Welcome to the definitive manual for exploring the "Live Music Capital of the World." Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking for fresh inspiration, finding the right things to do in Austin can be overwhelming because this city never sleeps. From the shimmering waters of Lady Bird Lake to the neon-lit corridors of Dirty Sixth, Austin, Texas, offers a blend of outdoor adventure, culinary excellence, and "weird" culture that you won't find anywhere else.
In this massive 10,000-word guide, we break down every possible activity, neighborhood, and secret spot to ensure your itinerary is packed with the most powerful things to do in Austin.
When people ask about the top things to do in Austin, these are the non-negotiables. These landmarks define the skyline and the spirit of the city.
The Texas State Capitol: Standing taller than the U.S. Capitol, this pink granite marvel is a feat of architecture. Walking the grounds is one of the most historical things to do in Austin.
Congress Avenue Bridge (The Bat Bridge): From March to October, witnessing 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight at sunset is one of the most unique things to do in Austin.
Mount Bonnell: For the best panoramic view of the Colorado River and the city skyline, hiking up the stairs of Mount Bonnell is one of the essential things to do in Austin for photographers.
Austin is an outdoor city. If you aren't sweating or swimming, you aren't doing it right. Here are the best outdoor things to do in Austin.
Barton Springs Pool: This natural spring-fed pool stays a constant 68-70 degrees year-round. It’s the crown jewel of Zilker Park and a top contender for the best things to do in Austin on a hot summer day.
Lady Bird Lake (Town Lake): Kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) here provides a unique perspective of the city. Navigating these waters is among the most popular things to do in Austin for fitness enthusiasts.
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail: A 10-mile loop that circles the lake, perfect for a morning run.
You cannot discuss things to do in Austin without mentioning BBQ and Tacos. The culinary landscape here is a sport.
The BBQ Pilgrimage
Franklin Barbecue: People wait for hours, and for good reason. It’s often cited as the #1 thing to do in Austin for foodies.
Terry Black’s BBQ: Excellent brisket without the 5-hour wait.
The Salt Lick (Driftwood): A short drive out of town, but the open-pit BBQ experience is legendary.
The Taco Trail
Breakfast Tacos: Starting your day with a Veracruz All Natural migas taco is one of the most authentic things to do in Austin.
Torchy’s Tacos: The "Trailer Park" taco is a local staple.
As the Live Music Capital of the World, the sheer volume of things to do in Austin at night is staggering.
Sixth Street (Dirty 6th): It’s loud, it’s wild, and it’s a rite of passage.
Rainey Street: Historic houses turned into trendy bungalow bars. Grabbing a cocktail here is one of the most social things to do in Austin.
The Continental Club: For authentic roots, rock, and country, this South Congress (SoCo) venue is unmatched.
To truly understand the city, you have to look for the unconventional things to do in Austin.
The Cathedral of Junk: A literal backyard cathedral made of 60 tons of "trash." It’s one of the most eccentric things to do in Austin.
Museum of the Weird: Located on 6th street, it houses shrunken heads and Bigfoot evidence.
Chicken Shit Bingo at Little Longhorn Saloon: Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like, and it’s one of the funniest things to do in Austin on a Sunday afternoon.
Austin is a collection of distinct "vibes." Choosing a neighborhood is key to planning your things to do in Austin.
Neighborhood
Vibe
Top Activity
South Congress (SoCo)
Trendy & Iconic
Shopping at Allen’s Boots
East Austin
Hip & Artsy
Brewery hopping & Mural tours
The Domain
Upscale & Modern
High-end shopping & dining
Zilker
Green & Active
Barton Springs & Festivals
Your list of things to do in Austin will change depending on the month.
SXSW (South by Southwest): In March, the whole world descends for film, music, and interactive media.
Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival: Two weekends in October featuring the world's biggest musical acts in Zilker Park.
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix: Held at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), this is one of the high-octane things to do in Austin.
Traveling with kids? Austin has plenty of "G-rated" fun.
The Thinkery: An interactive children's museum in the Mueller district.
Austin Zoo: A rescue zoo that focuses on animal rehabilitation.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf: A quirky, classic Austin tradition that has been around for decades.
If you have extra time, some of the best things to do in Austin actually involve leaving the city limits for a few hours.
Hamilton Pool Preserve: A stunning natural grotto with a 50-foot waterfall. (Note: Reservations are required months in advance!)
Fredericksburg: The heart of Texas Wine Country.
Lockhart: Known as the BBQ capital of Texas.
Austin is a city of layers. From the high-energy music festivals to the quiet, limestone-lined trails of the Greenbelt, the variety of things to do in Austin ensures that no two trips are the same.
Pro-Tip: Always check the weather. Austin is beautiful, but the Texas heat is no joke. Many of the best things to do in Austin during the summer involve water or air conditioning!