Austin’s character comes from what you can do just as much as where you eat or stay. From outdoor landmarks and natural swimming holes to live music venues and iconic local traditions, these experiences capture the moments that make Austin feel unmistakably Austin.
Start by exploring the places and activities locals point visitors to when they want to show off their city.
Things to do in Austin
Congress Avenue Bats
Each evening from spring through fall, hundreds of thousands of bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset, creating one of Austin’s most iconic and uniquely local wildlife experiences.
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Mount Bonnell
One of the highest points in Austin, Mount Bonnell offers sweeping views of Lake Austin and the surrounding Hill Country, making it a quick, rewarding stop for photos, sunsets, and a sense of the city’s natural landscape.
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Zilker Park
A central green space in Austin known for wide open lawns, skyline views, festivals, and easy access to Barton Springs, making it one of the city’s most popular outdoor gathering spots.
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Texas State Capitol
One of the largest state capitol buildings in the country, the Texas State Capitol offers free entry, historic exhibits, and sweeping views from its grounds in the heart of downtown Austin.
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Paramount Theatre
A beautifully restored historic theater hosting live music, comedy, films, and special events, and a cornerstone of Austin’s downtown arts scene.
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6th Street
Austin’s most famous nightlife strip, known for live music venues, bars, and a high-energy atmosphere that showcases the city’s “Live Music Capital” reputation.
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Hamilton Pool Preserve
A stunning natural swimming hole featuring a collapsed grotto and waterfall, Hamilton Pool is one of the most scenic outdoor destinations near Austin and requires advance reservations.
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Baylor Street Art Wall
A colorful outdoor mural wall featuring ever-changing street art, popular for photos, local creativity, and a quick stop just west of downtown.
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Barton Creek Greenbelt
A beloved natural escape running through the city, the Greenbelt offers hiking trails, swimming holes, and shaded limestone paths popular with locals year-round.
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Krause Springs
A privately owned Hill Country oasis featuring natural spring pools, waterfalls, and shaded picnic areas, often visited as a scenic day trip from Austin.
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Longhorn Cavern State Park
An underground limestone cavern offering guided tours through dramatic rock formations, providing a cool, educational escape from the Texas heat.
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Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
A living museum dedicated to native Texas plants, featuring seasonal blooms, walking trails, and educational exhibits celebrating the state’s natural beauty.
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Bullock Texas State History Museum
A modern museum exploring Texas history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and an IMAX theater located just north of the Capitol.
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Hippie Hollow
A well-known, adults-only, clothing-optional park on Lake Travis, offering scenic lake views and a uniquely Austin outdoor experience.
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