Top 10 Things to Do in Austin, Texas

Austin, the capital of Texas, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, live music, or delicious food, you will find it in Austin. In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in this amazing city, from kayaking on Lady Bird Lake to learning about the history of the Lone Star State at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Read on to discover why Austin is one of the most popular destinations in the United States.

Visit the Lady Bird Lake

What is it?
A reservoir on the Colorado River that runs through the heart of Austin. It was created in 1960 as a cooling pond for a power plant and was later renamed after former First Lady Claudia Alta "Lady Bird" Johnson, who was instrumental in beautifying the lakefront.

Why should you go?
Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, such as kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, biking, and hiking. You can enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline and the surrounding nature, as well as spot some wildlife like turtles, fish, and birds.

Explore the Bullock Texas State History Museum

What is it?
A museum dedicated to telling the story of Texas, from its prehistoric origins to its present-day culture and identity. It features three floors of interactive exhibits, artifacts, films, and displays that showcase the rich and diverse history of the Lone Star State.

Why should you go?
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and people of Texas. You can discover how Texas became an independent republic, how it joined the United States, how it fought in wars and conflicts, how it developed its economy and industry, how it influenced music and art, and how it shaped its identity and values. You can also watch an IMAX film or a 4D theater show that will immerse you in the Texas experience.

Catch a live music show

What is it?
Austin is known as the "‎Live Music Capital of the World"‎ because of its vibrant and diverse music scene. It hosts hundreds of live music venues that feature local and international artists from various genres, such as rock, blues, country, folk, jazz, hip hop, and more.

Why should you go?
Catching a live music show in Austin is a must-do for any music lover. You can enjoy the energy and atmosphere of a live performance, discover new and talented musicians, and dance and sing along with the crowd. You can also attend some of the famous music festivals that take place in Austin throughout the year, such as South by Southwest, Austin City Limits, and Fun Fun Fun Fest.

Enjoy some delicious barbecue

What is it?
A style of cooking meat that involves slow-smoking it over wood or charcoal and a staple of Texas cuisine and culture.

Why should you go?
Enjoying some delicious barbecue in Austin is a treat for your taste buds. You can savor the smoky and savory flavors of brisket, ribs, sausage, chicken, turkey, and more. You can also try some of the traditional sides that accompany barbecue, such as coleslaw, potato salad, beans, cornbread, and pickles. Make sure to try the top-rated and popular barbecue restaurants in Austin, like Franklin Barbecue, Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, and Interstellar BBQ.

Visit the Zilker Botanical Garden

What is it?
A 26-acre garden that features various themed gardens that showcase different plants and flowers from around the world. It is located within Zilker Park, which is also home to other attractions such as Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Hillside Theater, and Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Zilker Botanical Garden is a relaxing and refreshing way to enjoy nature and beauty. You can stroll through the gardens and admire the colorful and fragrant blooms of roses, orchids, lilies, cacti, succulents, herbs, and more. You can also learn about the history and culture of different regions through their plants, such as Japan, China, Mexico, Central America, and Texas.

See the bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge

What is it?
The Congress Avenue Bridge is a bridge that crosses Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. It is also known as the Bat Bridge because it hosts the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every night from March to October, about 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the bridge at dusk to feed on insects.

Why should you go?
Seeing the bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge is a unique and spectacular sight that attracts thousands of visitors every year. You can watch the bats fly out in a massive swarm that creates a dark cloud in the sky. You can also hear their echolocation sounds and smell their distinctive odor. You can also learn more about bats and their importance to the ecosystem and the economy from the educational signs and volunteers that are present at the bridge.

Shop at South Congress Avenue

What is it?
A trendy and eclectic street that runs south from the Texas State Capitol. It is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, galleries, and music venues that cater to different tastes and interests.

Why should you go?
Shopping at South Congress Avenue is a fun and exciting way to explore the local culture and creativity of Austin. You can find unique and quirky items, such as vintage clothing, antiques, art, books, records, jewelry, and more. You can also enjoy some of the best food and drinks in town, such as tacos, pizza, burgers, coffee, cocktails, and ice cream. You can also catch some live music and street performances that showcase the talent and diversity of Austin.

Experience the nightlife at Sixth Street

What is it?
A historic and lively street that runs east-west through downtown Austin. It is known for its nightlife scene, which features dozens of bars, clubs, pubs, and live music venues that offer entertainment for every mood and occasion.

Why should you go?
To have fun and socialize in Austin. You can party and dance the night away at some of the hottest spots in town, such as Maggie Mae's, The Blind Pig Pub, The Driskill Bar, and The Parish. You can also enjoy some of the best music in town, ranging from rock, blues, country, jazz, hip hop, and more. You can also meet some of the friendly and outgoing locals and visitors that make Austin a welcoming and vibrant city.

Visit the Texas State Capitol

What is it?
The seat of government for the state of Texas. It is a majestic and impressive building that was completed in 1888. It is made of pink granite and stands 308 feet tall, making it taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. It houses the offices of the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the legislators, as well as the chambers of the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.

Why should you go?
To learn about the history, politics, and culture of Texas. You can take a free guided tour that will show you around the building and tell you about its architecture, art, symbols, and stories. You can also explore the grounds and gardens that feature statues, monuments, fountains, and trees. You can also witness democracy in action by attending a legislative session or a committee hearing when they are in session.

Relax at Barton Springs Pool

What is it?
A natural spring-fed pool that is located within Zilker Park and one of the most popular attractions in Austin because of its clear and cool water that maintains a constant temperature of about 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. It covers an area of three acres and has a depth of up to 18 feet.

Why should you go?
Relaxing at Barton Springs Pool is a refreshing and invigorating way to beat the heat and enjoy nature in Austin. You can swim, sunbathe, picnic, or play at this beautiful oasis that is surrounded by greenery and wildlife. You can also admire the views of the downtown skyline and the hills from the pool. You can also learn about the history and ecology of the pool from the signs and exhibits that are available.

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