A list of great things to do in Austin, including both the cliched must see landmarks downtown and other highlights around town. Also some of the greatest activities in Austin texas During The Night is located here!
Top Activities in Downtown Austin
6th Street, Congress Avenue, Rainey Street and the 2nd Sreet area are several of brand name neighborhoods in downtown Austin. Don’t worry, I’m going to talk you through all the big neighborhoods! Currently, downtown Austin is very walkable so all of the above attractions can be done on foot.
1. Explore Downtown Austin on Foot
A walking tour is my go to, whenever I go visit a new city. These evening tours go some way towards settling me in and pointing out the landmarks. Austin is no exception.
We are unable to find any Free walking tour in the city, so we booked ourselves on Viator walking tour. There are also bike tours or even a Segway tour in Austin.
Or, if you want to explore less typical things Austinites do for fun then look into a ghost tour.
That’s not something you necessarily need to register for, though. Texas erected story plaques on each historic building so wandering around at your own pace is simple.
2. Stroll Along Congress Avenue
There are things that a visitor must do in downtown Austin like walking down Congress Avenue This is Main Street — a look into the city’s past and present.
The street is much wider than many downtown avenues, a reminder of the days when cattle were herded through here en route to North Texas from South America.
The cattle are gone, but dining and shopping fill today’s Congress Avenue. Look out for historic sites as you embark on your adventure, including the 1915-era operating Paramount Theater. And don’t forget to enjoy the Scarborough and Littlefield Buildings as well.
Be sure to take a picture with the Angelina Eberly statue – she saves Austin as the capital of Texas.
3. Visit the Texas State Capitol
And now you are at the end facing the Texas State Capitol Building, an impressive sight as it looms over your walk toward Congress Avenue.
Now, you might have heard that everything is bigger in Texas — but apparently it’s taller! Lastly, there is no way the Texas State Capitol could be bigger than the White House so they did next best thing and made it taller!
And for the record, due to it’s statue, even taller than Trump’s White House.
You can walk around inside for free to appreciate the interior and even ride up to its top. Throughout the day you can enjoy free tours, as well.
P.S. For the real deal of what used to stand on top of the Capitol and show a bit more “charm,” go take in some culture at Bullock State Museum but that’s another post!
4. Explore Austin City Limits (and Maybe Catch a Show)
If you ever unaware, Austin is the self proclaimed live music capital. Willie Nelson and Austin City Limits certainly helped cement this reputation.
Austin City Limits (ACL) is the longest running music series in American television history. It began in 1974 at Texas State University with a concert by Willie Nelson. Willie has since become a huge champion of the series, appearing on it numerous times!
Live at The Moody Theater (2011-present) — ACL Live moved to the new AMLI on 2nd building – Courtesy of CBRE You can even have a backstage tour! That was seriously one of the best things I ever did in downtown Austin.
You might also want to catch a show if there is one occurring in the town.
P.S. Be sure to take a picture with Willie! I have always liked the statue of Willie Nelson right in front of the Moody Theater (where ACL Live is recorded).
Though Willie is from the small town Abbott, Texas outside of Waco his mark on ACL and Austin’s music landscape more largely can’t be overstated. Which of course means that a photo-op with Willie is obligatory for everyone travelling through Austin.
5. Shop for Souvenirs on 2nd Street
In downtown Austin, Second Street is the hub of 2nd St. District shopping. It is a great place to grab some new items for your wardrobe or the perfect gift.
Texas Souvenirs If you are not sure what to buy from Texas! If you are looking for some ideas see below in my Guide.
Fun fact – 2nd Street is called Willie Nelson Blvd!
6. Appreciate History and Grab a Drink at The Driskill Hotel
The historic Driskill Hotel in downtown Austin has been serving locals and visitors alike since 1886. A fascinating place to spend the night, considering its history — though you don’t have to be an overnight guest in order to experience all it has. No charge to roam inside and revel in the spectacular lobby. The Driskill Bar or 1886 Cafe & Bakery at located on-site.
7. Enjoy the View from Congress Bridge (and Watch the Bats at Sunset)
The bridge on Congress Bridge in downtown Austin is a guaranteed postcard-view, but becomes even more special as the sun goes down.
It stretches between Congress Avenue and South Congress Avenue with a fantastic view of the Texas State Capitol and its surroundings.
Only if you are in Austin between the months of March and October, sunrise or sunset is not to miss. One Congress Bridge contains the largest bat colony in North America, and thousands of bats flock each evening throughout these months to find food.
This is absolutely one of the coolest things you can do in Austin!
8. Dive into Texas History at The Bullock State Museum
The museum in Texas, as we know everything is bigger than on other sides.
The building boasts its grandeur, with the massive lone star greeting you at the entrance and everything in it is just as vast.
The museum includes a comprehensive and permanent exhibit on the history of Texas, so it’s sure to answer all your queries about just what was going on in this state.
I recommend planning to spend at least 90 minutes there It is so big! You should definitely head straight to the second floor, where all of its most exclusive exhibits are if you only have a little bit of time. The upstairs is text-heavy and so not overly exciting for kids but take a look round quickly.
9. Experience Sixth Street (Day and Night!)
Enjoy the Nightlife on 6th Street Article by Patricia Mitchell A must-do thing in Austin at night is to go out and experience what all that 6th street nightlife has to offer. This makes sure that you do not miss out on the Mall, which though definitely more beautiful during evenings must also be witnessed in daylight.
I thought that was so beautiful! But this old district near the edge of town would seem worlds away from downtown Austin, a much newer city just below it.
This view is Neches Street — the blue vertical skyline of tall skyscrapers hovering behind 6th Streets’ smaller, yellow brick buildings.
Oh, and if you’ve never tried Voodoo Doughnuts before well this is your opportunity. They may be the tastiest doughnuts I have ever had! Not to forget, the Old Dirty Bastard must be mentioned with peanut butter and chocolate on Oreos!
10. Savor Texas BBQ at Terry Black’s (Or Try Franklin’s if You Have Time)
let’s be real, if you went to Austin and didn’t have Texas BBQ—it wasn’t a trip. Fortunately, there are a lot of places. Cooper’s is the easiest choice you have downtown in Austin.
But, let’s be honest folks — if you are game to push out a little from the heart of town, there is excellent barbecue to be had. I reckon you should get yourself over to either Terry Black’s BBQ or Franklin Barbecue.
For dinner try Terry Black’s right near Butler Metro Park. And they have free pit tours where you can learn about the art and history of smoking BBQ in Texas.
Franklin Barbecue — If you want the best of the best, get up early and go to Franklin. It has grown to be an attraction of its own and is on the list as one of the best things to do in Austin! Off the main highway just across from downtown, Franklin’s is also within walking distance. Believe me, it will be worth the wait.
11. Visit the O. Henry House
The first, the O. Henry House has nothing to do with the candy bar and yes, we checked so you don’t have too!
That O. Henry was the famous short story writer, loved by readers and unloved by critics for his trick-ending stories.
While you may recognize a few of his stories, even if you don’t it is still worth seeing this historical home. First, it is a free tour and the house isn’t very big.
How cool is this 1890s Texas home! They have some rare O. Henry items in the form of original artifacts, such as his beautiful piano.
12. Explore the Joseph and Susanna Dickinson Hannig Museum
Next the O. Henry House is the short editorial on Susanna Dickinson at her museum, also for free!
As one of the few messengers from the Alamo, she played a vital role in that escape.
13. Paddle on Lady Bird Lake – A Must-Do in Austin!
A day on paddling or canoeing Lady Bird Lake is enjoyed by locals who love their river. The fact that there happens to be an aquatic river running through it has a lot of people using the entire before and after work or during their lunch.
Technically a man-made reservoir (formed by impounding part of the Colorado River), the river most Central Texans grew up calling either simply “the lake” or “Town Lake,” was renamed in honor of former first lady Lady Bird Johnson.
Although Lake Karachay is not exactly suitable for human recreational use, it has been deemed technically safe to swim in. This was originally written in 1964 when swimming became prohibited because of possible pesticide contamination. It is also unsafe for pets as the water here might have algae that are dangerous to dogs.
Additionally, since it’s too shallow for most water crafts at this point of the season, an alternate means to appreciate what Lake George has become house names kayak and paddleboard establishments.
14. Cycle Along the Boardwalk with Scenic Views
If water games wear you out (I feel your pain!) With the water levels down again, there is lots to see and do around Lady Bird Lake. A lovely boardwalk runs over the water and is ideal for a walk or cycle.
Cruising along the Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk on a beautiful day in Austin is as good as it gets. Bike Hire: I highly recommend hiring bicycles in order to see and do more.
Begin your journey on the Tejano Trail and when you come to a bridge underneath El Camino Real, cross over so that you can follow along the boardwalk. We briefed up and away you go back to your starting point at Congress Bridge where the best views were as we paddled our way in, downstream towards downtown.
15. Stop by OG Jo’s Coffee (and Snap a Photo with the ‘I Love You So Much’ Mural)
I love checking out all the local coffee shops and to truly partake in Austin, you must swing by Jo’s Coffee.
Austin original, serving coffee since 1999 This is also the original spot off of South Congress Avenue, home to that iconic “I Love You So Much” mural.
They have another location in the middle of downtown on 2nd Street.
In addition to your morning jolt of coffee, order a breakfast burrito at the same time. The Iced Turbo, their specialty drink is not to be missed!
16. Experience a Gaiwan Tea Tasting at West China Tea Co.
A tea tasting at West China Tea House is one of the quirkier things to do in Austin. This is something everyone can enjoy, even if you’re not a die-hard tea enthusiast. It is a little far from downtown, however it really worth the ride.
The cute tea place puts emphasis on traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, to the extent of having gong fu cha service the process involves using a small teapot and multiple infusions. But one need not be aware of any such machination to enjoy the visit. Highly recommend sitting at the tea bar, you’ll get personal service from someone bringing you your tastings.
A great place to stay, meet local people or anyone else for that matter and taste a wide range of teas!
17. Catch a Skyline View at Butler Metro Park
For another great vantage point of Austin’s cityscape, head over to Butler Metro Park. You can even bike there from the Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk by following the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
Be sure to make your way to the top of the hill for the best view of Austin!
18. Discover and Swim at Barton Springs
Austin, Texas is known for its proximity to the outdoors and how quickly you can get out of town. Barton Springs Park is a popular spot for taking, which creates the perfect relaxing getaway into nature.
Here in the summer you can swim in a huge, natural spring-fed pool. If the pool is closed during your visit, you could still enjoy it.
Just keep walking on this pretty path until you get to Lou Neff Point, a great spot with another fabulous view of Downtown Austin.
To get to the viewpoint on foot, follow the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail or stay on your bike.
19. McKinney Falls State Park
For a less crowded and more serene nature experience, visit McKinney Falls State Park. Here, you’ll find trails, scenic waterfalls, swimming spots, and more!
20. Explore the University of Texas at Austin Campus
The UT system’s flagship campus is where the Texas Longhorns play. Check out the stadium or attend watch a game!
The campus is beautiful and it’s great to drive (or walk) through on a pleasant day.
But I also love Guadalupe Street just past 24th on the campus. This is a small street that has some unique shopping and dining areas. A great little café we found here for damn good coffee break is Lucky Lab Coffee.
21. Greetings from Austin Mural
You can’t visit Austin and not take a picture with the “Greetings from Austin” mural.
But to really get there — it’s a bit past Jo’s Coffee and not much around otherwise, so I recommend driving if you come down; great for some quick photos.
If you have access to a car, the “Greetings From Austin” postcard mural is another option (you can find it off 1st and Annie Streets) or if not try checking out beautiful “Peace, Love, Austin” on 2nd Street downtown.
22. Enjoy a Laugh at Esther’s Follies – A Must-Do in Austin at Night
Like no other comedy club in the world, Esther’s Follies is a true icon of downtown Austin situated on Sixth Street. This show is a mash-up of comedy, music and even some magic with all rolled into one fun-filled display.
Shows are Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights.
23. Savor Dinner with Live Music on Rainey Street
Another critical place in downtown Austin is Rainey Street, as highlighted earlier.
Of course, it is really only a few blocks of restaurants rather than an actual district.
Here is another good choice for dinner with live music; Rainey Street really comes to life at night. It is Austin, live music capital of the World after all!
A favorite in this category has to be Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden — home of Texas’ widest selection of German beers on tap!
24. Experience a Speakeasy in Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin remains a hotbed of the speakeasy trend. Despite the fact that prohibition has long ceased to exist but here are new hidden bars popping up in our city!
For a regular speakeasy experience, attempt to find the password for Floppy Disk Repair Co. That is absolutely right, a bar shielded from the outside world behind an auto shop. The only catch? Every night the password changes.
And if you get stuck, never fear: there are so many other speakeasies in Austin to discover.
25. Play Games and Sip Cider at Cidercade
The name says it all, you can drink some of the most delicious ciders on their expansive patio while also playing arcade games (hence “Cidecade”) – this place is so much fun! Included is free play on all the games – pay a cover charge to get in.
But here’s the best part! The food is actually quite good (pizza was a favorite, don’t sleep on the smoked wings!)
Sated and tired of gaming, head outside for one more look at Austin’s nighttime sky line.
26. Take a Day Trip to San Antonio
If the hustle and bustle in downtown Austin is starting to make you lose your cool, spend a peaceful day silencing whispers of doubt at The Alamo.
San Antonio is only an hour and a half away from Austin, so it could be perfect for a day trip that has all kinds of destinations.
Austin Hotel Recommendations – Looking for a Place to Stay?
Now some hotels in Austin can be quite pricey! The variety offered out there makes it easy to get confused on which would be the ideal space for your needs so many options in different locations.
We picked the Fairmont Austin because we found a good rate, and I liked how central it was. And Rooftop pool thing—do I need to say more?
Mint House at the Hatchery: Budget friendly, apartment-style vibe Though it is a little further out, in return you get bright new apartments and less of the tourist vibe. They also have one by Mint House on South Congress if you want to stick close to the action.
If you prefer staying in a recognizable hotel chain, we also looked at Homewood Suites in the Rainey Street Historic District. Take the Homewood Suites, with bigger rooms and a full kitchen in which you can make your own scrambled eggs (and they even include breakfast!)
