Fun Things to Do, Interesting Things to See in Austin, TX
Often referred to as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin, TX, is home to the Red River Cultural District, the historic Mohawk venue, and Antone’s Nightclub—all locations where you can catch amazing shows by local and big-name bands and musicians. Food truck culture is abundant here, too, and street food vendors reign with favorites like walk-around barbecue and tacos, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and cinnamon-topped churros. Rent a paddleboard to cruise Lady Bird Lake, visit wineries and sample brews at the peaks of Texas Hill Country, or watch a vast North American bat colony emerge at dusk from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in Austin!
Lady Bird Lake
Named after former First Lady Bird Johnson, Lady Bird Lake is a serene park in the heart of Austin, Texas. The vast and deep lake covers many acres, so kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rowboats, and fishermen are always welcome. Trails weave through the park so visitors can enjoy scenic bike rides, nature walks, and hikes. The lake is bordered by half a dozen historic attractions, like the Congress Avenue Bridge (home to an urban bat colony), Zilker Park, and the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Check out charity events hosted near the lake, like races, marathons, and outdoor concerts.
- Address: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd Austin, TX 78741
- Phone: 512-477-1566
- Website link: www.austinparks.org/park/lady-bird-lake/
South Congress Avenue
Boasting a bohemian vibe that captures the essence of Austin’s vibrant and eclectic atmosphere, South Congress Avenue, known as SoCo to locals, features Indie boutiques, specialty shops, and artisan markets. Street food vendors are everywhere, and musicians and performance artists peddle their crafts. The food business bustles in SoCo with food trucks, farm-to-table restaurants, and classic Texas barbecue.
- Address:S Congress AveAustin, TX 78704
- Phone: (512) 441-2444
- Website link: www.austintexas.org
Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol symbolizes Texas pride, a testament to a rich history, vibrant heritage, and free spirit. It’s a masterpiece of architectural design and craftsmanship, with a towering dome representing Texas’s grandeur. Shaded walkways, blooming gardens, and scenic vistas offer tranquility on the Capitol grounds, and some various monuments and memorials pay tribute to Texas history and heroes. Check out the interior with a guided tour, or stroll the grounds and check out the commemoration of the Civil War and World Wars.
- Address: 1100 Congress Ave Austin, TX 78701
- Phone: (512) 463-4630
- Website link: www. tspb.texas.gov
Zilker Park
Market Square is a shopping dream in San Antonio. The streets are lined with vendors and entertainers peddling their wares and performing for passersby. There are cafes and restaurants galore. However, you can also sample cuisine from street food carts offering some of Texas’s tastiest local dishes, like burritos, tortilla soup, fajitas, and walk-around queso dip with fresh chips. The market blends authentic Texas and Mexican cultures in over 100 shops and things to do.
- Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78746
- Phone: (512) 974-6700
- Website link: www.austintexas.gov
The Continental Club
Embrace nature at Zilker Park, which has trails, bike paths, and walkways galore. Pack a picnic and spread out on the grassy lawns, dive into the refreshing waters of the Barton Springs Pool, or enjoy a frisbee, soccer, or football game on the open fields. There are even sandy courtyards for volleyball games in the summer. Surrounded by doses of Texas culture, the Zilker Botanical Garden and Austin Nature and Science Center are within walking distance of the park entrance.
- Address: 1315 S Congress Ave Austin, TX 78704
- Phone: (512) 441-2444
- Website link: www.continentalclub.com
