When planning for your vacation to Austin TX, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the number of activities you can engage in. After all, this is a city that loves music, food, and festivals! To give you a better idea of what to expect, the following is a compiled list that features some of the 10 best things to do during your time here.
- See the 12th Man
The Texas State Capitol is known for its beautiful architecture. The dome of this building currently features a 30-foot high image of the UT Tower, representing the 12th Man. You can admire this as you walk around the grounds, which are home to many other images of Texas. Also, you can view the building (which is open to the public) and admire the state flag, which features a picture of this same tower.
- Visit a museum
Austin is home to several museums that highlight different aspects of Texas’ culture and history. One of the most popular museums in the Texas State History Museum, which is home to several galleries that include artifacts and artwork.
You will be able to see a variety of images and objects, including a replica of Noah’s Ark. This museum is great for families, as children will be able to learn a lot about the history of Texas, from its earliest years to the present.
- Hike through one of the many greenbelt trails
Austin is known for its abundance of greenbelt trails. These are wide pathways that wind through the city and can lead you past several landmark spots, including Barton Springs, a natural swimming pool that is open year-round. These trails are popular with bikers and hikers looking for a scenic route through the city.
- Attend one of the many festivals
If you are looking for fun things to do in Austin, it’s easy to find a festival that you will enjoy. One of the most popular festivals is South by Southwest (SXSW), which includes film and music events, and it is internationally known.
You can also attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival, which features several popular artists on its stages or you might want to check out the Austin Film Festival, which highlights several independent films from new and veteran directors.
- Visit a local brewery
Austin is home to several breweries that offer samples of their beers, for those who are interested in trying new brews. This is a fun activity because you can relax and enjoy some drinks outdoors while you learn about the process of making beer and, if you like what you taste and want to take some home, you can purchase a case to take with you.
- Tour the house LBJ lived in when he was president
You can visit President Johnson’s house, which is located near downtown Austin. His white brick ranch-style home was first built in 1934. You can take a tour of the building, which includes the living room, dining room, and bedrooms. You will also see the Oval Office that LBJ used while he was in office.
- Spend an evening at Auditorium Shores
This large downtown park is the site of many outdoor concerts during warmer months, including Austin City Limits Music Festival. Here, you can enjoy a picnic while you watch the show. The park is also home to one of Austin’s newest monuments, which commemorates Stevie Ray Vaughan and Robert Earl Keen.
- Explore the Texas State Capitol building
The capitol building offers views of downtown Austin and it is home to several art galleries and museums. When visiting, be sure to check out the South Mall, which features a large monument that represents the Confederacy. This memorial was erected in 1959 and it has been a source of controversy because Confederate figures are prominently displayed on it.
- See a show at one of Austin’s venues
Austin is home to several live music venues that feature local and national acts. You can attend a concert at Stubb’s, which is an outdoor venue that often holds shows with several musicians. The Moody Theater is another popular spot for concerts and it’s where you can watch Austin City Limits every week.
- Visit the Capitol building at night
The Texas State Capitol building looks especially elegant when lit up at night, as it glows yellow against the Austin skyline. It is a popular backdrop for wedding and graduation photos and it’s one of the most beautiful things to see in Austin.
There are more than enough things to do in Austin, whether you are visiting this Texas city for the first time or it’s a place that you love. These ideas are just a few of the options that may interest you.