15 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

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!

Things to do in Austin, Texas

1. Taste your way around Austin

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 is 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!

2. See Austin’s top sights with a local guide

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!

3. Learn how to two-step!

Few things are more synonymous than two-step and Texas. Head on down to the Broken Spoke to learn this quintessential honky tonk dance. 

Two-step lessons take place Wednesday through Saturday from 8 pm to 9 pm at the legendary honky-tonk. Make sure you get there by at least 7:30 pm, as the list fills up super quickly! Expect to pay a cover charge, which ranges around $10 USD, depending on the night, plus a $10 USD charge for lessons. 

Within an hour, you’ll learn the fundamentals of two-step and be able to apply your new skills as the night moves on to live music. Aside from learning to dance, the Broken Spoke is an experience all on its own. Known as the Last of the True Texas Dancehalls, it’s truly a unique stop in Austin. 

After you’ve burnt a few calories on the dancefloor, replace them with a hardy chicken- fried steak off the menu – it’s been consistently voted as the best in town!

4. Experience Austin’s live music scene

Experiencing live music in Austin is non-negotiable when visiting—it’s everywhere! Knowing which venues to explore can be overwhelming with so many options to choose from. That’s why I loved this Austin Live Music Crawl to take the guessing game out of the equation. 

Meet your tour group and guide at the famous Driskill hotel before setting off in a Mercedes Sprinter van to all the best hubs. What’s so special about this tour is that the guides who lead it are typically comedians, artists, or performers themselves, adding an edge to “the inside scoop” of it all.

I loved hearing about the city’s history and how it became known as “The Live Music Capital of the World”. You’ll get insight into the musicians who have shaped the atmosphere and how passionately the musical culture is preserved in the present. 

You’ll get to visit up to three iconic venues among fellow travelers, see live bands in action, and get a feel for the best ways to experience music in the city. The music selection and venue are always varied in genre, so the tour truly has something for every taste. 

There’s truly no better way to introduce yourself to the live music scene in Austin!

5. Kayak under the famous Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

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 gives you 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.

The guides are well-versed in bat knowledge and are quick to share their passion as you’re preparing for the trip. You’ll learn why the Congress Avenue Bridge became home to the world’s largest urban bat colony and how these little creatures help keep the mosquito population in check. 

After a quick paddle lesson, you’ll set off onto the calm waters, gliding beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge as the city lights flicker to life around you. The skyline looks even more stunning from the water, reflecting off the river as the last light of day fades. 

Right on cue, you’ll see the bats emerge in a swirling cloud, pouring out from beneath the bridge in waves as they soar east over downtown. The sound of thousands of wings flapping above can be a little eerie but mesmerizing. It’s the best view of the city during an incredible, fleeting moment. 

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!

6. Explore McKinney State Park

Just 13 miles (about 21 kilometers) from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park feels like a completely different world. With waterfalls cascading over limestone ledges, swimming holes along Onion Creek, and miles of scenic trails, it’s one of the easiest ways to escape the city without driving far.

We were surprised by how peaceful it felt despite being so close to Austin. Between exploring historic homestead ruins, hiking through the forest, and cooling off in the water, it was easy to spend an entire afternoon here.

Open daily from 8 am to 10 pm, admission tickets are only $6 USD, but reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity! The park closes for day-use visits when it’s at maximum capacity, so reserve in advance online before making the trek. 

If you want to spend some extra time in the park, they also have 81 campsites available with water/electric hookups and fire rings! 

7. Go on Austin’s double-decker sightseeing bus 

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, you’ll cover a lot of ground in total comfort.

The tour begins near Sixth Street, Austin’s legendary nightlife hub. Even in broad daylight, you can feel the energy. We rolled past the Museum of the Weird and the Driskill Hotel, where you’ll get to admire its grand, old-world charm. If you look close enough, you might spot one of its rumored ghosts peeking out from the window! 

Next, you’ll approach the Texas State Capitol, its massive dome towering over the city. Up close, it’s even more impressive, and it’s wild to think that it’s actually taller than the U.S. Capitol in D.C. From there, you’ll pass the Texas Governor’s Mansion, and then the LBJ Presidential Library, a tribute to one of Texas’ most influential leaders. 

One of the last sights is the Congress Avenue Bridge, home to Austin’s famous bat colony. It might sound strange at first, but the nightly bat flights are one of the city’s biggest attractions.

This tour is a fantastic way to get your 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!

8. Explore the city on an e-bike

There’s so much to see in Austin, and walking just doesn’t always cut it. Choose to ride an e-bike through Austin on this small-group tour for the best way to cover a lot of ground! 

With a professional guide, you’ll zip past historic landmarks, quirky neighborhoods, and some of the best hidden gems. The electric bikes make cruising effortless, so instead of huffing up hills, you’ll focus on the sights, the vibes, and taking in Austin’s energy.

Starting in the Seaholm District, you’ll move through the city’s most iconic spots, from the grand Texas State Capitol to the lively bars of Sixth Street. Your guide will make 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. 

You’ll also get to stop 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, you’ll walk 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!

9. Escape the heat at Barton Springs Pool

The Austin heat is no joke in the summer months. If you find yourself needing a break from the blazing sun (which you most definitely will), head to Barton Springs to cool off! 

This pool is the beloved gem of Zilker Metropolitan Park in Austin and a favorite swimming hole for locals and visitors alike. It’s fed by underground springs, keeping the temperature around 68°F to 70°F (20°C to 21°C) year-round.

Water shoes are a great idea here due to the natural limestone rock and layer of algae that can make some areas extremely slippery!

In summer, parking can be a nightmare at the park, so plan to arrive early or take a ride-share for the best experience. Tickets are $9 USD for a non-resident adult and can be purchased in advance online or at a kiosk in the park. 

There’s no outside food allowed in the springs area, but they do offer a small concession stand for snacks and beverages. Spend time sunbathing on the hillsides that surround the springs or take a jump off the diving board for extra cool points!

10. Discover Austin’s haunted past

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!

Related Read: For a detailed rundown on how to spend your time in Austin, have a look at our expert 3-day itinerary!

11. Discover authentic Texas BBQ

Food is a big part of the Austin experience, and barbecue is at the heart of it. While there are plenty of great BBQ spots around the city, these are a few favorites. 

Terry Blacks on Barton Springs Road is a popular stop, where 4th-generation pitmasters serve up traditional Texas barbecue that draws visitors from around the world. As busy as it gets, the line moves surprisingly quickly thanks to the efficient market-style ordering system. The bustling atmosphere and the communal dining feel add to the allure of the experience. 

If you have time for one iconic Austin food experience, Franklin’s Barbecue. Known for its brisket, it’s one of the most famous BBQ spots not just in Texas, but in the world. They open at 11 and have an “open until sold out” policy, which means you will always encounter a line in the morning. But don’t let that stop you, just bring your lawn chair and settle in! This atmosphere has created a sort of tailgate experience that results in bonding with locals and visitors from all over the planet. 

With an ordering style similar to Terry Blacks, Coopers Old Time Pit BBQ is another favorite located in downtown Austin. Cooper’s is known for its “Big Chop,” the two-inch, thick pork chop, and I’m especially partial to their Pecan Cobbler. Even with massive portions, it’s a must!

12. Find Austin’s best murals on a pedicab

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.

13. Spend a Day at Zilker

You don’t have to go far in Austin to get a little greenscape scenery. Zilker Park is the much-loved outdoor communal space with botanical gardens, access to Lady Bird Lake, picnic areas, and trails. 

Grab a paddleboard at Zilker Park Boat Rentals and paddle to “Party Island,” which is basically just the intersection of Barton Creek and Lady Bird Lake. Their hourly rentals run at $21 USD an hour or $57 USD for a full day. On Saturdays during the summer, you may even encounter a pop-up DJ set in the middle of the lake! 

Zilker is an ideal place to get some exercise on foot or on your bike. It’s the starting point for a multitude of trails. If you set out on the Ann and Roy Butler Trail, it extends nearly 15 miles and runs along the park plus the entirety of Lady Bird Lake.  

14. Relax on Lake Austin with a private boat cruise

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!

15. Go wine tasting in Texas Hill Country with BBQ

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!

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!

Related Read: We also break down the pros and cons of different parts of Austin with hotels in each in our where to stay in Austin guide!

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!

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