Welcome to the vibrant and eclectic city of Austin, Texas! Known as the live music capital of the world, Austin is renowned for its delicious barbecue and unique culture. If you’re like me and prefer to avoid tourist traps and cliches, you’ll love that Austin offers exciting activities for locals and visitors alike. Taken straight from my recent visit, I’m sharing 15 interesting things to do in Austin, ensuring you make the most of your time in the capital of the Lone Star State.
1. Watch the Sunset at Mount Bonnell:
Mount Bonnell, Austin’s highest point, offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and a beautiful sunset year-round. There’s free parking, it’s an easy walk to the viewpoint, and the views are stunning!
2. Experience Austin’s live music scene:
Experience Austin’s live music scene at venues like The Saxon Pub or The Continental Club. Many places have live music every night, featuring rock, folk and country. Have a seat, sip a beer, and enjoy the concert! The Continental Club also has a dance floor for those willing to test out their square dancing 😉
3. Stand in Line (for Brisket!!) at Terry Black’s BBQ:
Waiting in line to eat at Terry Black’s BBQ is a rite of passage in Austin. The wait may be long but when you taste their sauces it will be worth it, I promise! And remember, less is more at BBQ – I filled up so easily on 1/2 lb of brisket and a couple of sides. Order cautiously, or you’ll have plenty of leftovers!
4. Visit one of Autsin’s many art museums:
The Blanton Museum of Art is Austin’s main art museum which showcases a diverse collection spanning centuries and styles. They offer half price tickets for students!
Hidden gem alert: The Elizabet Ney Museum is the former home and studio of one of the pioneer female sculptors of the 1800s. It’s worth a visit and is completely free to enter!
Last but not least, the Mexic-Art Museum is a small but beautiful museum with a changing display of Mexican artists prominent in Austin and elsewhere.
5. Go for a Hike at Zilker Park along the Barton Creek Greenbelt:
Zilker Park, with its scenic trails along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, provides an urban oasis in the heart of Austin. In the summer there are swimming holes in some parts as well!
6. Eat Tacos, Any Tacos:
No matter where you go in Austin, the tacos are sure to be delicious, but I really enjoyed getting tacos from Guero’s Taco Bar and eating them outside while watching a live band play! I also really enjoyed Taco Flats, BUT the real good ones come from food trucks!
7. Visit a Speakeasy:
Austin is home to an amazing nightlife scene year-round, and also a few speakeasies! Getting into Floppy Disc Repair Co. was one of the highlights to my Austin trip! The bouncer will require a secret code, which we had to search for at another bar… It’s one of Austin’s best kept secrets, definitely worth a try to get in!
8. Rent Bikes and Ride Along the Barton Creek Greenbelt:
The Greenbelt also has many bike-friendly paths! This can be a great way to get active. Even in the winter, this is one of the best outdoors activities to do in Austin.
9. Shop, Eat, and Walk Around in the Domain:
The Domain is Austin’s premier shopping and entertainment district, featuring high-end retailers, trendy boutiques, and diverse dining options. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and some window shopping and a meal.
10. Have a Night Out on 6th Street:
6th Street, known for its lively nightlife, is home to dozens of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Whether you’re here to dance, sing, or enjoy live performances, 6th Street has a bar for you!
11. View Salvador Dali’s Sketches for Sale at West Chelsea Contemporary Gallery:
This gallery is something I always come back to when I visit Austin. It’s free to browse and the staff are so kind and knowledgeable. They often feature very well known artists, including Dali. Across the street, stop for a cone at Amy’s Ice Cream.
12. Try a New Flavor at Lick or Amy’s Ice Creams:
Given the warm climate, it’s not surprise that Austin is home to some great local ice cream shops like Lick Honest Ice Cream and Amy’s. Ice cream is an easy and satisfying thing to do in Austin on a hot day!
13. Have Dinner and a Movie at Alamo Drafthouse:
At Alamo Drafthouse, you can enjoy a pub-style menu with food and drinks served directly to your seat. Perfect for a rainy day or an evening spent indoors.
14. Visit a Farmer’s Market:
One of my favorite things to do in Austin is to enjoy local goods! Mueller Park is home to a vibrant farmer’s market selling local produce, baked goods, and ready to eat snacks. Be sure to try the empanadas! Open each Sunday from 10am-2pm, rain or shine, year-round!
15. Enjoy Perry’s Steakhouse‘s Famous Pork Chop:
This steakhouse located in the Domain is a great idea on any day, but on Friday (from 10:30 A.M. – 5 P.M. for DINE-IN or TO-GO) they have a special lunch deal where you can get their famous pork chop for only $19. Run, don’t walk!!
