{"id":351566,"date":"2026-06-26T15:42:48","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T15:42:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/351566\/"},"modified":"2026-06-26T15:42:48","modified_gmt":"2026-06-26T15:42:48","slug":"54-best-things-to-do-in-austin-texas-updated-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/351566\/","title":{"rendered":"54 Best Things To Do In Austin, Texas (Updated 2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"

\n\t\tSharing is caring!\t<\/p>\n

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Welcome to Austin, the live music capital of the world! As an Austin resident of nearly two decades and the city\u2019s OG food blogger of 16 years, this is my highly requested local\u2019s guide to things to do in Austin.<\/p>\n

This Austin city guide is sorted by outdoor activities, restaurants, nightlife, and where to shop in Austin Texas<\/a>. Consider me your personal guide to sightseeing in Austin Texas!<\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a024 Most Instagrammable Murals In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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Check out my pocket-sized guidebook to Austin Texas<\/a> that you can easily reference on your trip!\u00a0<\/p>\n

Follow me on Instagram at @atasteofkoko<\/a> and TikTok at @atasteofkoko<\/a> to see all the new fun things going on in Austin from the POV of a Texan and shoot me a DM if you have questions!<\/p>\n

New & notable in Austin for 2026<\/p>\n

Austin never sits still. If you\u2019ve been before, here\u2019s what\u2019s new since your last trip \u2013 the openings and reasons to come back this year:<\/p>\n

HOPE Outdoor Gallery is back. Austin\u2019s beloved graffiti park reopened on a brand-new 8-acre campus in East Austin (near the airport) in late 2025 \u2013 bigger, with mural walls anyone can spray-paint. (#27 below)
\nCOTALAND at Circuit of The Americas. COTA\u2019s new theme park brings thrill rides and the Circuit Breaker roller coaster, so it\u2019s no longer just a race-weekend stop. (#40 below)
\nMoody Center. Austin\u2019s premier arena for the biggest touring acts and UT basketball. (#43 below)
\nEast End Ballroom. A glam, retro-luxe supper club and live-music bar inside the historic Arlyn Studios on the east side.
\nGovalle Cultural District. East Austin\u2019s Govalle neighborhood is now an official Cultural District \u2013 artists, makers, and spaces like the Museum of Human Achievement and Canopy.
\nAustin has Michelin stars now. The first-ever Texas MICHELIN Guide put Austin on the global dining map \u2013 more in my best restaurants in Austin<\/a> guide.<\/p>\n

\"Barton\"Barton<\/p>\n

Outdoor things to do in Austin, Texas
\n1. Swim in Barton Springs Pool<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re visiting Austin during the 9 hottest months of the year, you\u2019ll want to take a dip in Barton Springs Pool \u2013 it\u2019s one of the many natural springs in Austin. And even if you\u2019re visiting in December\/January, there\u2019s the polar bear splash to partake in.<\/p>\n

You can swim in the 68-degree year-round water for a small daily entry fee (a few dollars for Austin residents). Check current rates and hours before you go, as the pool occasionally closes for cleaning early in the week.<\/p>\n

2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX, austintexas.gov\/department\/barton-springs-pool<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a010 Best Swimming Holes in Austin <\/a>(including state parks)<\/p>\n

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\"Boating\"Boating<\/p>\n

2. Boating on Lake Travis<\/p>\n

There are two lakes on Austin that you can go boating on \u2013 Lake Travis and Lake Austin. I recently went boating on Lake Travis with Float On Boat Rentals \u2013 loved how easy it was to get to the dock and they even help you load up your stuff into a wheelbarrow to the boat. We booked the sunset cruise and it was just perfect.<\/p>\n

$50 off Float On Boat Rentals with code: KOKO<\/p>\n

Book a boat pack with Easy Tiger for sandwiches, appetizers, cookies, and drinks!\u00a0<\/p>\n

Lake Travis (16405 Clara Van St) + Lake Austin, rentalboataustin.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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3. Picnic in Zilker Park<\/p>\n

Swimming not your thing? Pack a picnic basket and hop across the street to Zilker Metropolitan Park. Layout a picnic blanket and enjoy the sunshine while watching the dogs play.<\/p>\n

2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX, zilkerpark.org<\/a><\/p>\n

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4. Climb Mount Bonnell<\/p>\n

Put on your sneakers and climb the 100 (give or take) steps up Mount Bonnell for an incredible view of Austin. Planning a date? Pack canned wine in your backpack!<\/p>\n

I recommend checking out Mayfield Park that\u2019s nearby \u2013 it\u2019s filled with peacocks! Or going to Lake Austin to have a drink on the water at Hula Hut.<\/p>\n

3800 Mt Bonnell Dr, Austin, TX<\/p>\n

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5. Watch a movie at Alamo Drafthouse<\/p>\n

Alamo Drafthouse may have expanded outside of Austin Texas but we still love our local movie theater. You can order more than just the typical buttered popcorn and concession stand candy. I\u2019m talking buffalo cauliflower, banh mi hot dogs, bourbon milkshakes, and more.<\/p>\n

Multiple locations, drafthouse.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a045 Best Brunch Spots In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"SUP\"SUP<\/p>\n

6. SUP on Lady Bird Lake<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re new to Austin, or just looking for a new way to experience our city, you must try paddle boarding (paddleboard) on Lady Bird Lake that is connected to the Colorado River. My favorite spot to rent SUPs is at Rowing Dock \u2013 their team is super friendly, will give you basic paddling instruction before you hit the water, and they\u2019re super centrally located (they also have single\/double kayaks, canoes and pedal kayaks). Truly \u2013 this is one of the best ways to beat the heat, get some beautiful downtown views, and hang with friends. They also have a variety of guided paddle tours for those interested in learning more about our city!<\/p>\n

1541 West Cesar Chavez, rowingdock.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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7. Go to a football game at the University of Texas<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re a Longhorn fan (hook\u2019em! UT alumni here \u263a) or not, the University of Texas is a destination to visit when in Austin. If you happen to be here during football season, go tailgating and watch the game. There are over\u00a051,000 students on\u00a01,438.5 acres (originally\u00a0only 40 acres back in 1839).<\/p>\n

View UT football game schedule<\/a><\/p>\n

utexas.edu<\/a><\/p>\n

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8. Visit Bullock Texas State History Museum<\/p>\n

Learn all about the Lone Star State and Texas history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. It\u2019s right across from the University of Texas campus. The LBJ Presidential Library is also nearby on the University of Texas at Austin.\u00a0<\/p>\n

1800 Congress Ave, thestoryoftexas.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"bats\"bats<\/p>\n

9. Watch the bats fly out from the Congress Bridge<\/p>\n

Wondering why there are hundreds of people standing at Congress Bridge at sunset? Over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats fly out from the Congress Avenue Bridge almost every night (typically March through early fall). Austin has the largest urban bat colony! It\u2019s a pretty incredible sight to watch the bat colony fly out that\u2019s worth standing for.<\/p>\n

Walk over to the Mexic-Arte Museum to see an evolving collection of traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino and Latin American art.<\/p>\n

Koko Tip: Go to P6 at the Line Hotel to watch the bats fly out with a cocktail.<\/p>\n

Congress Ave<\/p>\n

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10. Find your zen at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden<\/p>\n

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a quiet small garden next to Zilker Park that is centered on the artistic works of American sculptor Charles Umlauf. Find inspiration from the many sculptures in the garden and walk away inspired.<\/p>\n

605 Azie Morton Rd, umlaufsculpture.org<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"one\"one<\/p>\n

11. Swim at Hamilton Pool<\/p>\n

This natural swimming pool was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.<\/p>\n

Reservations are required during the summer from May to Sept. No reservations during the fall but be prepared to wait up to 45 minutes to enter. The entrance fee is $15 per vehicle when entering, cash only. There is a small bike trail but I\u2019ve always headed straight to the pool.<\/p>\n

McKinney Falls State Park is a popular swimming spot too.<\/p>\n

24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX, parks.traviscountytx.gov\/find-a-park\/hamilton-pool<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a010 Best Swimming Holes in Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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12. Smell the flowers at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center<\/p>\n

Lady Bird Johnson\u2019s Wildflower Center is the home to sustainable, native plant gardens and education, conservation, research and consulting programs. The Wildflower Center is always blooming with plants that are in season \u2013 spring wildflower season is especially gorgeous.<\/p>\n

4801 La Crosse Ave, wildflower.org<\/a><\/p>\n

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13. Two-step dancing at Broken Spoke<\/p>\n

Put on your cowboy boots and learn how to two-step at Broken Spoke but not before you eat a giant chicken fried steak.<\/p>\n

3201 S Lamar Blvd, brokenspokeaustintx.net<\/a><\/p>\n

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14. Visit the Driskill Hotel<\/p>\n

The Driskill Hotel is a Texas landmark and is the\u00a0oldest operating hotel in Austin. The hotel is rumored to be haunted by a young girl that fell to her death down the stairs and\u00a0suicide brides.<\/p>\n

604 Brazos St, Austin, TX, driskillhotel.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"one\"one<\/p>\n

15. Tour the Texas State Capitol<\/p>\n

Did you know the Texas State Capitol building is almost 15 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol? Free guided tours\u00a0are Monday through Sunday.\u00a0<\/p>\n

1100 Congress Ave, tspb.state.tx.us\/plan\/tours\/tours.html<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0
\n16. Explore Zilker Botanical Garden<\/p>\n

Located in Zilker Park, the Zilker Botanical Garden is beautiful in the springtime when all the flowers are blooming and the butterflies are everywhere. Perfect selfie spot!<\/p>\n

2220 Barton Springs Rd, zilkergarden.org<\/a><\/p>\n

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17. Go nude at Hippie Hollow<\/p>\n

I finally crossed off Hippie Hollow on my things to do in Austin list on my 30th birthday. The rumors are true, it\u2019s a nude park so clothing is optional but you must ask for permission if you want to take photographs. The entrance fee is $15 per vehicle. Keep Austin Weird y\u2019all.\u00a0<\/p>\n

7000 Comanche Trail, parks.traviscountytx.gov\/find-a-park\/hippie-hollow<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a014 Best Hiking Trails In Austin TX<\/a><\/p>\n

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18. Get artsy at Blanton Museum of Art\u00a0<\/p>\n

New collections come to the Blanton Museum every couple of months so you can visit throughout the year. Don\u2019t miss Ellsworth Kelly\u2019s \u201cAustin\u201d \u2013 the artist\u2019s only building, with luminous colored-glass windows. Check the website for current admission and free days.<\/p>\n

200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, blantonmuseum.org<\/a><\/p>\n

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19. Catch a show at Paramount Theatre<\/p>\n

The Paramount is a historic live theatre and movie venue in downtown Austin, built in 1915, so there\u2019s so much history there.<\/p>\n

Heads up: the Paramount is undergoing a major renovation beginning in 2026, so check their calendar \u2013 many shows are running at nearby venues (including the Stateside) in the meantime.<\/p>\n

713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX, austintheatre.org<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"Austin\"Austin<\/p>\n

20. Shop on South Congress<\/p>\n

I always recommend spending the afternoon on South Congress<\/a> for any visitors that come to Austin. It\u2019s an easily walkable street that is filled with local restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.<\/p>\n

South Congress Avenue, austintexas.org\/listings\/south-congress-avenue-(soco)\/4359\/<\/a><\/p>\n

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21. Hike Barton Creek Greenbelt<\/p>\n

There are several different ways to get into the Greenbelt. My favorite entry point is past Loop 360 off of the Capitol of Texas highway. Hike one hour in and you\u2019ll be greeted with waterfalls \u2013 a relief from our humid Texas summers. Watch out for bikers as you\u2019re walking on the path (this is a popular area for biking). I like walking on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike trail boardwalk or go on a bike tour of Austin!\u00a0<\/p>\n

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22. Jam out at Austin City Limits<\/p>\n

Austin City Limits (ACL) is the biggest music festival in town, bringing people from all over the world to Zilker Park across two consecutive three-day weekends every October. If you\u2019re here during ACL and don\u2019t have tickets, expect Zilker Park and the surrounding area to be packed \u2013 plan accordingly. Check aclfestival.com<\/a> for this year\u2019s dates and lineup.<\/p>\n

Can\u2019t make the festival? You can still experience the ACL magic year-round at Austin City Limits (ACL) Live at The Moody Theater downtown.<\/p>\n

Zilker Park, aclfestival.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"woman\"woman<\/p>\n

23. Drink wine in Fredericksburg<\/p>\n

Fredericksburg, the Texas Hill Country, is home to over 45 wineries and vineyards. Do a weekend getaway and stay at a bed & breakfast, or book a day trip with a wine bus tour.<\/p>\n

Fredericksburg TX, visitfredericksburgtx.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a0Ultimate Guide To Things To Do in Fredericksburg<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a011 Best Wine Tours In Fredericksburg Texas<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Viva\"Viva<\/p>\n

24. Spa day at Viva Day Spa<\/p>\n

For a spa treatment, I go to Viva Day Spa, a local day spa with three locations in Austin: The Domain, 35th St, and South Lamar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

For the holidays, Viva Day Spa has a couple of holiday packages and I treated myself to both of these and loved them!<\/p>\n

vivadayspa.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Austin\"Austin<\/p>\n

25. Drink beer at a local Austin brewery<\/p>\n

Austin has many craft breweries throughout the city with multiple brews on tap.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Popular breweries include:<\/p>\n

Austin Beer Garden Brewing (ABGB)
\nAustin Beerworks
\nHold Out Brewing
\nJester King Brewery
\nLive Oak Brewing
\nMeanwhile Brewing (personal fav!)<\/p>\n

SEE MORE:\u00a021 Best Breweries In Austin For Craft Beer<\/a><\/p>\n

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26. Visit Laguna Gloria\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Contemporary Austin has two separate sites, Laguna Gloria in Central Austin and the Jones Center in downtown Austin. Laguna Gloria is a 14-acre outdoor site on Lake Austin that houses a sculpture park and an Italianate-style villa from the early 1900s. The museum also runs a program called \u201cMuseum Without Walls,\u201d which aims to bring art out into the community.<\/p>\n

3809 W 35th St, thecontemporaryaustin.org\/lagunagloria\/<\/a><\/p>\n

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27. Make art at HOPE Outdoor Gallery<\/p>\n

One of Austin\u2019s most colorful, photo-worthy stops is back. The beloved HOPE Outdoor Gallery \u2013 the city\u2019s community graffiti park \u2013 reopened in late 2025 at a brand-new 8-acre campus in East Austin near the airport, with mural walls, spray-paint sessions anyone can join, and event space. It\u2019s free to walk through and endlessly Instagrammable.<\/p>\n

741 Dalton Ln<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

@atasteofkoko<\/a> Private tour of the new $260 million Austin FC soccer stadium #austintxtiktok<\/a> #austinfc<\/a> #austintexas<\/a> #soccer<\/a> #thingstodoinaustin<\/a> \u266c original sound \u2013 Koko | Austin Food Blogger<\/a><\/p>\n

28. Go to an Austin FC soccer game<\/p>\n

Austin is home to our first major-league soccer team, Austin FC, with a beautiful stadium in North Austin. The supporters\u2019 section is one of the rowdiest, most fun atmospheres in town. See the schedule here<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Q2 Stadium, 10414 McKalla Place<\/p>\n

Best restaurants in Austin, Texas<\/p>\n

\"Amy's\"Amy's<\/p>\n

29. I Love You So Much wall at Jo\u2019s Coffee<\/p>\n

The \u201cI Love You So Much\u201d Wall does exist and it\u2019s located at Jo\u2019s Coffee on South Congress. Order their iced turbo coffee while you\u2019re there and it\u2019ll keep you caffeinated throughout the trip.<\/p>\n

1300 S Congress Ave, joscoffee.com\/south-congress-jos\/<\/a><\/p>\n

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30. Experience the barbecue pit at Salt Lick<\/p>\n

You have to eat barbecue in Austin and the best experience is at Salt Lick because of the one-of-a-kind massive meat barbecue pit in Driftwood. Prepare to go home smelling like bbq.<\/p>\n

The all-you-can-eat beef brisket, sausage, pork ribs, potato salad, coleslaw, and beans is a classic \u2013 bring cash and your own beer (cash only and BYOB).<\/p>\n

3600 Presidential Blvd, saltlickbbq.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a010 Spots For The Best BBQ In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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31. Texas-sized breakfast at Juan In A Million<\/p>\n

Everything is bigger in Texas and the Don Juan at Juan In A Million is massive. Don Juan El Taco Grande (try saying that 5 times fast) is a hearty combination of potato, egg, bacon, and cheese in a hot tortilla.<\/p>\n

2300 E Cesar Chavez St, juaninamillion.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a059 Best Restaurants In Austin, Updated 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

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32. Coffee at Desnudo Coffee<\/p>\n

This popular coffee truck is loved among the locals for unique flavors like the brown sugar miso latte that\u2019s the crowd favorite.<\/p>\n

2505 Webberville Rd<\/p>\n

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\"Banger's\"Banger's<\/p>\n

33. Manmosas at Banger\u2019s<\/p>\n

Sausages, 100+ beers on tap, and manmosas (1 liter of champagne + OJ) for brunch on Rainey Street.<\/p>\n

79 Rainey St, bangersaustin.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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34. Queso fundido at El Alma<\/p>\n

There\u2019s queso and then there\u2019s queso fundido. Head up to the rooftop for brunch cocktails too.<\/p>\n

1025 Barton Springs Rd, elalmacafe.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Home\"Home<\/p>\n

35. Quick slice at Home Slice Pizza<\/p>\n

I still love a quick hot slice of margherita pizza from the walk-up window at Home Slice Pizza and a topo chico.<\/p>\n

1415 S Congress Ave, homeslicepizza.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a010 Spots For The Best Pizza In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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36. Sushi at Uchi<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a reason why everyone has recommended Uchi to you and it\u2019s so worth it even if it\u2019s not a special occasion. And then go try their sister restaurant, Uchiko. Go during their happy hour<\/a> if you don\u2019t want to spend a pretty penny.\u00a0<\/p>\n

801 South Lamar Boulevard, uchiaustin.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a010 Best Options For Omakase in Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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37. Tacos at Veracruz<\/p>\n

Tacos are a food group for us Austinites so it\u2019s a highly touchy subject. Veracruz is loved by the locals for its all-natural ingredients and authentic, fresh tacos and salsas. They started out originally as a food truck that\u2019s still on E Cesar Chavez and now they\u2019ve launched several more locations.<\/p>\n

Check out my guide to the 10 Best Breakfast Tacos In Austin<\/a> and the best tacos in Austin!\u00a0<\/p>\n

Multiple locations, veracruztacos.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a037 Best Austin Food Trucks (Sorted By Cuisine)<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Justine's\"Justine's<\/p>\n

38. French dinner at Justine\u2019s Brasserie<\/p>\n

When I want to treat myself, it\u2019s the steak frites with house red and chocolate cake at Justine\u2019s.<\/p>\n

4710 E 5th St, justines1937.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Texas\"Texas<\/p>\n

39. Texas-shaped waffle at The Driskill Hotel<\/p>\n

Breakfast at the historic Driskill comes with a side of Texas pride \u2013 their Lone Star State-shaped waffle is a must-order and the prettiest way to start a downtown morning. Grab a table at the 1886 Caf\u00e9 & Bakery inside the hotel.<\/p>\n

Koko Tip: For something sweet later, Amy\u2019s Ice Cream is the OG of Austin \u2013 get the Mexican vanilla. amysicecreams.com<\/a><\/p>\n

604 Brazos St, Austin, TX, driskillhotel.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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40. F1 and COTALAND at COTA<\/p>\n

Did you know we have our own race track here in Austin? Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is a Grade 1 FIA-specification 3.426-mile motor racing track with a 25-story observation tower. The Formula 1 US Grand Prix<\/a> returns to Austin every October \u2013 check COTA\u2019s site for this year\u2019s race dates and tickets.<\/p>\n

New: COTA is also opening COTALAND, a theme park with thrill rides and the Circuit Breaker roller coaster, plus year-round go-karts and a mini golf course \u2013 so it\u2019s no longer just a race-weekend destination.<\/p>\n

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\"Gourdough's\"Gourdough's<\/p>\n

41. Big doughnuts at Gourdough\u2019s<\/p>\n

These are not your ordinary doughnut shop doughnuts. Gourdough\u2019s serves up the biggest doughnuts that you\u2019ve ever tasted in #foodcoma inducing flavors like mother clucker (fried chicken), miss shortcake, and blue balls. Gourdough\u2019s has a restaurant in South Austin on South Lamar.\u00a0<\/p>\n

1503 S 1st St, gourdoughs.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a017 Spots For Late Night Food In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

Nightlife things to do in Austin, Texas<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"Mohawk\"Mohawk<\/p>\n

42. Live music at Mohawk<\/p>\n

There are tons of live music venues in Austin but Mohawk is one of the top picks in downtown Austin. Live music showcases the best of Austin\u2019s creative local scene plus touring up-and-coming and established talent.<\/p>\n

Other popular live music venues:<\/p>\n

The Continental Club
\nAntone\u2019s Nightclub
\nACL Live at The Moody Theater
\nElephant Room<\/p>\n

912 Red River St, mohawkaustin.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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43. See a big show at the Moody Center<\/p>\n

Opened in 2022, the Moody Center is Austin\u2019s premier arena and has quickly become the go-to for the biggest touring acts \u2013 think arena-headlining musicians \u2013 plus University of Texas basketball. Check the calendar when you\u2019re in town; odds are someone great is playing.<\/p>\n

2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX, moodycenteratx.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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44. Dirty 6th Street in downtown Austin<\/p>\n

Everyone has to go at least once but nobody says you have to go more than twice. But if you do, no one\u2019s judging you :). Watch out for horse poop.<\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a0Ultimate Guide to the Best Downtown Austin Restaurants<\/a><\/p>\n

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\"Rainey\"Rainey<\/p>\n

45. Bar hopping on Rainey Street<\/p>\n

Rainey Street has changed a lot with all the new high-rise construction, but it\u2019s still a fun strip of converted-bungalow bars \u2013 try Icenhauer\u2019s, Half Step, and the newer Bar Hacienda for tropical cocktails.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Rainey St, Austin, TX<\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a021 Best Bars, Restaurants & Food Trucks On Rainey Street In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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46. Mezcal cocktails at Whisler\u2019s\u00a0<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve done dirty 6th street, west 6th, and Rainey Street, then you have to go to the east side. Whisler\u2019s serves craft cocktails (my personal favorite is the Tiger\u2019s Tears) in a chill setting. Be sure to head upstairs to their Mezcaler\u00eda Tobal\u00e1, a traditional Oaxacan mezcal bar.<\/p>\n

1816 E 6th St, whislersatx.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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47. Putt putt at Holey Moley<\/p>\n

Holey Moley is a vibey mini golf experience with the COOLEST cocktails served in glasses like a cowboy hat, disco ball, unicorn, and bathtub with a rubber ducky! Even the beer tower is awesome. There are three 9-hole courses inspired by popular themes.<\/p>\n

807 E 4th St, holeymoley.com\/locations\/austin<\/a><\/p>\n

Best shops in Austin, Texas<\/p>\n

\"Allen's\"Allen's<\/p>\n

48. Try on cowboy boots at Allens Boots<\/p>\n

There are over 3000 pairs of boots at Austin\u2019s iconic boot shop, Allens Boots.<\/p>\n

1522 South Congress, Austin, TX, allensboots.com<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

49. Antique shopping at Uncommon Objects<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re wanting to shop local boutiques, South Congress is the spot to go. Uncommon Objects, Allens Boots, and Tesoro\u2019s are all located on this strip. Uncommon Objects is an antique and vintage shop that is filled with relics. You can easily spend hours here!<\/p>\n

1602 Fort View Rd, uncommonobjects.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO: My Favorite Local Shops To Go Shopping In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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50. Austin Flea pop-up market<\/p>\n

The Austin Flea is a rotating pop-up market featuring local makers and vendors \u2013 check their schedule for upcoming dates and locations.<\/p>\n

austinflea.net<\/a><\/p>\n

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51. Shopping at Domain NorthSIDE<\/p>\n

Love to shop? You\u2019ll love Domain Northside. Nordstrom, Sephora, Free People, CB2, Kiehl\u2019s, Lush, Whole Foods, and more.<\/p>\n

11700 Domain Blvd, domainnorthside.com<\/a><\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a011 Best Things to Do in Salado TX<\/a><\/p>\n

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52. Record shopping at Waterloo Records & Video<\/p>\n

A true Austin institution, Waterloo Records sells both local artists and concert tickets \u2013 a great spot to dig for vinyl.<\/p>\n

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\"Where\"Where<\/p>\n

53. Buy a cactus at East Austin Succulents<\/p>\n

Whether you live in Austin or you\u2019re just visiting, you have to have a cactus. East Austin Succulents is this really cool nursery in East Austin that has all kinds of plants for your #jungalow.<\/p>\n

SEE ALSO:\u00a0Where To Buy Succulents In Austin<\/a><\/p>\n

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54. Visit the Cathedral Of Junk<\/p>\n

The Cathedral of Junk stands quietly in the backyard of a small house on a suburban street in South Austin with over 60+ tons of well, junk. Call ahead \u2013 visits are by appointment.<\/p>\n

4422 Lareina Dr<\/p>\n

RELATED:\u00a0Ultimate Guide To Things To Do In Round Top Texas<\/a><\/p>\n

Events that happen in Austin<\/p>\n

South By Southwest (SXSW) \u2013 March
\nAustin Food & Wine Festival \u2013 spring
\nAustin City Limits (ACL) \u2013 October
\nFormula 1 (F1) US Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) \u2013 October
\nTrail of Lights at Zilker Park \u2013 December<\/p>\n

FAQs On Austin<\/p>\n

What\u2019s new in Austin for 2026?<\/p>\n

A few of the buzziest new additions: the reopened HOPE Outdoor Gallery on its new East Austin campus, COTALAND theme park at Circuit of The Americas, big-name concerts at the Moody Center, East End Ballroom on the east side, and Austin\u2019s first-ever MICHELIN-starred restaurants.<\/p>\n

What should you not miss in Austin?<\/p>\n

Sixth Street, Congress Avenue Bridge, Broken Spoke, and Franklin Barbecue.<\/p>\n

What can you do in Austin in one day?<\/p>\n

Kayak on Lady Bird Lake, visit the Blanton Museum of Art, eat tacos, queso, and margaritas, and take a sunset boat tour to watch the bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue bridge.\u00a0<\/p>\n

What is Austin known for food?<\/p>\n

Tex-Mex, tacos (breakfast tacos specifically), queso, barbecue, and margaritas.\u00a0<\/p>\n

What is famous in Austin TX?<\/p>\n

The Texas Capitol, Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, Alamo Drafthouse, the Congress Avenue Bridge bats, and Franklin Barbecue.<\/p>\n

Q: What are some of the best outdoor activities to do in Austin, Texas?<\/p>\n

A: Austin is known for its abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails, kayaking and paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, and swimming in Barton Springs Pool. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or enjoy a picnic at Zilker Park.<\/p>\n

Q: What are some popular cultural attractions in Austin?<\/p>\n

A: Austin is home to a vibrant arts and music scene, with world-renowned music festivals like South by Southwest and Austin City Limits. Visitors can also explore the Blanton Museum of Art, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Texas State Capitol building.<\/p>\n

Q: What are some unique experiences to have in Austin?<\/p>\n

A: Visitors to Austin can take a dip in the natural spring-fed pool at Barton Springs, watch the bats take flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, and explore the vibrant street art scene at HOPE Outdoor Gallery.<\/p>\n

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Austin?<\/p>\n

A: The best time of year to visit Austin is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and festivals throughout the year.<\/p>\n

Q: What are some must-try restaurants in Austin?<\/p>\n

A: Austin is a foodie\u2019s paradise, with a wide range of culinary options to choose from. Some of the top restaurants to try include Franklin Barbecue, Uchi, Launderette, and Fonda San Miguel.<\/p>\n

Q: How do I get around Austin?<\/p>\n

A: Visitors to Austin can easily navigate the city using public transportation, ride-sharing services, or by renting a bike or scooter. The city also has a number of bike and pedestrian-friendly paths and trails.<\/p>\n