If you’re planning a trip to Austin, get ready for a city that truly lives up to its “Keep Austin Weird” motto.
I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the nooks and crannies of this incredible Texas capital, and let me tell you, it’s a blast.
Forget the tourist traps and get ready for the real Austin experience.
From cooling off in hidden swimming holes to catching the perfect sunset view, I’m going to share my absolute favorite spots.
These aren’t just places I read about, these are places I’ve actually been to, loved, and can’t wait for you to see.
Let’s dive into the best things to do in Austin, Texas!
1. Texas State Capitol
If you want to feel the full pride of the Lone Star State, you must visit the Texas State Capitol.
Forget what you think you know about government buildings, this one is pure majesty.
The moment I walked up Congress Avenue and saw the huge, beautiful dome, I was hooked.
It’s built with “sunset red” Texas granite, and the pink color is just gorgeous, especially on a sunny day.
But the real magic is inside!
Fun fact: our Capitol is actually taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
I highly recommend taking one of the free guided tours.
The guides are friendly and full of amazing stories about Texas history.
Walking those halls makes you feel like you’re part of Texas history.
2. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
I absolutely love this trail, it’s the true heartbeat of Austin’s outdoor life!
This 10-mile loop wraps perfectly around Lady Bird Lake, giving you the best views of the water and the city skyline.
I’ve jogged here, walked my dog here, and even taken a few slow bike rides.
The trail is mostly crushed granite, which is soft on your knees, and it’s shaded in a lot of places.
The best part is the new boardwalk section.
Walking over the water on those planks gives you a totally unique perspective of downtown Austin.
You’ll see kayakers and paddleboarders gliding below and lots of friendly people running by.
It’s an easy, flat route, so anyone can enjoy it.
Make sure you find the famous Stevie Ray Vaughan statue right off the path, it’s a great photo spot and a classic Austin moment!
3. Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a must-see.
Seriously, it’s not just a pool, it’s a three-acre natural spring tucked inside Zilker Park.
This water flows from underground springs, keeping it a constant, bracing 68–70 degrees F (around 20°C) all year long.
The first plunge is a shock to the system, but on a hot Texas day, it is the most refreshing thing you will ever experience!
There’s a diving board on the deep end for the adventurous and a huge grassy hill surrounding it perfect for sunbathing and people-watching.
It feels more like a natural river than a municipal pool.
It even has its own endangered resident: the Barton Springs Salamander!
Go early in the morning for a peaceful swim, or join the locals for the iconic “polar bear” splash on New Year’s Day.
4. Zilker Metropolitan Park
I love Zilker! It’s truly Austin’s favorite backyard.
I’ve spent countless sunny afternoons here, because it’s the perfect place to spread out a blanket and soak up the city vibe.
You can do it all: cool off at the famous Barton Springs Pool, kayak on Lady Bird Lake, or just toss a frisbee on the Great Lawn.
No matter the season, something is happening.
From festivals like ACL to the festive Trail of Lights, this park is the vibrant heart of the city.
You get incredible views of the downtown skyline, making your picnic photos look amazing!
It’s an essential Austin experience.
5. Congress Avenue Bridge
You simply have to see the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge.
I went right around sunset, and watching over a million Mexican free-tailed bats spiral out and into the evening sky was truly one of the weirdest, coolest sights in Austin.
Stand on the bridge sidewalk or join a kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake for the best view.
It feels like a natural spectacle happening right in the middle of a bustling city.
Just remember to check the time of sunset, get there early, and enjoy Austin’s unique and slightly spooky air show!
6. South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue (SoCo) is Austin’s most popular destination because it embodies the city’s “Keep Austin Weird” spirit.
The avenue is highly successful due to its unique, walkable blend of:
- Culture:
It hosts legendary live music venues like The Continental Club, vibrant street art, and the famous “I love you so much” mural. - Commerce:
It perfectly mixes independent, quirky boutiques (like Allens Boots and vintage shops) with modern, high-end retail. - Cuisine:
A diverse culinary scene includes iconic food trucks, beloved local diners, and trendy upscale restaurants. - Location:
It offers stunning views of the State Capitol and is the viewing spot for the famous Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony.
7. Blanton Museum of Art
Walking into the Blanton feels like stepping into a whole different world.
The building itself is stunning, with natural light spilling across the galleries and making the colors pop even more.
You’ll find everything from bold contemporary pieces to classic European paintings, so it’s never boring.
There’s always something that grabs your attention.
My favorite part?
The immersive installations that make you feel like you’re literally inside the art.
It’s one of those places where you lose track of time because every corner makes you want to pause and stare a little longer.
If you’re even slightly into art, or just love Instagram-worthy backdrops, you can’t skip this spot in Austin.
8. Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Museum isn’t your typical “read a plaque and move on” kind of place, it actually makes Texas history exciting.
From the massive shipwreck in the lobby to the interactive exhibits upstairs, you feel like you’re part of the story instead of just looking at old stuff.
I loved how they mix tech with history.
One minute you’re watching a film in the IMAX theater, the next you’re standing face-to-face with artifacts that shaped the state.
It’s the kind of spot where you leave with random fun facts you’ll end up sharing later, trust me.
Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, this museum makes learning feel effortless and fun.
9. LBJ Presidential Library
Visiting the LBJ Library honestly feels like stepping straight into the 1960s.
The towering glass atrium is jaw-dropping the second you walk in, and the exhibits pull you right into Lyndon B. Johnson’s world.
You get to see personal letters, historic photos, and even a replica of the Oval Office that makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled.
What I loved most was how it humanizes him, not just as a president, but as a person dealing with huge moments in history.
It’s not stuffy at all, it’s interactive and surprisingly moving.
If you want to understand Austin’s connection to American history, this place gives you all the feels and perspective in one stop.
10. Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
The Umlauf Sculpture Garden feels like one of those hidden gems you stumble into and instantly want to keep all to yourself.
It’s peaceful, green, and sprinkled with bronze sculptures that almost blend into the landscape.
So walking through feels like a mix of art gallery and nature trail.
I loved how quiet it was.
You can actually hear the wind in the trees while admiring these incredible works.
It’s the perfect escape when downtown Austin feels too busy, and it gives you space to slow down and just enjoy being present.
Honestly, it’s the kind of spot where you could spend an afternoon wandering, sketching, or just recharging with a little art and fresh air.
11. Mount Bonnell
Climbing up Mount Bonnell isn’t hard at all, but once you reach the top, it feels like you’ve earned something epic.
The view stretches over Lake Austin, the winding Colorado River, and the city skyline in the distance.
It’s the kind of spot that makes you just stop and breathe it all in.
I went at sunset and honestly, it looked like the whole sky was on fire.
Couples bring picnics, friends take group photos, and everyone’s just soaking up that perfect Austin vibe.
It’s simple, it’s free, and it never gets old no matter how many times you go.
Definitely one of those “must-do” spots that makes you fall in love with the city.
12. Lake Travis
Lake Travis is where you go when you want to mix a little adventure with laid-back Texas charm.
The water is so blue it almost looks fake, and the sunsets over the hills are unreal.
I rented a boat with friends, and between tubing, swimming, and just floating with a drink in hand, it felt like the ultimate summer day.
There are also lakeside restaurants where you can grab a margarita and watch the sky change colors.
Whether you’re into jet skis, paddleboards, or just tanning on the deck, Lake Travis has that “vacation without leaving town” energy.
13. McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls feels like Austin’s secret getaway when you need a break from the city buzz.
The waterfalls aren’t massive, but there’s something so calming about the sound of rushing water while you’re hiking or lounging nearby.
I loved dipping my feet in the creek after a long walk.
The water’s cool and refreshing, especially on those hot Texas days.
The trails are super manageable, so you don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy them.
It’s low-key the perfect spot to recharge.
14. The Domain (shopping & dining)
The Domain feels like a little city inside Austin, and honestly, it’s where I go when I want a full day of retail therapy and good food.
You’ve got everything from high-end shops to cute local boutiques, so whether you’re splurging or just window-shopping, it hits the vibe.
After shopping, there are endless restaurants and bars.
I love how walkable it is, with twinkling lights at night making it feel super lively.
It’s not just a mall, it’s more like a stylish hangout where you can shop, eat, sip, and people-watch for hours.
15. Sixth Street (live music & nightlife)
Sixth Street is the heartbeat of Austin’s nightlife, and trust me, you’ll feel it the second you walk down those neon-lit blocks.
Every bar seems to have its own live band or DJ, so the music literally spills out onto the street.
I hopped between dive bars, rooftop patios, and a spot with dueling pianos.
Each place had its own vibe, and the energy never slowed down.
The crowd’s a mix of locals, college kids, and travelers all just looking for a good time.
If you want the classic “Austin after dark” experience, this is it.
16. Rainey Street Historic District
Rainey Street has this cool mix of old charm and new energy that makes it one of my favorite hangouts in Austin.
The houses-turned-bars give it a cozy, almost backyard feel.
But inside you’ll find craft cocktails, live music, and some seriously good food trucks parked nearby.
I loved being able to hop from a chill patio with string lights to a buzzing bar with a dance floor in just a few steps.
It’s way more relaxed than Sixth Street but still has plenty of life, so you can choose your own vibe.
17. Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater
Catching a show at ACL Live honestly feels like being part of Austin’s soul.
The venue is modern but still super intimate.
You’re close enough to feel the energy no matter where you sit.
The sound quality is insane; every guitar strum and drumbeat hits perfectly.
I went for a live taping once, and it was surreal seeing such a legendary stage up close, knowing so many iconic performances happened there.
The vibe is electric without being overwhelming, and the crowd is always into it.
If you love live music, this spot isn’t just a venue, its an experience!
18. Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is where I go when I want to escape the city without actually leaving it.
The trails wind through cliffs, trees, and creeks, so every hike feels like its own little adventure.
On hot days, jumping into the swimming holes is the best reward.
I’ve seen people rock climbing, biking, even just hammocking with friends, and it always feels alive but not overcrowded.
It’s the perfect balance of nature and fun, and it’s one of those places that makes you remember why Austin has such a laid-back, outdoorsy vibe.
19. Austin Zoo
The Austin Zoo isn’t your typical flashy zoo!
It’s all about giving rescued animals a safe and happy home.
Walking through, you’ll meet everything from playful monkeys to majestic tigers, and it feels good knowing each one has a story of being cared for after a rough past.
The vibe is relaxed and way more personal than bigger zoos, which makes it perfect for families or just a chill afternoon stroll.
I loved how close you can get to some of the animals without it feeling overwhelming.
It’s less about crowds and more about connection, which makes the experience feel special and meaningful.
20. Thinkery (children’s museum)
Thinkery is one of those places that makes you wish you were a kid again.
It’s packed with hands-on exhibits that turn science, art, and tech into pure fun.
I tagged along with my niece, and honestly, I was just as entertained as she was.
The best part is how it sneaks in learning while everyone’s laughing and exploring.
It’s colorful, creative, and buzzing with energy, so it never feels like a “museum” in the boring sense.
If you’ve got kids or just want to tap into your inner child, this spot is a must in Austin.