Looking for fun things to do in Austin? Read this article, and you will find the 20 best things to do in Austin, Texas. From the live music scene to Zilker Park, mural tours, various museums, delicious cuisines, or vibrant outdoor activities, everyone will find plenty of things to do in Austin. Whether you are new or local and want to spend time with friends, lovers, or family, you will always find something exciting and relaxing in Austin.
💸Free Things to Do in Austin
1. Enjoy Outdoor Music
One of the best free things to do in Austin is enjoy the music scene. Austin is known as the “live music capital of the world” and hosts many famous festivals and activities, especially in the downtown area. If you do not want to spend much money on crowded music festivals or nightclubs, check out some popular music venues in Austin, and you will always find free outdoor live shows. At The Saxon Pub, you can enjoy free shows at weekday happy hour, weekend matinee, or late-night. You will also find free performances on Sunday through Wednesday nights at Elephant Room, six nights a week at Donn’s Depot, and on select nights at Little Longhorn Saloon.
2. Visit Zilker Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park enjoys a series of fun things to do in Austin Texas. It is known as the oldest metropolitan park in Austin as well as the crown jewel of Austin’s park system. Located at 2100 Barton Springs Road with more than 350 acres land, Zilker Park is a hub for things to do in Austin. Swim at Barton Springs Pool, wander at Zilker Botanical Garden, enjoy a show at Zilker Hillside Theater, spend time with kids at Austin Nature and Science Center or McBeth Recreation Center. If you want to explore more fun things to do in Austin, there is also Zilker Clubhouse, Sunshine Camp, Austin City Limits Music Festival, and more at Zilker Park. It is free to visit; come and find plenty of free things to do in Austin!
3. Have a Mural Tour
Take a drive or ride a bike in Austin and visit the numerous murals is one of the best things to do in Austin Texas. Austin’s buildings and walls are filled with colorful murals, which represents the history, culture, and thinking of this city. “Greetings From Austin” is regarded as an iconic piece in Austin for its vintage postcard-style design. The Historic Sixth Street Mural, El Mero Mural at Mexic-Arte Museum, The Beauty and Liberty of Equality, Tau Ceti, Willie Nelson & Janis Joplin Mural, and more are waiting for you to explore.
4. Go to Farmers' Market
Visiting the farmers’ markets is always the best way to experience local life, as well as one of the best Austin things to do. Make a morning trip and surround yourself with fresh produce, homemade coffee and drinks, colourful flowers, and local musicians. There are more than 40 farmers’ markets in Austin every week; some of the best include:
Boggy Creek Farm
Wednesday–Saturday (September through July), 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Wednesday & Saturday (August), 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Barton Creek Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (year-round)
SFC Farmers Market Downtown
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (year-round)
SFC Farmers Market at Sunset Valley
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (year-round)
Texas Farmers Market at Mueller
Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (year-round)
5. Visit University Campus
The University of Texas at Austin is not only a prestigious school in Austin, but also embraces a series of cool things to do in Austin. The Blanton Museum of Art enjoys more than 2,100 works from early Renaissance paintings and Roman-era pottery to modern works housed in the contemporary gallery and Native American and Latin American works. The Harry Ransom Center also offers free admission to literature, photography, film, art, and the performing arts. There is also LBJ Presidential Library and the Texas Science & Natural History Museum located at UT Austin campus.
👭Fun Things to Do in Austin for Adults
6. Have a Local Taste
For both visitors and residents, one of the top fun things to do in Austin for adults is to have a taste of the local food. Try Austin’s favorite food tacos at Veracruz All Natural, Discada, or Torchy’s Tacos; enjoy some of the best live bands during your brunch at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q; try sea food on the oak-tree shaded patio at Perla’s; experience the special Mediterranean cuisines at Fareground, and also do not forget to try Bob Armstrong queso at Matt’s El Rancho and sizzling fajitas, nachos and quesadillas at Maudie’s. Austin will never fails those people who love food and you will probably find it is the best fun things to do in Austin.
7. Enjoy Nightlife & Music
In a city filled with live music, the nightlife here is definitely exciting and vibrant. The first recommendation of fun things to do in Austin Texas at night is to see the live music performance in the Oak Garden at Güero’s Taco Bar on every Wednesday, which is a part of the Texas Radio Live series presented by Sun Radio. Remember to make reservation in advance since there is always limited seating available. The nightlife in Austin can not be perfect without drinks. For this purpose, go to Whisler’s to sip the expertly crafted cocktails. If you’re a experienced cocktail drinker, you will be surprised by the interesting additions.
8. Visit Bullock Museum
The Bullock Museum should be the on the list of fun things to do in Austin for adults due to its vast collection of artifacts, immersive exhibits, and special events. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a remarkable destination that provides a deeper understanding of Texas’s culture and heritage. The cost of exhibits is $15 for adults, $11 for students, $9 youths age 4 – 17, and free under 4; and you need to pay extra cost for IMAX Documentaries and IMAX Feature Films.
9. Watch the Congress Bridge Bats
It might sounds a little surprising that watching bats is one of the fun things to do in Austin, Texas. But it is true indeed. The Congress Avenue Bridge renovation in 1980 created an ideal bat cave and soon attracted many migrating Mexican free-tailed bats. The bat season lasts from late March to early fall, and the show may start at any time in a day from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. and lasts for about 45 minutes. If you’re interested for this spectacular view, head towards the grassy hill vantage point of the Statesman Bat Observation Center near the bat bridge and get ready for the amazing sunset show.
10. Go to Magic's Theater
If you’re looking for something unique to experience in Austin, you will find what you want at the Magic’s Theater. The Close-Up Magic Show is available on 8:00 p.m. from Monday through Saturday and the minimum age limit is 18 years. The ticket costs $45 per person including the museum and the show lasts for 90 minutes. You will enjoy a great mix of all things you expect for a magic show. If you want to see something impossible that only appears in movie, you’ve come to the right place. Book your ticket at the official website and get ready for the best things to do in Austin, Texas.
💑Things to Do in Austin for Couples
11. Visit the "I Love You So Much" Mural
Visit the “I Love You So Much” mural is the first recommended things to do in Austin for couples. Located on buzzing South Congress Avenue on one side of the popular Jo’s Coffee, this mural is a green painted wall with a simple message in elegant red text: “I Love You So Much”. It is painted by the local musician Amy Cook in 2010 as a love letter to her partner Liz Lambert, majority owner at Jo’s. Thanks to the simple and uplifting text, the already high foot traffic at the location, and flood of social media, this mural becomes one the the iconic sites in Austin. Stop by and take a picture together with your lover, it will become a everlasting memory for your relationship.
12. Join a Drive-In Movie
If you have never tried a drive-in movie with your lover, then do not miss it since it is one of the best things to do in Austin. The Blue Starlite Drive-in is the world’s first and only mini urban drive-in. There are two movies at one night and only 15 to 40 cars are allowed per night. Check out their locations at Downtown or Central/VFW and book the ticket in advance. You will be able to enjoy a special night with your lover and get beautiful memories.
13. Go to Purrfecto Cat Lounge
Do you like furry tails? If yes, you will find fun things to do in Austin with your lover at the Purrfecto Cat Lounge. This is the only cat lounge in Austin and a one of a kind activity that will warm your heart. There is also an adoption program, you can visit Purrfecto Cat Lounge and choose a new family member to for you and your lover. Purrfecto Cat Lounge opens from Monday to Thursday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and from Friday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. Make your booking in advance and have a nice CATXperience!
14. See Comedy Show at Esther's Follies
Come to Esther’s Follies to find one of the fun things to do in Austin. Located at the famous 6th street, Esther’s Follies offers an amazing Broadway like show that features current political skits, impersonations, magic and more, which has been described as an Austin version of Saturday Night Live. After exploring other things to do in downtown Austin, you can come by and get a deep relax with your lover and draw a perfect ending to the day.
15. Spend a Night Outdoor
Looking for things to do in Austin for couples? Want to leave a romantic memory in Austin? Book an overnight getaway at one of the wonderful places to stay in Texas, such as a teepee, tree house, or Airstream. 7a Ranch features a bunch of cabins with modern amenities and comfy beds, which is located right along the gorgeous Blanco River. Basecamp Terlingua has teepee, casita, and enclosed see-through bubble for visitors to sleep under the amazing views of the night sky. Or if your lover prefer fairy tale dreams, choose Castle Falkenstein to experience the 14,000 square-foot Bavarian-style castle. You can also find Collective Retreats, Conestoga “Glamping” Wagons, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours, El Cosmico, and more choices for your romantic outdoor night and explore fun things to do in Austin TX.
👪Things to Do in Austin with Kids
16. Have fun at the Thinkery
Visiting the Thinkery must be the on the top list of things to do in Austin with kids. Thinkery is a educational children’s museum that aims to bring joy to learning for children. It has a 40,00 square feet of joyful learning space interactive exhibits and hands-on activations designed to spark children’s curiosity and most importantly make learning fun. Permanent exhibits include the Currents, Farmers’ Market, Light Lab, Our Backyard; and recurring events cover Community Nights, Think Lab, Baby Bloomers, Winter, and more. Admission is $18 per person and children 23 months and under are free. Remember to check the time for different exhibits and activities before booking to ensure your kids get what they want at the Thinkery.
17. Hike at Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell has been one of the fun things to do in Austin as far back as 1850. It is located in Covert Park actually with a 785 feet. Mount Bonnell offers great views of downtown, a pleasant yet manageable hike up stairs, a charming outdoor area for picnics under the sun, and some great views of Pennybacker Bridge. The area is a short hike from the road and there is no entrance fee, perfect for family with older kids to spend a pleasant afternoon. It opens from 5 am to 10 pm, and the suggested most perfect time is around the twilight to watch the beautiful sunset. Whether you’re here to build up relationship with your family or exercise your kids, Mount Bonnell is a great place to for outdoor adventures and to witness some of the incredible views the city has to offer.
18. Kayaking at Lady Bird Lake
Kayaking at Lady Bird Lake might be the most popular things to do in Austin Texas for children. Lady Bird Lake provides ideal outdoor activities for locals and visitors to challenge themselves and have fun. At Lady Bird Lake, you can see the downtown Austin Skyline on one side, Zilker Park and Auditorium Shores on the other, and also enjoy the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. Take your children to the paddling-designated lake trails, or you can also chart your own course with your kids. Lady Bird Lake has eight official access points, choose the one you like and experience some fun family things to do in Austin here. You can bring your own kayak, or you can also rent one since there are several Austin business line offering various equipment rental and guidance to navigating the lake.
19. Swim at Barton Springs Pool
The Barton Springs Pool located in Zilker Park and becomes one of the best Austin family fun things to do. is a 3-acres pool with underground springs that have an average temperature of 68-70 degrees, making it a perfect spot to swim all year round. Today, Barton Springs attracts a diverse crowd of people and has seen record setting numbers of visitors nearing 800,000 in recent years. The depths of the pool range from 0′ to 18′, and there is surrounding grassy ares for people to lounge upon. There is also Splash next to the pool, which offers an educational exhibit where you and your kids can learn about the history and biology of Barton Springs. The price varies from $2 to $9 per person depending on ages and residents or not, and free for children under 1 year.
20. Join the Austin Duck Adventures
Austin Duck Adventures is always regarded as the best way to tour the city and also fun family things to do in Austin. It offers an amphibious tour that consists of a spin around downtown Austin in an amphibious vehicle that drives right into Lake Austin making a big splash that the kids love. Austin Duck Adventures take 75 minutes and you will enjoy the sightseeing that includes a trip down historic 6th street, a pass by the State Capitol, and the Governor’s Mansion, before splashing into Lake Austin. It will bring you into West Austin which hosts many of the nicer homes in town, see Austin’s favorite lake side dining the Hula Hut, and drive back along the premiere Hike and Bike trail that wraps around Lady Bird lake on the way back all while being entertained by the captain’s stories that cater to adults and children alike. Over the years, Austin Duck Adventures has become Austin’s most popular tours, it is available all year long minus a few holidays.
🏘️Where to Stay in Austin
Looking for accommodation in Austin? Sure, it is essential to find a perfect place to stay after learning about so many popular destinations and fun things to do in Austin. That’s where uhomes.com comes in.
As a reliable platform with a professional team, we have the best housing in Austin for you to choose from. Whether you want to find a studio to stay in temporarily or a spacious loft to live in with your family, you will get the best on uhomes.com. Every room we listed is well-furnished and equipped with modern amenities to fit your needs. Also, our Austin housing enjoys easy access to the public transport system to ensure you can quickly get to wherever you want.
💡Conclusion
For fun things to do in Austin, there is always a wide range of popular selections for everyone. From the vibrant live music scene to the vast Zilker Park, Austin has prepared something for everyone to enjoy and explore. Whether you’re looking for free things to do in Austin, fun things to do in Austin for adults, things to do in Austin for couples or things to do in Austin with kids, Austin will never let you down. Get ready and come to explore the numerous fun things to do in Austin, TX!
🤷FAQs on Fun Things to Do in Austin
What are the best things to do in Austin?
Things to do in Austin is numerous, and the most recommended fun things to do in Austin are：
- Enjoy live music scene;
- Visit Zilker Park
- Kayaking at Lady Bird Lake
- Taste local food
Where to find fun things to do in Austin?
South Congress Avenue (SoCo): Known for its vibrant atmosphere, unique shops, food trucks, and iconic views of the Texas State Capitol.
Downtown Austin: Home to a bustling nightlife scene, with numerous bars, live music venues, and restaurants, especially around Sixth Street.
Zilker Park: A great place for outdoor activities, picnics, and enjoying the scenic views of the city. The park also hosts various festivals throughout the year.
Which street has fun things to do in Austin?
South Congress Avenue (SoCo) has a lot of tings to do in Austin for:
Unique Shops: SoCo is lined with quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and local art galleries, perfect for browsing and finding one-of-a-kind items.
Great Food: The street features a variety of dining options, including food trucks, casual eateries, and sit-down restaurants offering everything from Tex-Mex to gourmet cuisine.
Iconic Landmarks: You can find famous spots like the Austin Motel and Guero’s Taco Bar, which add to the street’s charm.
Live Music: Many venues along SoCo host live music events, contributing to Austin’s reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The street has a lively vibe with street performers, festivals, and community events that create a welcoming and energetic environment.
What is Austin best known for?
Austin is best known for:
Live Music: Austin hosts a vibrant music scene with numerous live music venues. It’s famous for events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival.
Food Scene: Austin is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, particularly its barbecue and Tex-Mex food. Food trucks are a popular way to enjoy local cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: With parks, trails, and lakes, Austin is great for outdoor enthusiasts. Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool are popular spots.
How to spend a day in Austin?
Following this schedule to experience a series fun things to do in Austin during a day:
Morning:
Breakfast at a Local Café
Visit the Texas State Capitol
Late Morning:
Explore South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
Lunch:
Food Truck Lunch
Afternoon:
Zilker Park
Lady Bird Lake
Late Afternoon:
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art
Evening:
Dinner: Franklin Barbecue
Live Music: The Continental Club
Night:
Nightcap on Rainey Street
