Things to do in Austin

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Downtown Austin showing night scenes, landscape views and a city

Austin Attractions

The city of Austin is hands down the most eclectic community in the state of Texas. Located in the center of the state, it straddles the American Southwest as well as the Old South. Arts and culture are both well-represented here, and visitors will find no lack of things to do in Austin - particularly if they love the live music scene. The official slogan of the city of Austin is the Live Music Capitol of the World, and the city boasts more live music venues than any other city in the United States. Recorded live at the Moody Theater, the television show "Austin City Limits" is the oldest-running musical oriented television program in the country. If you're seeking unforgettable Austin activities, attending this program will remain a fond memory for the rest of your life.

Austin has so many music festivals and special celebrations that it's tough to keep track of them. Austin is a great place to be a tourist because no matter what time of year you're visiting, you'll be able to find top quality entertainment options and visit the local spots that have made the city famous. Even if you do not care much for music, you'll find attractions in Austin. For instance, if you are a computer buff, you can include Silicon Hills among your Austin tours.

In order to easily navigate through Austin's city streets, you should contact us here at Expedia to procure a map of the area so that you can plan the route to the places on your must see list of attractions in Austin. We can help you to find the best Austin excursions that will make your time in the city as memorable as possible.

The main challenge to visiting Austin, TX, is deciding which attractions to take in and which ones to leave for a later visit. Most people who visit Austin end up returning at some future point because they simply left so much undone on their prior stay. Here are Expedia, we can help you figure out which Austin activities are the best for you and your traveling companions.


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What to do in Austin

Free Things to Do in Austin

Touring on a budget in Austin? Spend time instead of money on fantastic experiences.

Austin Fire Museum - Packed with exhibits and artifacts, this place is a wonderland for curious minds.

Off Center - This is a non-negotiable stop for culture vultures eager to add an artistic flourish to their break.

Zilker Park - If you'd love to ramp up the fun factor during your vacation, head straight here.

Barton Springs Pool - Get set to get wet and have a blast with the whole family.

Austin City Hall - Architecture enthusiast or not, prepare to be impressed by this landmark's modernistic design.

O. Henry House Museum - If you want to explore the region's history through its landmarks, stick this one on your itinerary.

South Towne Square - Get to know some of the local residents and discover the real character and spirit of this wonderful place.

Lady Bird Lake - Find a place to sit and savor the peacefulness that comes with being close to the water.

Austin Public Library - If you're eager to check out a few of the more important or unique places in the community, it's worth visiting this place.

St. Mary's Cathedral - Get an insight into local religious beliefs at this sacred place.

Shoal Beach - Skip rocks along the water, watch the sun come up or simply revel in the views from the shore.

Shoal Creek Hike and Bike North End - You're sure to feel connected with Mother Earth at this awe-inspiring spot.

Wooldridge Square - No matter if you can tell your daffodils from daisies, you're sure to find beauty in this gorgeous display.

Things to Do in Austin with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you roam in Austin. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can try together that will make your escape a blast:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Austin? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Austin on a sunny day?
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, you’ll be interested in these outdoor activities:


What to do in Austin on a rainy day?
Take advantage of a wet day by joining some indoor activities, like a Spa-Quality On Demand Massage - Austin or an Austin Haunted Pub Tour.
What should I not miss in Austin?
You just can’t go home without crossing off the following wonderful sights:

  • University of Texas at Austin
  • Zilker Park
  • Texas State Capitol
  • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Are there cheap things to do in Austin?
What can you do in Austin for free?
Your time away in Austin doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free things like these to keep you entertained:

  • Zilker Park
  • Texas State Capitol
  • University of Texas Tower
  • Governor’s Mansion


Discover the most popular places to visit in Austin

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Austin

Downtown Austin showing street scenes and an administrative buidling

Downtown Austin

4/5(3,367 area reviews)

Central business district with high-rise buildings, Downtown Austin offers shopping at Second Street District and Sixth Street, art at Contemporary Austin Jones Center, and sights like Texas State Capitol. Accessible via Capital MetroRail.

Downtown Austin
Sundae with Boba

The Domain

Dubbed as "Austin's second downtown," this high-density center boasts upscale retail stores, diverse dining options, and residential apartments. Explore Domain NORTHSIDE, Rock Rose district, and Q2 Stadium, with easy access to future Broadmoor and McKalla Place stations.

The Domain
Austin showing signage

South Congress

4/5(656 area reviews)

Eclectic small retailers, diverse dining options, and vibrant music and art venues define this shopping and cultural district. Hop on MetroRapid Route 801 for easy city access, or explore the square's food trucks for tasty treats.

South Congress
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Lago Vista

Lakeside community on the northern shores of Lake Travis, Lago Vista boasts steep limestone hills and canyons. Accessible via RM 1431 and CapMetro bus services, it's near Balcones Canyonlands and tech hubs.

Lago Vista
Steiner Ranch which includes a small town or village

Lower Basin Lake Travis

If you're spending some time in Lower Basin Lake Travis, Lake Travis and Hippie Hollow are top sights worth seeing.

Lower Basin Lake Travis
North Central Austin which includes a bridge and forests

North Central Austin

A blossoming area just a few miles north of Downtown Austin, this part of the city is becoming the new favorite spot among tech startups, students and families alike.

North Central Austin

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Austin