Post Updated in May 2026.
Austin, the capital of Texas, is renowned for its music scene, barbecue, and natural swimming spots. The city embodies a relaxed atmosphere that invites visitors to stay longer than planned.
Since December 2013, I've called this vibrant city home. It beautifully combines Southern charm—think biscuits and barbecue—with California's outdoor lifestyle and eco-friendly practices, all while avoiding state income tax.
As a travel writer, I explore and document the best spots in Austin and Texas. If you're visiting for events like SXSW or ACL, here's my curated list of top activities in Austin, organized for easy browsing. I've personally experienced every spot!
1. Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake
Location: Zilker / Barton Springs | Google Maps
Hours: Public access 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
Lady Bird Lake is the city's heart, offering stunning views of the skyline. Several boat rentals are available; I recommend Zilker Park Boat Rentals near Barton Springs Pool, which even offers buy-one-get-one coupons on weekdays! The 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is perfect for running or biking.
2. Swim at Barton Springs Pool
It's open only in the morning and evening.
Location: Zilker/Barton Springs | Google MapsHours: Typically 5 a.m.–10 p.m.; closed for cleaning part of Thursday.
Barton Springs Pool stays a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round, making it a local favorite. If you're looking for another swimming option, check out Deep Eddy Pool, the oldest in Texas.
3. Tour the Texas State Capitol
Location: Downtown | Google MapsHours: Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (tour times vary).
The Texas State Capitol stands as a prominent landmark, even taller than the U.S. Capitol. Enjoy free guided or self-guided tours daily and make sure to see the impressive dome and the view from 15th Street.
4. Hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt
Location: South Austin / Barton Creek | Google Maps
Hours: Generally 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
Covering 12.86 miles, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a favored spot for hiking and swimming, especially at Twin Falls. Completing the entire trail takes about three hours but can be enjoyed in sections.
5. Play a Round at Peter Pan Mini Golf
Peter Pan Mini Golf is a beloved Austin institution.
Location: South Lamar / Zilker | Google Maps
Hours: Usually Sun–Thu 9 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri–Sat 9 a.m.–midnight.
Look for the giant T.rex statue at Peter Pan Mini-Golf, established in 1948. It features two fun courses adorned with colorful statues of local landmarks and characters. Best of all, it's BYOB—not allowed in glass containers!
6. Experience Chicken Shit Bingo
Location: North Austin (Burnet Road) | Google MapsHours: Sundays 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Every Sunday, join the fun at Chicken Shit Bingo at The Little Longhorn Saloon. Buy a ticket and watch as a chicken decides your fate by pooping on your number. Enjoy live music and cold beer!
7. Watch the Bats on Congress Avenue
Location: Downtown | Google Maps
Hours: Bats emerge at sunset March–November.
Witness the world's largest urban bat colony under the Congress Avenue Bridge from mid-March to November. For optimal viewing, check here for emergence times.
8. Attend an Austin City Limits Taping
Location: Downtown | Google Maps
Want to catch a taping of Austin City Limits? Tickets are available through a free online lottery. If you miss out, you can wait in line for extra tickets on the day of the show. Check here for details on upcoming tapings.
9. Explore Austin's Parks
Hours: City parks open 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
Austin boasts 512 parks, with the 351-acre Zilker Park being the most famous, hosting major events and festivals. Don't overlook smaller parks like Waterloo Park, which features stunning skyline views and is part of a connecting greenway project.
Pease Park offers a scenic 84-acre space along Shoal Creek, famous for its photo-friendly treehouse and giant wooden troll sculpture. Other spots include Mayfield Park, where peacocks roam, and Mount Bonnell, a great sunset viewpoint.
10. Visit Austin's Central Library
Featuring a stunning red kinetic sculpture.
Location: Downtown (Seaholm) | Google Maps
Hours: Mon–Thu 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 12–6 p.m.
The new Central Library is a must-see, blending modern design with inviting spaces. Highlights include the rooftop butterfly garden and a technology petting zoo, offering the latest gadgets. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and various learning rooms for meetings.
11. Enjoy Live Music
Austin lives up to its title as the Live Music Capital. Start your musical journey at The Continental Club, one of the oldest venues since 1955. For honky-tonk, visit The Broken Spoke for two-step lessons.
Another favorite is Mohawk, featuring both indoor and outdoor stages. Don't miss the Paramount Theater, a historic venue for live shows (renovation begins June 2026).
Other notable venues include Antone's for blues, Hole in the Wall for a dive bar experience, and Elephant Room for jazz.
12. Take Advantage of Free Museum Days
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Location: Capitol | Google Maps
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; free first Sundays.
The Bullock Museum showcases Texas history and offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month, featuring exhibits from different eras.
Blanton Museum of Art
Location: UT Campus | Google Maps
Hours: Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 1–5 p.m.; closed Mon; free on Tuesdays.
The Blanton Museum hosts diverse exhibitions and is easily accessible for a quick visit.
13. Explore Austin's Art Gallery Scene
Tau Ceti mural by Josef Kristofoletti.
Austin's art scene is vibrant, from street art to premier galleries. Start at Canopy Austin, now home to 89 studios and galleries.
In downtown, McLennon Pen Co. features contemporary art, and West Chelsea Contemporary offers museum-quality exhibitions. Don't miss The Creek Show, an annual outdoor public art event.
14. Hope Outdoor Gallery
A creative space for all ages.
Location: Airport area | Google MapsHours: Wednesday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Hope Outdoor Gallery is a vibrant art space that recently moved to a larger eight-acre site. The outdoor campus hosts mural walls and a 6,000-square-foot venue, perfect for families and artists alike.
