Austin, Texas, a city celebrated for its live music scene, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, offers a plethora of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, our guide to “what to do in Austin, Texas” highlights the must-see attractions, unique activities, and hidden gems that make Austin a truly unforgettable destination.
Explore Austin’s Unique Attractions and Activities
From mind-bending art installations to thrilling outdoor adventures, Austin is brimming with things to do. Dive into our curated list of top activities to make the most of your time in the capital of Texas.
1. Immerse Yourself in Art at Wonderspaces Austin
Step into Wonderspaces Austin and prepare to have your perception transformed. This 28,000-square-foot venue showcases a rotating collection of extraordinary art installations from around the globe. Featuring interactive exhibits that blend light, mirrors, technology, and boundless imagination, Wonderspaces offers a multi-sensory experience that appeals to all ages. It’s an ideal indoor activity, providing ample space to explore and engage with the art, whether you’re flying solo or with a group. Due to its popularity, especially during peak seasons, securing your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot.
2. Cruise Lady Bird Lake: Sightseeing and Sunset Tours
Lady Bird Lake, a centerpiece of Austin, offers a refreshing escape and stunning city views. Several riverboat companies operate on the lake, providing various cruise options. While famed for bat-watching tours in warmer months (when the Congress Avenue Bridge bats emerge), Lady Bird Lake cruises are fantastic year-round. Enjoy serene sunset cruises, daytime sightseeing tours highlighting Austin’s skyline, or romantic moonlight excursions. For a more active experience, consider kayaking tours. Numerous companies offer guided kayak trips, perfect for enjoying Austin’s pleasant weather on a weekend afternoon and getting closer to the water and nature within the city.
View Sightseeing Tours on Lady Bird Lake
3. Austin Duck Adventures: The Original Land and Water Tour
For a unique and comprehensive introduction to Austin, hop aboard Austin Duck Adventures. This amphibious tour is the city’s original land and water tour, offering a fun and engaging way to see the sights. The tour begins downtown at the Austin Visitor Center, located at the corner of 4th and Red River. From there, the “Duck” vehicle cruises down iconic 6th Street, then up Congress Avenue, providing excellent views of the Texas State Capitol. The real thrill begins when the Duck plunges into Lake Austin, transforming into a boat for a leisurely float before returning to land. Tours operate seven days a week, making it a flexible option for visitors.
4. Haunted ATX Hearse Tours: A Spooky Ride Through Austin’s History
Embrace Austin’s spooky side with Haunted ATX Hearse Tours. These distinctive tours utilize converted hearse limos and vans, adorned with eerie artwork, to transport guests to historic and allegedly haunted locations throughout Austin. Praised by both locals and tourists seeking an offbeat experience, Haunted ATX perfectly embodies Austin’s “Keep Austin Weird” spirit. Lasting around 3 hours and priced from $49 per person, these tours offer a blend of chilling ghost stories, captivating Austin history, and intriguing tales behind some of the city’s most recognizable buildings. It’s a fantastic value for an evening of unique entertainment.
5. Slick Dick’s Wild Ride: An Adults-Only Arcade Adventure
Looking for a playful and unconventional outing? Gather your friends and head to Slick Dick’s, a one-of-a-kind adult arcade promising “Texas-sized fun.” This arcade is definitely not for kids, featuring risqué games and attractions like “Marvin,” a mischievous mechanical ride, the “Whack-A-D*ck” game, and the “Jean Claw Van Dayum” prize crane. Slick Dick’s is an ideal spot for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, or any adult gathering seeking laughter and lighthearted fun in a uniquely Austin style.
6. Purrfecto Cat Lounge: Cuddle with Kitties and Support Animal Rescue
Cat lovers, rejoice! Purrfecto Cat Lounge is Austin’s premier destination for feline affection and a unique experience that warms the heart. Whether you’re seeking your daily dose of kitty cuddles or considering adding a furry member to your family, Purrfecto offers a chic and comfortable lounge to interact with adorable, adoptable cats. As Austin’s only cat lounge, it’s a must-visit for animal enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing and feel-good activity.
7. Unchartered Adventures: Unleash Your Inner Thrill-Seeker
For those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Unchartered Adventures delivers an array of high-octane options. Originally known for their Rage Room, where guests could safely smash breakables, Unchartered Adventures has expanded its offerings to include even more exciting experiences. Try your hand at smashing a car in the Smash Car experience, test your wits in Escape Rooms, get creative with Splatter Paint, or engage in a thrilling Zombie Airsoft battle. If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories and step outside your comfort zone, Unchartered Adventures is the place to be.
8. Zero Latency VR: Step into the World of Virtual Reality Gaming
Ever dreamt of stepping directly into a video game? Zero Latency VR makes that dream a reality. This cutting-edge virtual reality experience fully immerses you in captivating stories within free-roam VR worlds. Fight off hordes of zombies, defend your team in the Far Cry universe, explore a sci-fi cyber world, and embark on numerous other adrenaline-fueled adventures. Zero Latency VR is perfect for gamers and thrill-seekers looking to push their boundaries and become the hero of their own virtual story.
9. Paniq Room Escape Rooms: Test Your Skills and Solve the Mystery
Challenge your problem-solving skills and teamwork at Paniq Room, offering a variety of immersive escape room experiences. For a high-stakes mission, try “Cartel Crackdown” and take on the drug war. Alternatively, choose from other themed rooms like “Insane Asylum,” “Wizard Trials,” or “Pirates of Tortuga,” each presenting unique puzzles and storylines. Paniq Room is an excellent choice for groups seeking an engaging and mentally stimulating activity that encourages collaboration and quick thinking.
10. Lake Travis Zip Lines: Soar Above Land and Water
Experience Austin from a thrilling new perspective with Lake Travis Zip Lines. Ascend above the treetops and zip line across forests and over the sparkling waters of Lake Travis. This exhilarating activity offers breathtaking views and a rush of adrenaline as you glide through the air. Lake Travis Zip Lines provides fantastic photo opportunities to document your daring adventure and share your bravery with your social media followers. It’s a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers visiting Austin.
11. Austin Heli Tours: Breathtaking Helicopter Views of the City
For unparalleled panoramic views of Austin, take to the skies with Austin Heli Tours. Their helicopter tours offer a unique vantage point of the city’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks. Choose from various tour options, including sunset flights, evening tours showcasing city lights, and routes that highlight the University of Texas stadium, the rolling Hill Country, Circuit of the Americas (COTA), and downtown Austin. An Austin Heli Tour is an unforgettable way to appreciate the beauty and scale of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
12. Museum of the Weird: Embrace Austin’s Eccentric Side
Dive into the heart of Austin’s “Keep Austin Weird” ethos at the Museum of the Weird. Located in the vibrant Sixth Street Historic District, this mystical museum showcases an eclectic collection of oddities and curiosities that will challenge your perceptions. Prepare to encounter unexpected sights and embrace the strange and wonderful. The Museum of the Weird offers an authentically Austin experience that’s both accessible and intriguingly eccentric, perfect for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
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13. Boozy Scoop Ice Cream Bar: Indulge in Adult-Infused Frozen Treats
Treat yourself to a unique and flavorful experience at Boozy Scoop Ice Cream Bar, Austin’s adult ice cream destination. Every flavor at Boozy Scoop is crafted with premium ingredients and infused with a variety of your favorite liquors. Don’t worry if you’re not drinking or under age – they also offer a wide selection of delicious non-alcoholic flavors. Try signature boozy creations like S’mores with Ugly Dog S’mores Whiskey, Mama’s Banana Puddin’ with Howler Head Banana Whiskey, or Tiger Stripes with Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey.
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14. The Escape Game Austin: Downtown Escape Room Adventures
Located in the heart of downtown, next to the Austin Visitor Center, The Escape Game Austin is renowned as the #1 escape room in the city. Gather your friends and collaborate to decipher clues, overcome challenges, and complete your mission to ESCAPE! The Escape Game offers six distinct and immersive adventures to choose from, including “The Heist,” “Gold Rush,” “Playground,” “Cosmic Crisis,” “Classified,” and the highly popular “Prison Break.” It’s a fantastic activity for team building, family outings, or a fun night out with friends.
15. Savor Austin’s Culinary Scene: Explore the Best Restaurants
Austin’s restaurant scene is a major draw for food lovers. While debates may rage about which city has the most restaurants per capita, Austin undeniably boasts a thriving culinary landscape, attracting talented chefs seeking to create exceptional dining experiences. From food trucks to upscale restaurants, Austin offers a diverse range of cuisines to satisfy every palate. Explore our comprehensive Best Austin Restaurants Guide to discover hidden gems and popular eateries, ensuring you don’t miss out on the city’s delicious offerings.
View Best Restaurants in Austin
16. The Range at Austin: Experience Thrilling Firearms Shooting
For a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience, head to The Range at Austin. This state-of-the-art indoor shooting facility offers an immersive and safe environment to try out a variety of firearms. Choose from shooting packages featuring pistols, revolvers, shotguns, modern rifles, and even automatic firearms. Packages start at $49, but for an unforgettable experience, consider the AR15 + Uzi Two-Gun package for $199. Experienced Range Safety Officers guide you through safety protocols and firearm usage, ensuring a secure and exciting experience for everyone.
17. Esther’s Follies: Austin’s Iconic Comedy and Magic Show
A visit to Esther’s Follies is essential for experiencing Austin’s unique entertainment scene. Located on famous 6th Street, Esther’s Follies delivers a dynamic Broadway-style show featuring political satire, hilarious impersonations, dazzling magic acts, and more. Known for playfully poking fun at both sides of the political spectrum, Esther’s Follies offers a sharp and witty take on current events. It’s a must-see Austin institution that guarantees laughter and entertainment for visitors and locals alike.
18. Texas Hill Country Distillery Tours: Taste Local Spirits
Escape the city bustle and explore the scenic Texas Hill Country with a distillery tour in Dripping Springs. Austin Tour Company offers private tours that transport you and your group from Austin to visit three renowned distilleries: Dripping Springs Distilling, Treaty Oaks Distillery, and Desert Door Distillery. Enjoy tastings at each location, learn about the distillation process, and soak in the beautiful Hill Country scenery. These tours are perfect for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any group outing seeking a relaxed and enjoyable day trip with a taste of local spirits.
19. Texas State Capitol Tours: Explore Texas History and Politics
Delve into the heart of Texas politics and history with a visit to the Texas State Capitol. Exploring the Capitol grounds and building offers a unique Austin experience, providing insights into the state’s complex political landscape. While strolling the grounds and taking photos is popular, consider a guided tour with Texas Capitol City Tours for a more in-depth experience. These hour-long tours, costing around $20 per person, offer fascinating historical context and architectural details of this impressive landmark.
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20. Axe Escape: Axe Throwing and Knife Throwing Fun
Unleash your inner lumberjack or ninja at Axe Escape, an exciting venue offering axe throwing and knife throwing experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, Axe Escape provides a safe and fun environment to learn and practice these unique skills. Throw axes, hatchets, Batarangs, and other sharp objects while enjoying a full bar and a lively atmosphere. Axe Escape is an excellent choice for parties, group outings, and anyone seeking a fun and competitive activity.
21. YourBikerGang.com: Guided E-Bike Tours of Austin
Experience Austin in a fun and active way with YourBikerGang.com. Awarded Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award for seven consecutive years, YourBikerGang.com offers themed e-bike tours that are consistently a hit with visitors. Choose from biker gang-themed tours or explore Austin’s rich music history on their walking tours. E-bike rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace. A tour with YourBikerGang.com is often cited as a “bucket list” Austin experience.
22. Haunted ATX Paranormal Investigations: Communicate with Spirits
For a truly unique and chilling experience, join Haunted ATX for a Paranormal Investigation. Held on Saturday nights at The Clay Pit at The Bertram Building, this special tour offers an in-depth exploration of the paranormal. Use spirit boxes, EMF detectors, REM Pods, thermal cameras, and other equipment to attempt communication with the spirits rumored to haunt this location. This intimate and immersive experience is perfect for those fascinated by the paranormal and seeking a spine-tingling adventure.
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23. Live Love Paddle: Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals on Lady Bird Lake
Enjoy the beauty of Lady Bird Lake with Live Love Paddle. While famous for their kayak bat watching tours during bat season, Live Love Paddle offers kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals year-round. Get some exercise while sightseeing and soak in the stunning views of downtown Austin from the water, particularly beautiful during sunset. Renting from Live Love Paddle provides a flexible and independent way to explore Lady Bird Lake.
24. Lone Star Party Boats: Lake Travis Party Boat Rentals
Experience the legendary party scene at Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis with Lone Star Party Boats. Known for catering to Austin’s elite and creating a vibrant on-water party atmosphere, Devil’s Cove is a must-experience destination on Lake Travis. Lone Star Party Boats offers single and double-decker boat rentals, complete with captains, large floating pads, pool noodles, and coolers. Rent a party boat and gather your friends for an unforgettable day of fun, sun, and music on Lake Travis.
25. Novel Escape: Literary-Themed Escape Rooms
Escape room enthusiasts will love Novel Escape, specializing in creating immersive escape games based on classic novels. Their signature game, inspired by “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” challenges you to escape a submarine before running out of air – talk about pressure! Novel Escape offers 100% private games, ensuring a personalized and focused experience for you and your group. It’s a unique twist on escape rooms for book lovers and puzzle solvers alike.
26. soFly Social: Aerial Dance and Fitness Classes
Have you ever dreamed of flying? soFly Social can help you take to the air with their aerial dance and fitness classes. Express your inner aerialist and learn to swing from silks, hoop in a lyra, and dance in the air. soFly Social offers classes for all skill levels, making it a fun and unique workout experience to enjoy with friends. Book a class and discover the joy of aerial movement.
27. Austin Nightlife: Explore the Best Bars in the City
Austin’s nightlife is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you prefer craft breweries with outdoor patios, lively dance clubs with dazzling disco balls, or cozy cocktail bars, Austin has something for every night owl. While 6th Street was historically the nightlife epicenter, vibrant districts have sprung up all over town. Explore our Best Bars in Austin guide to find the perfect spot to groove the night away or relax with drinks and friends.
View the Best Bars in Austin
28. South Congress Avenue (SoCo): Keep Austin Weird Shopping and Culture
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is the iconic heart of the “Keep Austin Weird” movement. While becoming increasingly upscale, SoCo retains its unique charm and remains a top visitor destination. Stroll down South Congress to discover eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, delicious restaurants, and live music venues. SoCo is the perfect place to experience Austin’s quirky culture and find unique souvenirs.
29. Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk: Hike, Bike, or Stroll Downtown
The Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk completed the 10.2-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake, creating a seamless urban trail in downtown Austin. Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, the boardwalk offers stunning views of the lake and city skyline. Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride along the water, or take a leisurely stroll and soak in the Austin atmosphere. The Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk is a fantastic outdoor amenity in the heart of the city.
30. The Domain: Upscale Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
In contrast to South Congress’s quirky vibe, The Domain in North Austin offers a sophisticated and upscale experience. This expansive outdoor shopping center features luxury brands, high-end retailers, a wide array of restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and boutique hotels. The Domain is a destination for fashion enthusiasts, foodies, and those seeking a more polished urban experience in Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions about Austin Activities
What are the top enjoyable indoor attractions in Austin?
Austin offers many fantastic indoor activities, including:
- Wonderspaces Austin
- Zero Latency VR
- The Escape Game Austin
- Museum of the Weird
- Boozy Scoop Ice Cream Bar
- The Range at Austin
- Esther’s Follies
- Purrfecto Cat Lounge
- Unchartered Adventures (Rage Room, Escape Rooms, Splatter Paint)
- Paniq Room
What can you do for free in Austin?
Enjoying Austin doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out these free activities:
- Walk or bike the Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk and Trail
- Hike or swim at Barton Creek Greenbelt (check for entrance fees or parking fees for certain areas)
- Explore Zilker Park
- Visit the Texas State Capitol grounds (free tours are often available, but check schedules)
- Stroll through South Congress Avenue (window shopping and people-watching are free!)
- Attend free events and festivals (Austin is known for its many free events, especially in spring and fall)
Where are the best natural swimming holes in Austin?
Austin is blessed with natural swimming holes perfect for cooling off in the Texas heat:
- Barton Springs Pool (has an entrance fee)
- Deep Eddy Pool (has an entrance fee)
- Sculpture Falls (part of Barton Creek Greenbelt, access may depend on water levels)
- Twin Falls (part of Barton Creek Greenbelt, access may depend on water levels)
- Hamilton Pool Preserve (reservations often required, entrance fee)
- природный бассейн Blue Hole (in Wimberley, a short drive from Austin, entrance fee)
Other Exciting Things To Do in Austin
Beyond this list, Austin continues to surprise and delight with its ever-evolving offerings. Explore live music venues on 6th Street and beyond, discover food trucks galore, venture into the Hill Country for wineries and breweries, and keep an eye out for local events and festivals that pop up throughout the year. Austin is a city that rewards exploration, so get out there and discover your own favorite things to do in Austin, Texas!
