From music to sports, Austin has something for everyone when it comes to leisure activities. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or just want to spend an afternoon exploring, Austin has plenty of options for you to explore. Here are some of the city’s most popular activities to try out!
- Live Music Venues
- Sports Venues
- Indoor Activities
- Outdoor Activities
- Festivals and Events
- Culinary Scene
- Shopping
- Nightlife
1. Live Music Venues
Austin is a city that lives and breathes music, and the live music venues here are simply unparalleled. There is something for everyone, whether you want to experience a classic dive bar, a local rock venue, or a larger arena. From blues and rock to jazz and country, the music scene in Austin is incredibly diverse and vibrant.
If you’re looking to attend a live show, 6th Street is the area to go. Here, you’ll find a stretch of bars and venues that are home to some of the city’s most popular acts. You can also find some of the best local music in venues on South Congress, East Austin, and the Red River Cultural District.
For a more intimate experience, check out some of the city’s smaller venues such as The White Horse, The Continental Club, and the Saxon Pub. These venues are great for discovering new music, and they often host some of the most exciting up-and-coming artists from around the city.
If you’re looking for something bigger, Austin also has plenty of large arenas like Stubb’s and ACL Live. These venues host some of the biggest musical acts in the world, and they are the perfect place to catch an amazing show.
No matter what kind of music you’re into, Austin has something for you. From dive bars to big arenas, you can find a variety of musical styles and genres to enjoy. So grab your friends and head out to enjoy some live music in the Live Music Capital of the World.
2. Sports Venues
If you’re a sports fan, you won’t be disappointed by the variety of sports venues in Austin. The city is home to the University of Texas Longhorns, and their football, baseball, and basketball teams play at the Darrell K Royal Stadium, UFCU Disch-Falk Field, and Frank Erwin Center, respectively. The Frank Erwin Center also hosts the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs for one game each season.
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, Austin also has a number of smaller venues. The Dell Diamond, home of the Round Rock Express, allows for a more up-close-and-personal baseball experience. The Austin Spurs, the NBA G League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs, play at H-E-B Center at Cedar Park and provide an affordable way to watch some high-level basketball. The Circuit of the Americas is located just outside of Austin and provides a world-class venue for events such as Formula 1 and MotoGP.
Whether you’re a fan of pro sports, college sports, or motorsports, Austin has something for you. The city’s sports venues provide plenty of opportunities to catch a game or two with friends, and you can even explore some of the city’s unique venues with their own quirks and charms. So head out and explore Austin’s diverse leisure scene – there’s something for everyone!
3. Indoor Activities
Austin offers many ways to explore indoors – from bowling to art museums. If you’re a fan of classic entertainment, then you can head to a bowling alley, like Highball or Dart Bowl, for a night of fun. Both feature vintage-style lanes, and you can even rent their shoes and bowling balls if you don’t have your own. If you’re looking for an even more unique experience, you can visit Pinballz Arcade, which offers over 100 classic and modern pinball machines.
For a more thought-provoking experience, you can check out some of Austin’s museums. The Blanton Museum of Art, located on the University of Texas campus, houses over 17,000 works of art and is free to visit. Meanwhile, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s unique history. If you’re looking for something a bit more offbeat, you can visit the Museum of the Weird, which features oddities and artifacts from around the world.
If you’re in the mood for a movie, Austin has plenty of theaters to choose from. The Alamo Drafthouse offers a unique experience with its signature food and drink menu, and you can even order from your table while watching the film. The Paramount Theater is a historic landmark that hosts a variety of events, from silent movie screenings to live music.
From bowling to art museums to movie theaters, Austin has a variety of options for indoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a night of entertainment or a day of exploration, you can find something to do indoors in Austin.
4. Outdoor Activities
Austin is one of the best cities in the United States for outdoor activities. With its abundant sunshine, mild winters, and easy access to nature, it offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors. From hiking and biking in the hills around the city to swimming and kayaking in the nearby lakes, Austin has something for everyone.
The city also has plenty of parks and green spaces for leisurely strolls and picnics. Take a walk through Zilker Park, a 350-acre expanse of nature situated on the south shore of Lady Bird Lake, or bike through the 10-mile long Barton Creek Greenbelt. Both of these parks offer a wealth of activities, from kayaking to beach volleyball.
For those who enjoy a more relaxed outdoor experience, Austin has plenty of options. Explore the city’s many public gardens, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and take in the beauty of the city’s lush green spaces. Or, visit the Austin Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with some of the city’s most exotic animals.
No matter what your outdoor activity preference, Austin has something to offer. From sports to nature walks, the city has something to suit every outdoor enthusiast. So, take a break and explore the outdoors in Austin. You won’t be disappointed.
5. Festivals and Events
Austin is known for its vibrant culture and lively events, and the festivals and events are no exception. From the Pecan Street Festival in May, to SXSW in March, to the Austin City Limits Music Festival in October, there is an abundance of events to choose from throughout the year. Even more, Austin is home to a variety of cultural events, such as the East Austin Cultural Heritage Fest, and diverse celebrations, such as the Austin Pride Festival.
For those looking to try something a little different, there are also unique events to check out. From the Austin Book Festival to the Zilker Kite Festival, the city is full of creative and unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
And if you’re looking for something to do with the kids, Austin has plenty of family-friendly events. From the Austin Children’s Museum to the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, there are plenty of activities that the whole family can enjoy together.
Austin is sure to keep you entertained all year round, no matter what type of leisure activity you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking to get involved in the music scene, explore the city’s cultural offerings, or just have some fun with the family, there are plenty of festivals and events to choose from. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests and makes your stay in Austin unforgettable.
6. Culinary Scene
Austin’s culinary scene is a diverse one, with something to please every palate. Whether you’re looking for a farm-to-table experience or a casual food truck lunch, the city has hundreds of options. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, from upscale eateries to cozy cafes. For those looking for a taste of Austin’s unique culture, there are plenty of locally-owned restaurants to choose from.
The city is also home to an eclectic food truck culture. You can find everything from classic BBQ to vegan options at food truck parks and local events. If you’re looking to try something unique and adventurous, Austin is home to a variety of cuisines from around the world. There are also plenty of food festivals throughout the year, such as the Hot Luck Festival and the Austin Food and Wine Festival, as well as food tours that will take you to some of the city’s best eateries.
For those looking to explore Austin’s culinary scene, there are plenty of options. Whether you’re looking for an upscale experience or a casual meal, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. From farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks, you can find a variety of cuisines to explore in the city. So, if you’re looking for something new and exciting to do, consider exploring Austin’s culinary scene.
7. Shopping
- Unique boutiques and malls Austin has plenty of places to shop. From funky boutiques to big malls, there’s something for everyone in the city’s shopping scene. For those looking for something unique and off the beaten path, many of the funky boutiques located in Austin’s downtown area offer a variety of items ranging from vintage clothing to handmade items. For those looking for something more mainstream, there are lots of great malls and shopping centers located throughout the city, such as the Domain and the Arbor Walk, both of which have a wide array of stores and restaurants to explore.
- Local markets and shops Austin also has plenty of local markets and shops to explore. From the iconic South Congress Avenue to the trendy East Austin area, the city is full of unique shops and markets where you can find great items at reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking for local art, handmade jewelry, or vintage clothing, there are plenty of great places to look for what you’re looking for. Plus, you can often find some amazing deals at these local markets.
- Fun shopping experiences Shopping in Austin isn’t just about finding great items – it’s also about having a great experience. From the lively atmosphere of the South Congress Avenue to the more laid back vibes of the local markets, Austin offers plenty of fun shopping experiences. Plus, there are lots of great restaurants and bars located around the city that you can check out after you’ve finished shopping, making it a great way to spend the day.
8. Nightlife
- Vibrant nightlife in Austin Austin is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. From rooftop bars to dance clubs, there’s plenty of places to explore after dark in the city. Popular nightlife hotspots include Rainey Street, a historic entertainment district full of lively bars and clubs, and 6th Street, where you can find some of the best live music in the city. For a more laid-back experience, grab a seat at one of the city’s many rooftop bars and enjoy a stunning view of the skyline’ No matter what type of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Austin has something to offer!
- Unique entertainment experiences If you’re looking for something a bit different, Austin has plenty of unique entertainment experiences to offer. Take a stroll down South Congress Avenue, where you’ll find plenty of quirky shops and restaurants. Or, check out some of the city’s art galleries and museums to explore the local culture. For a truly unique experience, head to the underground speakeasy The Roosevelt Room and enjoy a craft cocktail in a vintage-inspired atmosphere.
- Live music venues Live music is a big part of Austin’s nightlife scene. There are plenty of venues to explore, from small bars and clubs to large amphitheaters. Popular venues include The Mohawk, where you can catch up-and-coming indie acts, and Stubb!s BBQ, where you can enjoy some of the best live music in the city. No matter what type of music you’re into, Austin has something for everyone.
