Austin is a vibrant city that thrives on its uniqueness, encapsulated by the phrase “Keep Austin Weird.” The University of Texas adds to the youthful environment and hosts several outstanding museums.
As the “World’s Capital of Live Music,” Austin is synonymous with the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival and Austin City Limits, a renowned music television program.
To appreciate Austin fully, one must embrace its eclectic inhabitants, diverse establishments, and the sleek developments that are reshaping parts of the city.
On a sunny day, you may find joy in exploring Zilker Park, enjoying Barton Springs Pool, wandering alongside Lady Bird Lake, or viewing outdoor art at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum.
1. Texas State Capitol
The dome of the Texas State Capitol, designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, is visible from miles away amidst the skyscrapers lining Congress Avenue.
This remarkable landmark was completed in 1888, following six years of construction, and contains the offices and chambers of the Texas State Legislature as well as the Governor’s office.
Constructed from sunset red granite sourced from Granite Mountain near Marble Falls, it stands as the largest capitol building in the United States, featuring exquisite craftsmanship in its carvings, handrails, and brass chandeliers in the Representatives’ Chamber, where “TEXAS” is inscribed. Free guided tours lasting 30 minutes are available seven days a week, alongside free pamphlets for self-guided exploration.
Enhance your understanding of Texas history at the Visitors Center, situated in the General Land Office Building dating from 1856-57, and stroll through the beautifully maintained 22-acre grounds adorned with monuments and statues.
2. Bullock Texas State History Museum
To understand Texas deeper, head to this notable museum located behind the large star just a few blocks south of the State Capitol.
As a leading attraction in the area, the museum displays artifacts tracing back over 16,000 years, including projectile points discovered nearby.
Dive into topics covering pre-European history, the challenging 18th and 19th centuries, and various elements associated with Texas globally, such as sports achievements, oil production, space exploration, ranching, and rodeos.
For a distinctive view of Austin, examine iconic performances from the PBS program, Austin City Limits, which has spanned decades.
Featured exhibits include a NASA Mission Control console from the 1960s, a WWII-era AT-6 “Texan” airplane, the long-leaf pine desk of Stephen F. Austin, known as the “Father of Texas,” and artifacts narrating the intricate history of African Americans in Texas.
Don’t miss the multisensory experience at the Texas Spirit Theater and a stunning presentation at Texas’s largest IMAX Theater.
3. Blanton Museum of Art
The University of Texas hosts an art museum that would be the pride of any major city.
With a collection of 18,000 works, it encompasses European, contemporary American, and Latin American artists.
The Blanton excels in its pre-1900 European fine and decorative arts with prominent works from Veronese, Rubens, Parmigianino, and Simon Vouet.
Contemporary works include celebrated artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Natalie Frank, El Anatsui, and Nina Katchadourian.
In 2015, Ellsworth Kelly designed a permanent immersive installation titled “Austin,” which opened in 2018 to celebrate the union of art and architecture.
The materials used throughout the building each narrate their own story: the entrance is fashioned from live oak sourced from the university’s Dell Medical School grounds; the outer façade consists of limestone panels from Alicante, Spain; the 33 stained-glass windows are hand-blown in Germany, complemented by black and white marble panels from Belgium and Carrara, Italy.
4. South by Southwest (SXSW)
Held typically in mid-March, aligning with the University of Texas’s spring break, SXSW is a world-renowned multidisciplinary cultural event featuring various venues.
Initiated in 1987, the event gained significant traction during the 2000s, now attracting tens of thousands of registrants each year.
SXSW comprises a film conference, offering panels, talks, and workshops led by industry leaders, along with interactive happenings showcasing cutting-edge technology.
However, the music aspect remains the centerpiece, showcasing approximately 2,000 acts across the city, providing artists with a stage to debut new material and make a significant impact as the festival season commences.
The 2020 roster included performers from over 40 countries, featuring notable acts such as post-punk band Wire alongside emerging talents like Arlo Parks (soul pop), Dos Monos (Japanese hip hop), and Mr. Kitty (synthpop).
5. South Congress (SoCo)
Located south of Lady Bird Lake, South Congress Avenue serves as the central hub of a vibrant shopping and entertainment district filled with boutiques, galleries, eateries, and bars.
More than anywhere else in Austin, South Congress encapsulates the city’s essence: almost every establishment is locally-owned, with live music serenading the streets, and storefronts adorned with creative murals.
This area is home to Austin staples like the unique costume store Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds and the western-wear emporium Allens Boots.
Since the 2010s, SoCo has become a popular destination for food truck enthusiasts.
The food truck lineup varies with each month, but selections from 2019 included Juice Austin, Tacos Las Amazonas Estilo Jalisco, Burro Cheese, and several others famous for their culinary delights.
6. Zilker Metropolitan Park
This expansive park, where Barton Creek merges with the Colorado River, was largely landscaped during the Great Depression and serves as a natural retreat within the city’s core.
Spanning 350 acres, this area once functioned as a cattle ranch in the 19th century and was gifted to the city in 1918 by philanthropist Andrew Jackson Zilker. It hosts significant events like Austin City Limits, while also being a year-round destination for outdoor activities.
Within the park, the Zilker Botanical Garden offers tranquility, visitors can kayak or canoe on Barton Creek, traverse the Lady Bird Lake Trail, or explore wildlife at the Austin Science and Nature Center.
Families can enjoy a ride on the Zilker Zephyr miniature train or take advantage of large playgrounds designated for children’s entertainment.
A variety of recreational facilities for disc golf, sand volleyball, and a Hillside Theater hosting summer Shakespeare productions round out the park’s offerings, complemented by sweeping views of downtown’s skyline.
7. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
The Longhorn Dam, completed in 1960, created Lady Bird Lake, named in honor of First Lady Lady Bird Johnson.
This vast body of water was initially intended as a cooling pond for the Holy Street Power Plant, which ceased operations in 2007. It is remarkable to think that in the 1970s, Lady Bird Lake was regarded as an unsightly area due to poor maintenance and litter.
Today, it stands as one of Austin’s most valuable assets, surrounded by a 10-mile multi-use trail that runs through lush greenery, adorned with public art, shops, park facilities, boat launches, and pet-friendly water fountains. A 1.3-mile gap along the south shore was completed in 2014 with the magnificent Boardwalk, illuminated by 13,000 LEDs.
8. Barton Springs Pool
Notable is that the fourth largest spring in Texas emerges within Zilker Park. The Main Barton Spring serves as the sole water source for a three-acre municipal open-air pool.
This spring was sacred to the Tonkawa Native American tribe and was discovered by the Spanish in the 17th century, leading to the establishment of missions along its banks.
The present incarnation of Barton Springs Pool dates back to the 1920s when the City constructed a dam to create the pool and added expansive walkways.
Visitors can enjoy swimming throughout the year, except after heavy rains, with the water temperature ranging from 20 °C to 23 °C.
This pool is home to the Barton Springs salamander, one of the few thriving habitats for this unique species, while women can sunbathe topless, showcasing Austin’s inclusive culture.
Adjacent to the bathhouse from 1947 is the Splash! exhibit, detailing the history of the spring and the extensive Edwards Aquifer that supports it.
9. Zilker Botanical Garden
Encompassing 30 acres within Zilker Park, this serene and meticulously kept botanical garden is a delightful retreat.
The garden, located on a steep hillside formerly hosting a limestone quarry, features striking heritage live oaks providing ample shaded areas for comfortable exploration year-round.
Divided into nine distinct areas, the garden showcases diverse plants, including cacti, succulents, fragrant herbs, roses, and butterflies.
The Hartman Prehistoric Garden engages children with its dinosaur footprints, combined with a Cretaceous habitat featuring a life-sized sculpture of an ornithomimus.
The Isamu Taniguchi Oriental Garden, completed in 1969, decorates the area with koi ponds that form the word “Austin,” complemented by a charming teahouse offering views of the city skyline.
10. McKinney Falls State Park
Located merely 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, this 750-acre state park is filled with breathtaking natural beauty.
Onion Creek flows through this stunning landscape, home to various wildlife like turtles, and cascades over limestone ledges into inviting pools, ideal for relaxing on a hot Texas day.
Visitors are encouraged to swim in the creek at both the upper and lower falls, with sandy areas to unwind alongside the water.
The park features a nearly three-mile-long Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail, ideal for leisurely trekking and cycling through mesquite and live oak groves.
By the water, discover sycamores, pecan trees, and bald cypress, including the remarkable 500-year-old Old Baldy, alongside historical remnants like a limestone house built by merchant William F. McKinney.
11. University of Texas at Austin
The aforementioned Blanton Museum of Art demonstrates that even non-students can appreciate the expansive campus of the University of Texas.
Boasting over 50,000 enrolled students and another 24,000 staff members, this site revolves around the iconic 94-meter Main Building tower.
While campus tours are primarily intended for prospective students, visitors can partake in a Tower Tour, which offers an exploration of the Spanish Colonial Revival building dating to 1937. A student guide will share intriguing information about the structure while taking you to the observation deck.
For those interested in history, the tragic shooting incident in 1966, where a gunman killed 15 individuals from the tower, can be discussed, though it will be avoided if children are present. For a lighter moment, Dirty Martin’s Place, which has been serving cheeseburgers and milkshakes since 1926, is a beloved eatery on campus.
12. Harry Ransom Center
An essential aspect of the University of Texas campus is the highly respected Harry Ransom Center, a notable research library.
The collection is too vast to summarize in a single paragraph; highlights include a Gutenberg Bible, three first folios of Shakespeare’s works, the oldest surviving photograph (View from the Window at Le Gras, 1826 or 1827), personal documents from numerous writers and playwrights, a declaration by Napoleon Bonaparte, a suite of Picasso etchings, and paintings by Frida Kahlo, among many others.
Regular public tours allow visitors to delve into this extraordinary collection, with special exhibitions highlighting significant artists like Gabriel García Márquez. Permanent displays include the Gutenberg Bible and the historic photograph.
The Hazel H. Ransom Reading Room and David Douglas Duncan-Cain Foundation Viewing Room grant access to these invaluable collections.
13. LBJ Presidential Library and Museum
The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum provides insight into the significant events of Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency from 1963 to 1969, many of which continue to hold relevance today.
The museum delves into the aftermath of the JFK assassination, displaying documents such as LBJ’s “Let Us Continue” speech and a letter from Jacqueline Kennedy addressed to Johnson.
Visitors can learn about the president’s positions on social justice and the historical context surrounding the Voting Rights Act of 1965, alongside aspects of the Vietnam War and his legacy regarding Medicare, consumer rights, and the arts.
Noteworthy displays include a genuine presidential limousine and a meticulous replica of the Oval Office scaled at 7/8 size on the top floor.
14. Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
Charles Umlauf (1911-1994), whose sculptures are widely featured across Texas, generously donated his home, studio, and 168 sculptures to the city in 1984.
In 1990, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden opened on the lush southern bank of Barton Creek.
As you navigate from piece to piece immersed in ferns and live oaks, you may find it hard to believe you are still in the heart of the city.
Umlauf’s artworks cover a wide range of materials including wood, terracotta, bronze, marble, and alabaster and display various styles from lyrical abstraction to abstract expressionism, covering themes from female nudes to religious symbols, animals, and mythological entities.
The bronzes are intricately waxed, inviting tactile engagement without fear of damage.
15. Congress Avenue Bridge
This bridge, which carries Congress Avenue over Lady Bird Lake, is home to the largest urban bat colony globally.
Approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats reside here; they are migratory and return to the bridge in April, departing again in October.
At twilight, crowds gather on the bridge, with kayakers joining them, to witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of thousands of bats emerging into the evening sky.
The bats took residence following the bridge’s reconstruction in 1980, settling into crevices that provide them shelter.
Initially viewed with apprehension, these creatures are harmless and provide natural pest control by consuming up to nine tons of insects including flies, wasps, and moths.
16. Mayfield Park and Preserve
Adjacent to the Laguna Gloria estate, the picturesque Mayfield Park covers 23 acres.
Although it underwent expansions, the cottage here has existed since the 1870s.
Now available for wedding rentals, the area surrounding the cottage is a lush botanical garden established in the 20th century.
Wander among tall palms, koi ponds, and vibrant seasonal flowerbeds.
The surrounding preserve features trails that meander along creeks and the Laguna Gloria lagoon, where peacocks roam freely, adding charm to this serene environment.
17. Auditorium Shores
Located on the south shore of Lady Bird Lake along the waterfront trail, Auditorium Shores features a park inaugurated in 1959 with a bustling event schedule.
The most prominent event is SXSW, which often includes several free concerts, while the park also provides a stunning backdrop for the 4th of July fireworks complemented by the Austin Symphony Orchestra.
Throughout the year, visitors can find a splash pad, off-leash dog park, and possibly the finest vista of the Austin skyline.
Texas blues legend Stevie Ray Vaughan frequented Auditorium Shores, which features a bronze statue memorializing him along the trail following his tragic helicopter accident in 1990.
18. Alamo Drafthouse
The Alamo Drafthouse, which originated in Austin in 1997, is a popular cinema chain catering to true cinema enthusiasts.
Established by two alumni from Rice University in a parking garage within the Warehouse District, Alamo Drafthouse is known for screening major blockbusters, classic films, “cult classic” features, and obscure foreign films.
The cinema enhances the moviegoing experience by offering distinct menus tailored to specific films.
For example, a menu inspired by the 2017 film “The Big Sick” featured Pakistani dishes curated by star Kumail Nanjiani. Each Alamo Drafthouse emphasizes local craft brews and employs creative mixologists.
Austin now boasts the highest concentration of Alamo Drafthouse locations in the U.S., with venues including Village Shopping Center, South Lamar, the Ritz, Slaughter Lane, Lakeline, Mueller, and Cedar Park.
Both the Ritz and South Lamar locations participate in SXSW, while the latter is home to the Fantastic Fest cult film festival every September.
19. The Contemporary Austin
Established in 1911, The Contemporary Austin serves as the main art museum of the city and features two unique locations.
One is situated at the historic Laguna Gloria (1916), a mansion built by philanthropist Clara Driscoll, which originally housed the museum, while the other is the modern Jones Center on Congress Avenue, renovated in the 2010s.
A recent addition, the enclosed Moody Rooftop gallery boasts large windows and stunning views of the Austin skyline.
Within this space, you can find Jim Hodges’ renowned sculpture “With Liberty and Justice for All (A Work in Progress). At the Jones Center, visitors can explore exhibitions by contemporary artists, shop at the museum store, and attend talks and opening receptions.
20. Sixth Street
East Sixth Street, nicknamed Dirty Sixth, transforms on weekends into a lively, neon-lit avenue perfect for enjoying dive bars, live music, and general merriment.
This lively atmosphere has persisted since the 1970s, although by 2019, it also highlighted Austin’s homelessness crisis in an evident manner.
From Thursday to Saturday, traffic is closed to enhance the pedestrian scene, filling the street with revelers during evening hours.
Notable venues on Sixth Street include The Parish, renowned for its live music, Flamingo Cantina featuring world music, and the rooftop at Maggie Mae’s along with The Firehouse Lounge & Hostel noted for its craft cocktails.
The Pecan Street Festival, boasting the title of one of the largest and oldest culture and music festivals, takes place here biannually in September and May.
21. The Driskill
At the intersection of Sixth Street and Brazos Street stands The Driskill, a historic Romanesque Revival hotel established in 1886, making it the oldest operating hotel in the city.
Founded by cattleman Col. Jessie Driskill, who invested his wealth in creating “the finest hotel south of St. Louis,” The Driskill has a storied history, including being the site of LBJ and Lady Bird’s first date in 1934, as well as the location from which Johnson monitored the 1964 election results.
The Driskill remains a prestigious lodging option in Austin.
You can admire the lobby’s grandeur, featuring marble floors, gilded columns, and stained glass offerings.
Indulge in Texas comfort cuisine at the 1886 Café & Bakery or savor hand-cut steaks at the Driskill Grill.
The Driskill Bar offers a touch of old-world Texas charm, featuring cowhide barstools, cattle-branded carpets, and a Texas longhorn adorning the mantelpiece.
22. Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium
From August to December, the University of Texas’ remarkable football team, the Texas Longhorns, competes at the highest level of college football within the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision.
This prestigious team belongs to the Big 12 Conference, the strongest alliance of athletic colleges in the United States, having claimed four national titles and an additional six that remain unclaimed.
Such a storied team warrants an equally impressive venue; Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, with a capacity of over 100,000, ranks among the ten largest stadiums globally.
Originally dedicated in 1924, the stadium has undergone numerous expansions, and as of late 2019, plans were in place to totally enclose the south end zone, incorporating luxury suites and an advanced scoreboard.
The atmosphere during Longhorns games is electric, contributing to an impressive home win rate of 76%.
Fans ardently display the “Hook ’em Horns” hand gesture, forming a fist while extending the index and pinkie fingers.
23. ACL Live At the Moody Theater
This state-of-the-art venue, inaugurated in 2011 within the $300 million Block 21 mixed-use development, honors the longest-running television show in U.S. history, PBS’s Austin City Limits, which has aired since 1974. Each week, this venue hosts a different recording artist.
The Moody Theater, with a capacity of 2,750, hosts around 100 concerts annually and is reputed for its superior sound quality among Austin’s venues.
For those interested in attending an Austin City Limits taping, passes can be requested via the show’s official website, typically released approximately a week prior to each recording.
The festival spawned by Austin City Limits also receives attention, as many artists featured on the show also participate in the festival.
In the Jack & Jim Gallery, visitors can view the archive of renowned photographer Jim Marshall, who captured iconic moments of musicians like Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Neil Young.
24. Austin City Limits Music Festival
The Austin City Limits festival is hosted in Zilker Park for two consecutive three-day weekends each October.
Drawing an audience of over 450,000 attendees, this festival features a range of genres from rock to hip hop, folk to electronic and indie music, showcased across eight stages.
With Austin’s rich musical culture, the festival has a solid reputation, having featured a diverse lineup including bands such as the Pixies and Chance the Rapper throughout its 20-year history.
In conjunction with the music, attendees can also enjoy Austin Eats, where many of the city’s beloved restaurants offer various culinary delights.
Expect gourmet choices such as kimchi fries, Brussels sprout salad, black Angus burgers, souvlaki, and organic fruit pops, elevating the typical festival food experience.
25. Elisabet Ney Museum
The German-American sculptor Elisabet Ney (1833-1907) immigrated to Texas when she reached the pinnacle of her artistic career at age 39.
Her imaginative Classical Revival studio, established in 1892, is located in Austin’s Hyde Park neighborhood, serving as an extraordinary venue that preserves her extensive work.
The museum features a variety of sculpted medallions, over 50 busts, full-sized sculptures of various notable individuals, tools, and personal effects from Ney’s artistic life.
The exhibit serves as an illustrative timeline of her career, highlighting commissions from prominent figures like Ludwig II of Bavaria, Otto von Bismarck, and Giuseppe Garibaldi during her time in Europe, alongside representations of Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin, which she created for the Texas State Capitol.
The grounds, restored in the 2000s, feature native grasses and wildflowers that would have flourished during Ney’s time.
26. SFC Farmers’ Market at Republic Square
Each Saturday morning, the farmers’ market at Republic Square serves as a genuine showcase of local artisans, as only those who personally produce their goods can sell.
This market has been operational since 2003, managed by the Sustainable Food Center.
As a producer-only market, the offerings are seasonal and varied.
Typically featuring numerous fruit and vegetable stands, the market also offers flowers, cheese, eggs, meats, honey, syrups, salsas, and jams.
Expect delightful live music weekly, engaging activities for children, and an array of food trucks serving fresh coffee, waffles, tacos, tamales, barbecue, and other culinary treats.
27. Laguna Gloria
Clara Driscoll (1881-1945) and her husband Hal Sevier, the editor of the Austin American, designed their luxurious residence inspired by the villas lining the shores of Lake Como, Italy.
As a passionate gardener, Clara dedicated years to developing the gardens on the estate until her passing, ultimately donating the property to the city to serve as a museum.
The grounds, featuring live oaks, cypress, and palms, descend in terraces to the lagoon named after the estate, connected to the Colorado River.
Here, visitors can walk through the Betty and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park, showcasing important works by artists such as Juan Muñoz, Terry Allen, and Ai Weiwei, among others.
At the entrance, stylish Moody Pavilions welcome visitors with chic dining options and a shop at the Contemporary, while the Driscoll Villa serves as an exhibition space, and the institution’s art school, established in the 1960s, found its new home on the grounds in 1983.
28. Austin Zoo
Located to the west of the city in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, the Austin Zoo focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and education.
The majority of its inhabitants are retired research animals, creatures rescued from abusive situations, re-homed exotic pets, and exhibits retired from other zoos.
Currently, the 16-acre site features around 300 animals from 100 species, with plans for expansion as the collection grows.
You can encounter fascinating species such as tigers, lions, cougars, bobcats, wolf hybrids, capuchin monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, emus, macaws, and various reptiles, including a Galapagos tortoise.
The zoo also houses numerous domestic animals like longhorn cattle, llamas, sheep, goats, and miniature donkeys.
For just $3, you can purchase animal feed at the gift shop to interact with these friendly residents.
29. Thinkery
Formerly known as the Austin Children’s Museum, Thinkery is situated in the Mueller neighborhood and consists of eight exhibit galleries filled with engaging, hands-on, play-based experiences designed to cultivate a new generation of innovative problem solvers.
Incorporating elements of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), the exhibits are curated by the museum’s staff and are regularly updated to ensure a fresh experience for visitors.
During the 2019-20 season, the Innovators’ Workshop featured a station where young learners could create their own stop-motion animations, while the Currents exhibit allowed children to explore fluid dynamics through interactive games.
Spark Shop provides a creative space for families and children to tinker, design new toys, and launch gliders.
Monday mornings offer special sessions for babies and toddlers called “Baby Bloomers,” fostering early childhood learning.
30. Austin Visitor Center
In a rapidly evolving city with a plethora of diverse neighborhoods, hidden gems, and unique subcultures, it can be challenging to know where to begin your exploration.
The Austin Visitor Center offers valuable insider information on local shops, dining, nightlife, live music, and outdoor activities.
Visitors can access a wealth of free maps and brochures, and the center includes a lounge stocked with restrooms, charging stations, a media wall, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Occasionally, live music performances take place at the center, and its store features an array of gift ideas.
31. Mount Bonnell
Perched in Covert Park, Mount Bonnell rises to 180 meters above the Colorado River Valley, forming a part of the cretaceous Balcones Fault that stretches from Del Rio in southwest Texas to Dallas.
Offering captivating views to the west, Mount Bonnell is a romantic hotspot for sunset watchers, with excellent sightlines toward the Austin skyline on the east side.
The parking area is situated at the northern end of Covert Park, and a trail leads south along the cliffs to the summit, adorned with mountain laurel, live oak, and cedar trees.
32. Rainey Street
Located amid skyscrapers, Rainey Street retains a portion of its historic charm through an array of former homes transformed into trendy bars and eateries.
The atmosphere is characterized by live music emanating from back patios each day of the week, while visitors can comfortably relax on front lawns and porches.
During SXSW in March, Rainey Street transforms into a lively venue for performances and events.
For year-round suggestions, dining options include Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden, offering over 100 beers on tap; L’Estelle for French-inspired comfort food; El Naranjo for authentic salsas and moles; and Icenhauer’s for skillfully crafted cocktails.
A secretive speakeasy, Bar Illegal, provides mezcal flights and cocktails in a rustic setting on Fridays and Saturdays.
33. Paramount Theatre
Retaining its historic charm since its establishment, the Paramount Theatre (1915) on Congress Avenue continues to host both live performances and film screenings.
The interiors are adorned with informative panels detailing the building’s rich history as a stage for vaudeville stars and hosting major film premieres.
With a seating capacity of over 1,250, the auditorium accommodates renowned musical artists, celebrated comedians, diverse sketch acts, and podcast recordings.
Seasonal film screenings enhance the experience, allowing audiences to enjoy classic works from renowned directors during the Paramount Summer Classic Film Series, alongside holiday favorites like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Home Alone.”
34. Warehouse District
Stretching just south of Sixth Street, west of Congress Avenue, and alongside Lady Bird Lake, the Warehouse District occupies a large section of downtown Austin and centers around Republic Square Park.
Given the rapid changes in the city, the term “Warehouse District” is somewhat misleading, as the once-industrial area has transformed into a vibrant hub of skyscrapers, modern civic buildings, and upscale developments.
Following the closure of warehouses in the 1970s, many of these former industrial spaces have been converted into music venues and fashionable nightlife destinations.
This area is particularly significant in the LGBTQ+ community of Austin.
Although many old industrial structures have been replaced, some notable venues remain, such as the expansive Highland Lounge and the Hangar Lounge and Speakeasy, both offering impressive views of downtown Austin from their rooftops.
35. Mexic-Arte Museum
Established on Congress Avenue since 1988, the Mexic-Arte Museum is a compact yet impactful space dedicated to Mexican and Latin American art and culture.
The museum has developed a collection encompassing painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and photography featuring contemporary artists like Raul Gonzalez, Juan Ramos, Sam Coronado, Gerardo Medina, and Mike Parsons.
Annual exhibitions such as Dia de Los Muertos & Community Altars and Mix ‘n’ Mash are sourced from the museum’s expanding permanent collection.
Additionally, the museum hosts themed displays, individual exhibitions, and retrospectives featuring artists such as Stephanie Sandoval, Bruno Andrade, and John Patrick Cobb.
In 2017, a photographic exhibition showcased Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera through the lens of significant photographers associated with them.
36. Hippie Hollow Park
Hippie Hollow Park is the only officially recognized clothing-optional public park in Texas, showcasing Austin’s liberal ethos.
Since the height of the hippie movement in the late 1960s, this segment of Lake Travis has drawn naturists, much to the dismay of local landowners at the time.
Approaching the entrance, an advisory warning is posted, indicating the nature of the space, allowing only individuals over 18 years of age.
The park features a rocky limestone shoreline lined with cedar and mountain laurel, offering access to the water via stone-cut steps.
Lake Travis itself, a vast body of water formed by the Mansfield Dam in 1942, spans nearly 19,000 acres with over 270 miles of scenic shoreline.
37. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
Just a short distance from Hippie Hollow, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures offers exciting ziplining experiences across picturesque canyons.
This activity is suitable for individuals of nearly all ages, featuring five ziplines measuring between 90 and 850 meters in length.
Three of these lines are recognized as the longest and fastest in the state of Texas.
For those feeling apprehensive, guided safety briefings are provided, allowing participants to choose their speed throughout the course.
The main package includes a three-hour adventure combining ziplining with rugged lakeshore hikes, along with complimentary bottled water.
The tour culminates with a thrilling ride on the 850-meter zipline, launching from a cliff 20 stories high.
38. Texas Military Forces Museum
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Within three galleries and a spacious great hall filled with military hardware, the Texas Military Forces Museum, located at Camp Mabry, chronicles the defense history of the Lone Star State.
The first two galleries mainly focus on the bloody 19th century, covering the origins of the Texas Militia, Texas Revolution, the Republic of Texas, Mexican War, Civil War, and all conflicts up to the end of World War I.
The third gallery brings visitors up to present day, showcasing a variety of artifacts including a collection of weapons, field equipment, battle dioramas, photographs, video footage, music, personal belongings, and interactive battle environments.
The Great Hall features heavy-duty military equipment, such as a Jeep, an Air Force mobile relay station, an M4 Sherman tank, helicopters (OH-23 and OH-58), and a WWII-era DUKW amphibious vehicle.
39. Pennybacker Bridge (Austin 360 Bridge)
This through-arch bridge spans a dammed segment of the Colorado River at Lake Austin, passing over the scenic Loop 360 highway.
Constructed in 1982, the Pennybacker Bridge boasts a timeless aesthetic, made from weathering steel designed to develop a rust-like patina that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can hike up the limestone bluffs located on the northern side of the river for unmatched views.
Overlooks on both sides of Loop 360 offer splendid views of the bridge, the river, the surrounding hill country, and segments of the Austin skyline.
Sunset visits provide especially picturesque vistas, but caution should be exercised on the stairs and at the top due to sheer drops.
40. Circuit of the Americas
The Circuit of the Americas, which opened in 2012, is the venue for prestigious racing events, including the Formula One United States Grand Prix, the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas, the IndyCar Classic, and many others. The circuit measures 5.5 kilometers with a unique one-kilometer straight and presents a remarkable challenge as it uniquely runs counter-clockwise.
The design prioritizes spectator views, evidenced by the 77-meter observation tower that boasts a double helix staircase.
Visitors can experience thrills on an Audi RS8 by participating in track days or embark on a guided tour tallying significant race points, including Turn 1 with its awe-inspiring views of the Central Texas landscape.
The Austin 360 Amphitheater on-site also hosts major performers, with famous acts like Kanye West and Metallica gracing its stage in recent years.
41. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Texas State Arboretum and Botanical Garden, located south-west of downtown Austin, requires a short drive through the stunning landscapes of the Texas Hill Country.
Founded by Lady Bird Johnson alongside actress Helen Hayes in 1982 and later relocated to its current expansive 42-acre site in 1995, the center nurtures over 970 species of native Texas flora.
The gardens are divided into more than 20 distinct areas, each focusing on unique themes and plant types, including sections dedicated to hummingbird plants, cacti, succulents, pond flora, Texas grasses, and discoveries by botanical experts.
Visitors can explore these diverse areas across four miles of trails, with free public tours departing daily at 10:00 am for those seeking expert insights.
For a tailored experience, check the center’s website for information on which plants are currently blooming, seeding, or fruiting, enhancing your visit.
42. Austin Nature & Science Center
This family-friendly activity, located free of charge on the western side of Zilker Park, organizes educational camps during holiday breaks, homeschool programs, and a range of additional activities.
Even if you are just visiting briefly, the center offers ample entertainment for younger visitors over the course of a few hours.
The outer area features a forest trail with informative signs that identify local tree species, a dinosaur dig site for fossil exploration, as well as terrariums, aquariums, and outdoor habitats for native animals that are unable to return to the wild.
Interactive fun is plentiful at the Naturalist Workshop, encouraging children to engage with fur, rocks, bones, plants,
