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Looking for the best things to do in Austin, Texas? You’ve found the right blog!
Austin has it all—live music, incredible food, outdoor adventures, and a quirky vibe that sets it apart. We’ve spent plenty of time exploring this Texas gem, from its legendary barbecue joints to the energy of Sixth Street, and we’re still finding new things to love.
From must-see landmarks to unique tours, we’re sharing the best experiences in the city. So grab your cowboy boots (or walking shoes) and get ready to dive into everything that makes Austin special!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Best of Austin sightseeing tour! It was full of history, culture, music, and even some delicious food. Plus we had a bonus tour of the Texas State Capitol and tons of photo stops along the way.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Austin, Texas
- 1. Explore the city on an e-bike
- 2. See Austin’s top sights with a local guide
- 3. Taste your way around Austin
- 4. Kayak under the famous Congress Avenue Bat Bridge
- 5. Discover Austin’s haunted past
- 6. Feel the rush of flight with indoor skydiving
- 7. Find Austin’s best murals on a pedicab
- 8. Relax on Lake Austin with a private boat cruise
- 9. Go on Austin’s double-decker sightseeing bus
- 10. Go wine tasting in Texas Hill Country with BBQ
- Where to Stay in Austin, Texas
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Austin, Texas
1. Explore the city on an e-bike
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 10 am, 12:30 pm, 3 pm, and 5:30 pm
- Highlights: See the sights and feel the vibes of the crown jewel of Hill County, check out the places locals love with a local guide, see popular spots like the bridge where Austin’s bat population resides
- Inclusions: Road captain, use of helmet and e-bike, e-bike equipment protection, bottled water, membership wristband for exclusive deals in Austin, small-group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s so much to see in Austin and walking just doesn’t cut it. We found riding an e-bike through Austin on this small-group tour was the best way to cover a lot of ground.
With Captain Edge leading the way, we zipped past historic landmarks, quirky neighborhoods, and some of the best hidden gems. The electric bikes made cruising effortless, so instead of huffing up hills, we focused on the sights, the vibes, and taking in Austin’s energy.
Starting in the Seaholm District, we wove through the city’s most iconic spots, from the grand Texas State Capitol to the lively bars of Sixth Street. Captain Edge made the ride even more fun with bits of Austin history along the way—like how The Driskill is rumored to be one of the most haunted hotels in the U.S.
We even stopped by the Congress Avenue Bridge which is famous for its massive bat colony that often takes flight at sunset. If you’re lucky you just might be able to catch this “only in Austin” experience.
As a bonus, we walked away with a membership wristband, unlocking exclusive deals all over the city—because who doesn’t love a good discount?
If you want to cover a ton of Austin without wearing yourself out, this e-bike tour is the way to go. It’s fast, fun, and packed with sights you might otherwise miss. Just read the thousands of 5-star reviews here to see why this is one of the best ways to experience the city!
Check availability here and reserve this top-rated e-bike tour!
2. See Austin’s top sights with a local guide
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Austin on this small-group bus tour, visit the Texas State Capitol and other interesting locations, check out food trucks and other off-the-beaten-path sites
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, a ‘bucket list tour’ of Austin and the Texas State Capitol
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you only have time for one tour in Austin, make it this one! This small-group sightseeing tour was hands-down our favorite experience while we were in town, and for good reason. It packed in everything—history, culture, music, and even a little bit of food—without ever feeling rushed.
Our guide, Jax, was absolutely awesome! She knew Austin inside and out, sharing fascinating facts and fun local insights that even longtime residents might not know. She also gave us some top-tier meal recommendations, which we, of course, had to try later.
The tour took us everywhere, from the historic Texas State Capitol, where we got to step inside and admire the grand architecture, to the funky shops along South Congress. We grabbed a sweet treat at a food truck and snapped a classic photo of the Greetings from Austin mural as well as some other lesser-known murals.
And, of course, no Austin tour would be complete without a drive down Sixth Street, aka “Dirty Sixth,” where live music spills out of nearly every bar, giving the area an electric energy no matter the time of day.
Crossing the Congress Avenue Bridge, Jax reminded us of Austin’s famous motto, Keep Austin Weird—and after this tour, we totally got it. If you want a bucket list-worthy experience that truly showcases the best of the city, this is it.
But don’t just take our word for it – read thousands of 5-star reviews here and see why this tour is a must-do!
Learn more and book our favorite tour in Austin here!
3. Taste your way around Austin
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 11 am – 4 pm
- Highlights: Discover the best eats on a food tour through Austin, learn about (and taste) authentic dishes, explore some of the city’s popular attractions
- Inclusions: Guide, downtown Austin Tour or South Congress Tour (depending on option selected), small-group or private tour (depending on option selected)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If there’s one thing Austin does right, it’s food. And the best way to sample some of the city’s top eats is this walking food tour. It offers two different routes, the Downtown Austin Tour and the South Congress Tour, each packed with delicious local bites.
We opted for the Downtown Austin route, and let’s just say showing up hungry was the right move.
Our guide, Pola, was super informative and engaging, weaving Austin’s history and food culture into every stop. She knew the city inside and out, sharing fun facts and insider tips that made us appreciate it even more.
Because no trip to Texas is complete without BBQ, we kicked things off with some seriously good barbecue brisket paired with smoky pinto beans. From there, we sampled an Austin-style breakfast taco (yes, they really are as good as everyone says), a “beary”-special smoothie, and a Reuben slider that packed a ton of flavor into a tiny sandwich.
Just when we thought we couldn’t eat another bite, the creamy flan cheesecake appeared, and somehow, we found room. And, of course, there was the secret dish—one last surprise that changes with every tour and had us guessing until the very first bite!
Since stops can change based on availability, each tour is a little different, making this a unique experience even if you’ve been to Austin before. Whether you choose the Downtown or South Congress tour, one thing’s for sure—you won’t leave hungry!
Book this food tour here and eat your way through Austin!
4. Kayak under the famous Congress Avenue Bat Bridge
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7 pm, and 7:30 pm
- Highlights: Watch more than a million bats fly out of the Congress Avenue Bridge on an evening kayak tour of Austin, great chance to see the city lights after dark, no experience required
- Inclusions: Professional guide, life jacket, paddle lesson and safety instructions, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Paddling on Lady Bird Lake at sunset to watch a million bats take flight? Now that’s an Austin experience. This small-group kayaking tour gave us a front-row seat to one of the city’s most unique natural spectacles, away from the packed riverbanks where crowds gather nightly for a glimpse.
Our guide, Sam, was incredibly knowledgeable about bats and a great storyteller. He shared fascinating facts, from why the Congress Avenue Bridge became home to the world’s largest urban bat colony to how these little creatures help keep the mosquito population in check.
I wouldn’t say he turned me into a bat lover, but it was clear he was passionate about them!
After a quick paddle lesson, we set off onto the calm waters, gliding beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge as the city lights flickered to life around us. The skyline looked even more stunning from the water, reflecting off the river as the last light of day faded.
Right on cue, the bats emerged in a swirling cloud, pouring out from beneath the bridge in waves as they soared east over downtown. The sound of thousands of wings flapping over us was eerie and mesmerizing, and from our spot on the water, we had the best view in the city.
This tour is one of the most popular in Austin and often sells out, so be sure to book early to snag a spot. No kayaking experience is needed—just a little curiosity and a sense of adventure!
Secure this popular kayaking tour here—before it fills up!
5. Discover Austin’s haunted past
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 8 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Group walking tour through Austin’s supernatural nooks and creepy crannies with acclaimed storyteller, includes a tour of the famous Driskill Hotel, hear historical tales of murder and mayhem
- Inclusions: Professional guide
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Austin may be known for its live music and food scene, but after dark, the city has a much spookier side. This haunted history walking tour was the perfect way to explore Austin’s eerie past while hearing some truly unsettling tales.
Our guide, William, was a super enthusiastic storyteller. From the moment the tour started, he had us hanging on every word, bringing the city’s ghost stories to life with just the right combo of history and theatrics.
We kicked things off at The Driskill Hotel, one of the most famously haunted spots in the U.S. As we wandered its grand halls, William’s chilling tales of lingering spirits and unexplained happenings had us glancing over our shoulders more than once.
From there, we strolled down Congress Avenue, soaking in views of the Capitol while hearing about eerie encounters from the past.
Stops at the Paramount Theatre and Sixth Street added even more ghostly legends, but our favorite part was The Speakeasy—a historic tavern with exclusive tour access. Stepping inside, we could almost feel the presence of past guests who never left.
This tour had the ideal mix of history, mystery, and a few spine-tingling moments. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, it’s a fun way to experience a different side of Austin after dark!
Book this walking tour here and experience Austin’s haunted past!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Feel the rush of flight with indoor skydiving
- Duration: 1 hour 15 mins
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Learn to fly in a vertical wind tunnel, enjoy two instructor-led flights per person, all gear provided, perfect for beginners and families.
- Inclusions: One-to-one guidance from your professional instructor, 2 flights per person, training and equipment, flight certificate
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check glowing reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve ever wanted to try skydiving but aren’t quite ready to jump out of a plane, this indoor flight experience is the perfect thrill. We gave it a go at iFLY Austin and had a blast, no parachutes, no falling, just the pure fun of floating on air.
The experience starts with a quick training session where the instructor explains how to position your body and communicate during flight. Then it’s time to gear up and step into the vertical wind tunnel. From the moment the air kicked in, we were flying, literally! Each person gets two flights, and with your instructor right there the entire time, it’s incredibly safe and surprisingly easy to get the hang of.
We were amazed by how real it felt, that weightless, free-floating sensation is seriously addictive. Whether you’re a total beginner or just curious to see what skydiving feels like, this gives you a taste of the action without the nerves. The instructors are super encouraging and even show off a few tricks during the demo flights, which are just as fun to watch.
It’s a great option for families, groups, or solo adventurers looking to add something memorable to their time in Austin. The vibe is fun, energetic, and totally accessible, and trust us, you’ll be talking about it long after you’ve landed.
For an unforgettable experience, reserve your indoor skydiving slot here!
Related Read: For a detailed rundown on how to spend your time in Austin, have a look at our expert 3-day itinerary!
7. Find Austin’s best murals on a pedicab
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 8 pm
- Highlights: Ride through Austin in a pedicab while learning about the art scene, visit the most popular and photographed street art, snap social media-worthy selfies, stop at over 20 murals
- Inclusions: Private guide, private transportation, pedicab, hotel pickup (downtown locations)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 210+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This private pedicab tour was more than just a chance to snap photos at Austin’s famous murals—it was a fun, breezy way to explore the city without wearing ourselves out. We zipped through downtown, stopping at iconic street art while getting a feel for different neighborhoods and Austin’s creative energy.
We visited over 20 murals scattered throughout the city, each one more vibrant and unique than the last. Of course, we hit the must-see murals like “I Love You So Much,” “Greetings from Austin,” and “Willie for President,” but the best part was how much fun we had taking pictures at each stop. Posing in front of the massive, colorful artwork felt like a true Austin experience!
Our guide, Nathan, was awesome. Not only did he share fun facts about the art scene, history, and local hotspots, but he also helped us find the best angles for some frame-worthy photo shots.
Along the way, we saw more of Austin than we expected. And the best bonus? The pedicab breeze! With the Texas sun beating down, this was a surprisingly refreshing way to get around and beat a little of the summer heat.
Whether you’re looking for the best Instagram shots or just a laid-back way to explore, this private tour is an unforgettable way to see Austin from an artistic perspective.
Book this pedicab tour here and get flexible cancellation and payment options!
8. Relax on Lake Austin with a private boat cruise
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:45 am, 1:15 pm, and 3:45 pm
- Highlights: Private, partially guided pontoon boat cruise on Lake Austin, 22 miles/35 km of great sightseeing views
- Inclusions: Two-hour boat cruise, captain, use of life vests and Aqua Lily Pad, fuel, full overhead sun shading
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 110+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Floating on Lake Austin was the perfect way to unwind and take in the city’s beauty from the water. This private boat tour gave us front-row views of stunning cliffside homes, scenic nature preserves, and iconic landmarks—all while cruising in total comfort.
Our captain and guide, Spencer, was fantastic! He was incredibly informative, pointing out landmarks like the Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria, a gorgeous Italian-style villa, and the Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve, home to rare and endangered species like the golden-cheeked warbler.
As we cruised along the shoreline, Spencer kept us engaged with stories about the area’s history and wildlife and made sure we had the best possible experience, whether that meant sharing cool facts about the lake or giving us plenty of time to soak in the views.
Our favorite part was cruising under the Pennybacker Bridge, one of Austin’s most iconic photo spots. The calm, clear waters of the lake made for a beautiful setting. We even spotted a few wake surfers showing off their skills!
Another unexpected highlight was passing by Mount Bonnell, one of the highest points in Austin. Seeing it from the water made it easy to see why it’s one of the most famous viewpoints in the city.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a laid-back way to experience Austin, this private cruise is a rejuvenating way to enjoy the city. Just sit back, relax, and let the views do the rest!
Secure your spot now and pay later when you book this boat tour here!
9. Go on Austin’s double-decker sightseeing bus
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 4 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Double-decker bus tour in Austin, travel on a loop that passes by the Texas State Capitol and top landmarks around the city, open-air top deck and a lower deck
- Inclusions: Bus tour, cold water, sunscreen
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 750+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
For a quick and easy way to see Austin’s top landmarks, this double-decker bus tour was just the ticket. With the choice of an open-air top deck or a climate-controlled lower deck, we covered a lot of ground in total comfort.
We started near Sixth Street, Austin’s legendary nightlife hub. Even in broad daylight, you could feel the energy. We rolled past the Museum of the Weird and the Driskill Hotel, where we admired its grand, old-world charm while wondering if we’d spot one of its rumored ghosts peeking out from the windows.
Next, we approached the Texas State Capitol, its massive dome towering over the city. Up close, it was even more impressive, and it’s wild to think that it’s actually taller than the U.S. Capitol in D.C. From there, we passed the Texas Governor’s Mansion, looking stately as ever, then the LBJ Presidential Library, a tribute to one of Texas’ most influential leaders.
One of the last sights was Congress Avenue Bridge, home to Austin’s famous bat colony. It wasn’t time for the sunset flight, but imagining a million bats bursting into the sky was enough to make us want to come back for the real thing.
This tour was a fantastic way to get our bearings in Austin while picking up fun facts along the way. Whether you’re new to the city or just want a fresh perspective, this double-decker bus tour makes exploring Austin easy and fun!
Check availability and reserve this double-decker adventure here!
10. Go wine tasting in Texas Hill Country with BBQ
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am
- Highlights: Enjoy a half-day barbecue and wine tour from Austin, visit three different venues, including two popular wineries and Salt Lick BBQ outpost
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, round-trip transfers from Austin to the Texas Hill Country area, air-conditioned vehicle, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 810+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Nothing says Texas like slow-smoked barbecue and a glass of local wine, and this food and wine tour made it easy to enjoy both without worrying about transportation. Escaping the city for a half-day in Texas Hill Country meant trading Austin’s bustle for rolling vineyards, scenic backroads, and, of course, some legendary barbecue.
With the Texas heat, the air-conditioned van made the ride to The Salt Lick BBQ much more enjoyable. This spot has earned a national reputation for good reason! The smoky aroma alone was enough to make us hungry, and the brisket and ribs did not disappoint.
Next up, we visited Fall Creek Vineyards, one of the region’s top wineries. After all that barbecue, a crisp glass of wine was the ultimate reset. We kicked back on the patio, enjoying the views and sipping some of their best pours—it was hard to believe we were still near Austin.
Our final stop was Duchman Family Winery, a place that felt more like Tuscany than Texas. The stunning setting made the wines taste even better, and after a few tastings, we were already picking out bottles to take home. Leaving was tough, but at least we didn’t have to drive back!
Food and wine tastings aren’t included, so bring some cash to fully enjoy the experience. This tour is a really fun way to explore Texas Hill Country without the hassle of driving—just sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best barbecue and wine in the South!
Reserve your spot here and pay later when you book this tour here!
Where to Stay in Austin, Texas
Now that you’ve got your Austin itinerary sorted, it’s time to pick the perfect place to stay! With so many neighborhoods and hotel options, it can be tricky to find the best spot. To make it easier, we’ve rounded up the top hotels in great locations for every budget—so you can focus on enjoying all the fun activities this city has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
For a truly luxurious stay in Austin, the Fairmont Gold Experience is hard to beat. This upscale hotel delivers next-level service with exclusive Gold Lounge access, where you can enjoy complimentary breakfast, evening canapés, and personalized concierge service. The rooms are sleek and modern, and the hotel itself boasts a rooftop pool with incredible city views, multiple dining options, and a prime downtown location—just steps from Rainey Street and Lady Bird Lake!
Room rates vary by season and suite, but typically range from around $450—$550 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a well-priced stay in the heart of downtown Austin, Hyatt Place Downtown is a fantastic choice. Located just a short walk from Sixth Street and Lady Bird Lake, this hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, plus an indoor pool and fitness center. Guests also love the complimentary breakfast—a great way to fuel up before exploring everything Austin has to offer!
Prices usually average around $200 USD per night. Check availability and prices for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re looking for an affordable and comfortable stay in Austin, Sonesta Simply Suites Austin South is a solid choice. This all-suite hotel offers fully equipped kitchens in every room, making it great for longer stays or those who prefer to cook their own meals. Plus, with free parking and easy access to downtown, it’s a convenient and budget-friendly option for exploring the city!
Rooms start as low as $95 USD per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book!
For more options, see all of Austin’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Austin. Hopefully, we’ve helped fill up your itinerary so you can make the most of your time in this part of Texas!
If your travels are taking you to other American destinations, check out all our USA blogs here for travel tips, tour recommendations, and step-by-step itineraries. Or, if you’re sticking close by, the blogs below might come in handy!
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