie films and nostalgic classics, there’s a wide variety of films to choose from. The theater prides itself on themed menus, local craft beers, and reclining seats for maximum comfort. Servers bring food and drinks directly to your seat, making it so you don’t miss any part of the movie.
Location: 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin
Amenities:
- Themed menus
- Local craft beers
- Reclining seats
- In-seat service
- Theater rentals for events
10. Go to Austin City Limits Music Festival
Visit the Austin City Limits Music Festival if you’re in Austin in October. This lively festival spans over two weekends with eight stages and 130 bands, making it a must-see event. Held at Zilker Park, festival-goers can enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Austin while listening to an impressive lineup of performers.
The ACL Food Court highlights the best local cuisine, offering a taste of Austin’s dining scene. For families, “Austin Kiddie Limits” provides kid-friendly music and activities, ensuring fun for all ages. Make sure to mark this unforgettable experience on your calendar and grab your tickets early.
Location: 2207 Lou Nef Rd, Austin
11. See live music at Moody Amphitheater
Moody Amphitheater is a fantastic spot for live music in Austin. Nestled in Waterloo Park, this new venue offers a stunning view of the Texas State Capitol from the audience. Austin, known as the “live music capital of the world,” has shifted from hidden gem venues to modern spaces for bigger acts.
Moody Amphitheater is located at 500 E 12th St in downtown Austin. It’s quickly becoming one of the best places to catch live performances. Whether it’s a local band or a famous artist, the excitement of live music fills the air.
For anyone visiting Austin, catching a show at Moody Amphitheater is a must. The natural beauty of Waterloo Park, combined with top-notch acoustics, makes it an unforgettable experience. The amphitheater enhances Austin’s reputation as a mecca for live music venues.
12. Take your kids to the Alliance Children’s Garden
The Alliance Children’s Garden is a must-visit spot in Austin for families with kids. This newly opened, $6 million, 2-acre playground and cultural space is located in Butler Park at 1000 Barton Springs Rd.
Kids can enjoy giant cement slides, tunnels, a climbing wall, and a splash pad. The garden also offers a wonderful view of downtown Austin. The unique design and various play structures ensure that children of all ages find something fun to do.
Location: 1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
13. Bar hop on East 6th St (NOT Dirty Sixth)
For a night out filled with unique bars, restaurants, and local breweries, head to East 6th Street on the east side of I35. This part of Austin offers a vibrant nightlife without the chaos of Dirty Sixth. Sample Detroit-style pizza at Via 313, chill at the Liberty Bar or enjoy a craft beer at Zilker Brewing. For exceptional cocktails, make sure to visit Whisler’s, a favorite among locals. Each of these spots presents a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, perfect for an evening of bar hopping. With its mix of trendy and laid-back venues, East 6th guarantees a memorable night.
14. Stay at a really cool hotel
Austin boasts a variety of exciting hotels. Whether you choose to stay downtown, in SOCO, or in east Austin, there’s a fantastic nearby option. For a modern feel, try Heywood Hotel. For a lake view, The Loren at Lady Bird Lake is perfect.
15. Sip cocktails from a rooftop bar
Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails paired with stunning views at Austin’s finest rooftop bars. This guide highlights where to enjoy these iconic experiences.
17. Walk through the Austin Public Library
The Austin Public Library, a remarkable $125 million project, boasts six floors and offers scenic views of Lady Bird Lake and Shoal Creek. Visitors can explore its extensive underground parking garage, enjoy a book in the cafe, admire the art gallery, or relax in the rooftop garden. The 37-foot clock in the atrium is a sight to see. Whether spending a few hours reading or just passing through, the library is a must-visit destination.
Location: 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
18. Get tickets to the Blanton Museum of Art
When in Austin, discovering the Blanton Museum of Art is a must. It’s on the University of Texas campus, housing one of the biggest university art collections in the nation. The museum displays over 21,000 pieces in its permanent collection.
Location: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin
Plan for at least an hour or two to truly appreciate the exhibits. For ticket purchases, visit the museum’s official website. You can explore the museum’s gripping art pieces and breathtaking galleries at your own pace.
19. Take a hike at the Barton Creek Greenbelt
Barton Creek Greenbelt is a favorite spot in Austin for a nature escape. This area has trails with a mix of easy walks and a few hills. Many visitors enjoy exploring its hidden swimming holes. One recommended entry point is near Tacodeli, located at 1500 Spyglass Dr, Suite B, Austin, TX 78746. After a refreshing hike and swim, you can grab some tasty tacos. The Greenbelt entrance is conveniently placed across the street from Tacodeli, making access simple.
20. Visit Mayfield Park
Location: 3505 W 35th St, Austin
Mayfield Park offers a glimpse into Austin’s natural beauty. This historic site includes a charming cottage and lovely gardens that span 23 acres. Don’t miss the peacocks, which roam freely, adding vibrant splashes of color. It’s completely free to explore the gardens and trails.
Remember, pets are not allowed due to the peacocks. For a full day of fun, pair your visit with a trip to nearby Mount Bonnell. Both destinations offer fantastic, budget-friendly outdoor experiences in Austin.
21. Go two-stepping at the Broken Spoke
The Broken Spoke is a classic dance hall in Austin, brimming with history since 1964. This red building stands firm among the modern high rises, preserving its old-school charm. Famous names like Dolly Parton, George Strait, and Willie Nelson have graced its stage.
Two-stepping is a beloved tradition in Texas, and The Broken Spoke offers lessons from Wednesday to Saturday, 8-9 pm, making it a fantastic spot to learn. After the lessons, live country music keeps the dance floor lively.
Details:
- Dance Lessons: Wed-Sat, 8-9 pm
- Music: Live country tunes follow the lessons
Put on your boots and experience the heart of Austin’s dance culture at The Broken Spoke.
Location: 3201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin
22. Watch the Bats Emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge
Watching the bats in Austin is a unique and unforgettable experience. Each evening, around 1 million bats take flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, creating a spectacular sight. This bat colony is the largest urban colony in the world. The best time to visit is between mid-March and early November, with June to August offering the most impressive displays.
Plan to arrive 30 to 60 minutes before sunset. Ideal Viewing Spots:
- On the bridge: Stand on Congress Avenue Bridge for a great vantage point.
- Under the bridge: View from the grassy lawn below.
- On the water: Rent a paddleboard or kayak for a unique perspective.
Be prepared to be amazed as the bats fly out and around Austin, embarking on their nightly feeding adventures.
23. Visit the LBJ Presidential Library
History enthusiasts will enjoy spending half a day at the LBJ Presidential Library. Admission is half-price on Tuesdays. The library and museum span 14 acres and contain 45 million pages of historical documents.
Location: 2313 Red River St, Austin
24. Shop at BookPeople
Since 1970, the largest independent bookstore in Texas has been a must-visit for literature lovers. Located at 603 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, this bookstore offers more than just books. There’s an on-site coffee shop perfect for enjoying a latte while diving into a new read. The friendly staff curates and tags their favorite books in each section, making it easy to discover new favorites through their recommendation cards.
Authors often visit BookPeople during international book tours. Check the events calendar to see if any of your favorite writers will be hosting a talk or book signing. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the world of books and enjoy unique literary events.
25. See a Show at the Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre, over 100 years old, stands proudly in downtown Austin. Built in 1915, it’s still a hub for entertainment. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy a variety of events like live music, comedy shows, and classic films. During the holiday season, it’s a wonderful place to catch popular holiday movies.
Location: 713 Congress Ave in Austin