Everyone loves a good three-day weekend. But what makes Labor Day (Monday, September 1, 2025) so special is the celebration of American workers who have contributed to the strength and prosperity of our country. If you're planning to spend your Labor Day Weekend in Austin, here are some great ideas for things to do.
Barton Springs Pool.
Austin’s Top Labor Day Weekend Activities
Outdoor Activities
Catch a glimpse of Austin’s iconic Congress Avenue Bridge Bats before they’re gone for the season. Grab a viewing spot early as these beloved creatures exit their nests beneath the bridge each night at dusk. Take a hike in Austin’s Barton Creek Greenbelt with multiple access points and miles of trails to explore.
Water Activities
Austin is full of cooling summertime oases perfect for cooling off this Labor Day weekend. Barton Springs Pool and Deep Eddy Pool are Austin’s most popular swimming holes. Take a dip in the cool, spring-fed waters or relax on the grassy banks surrounding the water. Paddle through Downtown Austin on Lady Bird Lake. Paddleboard, kayak and canoe rentals can be found at multiple spots along the edge of the lake. Participate in the beloved Texas pastime of tubing down one of the many nearby rivers. Enjoy a leisurely float down the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers near New Braunfels or hop on the San Marcos River located in San Marcos, all just a short drive south of Austin.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re planning a family getaway for Labor Day, you’ll find plenty of things to do that all ages will enjoy. Play a round or two at Peter Pan Mini Golf, an old-school putt-putt spot in South Austin. Take a break from the heat and check out some of Austin’s best museums. The Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Texas Science & Natural History Museum have informative and interactive exhibits that will keep everyone entertained. Little ones will enjoy the hands-on activities and play stations at the Thinkery, an interactive children’s museum. Take a break from the heat and check out some of Austin’s best museums.
Courtesy of Still Austin Whiskey.
Where to Eat & Drink over Labor Day Weekend in Austin
BBQ
Is it even Labor Day Weekend without barbecue? Dig into a hearty plate of smoked meats and succulent sides at Micklethwait Craft Meats in East Austin. Try the classic meats and unconventional sides like house-made kimchi at LeRoy & Lewis. The meat is worth the wait at iconic Franklin Barbecue. Brave the line outside at iconic Franklin Barbecue, or for something more low-key try Moreno Barbecue in South Austin.
Patio Dining
Labor Day Weekend is all about spending time with friends and family, while surrounded by great food and fabulous music. Soak in the views over Lake Austin from Hula Hut's patio, a tiki-inspired restaurant serving up delicious Polynesian-meets-Mexican food and refreshing libations. Cool down on the bright and floral patio at Verbena on West 6th Street. The restaurant delivers a menu reminiscent of old-world farm-to-table fare, artfully composed in a modern presentation. Spend a waning afternoon of late summer on the patio at Pool Burger, a tiki bar just off the shores of Lady Bird Lake.
Brunch
Labor Day is the perfect time to check out some great brunch spots around Austin! Catch up with friends over a Texas-sized cinnamon bun at Banger’s Sausage House, or indulge in a plate of gorditas rancheras and a michelada from El Alma, Austin doesn’t disappoint when it comes to providing local, delicious brunches every weekend.
Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
Enjoy the long weekend with a cold beverage in hand from one of Austin’s many local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Take a tour or sample the spirits at Still Austin Whiskey, a local distillery sourcing and aging their barrels right here in Texas. Austin Beerworks taproom features a long list of their classics as well as limited-time exclusive and seasonal brews. Head to the C.L. Butaud tasting room to try top-rated wines using 100% Texas grapes. Looking to head to the Hill Country for the gorgeous views? Vista Brewing has a wide selection of IPAs, pilsners and lagers, along with live music in the large backyard, and William Chris Vineyard has highly-awarded wines and gorgeous grounds to explore.
Paramount Theater. Credit to Rachel Parker.
Austin’s Labor Day Weekend Events
No matter your interests, Austin always has a packed event calendar. Catch a classic film at the historic Paramount Theater downtown during the Paramount Summer Classic Film Series. Showing everything from Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 blockbuster Psycho to the popular 90s rom-com You’ve Got Mail. The Front Festival is an end-of-summer celebration that brings together independent musicians, film and art across four days of fun. Hosted annually on Labor Day, Free Day of Yoga is just what it sounds like. Join a class at a participating studio or find one of the several pop-up events across the city. While you’re in town, catch a match at Q2 Stadium. The Austin FC takes on the San Jose Quakes on Saturday night in North Austin.
To find more Labor Day weekend events, visit our events calendar.
Plan Your Labor Day Weekend in Austin
However you plan to spend your Labor Day weekend in Austin, there are plenty of places to stay all over the city. Explore Visit Austin’s Insider Deals offerings to find the latest hotel deals featuring everything from a percentage of your stay to complimentary dining credits when you book.
