The 25 best things to do in Austin right now

What is it? The nightly flight of 1.5 million bats that live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Trust us, there’s a reason it’s always highly recommended. 

Why go? There are no true words to express the utter magic that comes from seeing the seemingly endless waves of bats fly across the sky. Once the sunset aligns with their nightly routine to flyout to feed, grab a spot on top of the bridge, along the hike and bike, or hop in a kayak and paddle under the bridge for a closer look. Each August, Bat Fest celebrates the little vampires (though these guys mostly just eat bugs) with food, drink, bands and other entertainment spanning the length of the bridge.

Time Out tip: For a better chance of seeing the bats, check the Austin Bat Refuge for a predicted flight time with a record of the previous night’s flight.

What is it? Zilker Park’s crown jewel, this legendary natural pool is filled with fresh water from nearby springs.

Why go? Austin gets hot, and sometimes you need to cool off. Lounge on the grassy areas before diving into the cool spring water (the pool reaches depths of 18 feet in some spots). Barton Springs has played host to generations of Austinites and an endangered little guy called the Barton Springs salamander. The “Splash! into the Edwards Aquifer” exhibit, which has been relocated from the Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center to the pool’s main entrance, teaches guests about the history and biology of the springs.

Time Out tip: Go early or go late for free entrance! While the lifeguards are not on duty in the early morning free swim hours of 5 to 8am, the last evening hour of operation is also free and still has lifeguards on site after 9 until 10pm.

What is it? A massive congregation of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and various floaties at the point where Barton Creek flows into Ladybird Lake.

Why go? Floating on Ladybird Lake or Barton Creek is a timeless tradition, but a new one has recently emerged to create a party on the water. No invitation is required to this man-made party island, as people simply show up and form a mass of hangouts and connections while standing above a shallow point in the waters.

Time Out tip: Not a fan of huge crowds? While the party goes hard on the weekend, weekday hangs still happen with far fewer people, which can be an easier introduction for those less extroverted.

Where is this? Just outside of the city limits are charming touristy towns like Wimberly, San Marcos, New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. 

Why go? All within an easy one-to-three-hour drive on country roads in the expansive Texas Hill Country, these day trips add to the Texan flavor of any trip to Austin. From the wineries and charming Tex-German restaurants in Fredericksburg to floating in the crystal clear blue waters of San Marcos and New Braunfels, there’s far more to Central Texas than the capital.

Time Out tip: To get more out of the drive, consider turning off highways on your preferred map app and using backroads to get where you’re going. Especially anywhere off of I-35, the country roads are well worth it to avoid the highway’s never-ending construction and round-the-clock traffic.

What is it? Encircling Lady Bird Lake at the center of Austin, the trail offers one of best hikes in Austin.

Why go? The 10-mile trail is a hub for bikers, runners and hikers. Every day, thousands ride, jog and amble over the landscaped bridges and under the iconic statue of legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan as they make their way around the circuit. The route offers outstanding views of the Austin city skyline, links to other city trails like Shoal Creek and Waterloo Greenway, as well as the neighboring Zilker Park. Rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard to cool down afterward.

Time Out tip: Park under the Mopac bridge in Zilker for the benefit of a shaded car, a return point at one of the circuits and a quick walk to Deep Eddy Pool for a cooldown.

What is it? This is exactly what its name literally implies: a bingo-lined chicken coop and some feed to get things moving. Wherever the chicken does its business, that number wins. 

Why go? The Little Longhorn Saloon claims to have cracked the concept over 40 years ago and continues to host what has long been seen as a prime example of Austin’s iconic “weirdness.” Only on Sunday nights (fitting as the bar is a former church, complete with a steeple) is this quintessential for anyone looking to truly experience Austin at its weirdest and walk away with some cash thanks to a well fed chicken.

Time Out tip: Want to eat somewhere nice before bingo? A quick walk away is the Peached Tortilla, a new classic cooking South Asian fusion that continues to be beloved by local diners. 

What is it? Born out of a push to save the natural landscapes around the city, this collection of wild trails encircle Austin and offers direct access to creeks, hikes and rock walls within city limits.

Why go? While many other cities can only offer urban garden-like parks or hour-plus drives out into nature, Austin keeps the connection within walking distance of its urban center. The Greenbelt comes alive when the water table surges to provide miles of swimmable and clear waters, but during the drier months, it is a network of creek beds in valleys that feel worlds away while only being a minute’s drive from anywhere in town.

Time Out tip: The Spyglass entrance to the Barton Creek Greenbelt comes with a Tacodeli, providing a savory solution to post-hike hunger.

What is it? An Austin institution since 1977, Allen’s Boots has been selling premium leather footwear to tourists and locals alike for decades.

Why go? Head to the original location on South Congress to find what you need. Turquoise women’s boots? Got ’em. Black studded men’s boots? Allen’s has those, too. Spend an afternoon trying them all before landing on the perfect pair, then hit up the rest of South Congress’s popular shopping district.

Time Out tip: Want to be boot steps away from early access to South Congress? Allen’s Boots offers a unique Airbnb directly above their iconic shop for those wanting to stay in the heart of the shopping district.

What is it? Standing 14 feet taller than the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., this Renaissance revival landmark is impossible to miss.

Why go? You’ll confirm that everything is bigger in Texas. Wander around on the immaculate terrazzo floors and gaze at the star-crested rotunda. Or, if you’re after a deeper understanding of the place, join one of the many official tours of the building, from a basic half-hour introduction to themed tours about heroes of the Texas Revolution and women in Texas history.

Time Out tip: For a taste of local history and a chance to see a politician outside of the capitol, grab a post tour drink at the nearby dive bar, the Cloak Room. Notorious for various famous Texans coming over for a post legislation drink, this bar continues to play a secretive part of the state’s political landscape.

What is it? Located in Southeast Austin, an oasis of two waterfall-filled natural pools offers refuge from the nearly year-round heat.

Why go? The serenity of swimming to the waterfalls in the cypress tree-lined pools alone is worth the $6 admission. As an added bonus, the campsites provide an affordable escape while only being twenty minutes from downtown.

Time Out tip: While it likely sounds best as a summer outing to beat the heat, absolutely plan a visit during the spring to see the various fields of blooming bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush wildflowers.

What is it? Broadcasting long before Austin was trendy, PBS showcases a variety of artists on national TV with a year-round calendar of performances.

Why go? Now with two stages, one at the Moody Theater downtown and the other a bit more intimate at 3TEN, there’s double the chance of catching a taping of the iconic show. Moody mainly shows off current stars, but you can get ahead of the music curve and see rising or local bands at 3TEN before they get big.

Time Out tip: Parking stress can be real when it comes to anything downtown, or around town, but if your show is on a Sunday, street parking is free all day, and on Monday and Tuesday it’s free after 6pm.

What is it? An ATX institution. The massive park is a playground for outdoor activities and is home to annual events like the ACL Festival and Blues on the Green.

Why go? Stroll the stunning Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Zilker Botanical Gardens, rent a canoe or kayak the tranquil waterways of Lady Bird Lake and cool off in the Barton Springs Pool. Or bring a cooler stuffed with all your faves for a leisurely picnic in the park.

Time Out tip: From the free-to-enter Austin Nature & Science Center, you can take a short hike uphill to the Zilker Lookout Point for an unreal view of the skyline from inside the park (an alternative to the more popular Lou Neff Point nearby).

What is it? On the north side of the UT Tower, there’s a collection of ponds home to the campus’s unofficial mascot.

Why go? A free and sporadic reason to explore the historic center of UT’s campus, these turtles are the perfect touch of Austin’s “weird.” Relax and watch the collection of a few dozen different species of turtles as they swim and run around their lush grounds with the old greenhouse in the background and the looming tower above.

Time Out tip: If you’re good with your timing, park at the Co-op garage and buy something at the school store to get 2 hours of free parking—enough time to explore the campus. It’s a great way to get a souvenir and save on parking.

What is it? This classic, colorful spot for mini-golf has been a family fun staple since 1948.

Why go? The course, located south of the river near Zilker Park, features handcrafted sculptures of various animals, a giant T. Rex, a Chuck Taylor-inspired shoe and, of course, Peter himself. The kids will love it, and it’s a grand time for adults, too, especially considering there’s a BYOB policy.

Time Out tip: Skip sweating it out in the sun and come for a round or two after sunset as Peter Pan doesn’t close until 11pm. Even better, you can grab a post-golf burger any time of the night from P. Terry’s and grab a pre or post drink from the Barton Springs Saloon, both a block away.

What is it? A modern architectural gem with a soaring central lobby and an expansive rooftop garden.

Why go? Beyond the sake of access to a literal library of books, the impressive architecture of the crisscrossing sky bridges and the rooftop garden with views of downtown and Ladybird Lake are more than enough reasons to pop in. Stay a while and check out the trail along Shoal Creek or get a pic on the butterfly bridge as both are right by the Library.

Time Out tip: The library has a garage, but for a free/cheaper spot, park at the Trader Joe’s garage first and simply grab a snack from the grocer for two hours of validated parking after your purchase.

What is it? Austin’s local Major League Soccer team with a stadium by the Domain, a neighborhood-like shopping center.

Why go? While longtime local fans of Los Verdes, as they’re lovingly called, already know this, the energy at Q2 Stadium is electric. The local support group encourages even those completely unfamiliar with the sport to consider purchasing season tickets, just to experience the chants, the towering signs and the overall unforgettable good times had in the stands.

Time Out tip: Staying downtown or have no interest in the Domain? Skip driving up to the stadium and take the Metrorail from downtown or East Austin directly to it for a traffic-free ride and return to the lively nightlife around Plaza Saltillo and downtown after the game. 

What is it? Desert Door Distillery is the country’s first and only distillery producing sotol, an herbaceous and slightly floral spirit made from the desert spoon plant native to West Texas.

Why go? It’s a unique spirit deeply rooted in Native American history and culture. Visit the distillery for tours and tastes, then stick around for cocktails in the stylish tasting room with comfy couches, a fireplace and regional art.

Time Out tip: Enjoy the various other distilleries, breweries and wineries nearby without having to drive by booking a private tour with Texas Tipsy Tours, and relax as you indulge in multiple samples.

What is it?  Inside this beloved and historic park is the latest woodwork by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.

Why go? The celebrated Danish artist Thomas Dambo has added to the growing collection of interactive sculptural elements like the all-ages Treehouse with his troll sculpture, Malin. Offering a calming presence to an already peaceful park, the reclaimed sculpture is the newest addition to the park’s history of blending conservation with culture.

Time Out tip: From downtown, skip the hassle of park parking and take the Shoal Creek trail running through the heart of the city directly into Pease Park instead.

What is it? Franklin Barbecue produces some of the best brisket in Texas, and the line forms early at this lunch-only spot.

Why go? James Beard award-winner Aaron Franklin seasons and smokes his brisket to juicy perfection. It’s so good that people queue up and wait over four hours for a taste. The line has become an experience in itself, as hungry patrons arrive early in the morning with chairs, drinks and a willingness to chat with strangers.

Time Out tip: For those absolutely uninterested in waiting in line but still want to taste what Franklin is capable of, try the asian barbeque fusion found at Loro instead.

What is it? Located in Covert Park, Mount Bonnell is one of the top hikes in Austin, offering spectacular views of the city and Lake Austin from the summit.

Why go? The ascent to the 775-foot peak (believed to be along an old Native American trail) consists of 102 concrete steps and will usually take between 15 and 20 minutes. Most evenings, you’ll find groups of chatty locals toasting the sunset up here, but don’t forget your bug spray—the mosquitoes enjoy the show just as much as you will.

Time Out tip: Everyone loves a sunset, and it’s evident here as it draws the crowds. Set an early alarm and enjoy the sunrise from up here instead for a chance to take in the view with hardly anyone around.

What is it? The Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ) Library and Museum is one of the most spectacular of the country’s presidential libraries.

Why go? Located on a 30-acre site within the UT campus, the stately building contains a mind-boggling collection of historical artifacts from the 1960s and ’70s, including 45 million pages of documents and 643 hours of the former president’s recorded telephone conversations. The permanent exhibits range from an in-depth study of the Vietnam conflict to “Humor and the Presidency,” a celebration of LBJ’s lighter side featuring a life-size animatronic model of the notorious joke teller himself.

Time Out tip: For a post museum meal, go across I-35 and get on Manor for miles of worthwhile dining spots like Salty Sow, Este, Haymaker, Patrizi’s and more.

What is it? Since 1955, it has been one of Austin’s most famed live music venues.

Why go? Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds at the Continental Club. This iconic spot has been home to performances from the likes of Double Trouble, Paul Ray and the Cobras, Robert Plant, Wanda Jackson and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons. Always packed, the 200-capacity space is the spot for intimate, electric evenings.

Time Out tip: Keep your finger on the pulse of this club, as it continues to be a go-to for surprise/secret shows. Jack White, the Killers, and other giants in the music scene have made sudden appearances at the Continental, and usually, it is first-come, first-served.

What is it? As the storefront suggests, the Little Gay Shop sells art, apparel, books, magazines and more exclusively from LGBTQ+ artists.

Why go? Austin has famously been a safe space for the queer community in Texas, where y’all truly means y’all. If you’re going to get a quirky souvenir or cheeky gift, this is where you can get it. The owners believe in making art accessible to all, and you’ll also find both original and limited prints at exceptional prices.

Time Out tip: For a pre- or post-shopping coffee, go around the corner to Dear Diary for a rare coffee shop that doesn’t charge extra for milk alternatives and provides a comfy space to crack into a new book. 

What is it? This stunning natural pool is located in Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and is easily accessible from downtown.

Why go? Nature lovers will adore the Preserve, one of Austin’s best parks and a protected area for rare birds and wildlife. There are hiking trails and picnic tables, but the most popular attraction is Hamilton Pool. It’s a natural pool created thousands of years ago when the ceiling of an underground river collapsed. Take note: There is an entrance fee, reservations are required and occasionally bacteria levels make swimming impossible.

Time Out tip: Book your reservation early. Access to the pool tends to sell out quickly once the season opens, so if you know you want to, get that pass as soon as possible.

What is it? All year round, festivals and unique-to-Austin events keep the good times rolling.

Why go? From the majors like ACL and SXSW to mini golf bar crawls, there’s a wide variety of events taking place that’ll have you asking “ should I move here?”.

Time Out tip: Want to go for free? Volunteer! Several of these events offer a means to gain entry for free in exchange for your time as a volunteer, and often provide opportunities to enjoy the festivities before and after your shift actively.