10 Best Things to Do in Austin

Austin is the most popular, decent, and amazing city with stunning views, located in the center of Texas, U.S.A. Austin is enriched with its unique culture and tradition with its history, artworks, music, and outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a foodie, music fanatic, outdoor adventurer, or looking for an exciting vacation spot – Austin offers plenty to discover. Here are the ten best things to do in Austin while here to experience all that this diverse city has to offer.

1. Visit the Texas State Capitol building:

The Texas State Capitol is an iconic structure that towers over Austin’s skyline. Constructed in 1888, it’s America’s largest state capitol building and a must-see attraction for visitors to Austin. 

The Capitol building is made from pink granite quarried from Granite Mountain, only 16 miles away from its construction site. This distinctive pink hue gives the structure its strikingly beautiful appearance; at 308 feet tall it dwarfs even Washington D.C’s U.S. Capitol! The striking dome of this structure is constructed out of iron coated with copper for an emerald green coloration; topped by a statue of goddess Liberty standing 15 feet tall.

The Texas State Capitol houses the offices of both the governor and lieutenant governor, as well as chambers for the Texas House of Representatives and Senate. Additionally, this building houses numerous offices and meeting rooms for state officials and legislators.

One of the best ways to experience the Texas State Capitol is through a guided tour. Tours are offered seven days a week and are led by knowledgeable guides who can give visitors insights into its history, and architecture, as well as an inside look at how the Texas Legislature functions.

House and Senate chambers are the two most significant rooms in the Capitol building, as these are where Texas Legislators convene. Decorated with beautiful artwork, they reflect the values and history of Texas; Governor’s Reception Room serves as a venue for meetings and receptions with antique furniture adorning it; finally, Capitol Rotunda provides an unforgettable space featuring stunning ceiling artwork as well as four murals depicting Texas’ past.

Visitors can also explore the unique creativity of the Capitol building itself. One can visit during the day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day and there is no charge for it. Visitors are invited to walk around the exterior of the building and admire its stunning grounds which boast several monuments and statues.

2. Explore Austin’s Music Scene:

In the international market, Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. This city has an incredible music scene that has produced a good number of renowned bands and musicians. 

To experience the best of Austin’s music scene, attend one of its many music festivals that take place throughout the year. SXSW (South by Southwest) festival is perhaps the most well-known, featuring hundreds of bands and musicians from around the globe.

Austin City Limits Music Festival showcases various musical genres as does Pecan Street Festival, Old Settler’s Music Festival, and Texas Book Festival with author readings and live music performances.

Austin is home to many live music venues that provide audiences with a chance to see both established and up-and-coming musicians. The Continental Club, one of Austin’s oldest venues, has been hosting live entertainment since 1957. Antone’s has hosted some legendary artists over the years such as B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan; other popular venues include Mohawk, Emo’s, and Cactus Cafe.

One of the great things about Austin’s music scene is that it’s not limited to large concert venues and festivals. Many bars and restaurants in town also host regular live music performances, like The White Horse honky-tonk offering country and western tunes every night of the week; The Elephant Room jazz club hosts performances most nights of the week; Saxon Pub offers a cozy bar with an eclectic range of musical genres; etc.

Experience Austin’s music scene by taking a walking or biking tour of its famous landmarks. For example, the Austin City Limits television show has been filmed there since the 1970s, and visitors can tour its studio. Additionally, visitors should check out Texas Music Museum which documents Texas’ musical legacy; finally, Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial pays homage to this legendary musician who called Austin home.

Whether you attend one of its many festivals, catch a show at one of its renowned venues, or simply enjoy some live music at a nearby bar or restaurant, your experience with Austin’s vibrant and dynamic music scene is sure to leave an impression. With such diverse musical genres and venues available, there is truly something for everyone in Austin’s vibrant and dynamic music scene.

3. Enjoy a Dip in Barton Springs Pool:

Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s beloved natural attractions, situated in Zilker Park. Fed by natural springs, the pool maintains a consistent temperature of around 68 degrees Fahrenheit throughout summers in Austin – providing visitors with a refreshing respite from the city’s hot and humid summers.

At three acres in size, the pool is divided into two sections: a shallow end and a deep end. Families with children will love the shallow end while swimmers and divers prefer the deeper section.

Barton Springs Pool offers a range of activities in addition to swimming. The surrounding picnic tables and grills make it a popular spot for picnics and barbecues, while several hiking trails traverse Zilker Park, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore its natural splendor.

Barton Springs Pool has a colorful history that dates back to the early 1900s. It was created when Austin dammed up natural springs to provide residents with a swimming hole. Over time, however, demand for this popular attraction grew so great that concrete structures were constructed around it in the 1920s for permanent permanence.

Open year-round, it attracts swimmers, sunbathers, and nature admirers from around the globe. Admission to the pool is affordable; discounts are offered to children, seniors, and residents of Austin.

One of the best times to visit Barton Springs Pool is early morning when it’s less crowded and wildlife is most active. Visitors can spot turtles, fish, and even occasional snakes around here.

Barton Springs Pool not only offers swimming and relaxing in the natural surroundings, but visitors to this pool area can also learn about its history and ecology. There are several educational exhibits and interpretive signs located there that provide details about springs in the area as well as wildlife sightings.

Overall, Barton Springs Pool should not be missed when visiting Austin. Nature enthusiasts and swimmers alike will love taking a dip in this picturesque pool for an unforgettable experience.

4. Discover Austin’s Street Art:

Austin has very unique art that can be viewed on the streets of the city. It is popular for not only its diverse culture and artworks but also because the city is full of artists who show their creativity on famous streets and the way around. From large murals to vibrant graffiti art to smaller hidden works of art, Austin’s street art showcases the city’s diverse artistic community.

One of the best ways to experience Austin’s street art is by taking a walking or biking tour around some of its most renowned murals and installations. One iconic location for street art in Austin is Hope Outdoor Gallery, boasting three stories covered with vibrant graffiti art created by local artists.

Other popular locations for viewing street art include the South Congress neighborhood, East Side, and the 6th Street district. One of Austin’s most beloved murals, “Greetings From Austin”, can be found on South 1st Street. 

Jo’s Coffee shop on South Congress Avenue boasts one of Austin’s most beloved murals, “I Love You So Much,” featuring bold gold scripted letters against a vibrant pink background. This iconic spot has become an iconic destination for couples and friends to take photos together and celebrate their affection towards one another.

Austin’s street art scene is ever-evolving, with new murals and installations popping up daily. One of the best ways to discover new street art in Austin is by exploring lesser-known neighborhoods and side streets; you never know what kind of gems or unexpected discoveries await you there!

In addition to appreciating the art itself, exploring Austin’s street art scene is an excellent opportunity to learn about its history and culture. Many of Austin’s murals and installations are inspired by local events, people, and traditions; providing a unique perspective of what makes Austin such a special and distinct place.

Whether you take a guided tour of some of Austin’s most renowned murals or explore on your own, Austin’s street art scene is an expression of creativity, self-expression, and the city’s distinct cultural identity.

5. Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center:

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, situated just outside of downtown Austin, is a 279-acre botanical garden and nature preserve dedicated to protecting and promoting native Texas plant species. Named in honor of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson who was an enthusiastic champion for Texas’ natural splendor, the Wildflower Center should not be missed by those interested in Texas’ flora and fauna.

One of the center’s primary draws is its extensive collection of native Texas wildflowers. The Wildflower Center showcases over 900 species, such as bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and black-eyed Susans among many other grasses, shrubs, and trees. Visitors can explore gardens filled with vibrant blooms throughout the year while learning about the importance of conserving native plant species.

In addition to its gardens, the Wildflower Center also provides several walking trails and nature preserves that invite you to discover the stunning natural splendor of Texas Hill Country. These trails wind through wooded areas, meadows, and creeks where you can spot native wildlife like birds, deer, and armadillos up close.

At the Wildflower Center, visitors can explore interactive exhibits and educational displays about the importance of conserving native plant species. Visitors can also gain insight into their conservation initiatives – research, education, and outreach programs that promote using native plants for landscaping or gardening purposes.

The Wildflower Center boasts several art installations and sculptures that blend in with the landscape to provide visitors with a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop. The gardens of the center are also used for various events and outdoor activities as it features the fullest beauty of nature.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is open year-round and admission is affordable – with discounts for seniors, students, and members. Guided tours and educational programs are also offered to visitors who would like to discover more about the center’s mission as well as why preserving native plant species is so important.

Overall, visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a must-do activity for those interested in Texas’ natural splendor and biodiversity. Its gardens, trails, and educational exhibits offer visitors an exceptional chance to learn about the significance of preserving native plant species while taking in breathtaking views of Texas Hill Country landscapes.

6. Explore Austin’s Food Scene:

Well, Austin is also quite in the talks for its diverse food scene which you can experience through its food trucks, markets, and fine dining restaurants that serve a range of cuisines, counting from traditional texas barbecue to fusion food. 

When it comes to satisfying taste buds, Austin has something for everyone. The best way to indulge in Austin’s food culture is by exploring its food trucks. 

At popular gathering spots such as South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery and East Side Food Park, patrons can find a wide range of food options in an outdoor setting that appeals to both locals and visitors alike – South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery or East Side Food Parks are two such locations where people gather for casual outdoor dining experiences.

For those seeking more classic dining experiences, Austin is home to an array of restaurants that showcase the city’s diverse culinary offerings. From classic Texas barbecue joints to high-end gourmet eateries, Austin has something for everyone’s palate and budget.

Popular spots include Franklin Barbecue – consistently ranked one of America’s best barbecue spots – and Uchi, a Japanese fusion restaurant that has won multiple awards for its creative cuisine.

Austin is home to many food trucks and restaurants, as well as vibrant food markets and festivals that showcase the city’s love of good food. The Texas Farmers Market at Mueller is a weekly market that offers fresh produce from nearby farms, meats, and artisanal goods; similarly, the annual Austin Food + Wine Festival celebrates the city’s culinary scene with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live music on three days.

One of the unique aspects of Austin’s food scene is its focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Many restaurants and food trucks source their ingredients from nearby farms and producers, with a strong emphasis on using fresh seasonal produce in all types of cuisine. Furthermore, Austin boasts several community gardens and urban farms that supply fresh produce to local restaurants and markets.

Overall, exploring Austin’s food scene should be a must-do activity for any visitor to the city. Whether you’re an expert gourmet or just craving some classic southern cooking, Austin has something to offer everyone – from food trucks and markets to high-end restaurants and gourmet festivals.

7. Experience a Hike on the Greenbelt:

To explore outdoor adventure in Austin, must visit a hike on the Greenbelt. This 7.25-mile natural wilderness runs along Barton Creek in south Austin and provides visitors the chance to escape city life while taking in natural and unique views of Texas Hill Country scenery.

The Greenbelt offers a variety of hikes for all abilities and skill levels, from easy flat walks to more challenging steep and rocky trails. Roads lead through dense forests, rocky hillsides, and river banks; offering breathtaking views of nature and opportunities to see local wildlife such as deer, armadillos, and birds.

One of the many attractions on the Greenbelt is its swimming holes, which attract both locals and visitors to take a dip in refreshing waters during hot summer days. The creek runs off natural springs that keep the water cool and clear year-round; several swimming holes along the trail offer visitors this chance to cool off with nature’s air conditioner.

The Greenbelt is a premier destination for rock climbing, boasting several cliffs and boulders to challenge climbers of all levels. Barton Creek Greenbelt Conservancy offers guided rock climbing tours and equipment rentals to those interested in trying their hand at this exciting outdoor activity.

Along the Greenbelt, mountain riding is a well-liked pastime. These routes are suited for riders of all skill levels because of their excellent maintenance and smooth, firm terrain. To experience these trails on two wheels, the Barton Creek Greenbelt Conservancy also provides guided mountain biking excursions and bike rentals.

The Greenbelt has several picnic places and picturesque locations where visitors may sit back and enjoy the beauty of nature in a more laid-back setting. Both the Twin Falls Overlook and the Gus Fruh Entrance are well-liked picnic locations where visitors may eat while admiring the creek and neighboring hills.

For anyone who wants to fully appreciate Austin’s natural beauty, hiking the Greenbelt is a must-do activity. This path is noteworthy because of the breathtaking scenery, natural swimming holes, and rugged terrain that make it genuinely unique in the Texas Hill Country, whether you’re an experienced hiker, rock climber, mountain biker, or desire a quiet place for a picnic.

8. Experience the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library:

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library, situated on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by America’s history and that of one of its most influential figures.

The library houses an impressive collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts related to Lyndon B. Johnson’s life and political career as the 36th President of the United States from 1963-69. Additionally, there are exhibits and interactive displays that offer insight into key events during Johnson’s presidency – such as civil rights activism, the Vietnam War, and space exploration – through historical documents, photographs, and artifacts.

One of the highlights of the library is its permanent exhibit “LBJ Story”, which takes visitors on an inspiring journey through Johnson’s life from rural Texas to his tenure as President. The exhibit showcases many artifacts and memorabilia from Johnson’s presidency – including personal items like his presidential desk and phone used for speaking with world leaders.

At the library, visitors are delighted by the “First Ladies Gallery”, showcasing displays on the lives and accomplishments of America’s First Ladies. On display are dresses and personal items belonging to several First Ladies – including Lady Bird Johnson who spearheaded its creation.

The library also holds a number of transient exhibits about the presidency and American history, such as “Censored: Wielding the Red Pen,” which looked at the history of censorship in American literature and media, and “Motown & More: The R&B Sound of America,” which examined how R&B music influenced the social and political landscape in the 1960s.

The library holds a variety of activities throughout the year in addition to its exhibitions, including talks, movie screenings, and book signings. These events provide guests the chance to interact with history and political experts and obtain a deeper understanding of the factors that influenced Johnson’s administration and American history.

In general, anybody interested in American history should visit the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library since it is interesting and enlightening.

. With its vast collection of artifacts and documents, interactive exhibits, exciting events and programs, and immersive atmosphere – this library provides a truly unique and immersive experience not to be missed.

9. Experience Austin’s Nightlife:

The nights of Austin is very amazing to see the diverse scenes and entertainment for any explorer to remove anxiety, tension, and hunger and enjoy the whole night. You can go with either your friends, groups, and families in the evening and explore everything from various clubs, bars, and music shows.

The most famous area in Austin which has an awesome experience at night is Sixth Street as it has various types of chilling things. This area attracts college students and young adults due to its vibrant atmosphere and live music performances that span across genres from rock and country to jazz and blues.

For a more decent night, go to Austin’s Warehouse District. You’ll find here craft cocktails, chic rooftop bars, and up-and-coming dance clubs named The Roosevelt Room, The Gibson, and The Rooftop at The Belmont.

If any traveler is searching for an exciting nightlife experience, go to Austin’s East Side. This area has become widely popular as a hub of food, drinks, and music with its vibrant culture and eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. Some must-visits on this side include The White Horse, The Liberty, and The Scoot Inn.

For those seeking a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, South Austin provides plenty of casual bars and dive bars. This area is famous for its friendly locals and laid-back vibe, making it the perfect destination to shake and grab a beer with friends while listening to live music at venues such as The Broken Spoke, The Little Darlin, or The Saxon Pub.

In comprehension to traditional nightlife options, Austin boasts an exciting food and drink scene that provides unique and innovative experiences. Many bars and restaurants in Austin focus on using local and seasonal ingredients while serving creative cocktails and craft beers. Popular spots include The Driskill Bar, Whisler’s, and The Brewer’s Table for some truly unforgettable dining experiences.

Another unique nightlife experience in Austin is attending a movie screening at Alamo Drafthouse. This theater chain is renowned for its creative programming and themed events, plus they provide plenty of food and drink options while you watch.

10. Visit the Blanton Museum of Art:

The Blanton Museum of Art is one of Texas’ premier art museums and a must-visit for visitors to Austin. Situated on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, its collection boasts more than 17,000 works from around the globe – from ancient pieces to contemporary masterpieces.

The popular highlight of Blanton’s collection is its extensive holdings of European paintings, featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Veronese. There are numerous prints and drawings by Picasso, Durer, and Matisse as well that complement this impressive European culture selection.

Furthermore, visitors to the Blanton can explore Latin American art- paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from Mexico, Central, and South America-alongside its European counterpart.

The Blanton Museum of Art also houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, with a focus on artists working in the United States and Texas. Notable artists including Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, and Jackson Pollock as well as emerging talents from around the globe.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Blanton Museum of Art also hosts a rotating and unique selection of temporary exhibitions. These events also showcase works from other museums as well often, and private collections, giving visitors an exclusive chance to view artworks from around the world.

Past highlights have included “The Open Road: Photography and American Road Trip,” “Elegance and Refinement: Willem van Aelst’s Still-Life Paintings,” and “Modernist Networks: Anni Albers and Josef Albers Collection from Yale University Art Gallery.

The Blanton Museum of Art provides a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages, skills, and capabilities, such as lectures, workshops, and guided tours. Their commitment is to give guests an in-depth appreciation of both the artworks in its collection as well as their social and historical context.

The museum itself is an outstanding work of art, boasting a striking contemporary design that provides elements of traditional Texas architecture. Located across two buildings connected by a central courtyard, visitors are free to explore at their own pace with plenty of resources available to assist them throughout their exploration.

With its impressive collection of works from around the world, captivating temporary exhibitions, and extensive educational programs, visitors are sure to have an enriching experience at this museum.

Conclusion:

Everyone who visits Austin will find lots of things to do and sights to see there. There is something unique about Austin for everyone, whether you’re interested in discovering and exploring its rich cultural legacy or taking advantage of its lively and respectable music and cuisine scenes.

Visitors visiting Austin should take a leisurely stroll around Zilker Park to start their trip before moving on to the historic Texas State Capitol or admiring the colorful street art that is displayed on buildings and in alleyways all throughout the city. Seeing one of Austin’s many live performances at one of its many music venues is an essential must-do for anybody looking to fully immerse themselves in the city’s thriving music culture.

Discovering the city’s green places allows nature lovers and admirers of the natural world to explore Barton Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. Meanwhile, art buffs will appreciate visiting the Blanton Museum of Art or Elisabet Ney Museum to view her iconic Texas sculptures.

Foodies will love Austin’s variety of restaurants, food trucks, and markets offering everything from classic Tex-Mex dishes to contemporary fusion dishes. And for those seeking an exciting nightlife experience, Austin boasts plenty of bars, clubs, and venues that appeal to everyone’s taste buds.

Whether you’re into history, art, music, food, or nature – there’s plenty to see and do in this vibrant city. By exploring all that Austin has to offer visitors can experience its best features and create memories that will last a lifetime.