What is there to do in Austin, TX?

The Texas capital, Austin, is one of the most vibrant cities in the state. From soothing spa treatments and winery tours, to live music performances, art galleries, high-end shopping centers and outdoor recreational activities, this city has something unique to offer everyone. It’s no surprise that Austin was ranked the #1 city to relocate by U.S. News & World Report.

Outdoor Activities

Austin has some of the best outdoor activities in Texas. Whether you’re looking for mountain biking, jogging, hiking and kayaking to more extreme activities like paddle boarding and white water rafting, the city has many different ways to experience nature and adventure. One of the most popular attractions is Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre natural pool that offers swimmers a cool place to relax or to even escape the heat on hot summer days. Other popular outdoor activities include the Austin Nature and Science Center to explore nature and wildlife and play interactive exhibits; and a visit to Zilker Park, home of a miniature train call the Zilker Zephyr, an evergreen botanical garden, a large grassy area for picnicking and various festivals throughout the year.

Music Venues

No trip to Austin would be complete without experiencing its vibrant music scene. Live music performances are a staple of the city, from intimate venues like Antone’s to larger theaters, such as the Long Center for the Performing Arts and Stubb’s Bar-B-Q. The iconic moody Theater is also a must stop while in town, known as the center of Austin’s live music scene. It’s built-in backdrop is stunning and acts as quite the canvas for photographers. For a more classical music experience, take a visit to the Butler School of Music at the University of Texas where chamber groups offer breathtaking concerts free of charge while they practice their repertoire.

Arts and Culture

Downtown Austin is home to an array of museums and galleries which showcase the city’s local culture and history. A great place to start is the Blanton Museum of Art located at The University of Texas at Austin, which houses more than 18,000 works ranging from Latin American art to ancient Mediterranean pieces. Visitors can also explore the stunning grounds of The Cathedral of Junk located off Slaughter Lane in South Austin. This artist’s architectural sculpture is created from hundreds of used parts from cars and appliances to create this massive structure that people come from all around the world to see.

Local Cuisine

Austin is known for its delicious local cuisine. Dive into some authentic Tex-Mex food at one of Austin’s renowned restaurants such as Mi Madre’s or Chuy’s which will not disappoint. Also within walking distance of downtown is Franklin Barbecue, arguably one of the best barbecue places in Texas known for serving some of the most succulent brisket. If you’re looking for a unique experience, why not try taking a Texas Wine Valley Tour? Tour operators such as Pleasant Hill Winery in nearby Round Rock will provide you with a full tour of local wineries near Austin so that you can sample some of Texas’ best wines before returning back to the city. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what you do when spending time in Austin but just be sure to explore all that it has to offer. From its beautiful scenery and its lively music scene, to its delicious cuisine and its educational museums and parks – no matter what activities you plan on doing when visiting Austin you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.For more information about Austin and things to do check out VisitAustinTexas.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Austin, Texas

Are you planning a trip to Austin, Texas? This charming city is bursting with culture, history, and delicious eats, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. While the famous attractions are worth exploring, this insider’s guide will take you off the beaten track and show you some hidden treasures that only locals know about.

Discover Local Attractions Beyond the Tourist Spots

Austin is home to several noteworthy attractions, such as the Texas State Capitol and the LBJ Presidential Library. But, if you’re looking for something more unique, we suggest visiting the Elisabet Ney Museum. Ney was a celebrated sculptor who moved to Austin in the late 19th century. Her museum features her work, along with exhibits on other influential women in Texas history. Another hidden gem is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, which offers guided tours of its stunning botanical gardens and conservatory.

Dig into Austin’s Vibrant Food Culture

Austin is known for its barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine, but it’s also home to a variety of other culinary hotspots. For breakfast, grab a pastry and a cup of coffee from the iconic Easy Tiger bakery. For lunch, head over to Via 313, which has some of the best Detroit-style pizza you’ll ever have. For dinner, try some comforting Japanese ramen or fried chicken from the East Side King food truck. Whatever your taste buds are craving, Austin has a spot for you.

Immerse Yourself in Austin’s Vibrant Culture

Austin is a haven for music lovers and art enthusiasts. Check out the lively South Congress Avenue district for one-of-a-kind boutiques and art galleries. On the first Thursday of every month, the street becomes pedestrian-only and hosts live music and street performers. If you’re in town during the SXSW festival, you’ll be able to catch dozens of concerts, film screenings, and talks by notable speakers.

Learn About Austin’s Rich History

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Austin’s fascinating past. Visit the Texas Military Forces Museum to learn about Texas’ role in United States military history. A trip to the Bullock Texas State History Museum is also a must, with its exhibits showcasing Texas’ diverse cultural heritage. If you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, try a walking tour through the historic East Austin neighborhood with an expert guide.

Venture Off the Beaten Path

Take your Austin adventure to the next level by exploring some of the city’s lesser-known spots. For example, check out the graffiti park, known as HOPE Outdoor Gallery. It offers an open-air canvas where anyone can leave their mark, and the art is constantly changing. A visit to Barton Springs Pool is also a must. Located in the heart of Austin, this natural spring fed pool is a refreshing escape on a hot day. Get aboard a kayak or paddleboard at Lady Bird Lake and enjoy a unique view of the city’s skyline.

Your trip to Austin will be unforgettable if you take the time to discover the hidden gems that the city has to offer. With its authentic charm, vibrant culture, and rich history, Austin is a city that should be on every traveler’s list.