Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World, is a vibrant city where creativity, outdoor adventure, and culinary innovation collide. From legendary music venues to scenic hiking trails and world-famous food trucks, Austin offers a uniquely Texan experience. Discover the best things to do in this eclectic, ever-evolving city.
Experience Live Music on Sixth Street
Sixth Street is Austin's iconic entertainment district, featuring over 90 live music venues. Every night of the week, you'll find everything from blues and country to indie rock and electronic music. Historic venues like Stubb's Bar-B-Q, Antone's Nightclub, and the Continental Club have hosted legendary performers.
For a more laid-back vibe, explore Rainey Street's converted bungalows-turned-bars featuring local musicians and craft cocktails. East Sixth Street (also called "Dirty Sixth") offers a more party-focused atmosphere, while West Sixth provides upscale lounges and wine bars.
Must-Visit Music Venues:
- • Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater
- • The Continental Club (since 1955)
- • Antone's Nightclub (Home of the Blues)
- • Stubb's Bar-B-Q (indoor and outdoor stages)
- • Broken Spoke (authentic honky-tonk)
Explore Austin's Food Truck Scene
Austin's food truck culture is legendary, offering everything from authentic tacos to innovative fusion cuisine. The city has over 1,000 food trucks serving creative, affordable meals. Popular trailer parks include The Picnic on Barton Springs Road and South Congress food truck areas.
Don't miss iconic trucks like Veracruz All Natural (breakfast tacos), Torchy's Tacos (which started as a food truck), and East Side King (Asian-inspired street food). Franklin Barbecue started as a food truck and is now Texas's most famous barbecue joint—arrive early as lines form hours before opening.
Cool Off at Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a 3-acre natural swimming hole fed by underground springs maintaining a constant 68-70°F temperature year-round. Located within Zilker Park, this beloved Austin landmark offers a refreshing escape from Texas heat. The spring-fed pool is so clear you can see to the bottom.
Surrounding Zilker Park offers hiking trails, volleyball courts, and vast open spaces perfect for picnics. The park hosts festivals including Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Trail of Lights during holidays. Arrive early on weekends as the pool reaches capacity quickly.
Hike and Bike the Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers 7.9 miles of trails through limestone cliffs, swimming holes, and lush vegetation. Popular access points include Zilker Park and the 360 Access. The trails range from easy walks to challenging rock scrambles, with numerous creek crossings and scenic overlooks.
Lady Bird Lake's 10-mile trail system circles the downtown reservoir, offering flat, paved paths perfect for running, cycling, or walking. Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the lake from the water. The trail provides stunning skyline views and numerous park access points.
Shop and Stroll South Congress Avenue
South Congress (SoCo) epitomizes Austin's "Keep Austin Weird" motto with eclectic boutiques, vintage stores, and unique galleries. Browse Allen's Boots for authentic cowboy boots, Uncommon Objects for vintage treasures, and local designer boutiques for one-of-a-kind fashion.
The iconic "I Love You So Much" mural and the Congress Avenue Bridge (famous for its 1.5 million bat colony) are must-see photo spots. SoCo also features excellent restaurants, food trailers, and the legendary Continental Club. First Thursday brings special events and extended shopping hours.
Visit the Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol stands taller than the U.S. Capitol and features stunning Renaissance Revival architecture. Free guided tours explore the building's history, architecture, and Texas political heritage. The surrounding 22-acre Capitol grounds feature monuments, fountains, and beautiful landscaping.
Visit the Capitol Visitors Center for interactive exhibits about Texas history. The nearby Bullock Texas State History Museum offers three floors of Texas history through artifacts, films, and the Texas Spirit Theater. Both attractions provide insight into the state's unique identity.
Watch the Congress Avenue Bats
From March to November, witness one of Austin's most spectacular natural events: 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. This nightly exodus creates an incredible sight as the bats head out for their nightly hunt.
The best viewing spots are along the bridge sidewalks or from Lady Bird Lake on a bat-watching cruise. Peak season runs from July to September when newly born pups join the colony. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing position.
Explore the University of Texas Campus
The University of Texas at Austin campus features beautiful architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. Visit the Blanton Museum of Art for world-class collections, the Harry Ransom Center for literary manuscripts, and the LBJ Presidential Library for insights into American history.
On game days, experience the electric atmosphere of Longhorn football at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The UT Tower offers panoramic city views (by reservation only). Campus also features beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and countless food options along the Drag (Guadalupe Street).
Discover East Austin's Art Scene
East Austin has transformed into the city's creative epicenter, featuring vibrant street art, innovative galleries, and trendy maker spaces. The neighborhood's colorful murals—including the famous "You're My Butter Half" and "Greetings from Austin" postcard wall—create Instagram-worthy backdrops throughout the area.
Explore the HOPE Outdoor Gallery (street art park), browse galleries on East 6th Street, and discover local artists' studios. The area also offers exceptional dining with food trucks, breweries, and restaurants showcasing diverse cuisines from around the world.
Experience Austin's Brewery Scene
Austin's craft beer scene rivals any major city, with dozens of breweries offering unique Texas brews. Visit Jester King Brewery for farmhouse ales in a beautiful Hill Country setting, or tour St. Elmo Brewing Company in South Austin for award-winning beers.
The Rainey Street district features numerous craft beer bars in converted houses. Austin Beerworks, Live Oak Brewing Company, and (512) Brewing Company offer tours and tastings. Many breweries feature food trucks, live music, and dog-friendly patios—perfectly embodying Austin's laid-back lifestyle.
Where to Stay in Austin
Stay in the heart of Austin with Boulevard Stays properties near downtown, South Congress, and East Austin. Our designer stays put you within walking distance of live music venues, food trucks, and outdoor recreation. Experience Austin like a local with modern amenities and authentic neighborhood character.
Best Time to Visit Austin
Austin welcomes visitors year-round, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer ideal weather with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F. March brings South by Southwest (SXSW), the city's premier music, film, and tech festival—book accommodations months in advance.
Summer (June-August) brings intense heat (often exceeding 100°F) but also outdoor concerts, swimming holes, and food festivals. Winter remains mild with occasional cold fronts. October's Austin City Limits Music Festival attracts visitors from around the world.
Getting Around Austin
Austin is best explored by car, though downtown and South Congress are walkable. Ride-sharing services are widely available. The MetroRapid bus system connects major destinations, and the city is expanding its bike lane infrastructure. B-cycle bike share offers convenient short-term rentals.
Electric scooters from Bird, Lime, and other companies provide fun transportation for short trips. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours. Consider staying in central neighborhoods to minimize driving. Most neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly with plenty of nearby restaurants and attractions.
Keep Austin Weird—And Visit Soon
Austin offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, creative culture, and culinary excellence. From sunrise hikes to sunset bat-watching, from breakfast tacos to late-night live music, every day in Austin brings new discoveries. The city's welcoming spirit and endless entertainment ensure unforgettable experiences.
Ready to experience the Live Music Capital? Book your Boulevard Stays stay and immerse yourself in everything that makes Austin unique. From food trucks to swimming holes, your Austin adventure awaits.