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Welcome to Austin, Texas—a city that harmoniously blends rich history, vibrant culture, and a dynamic arts scene. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or someone looking to immerse yourself in local traditions, Austin has something special to offer. Let’s delve into the top attractions, fun activities, and essential travel tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Index
Top 49 Things to Do in Austin, TX
Family-Friendly Attractions in Austin, TX
1. Thinkery
Austin’s premier children’s museum focuses on hands-on, interactive science and art exhibits designed to inspire young minds.
- Address: 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located in the Mueller neighborhood, accessible by car or CapMetro routes.
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
- Admission: $16 for adults and children, free for infants under 2.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
- Website: thinkeryaustin.org
2. Austin Zoo
A rescue zoo that provides a safe home for animals while educating visitors about wildlife conservation.
- Address: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located in the Hill Country, about 20 minutes west of downtown Austin.
- Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Admission: Adults $14, seniors $11, children $10 (ages 2-12).
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for cooler temperatures and active animals.
- Website: austinzoo.org
3. Texas Science & Natural History Museum
Part of the University of Texas, this museum showcases fossils, gems, and exhibits on Texas’s natural history.
- Address: 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located on the UT campus, easily accessible by public transport or car.
- Hours: *Closed Mondays and major holidays (check the website for timings).
- Admission: Check on Website. *The museum is accept card only. Does not accept cash.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for fewer crowds when open.
- Website: https://sciencemuseum.utexas.edu/
4. Austin Aquarium
A smaller but interactive aquarium featuring hands-on experiences with stingrays, sharks, and exotic birds.
- Address: 13530 N Highway 183 #101, Austin, TX 78750 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located in North Austin, with ample parking available.
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
- Admission: Adults $23, children $18 (ages 3-11), free for children under 2.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Website: austinaquarium.com
5. Mt. Playmore
An indoor entertainment center with Texas’s largest playscape, arcade games, and dining options.
- Address: 13609 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78753 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Conveniently located off I-35, plenty of parking available.
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (hours may vary on holidays).
- Admission: $12 for children (3-17), $3 for adults, free for children under 2.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoons on weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Website: mtplaymore.com
Outdoor Adventures and Water Activities in Austin, TX
6. Zilker Metropolitan Park
A sprawling urban park in the heart of Austin, offering trails, picnic areas, a playscape, and access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
- Address: Austin, TX 78746, United States [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located near downtown Austin, accessible by car, bike, or public transportation.
- Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- Admission: Free entry (some activities like canoe rentals have fees).
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Website: austintexas.gov/zilker
7. Barton Springs Municipal Pool
A natural, spring-fed pool within Zilker Park, known for its crystal-clear waters that maintain a year-round temperature of 68-70°F.
- Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Inside Zilker Park, parking is available nearby.
- Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (closed Thursdays for cleaning).
- Admission: Adults $5, youth $3, seniors and children $2.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Website: https://www.austintexas.gov/department/barton-springs-pool
8. Lady Bird Lake
A scenic reservoir offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking trails with stunning views of downtown Austin.
- Address: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX (multiple access points) [Get Directions].
- Getting There: Accessible from Zilker Park or parking along Riverside Drive.
- Hours: Open 24/7, but watercraft rentals have specific hours.
- Admission: Free to access trails; kayak and paddleboard rentals start at $15/hour.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings for cooler temperatures.
- Website:
9. Lake Travis
A popular destination for water sports, boat rentals, fishing, and lakeside dining with breathtaking views.
- Address: Lake Travis, Austin, TX (various access points). [Get Directions]
- Getting There: About 20 miles northwest of downtown Austin, accessible by car.
- Hours: Open 24/7 (activities vary by location).
- Admission: Public access is free; private facilities may charge fees.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities or spring for scenic views.
- Website: laketravis.com
10. Hamilton Pool Preserve
- Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Approximately 30 minutes west of Austin by car.
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (reservations required).
- Admission: $12 per vehicle + $8 per adult; children under 12 are free.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for optimal weather conditions.
- Website: parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve
12. Deep Eddy Municipal Pool
The oldest freshwater swimming pool in Texas, featuring cool, clear water and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Address: 401 Deep Eddy Ave, Austin, TX 78703 [Get Directions]
- Getting There: Located near downtown Austin, with parking available.
- Hours: Seasonal hours; check the website for current times.
- Admission: Adults $5, youth $3, seniors and children $2.
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings or weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Website: austintexas.gov/department/deep-eddy-pool
Theme Parks and Water Parks Near Austin, TX
13. Typhoon Texas Waterpark Austin
- Address Location: 18500 TX-130 Service Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660 [Get Directions]
- How to Get There: Accessible by car; located off TX-130 and TX-45 near Pflugerville.
- Hours of Operation: Seasonal (May through September).
- Admission Fees: Paid.
- Special Features or Events: Wave pool, lazy river, water slides, and kid-friendly play zones.
- Website: typhoontexas.com
- Timing: Plan for 3–5 hours to enjoy all attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Suitable For: Kids, Adults, and Senior Citizens.
14. Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark
- Address Location: 16107 FM2769, Leander, TX 78641 [Get Directions]
- How to Get There: Located on Lake Travis, accessible by car with on-site parking available.
- Hours of Operation: Seasonal (Spring through early Fall).
- Admission Fees: Paid.
- Special Features or Events: Beach access, water slides, and lakeside dining options.
- Website: volentebeach.com
- Timing: 3–4 hours for a full experience.
- Best Time to Visit: Warm summer afternoons; weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Suitable For: Kids, Adults, and Senior Citizens.
15. Kalahari Resorts (Round Rock)
- Address Location: 3001 Kalahari Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665 [Get Directions]
- How to Get There: Accessible by car, about 30 minutes north of Austin.
- Hours of Operation: Year-round.
- Admission Fees: Paid.
- Special Features or Events: Indoor waterpark, thrill slides, wave pool, lazy river, and arcade games.
- Website: kalahariresorts.com
- Timing: Plan for a full day.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and early mornings to avoid peak crowds.
- Suitable For: Kids, Adults, and Senior Citizens.
16. Austin’s Park n’ Pizza
- Address Location: 16231 N Interstate Hwy 35, Pflugerville, TX 78660 [Get Directions]
- How to Get There: Located just off I-35 in Pflugerville, with ample parking available.
- Hours of Operation: Open year-round, hours may vary by season.
- Admission Fees: Paid.
- Special Features or Events: Go-karts, laser tag, mini-golf, arcade games, and bumper boats.
- Website: austinspark.com
- Timing: 2–4 hours depending on activities chosen.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons or early evenings.
- Suitable For: Kids, Adults, and Senior Citizens.
Best Time to Visit Austin, TX
Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. The best time to visit Austin depends on your interests, but typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are considered ideal due to pleasant weather and numerous events.
Spring: March to May
Why Visit?
Austin comes alive during spring with moderate temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s °F (18-28 °C). The blooming wildflowers, especially bluebonnets, create stunning landscapes.
Key Events:
- SXSW (South by Southwest): A globally renowned festival for music, film, and tech enthusiasts.
- ABC Kite Fest: A family-friendly event at Zilker Park showcasing colorful kites.
Fall: September to November
Why Visit?
Fall offers cooler weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring Austin’s parks. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 90s °F (24-33 °C).
Key Events:
- Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival: A two-weekend event featuring diverse music genres.
- Texas Book Festival: A haven for literature lovers held at the Texas State Capitol.
Summer: June to August
Why Visit?
Though summer in Austin can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 95 °F (35 °C), it’s a great time for water activities. Barton Springs Pool and Lady Bird Lake are popular spots to cool off.
Considerations:
Be prepared for high humidity and pack plenty of sunscreen and water.
Winter: December to February
Why Visit?
Winter in Austin is mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 65°F (4-18°C). This is the perfect time to explore the city without the large crowds.
Key Events:
- Trail of Lights: A dazzling holiday display at Zilker Park.
- Austin’s New Year Celebration: A family-friendly way to ring in the new year with live music and fireworks.
Transportation in Austin, TX
Austin, Texas, offers various transportation options to explore the city, from public transit to eco-friendly choices. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks, attending festivals, or commuting for business, getting around Austin is convenient and adaptable to your needs.
1. Capital Metro (CapMetro)
Austin’s public transportation system, CapMetro, provides buses, trains, and on-demand services.
Bus Service:
- Extensive routes covering downtown and surrounding areas.
- Special express routes connect suburban areas with the city center.
- Fare: $1.25 per ride or $2.50 for a day pass.
MetroRail:
- A commuter train running between Leander and downtown Austin.
- Ideal for avoiding traffic during peak hours.
- Fare: $3.50 for a single ride.
2. Ride-Sharing Services
Popular ride-sharing options like Uber, Lyft, and RideAustin operate throughout the city. These services are convenient for short trips or late-night transportation.
3. Electric Scooters and Bikes
Eco-friendly transportation is a hit in Austin, with companies like Lime, Bird, and Spin offering electric scooters and bikes.
- Available through app-based rentals.
- Ideal for short distances and downtown exploration.
- Cost varies based on the rental duration.
4. Taxis and Car Rentals
Taxis:
- Available at taxi stands, through phone booking, or apps like Yellow Cab Austin.
Car Rentals:
- Major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget operate in the city.
- Car rentals are great for exploring nearby attractions like the Hill Country or Lake Travis.
5. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Transportation
- Airport Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttles to and from the airport.
- CapMetro Route 20: An affordable bus service connecting the airport to downtown.
- Ride-Share Pickups: Dedicated areas for Uber and Lyft pickups.
6. Cycling and Walking
Austin is bike-friendly, with an extensive network of trails and bike lanes.
- Popular Trails: Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail and the Ann and Roy Butler Trail.
- Bike Rentals: Available through services like B-Cycle and local shops.
Walking is also a great option in pedestrian-friendly areas like downtown and South Congress (SoCo).
7. Parking in Austin
Parking is available in public garages, metered spaces, and private lots. Use apps like ParkATX for convenient payments.
- Metered parking is free on Sundays and holidays.
8. Austin’s Traffic Considerations
Austin’s growing population means heavy traffic during rush hours. Plan ahead and use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the fastest routes.
With its variety of transportation options, Austin makes it easy to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and attractions!
Local Foods and Popular Restaurants
Austin boasts a vibrant food scene with a mix of local street food and upscale dining:
- Must-Try Dishes:
- Tex-Mex specialties like tacos, queso, and enchiladas.
- BBQ, especially brisket from famous spots like Franklin Barbecue.
- Breakfast tacos, a local staple available across the city.
- Popular Restaurants:
- Franklin Barbecue: Renowned for its slow-cooked brisket.
- Torchy’s Tacos: Iconic for creative taco combinations.
- Home Slice Pizza: A South Congress gem for New York-style pizza.
- Kerbey Lane Café: Known for pancakes and local comfort food.
- Local Street Food: Food trucks are abundant, offering unique options like Korean-Mexican fusion at Chi’Lantro or gourmet donuts from Gourdough’s.
Local Language and Currency
- Language: English is widely spoken, and signage is in English.
- Currency: USD is accepted everywhere. Most shops and restaurants accept digital payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Safety Tips for Tourists
- Avoid Areas: Stay cautious in deserted areas late at night, especially on the outskirts of the city.
- Emergency Contacts:
- Police: 911
- Medical Assistance: Dial 911 or visit Dell Seton Medical Center at UT for emergencies.
- Cab Services: Rideshare apps or Yellow Cab Austin at (512) 452-9999.
Final Thoughts
Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city that promises something for everyone. From historical landmarks to mouth-watering cuisine and exciting nightlife, the city ensures an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip, explore its hidden gems, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re kayaking on Lady Bird Lake or savoring brisket at Franklin Barbecue, Austin will leave you wanting more. See you in the live music capital of the world!