Things to do in Austin
Austin is a city where you can spend a morning hiking a greenbelt, an afternoon at a museum, and an evening listening to live music.
Neighborhoods
Austin is a city where you can spend a morning hiking a greenbelt, an afternoon at a museum, and an evening listening to live music. The food scene runs from barbecue to Mediterranean, and there are plenty of parks, pools, and family-friendly spots to fill a weekend. Just check local signage before swimming in natural areas.
Start outdoors at Barton Springs Pool or the Barton Creek Greenbelt, both popular for swimming and hiking. Zilker Metropolitan Park includes botanical gardens and open space. For a taste of Texas history, the Bullock Texas State History Museum covers the state's story. Music is everywhere—check out Austin City Limits Live or the Broken Spoke for a classic honky-tonk experience. Families can visit the Austin Zoo or The Escape Game Austin. Shopping ranges from The Domain to Barton Creek Square, and when hunger hits, Terry Black's Barbecue is a solid choice.
Frequently asked questions about Austin
What are the best outdoor activities in Austin?▾
Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed pool that's great for swimming, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Zilker Metropolitan Park has botanical gardens and open space, while Covert Park at Mount Bonnell provides city views from the highest point in Austin.
What can families do with kids in Austin?▾
The Austin Zoo is a sanctuary with rescued animals and a train tour. The Austin Aquarium has touch tanks, and The Escape Game Austin offers themed rooms that older kids will enjoy. K1 Speed Austin has electric go-karting, and The Original Pinballz Arcade has both new and vintage games.
Where can I hear live music in Austin?▾
Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater hosts a wide variety of performers. For a more intimate setting, Mohawk Austin has indoor and outdoor stages. The Broken Spoke is a historic dance hall with live country music, and Antone's Nightclub has been a blues venue for decades.
What are some good restaurants for barbecue in Austin?▾
Terry Black's Barbecue is a well-known spot for pit-smoked meats and housemade sides. It's casual and spacious, with outdoor seating and a full bar. Expect a line at peak times, but the brisket and sausage are worth it.
Are there any low-cost things to do in Austin?▾
Many parks are open to the public, including Zilker Metropolitan Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt. The Austin Central Library has a roof garden and is open to the public. You can browse the shops at The Domain without spending money, and the Blanton Museum of Art has exhibits worth seeing.
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Zanzibar
Crafted cocktails & global bites are served in this fashionable rooftop venue in a lush setting.
Austin Aquarium
Small, family-friendly aquarium with many varieties of sea life, plus touch tanks & frequent events.
Corner Restaurant
Modern restaurant & bar in the JW Marriott Hotel featuring Texan menus, cocktails & a clubby vibe.
Barton Springs Pool
Natural springs area & hangout spot, known for swimming, leafy picnic spots & endangered salamander.
Southpark Meadows
Sprawling shopping center with ample clothing, houseware & big-box stores, plus eateries & a cinema.
Aba Austin
Hip spot serving seafood and Mediterranean classics such as kebabs, hummus, and falafel, plus cocktails.
Terry Black's Barbecue
Spacious, casual stop for pit-smoked meats & housemade sides from famous 4th-generation pitmasters.
Walmart Supercenter
The Oasis On Lake Travis
Nachos, salads & margaritas on tiered outdoor decks overlooking Lake Travis.
McKinney Falls State Park
Popular site for camping, hiking, biking & fishing, & for "Old Baldy," a 500+-year-old cypress tree.
Estância Brazilian Steakhouse
Fixed-priced menus for abundant meat, side dishes & salad bar, plus a large wine selection.
Barton Creek Square
Bi-level shopping center featuring over 170 retail stores, restaurants & a 14-screen movie theater.
The Domain
Outdoor mall offering a variety of upscale shops & department stores plus dining options & a cinema.
Circuit of The Americas
Besides the U.S. Grand Prix, this 3.4-mile racetrack hosts concerts in its amphitheater.
Domain NORTHSIDE
Contemporary outdoor shopping plaza with a wide variety of brand-name stores & dining options.
Mozart's Coffee Roasters
Beans flame-roasted on-site, plus bakery goods, frequent live music & patio seating on Lake Austin.
via Google MapsHula Hut
Tacos, fajitas & luau platters plus tropical cocktails under a thatched-roof pier with lake views.
Sandbox VR
The Escape Game Austin
Interactive amusement center featuring 6 rooms with themes ranging from gold rush to a prison break.
Caroline
Breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner in modern surroundings with cocktails, craft beer, and wine.