Austin's vibrant culture, live music scene and creative energy continue to evolve every year. Whether you're visiting for the first time, or coming back for a fresh look at the city, you'll find new favorites alongside iconic classics. Here's your ultimate guide to the top things to do in Austin right now.
The White Horse. Credit Arts + Labor.
1. Catch Live Music All Over the City
Known as the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin's sound is everywhere, from intimate bars to sprawling outdoor stages.
- Catch a taping of the iconic Austin City Limits live music television show at ACL Live at the Moody Theater or an outdoor concert at Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park.
- Dance to country tunes at The White Horse or find your new favorite indie act at Mohawk and Empire Control Room.
- Vibe along to reggae beats at Flamingo Cantina or take part in Africa Night at Sahara Lounge, complete with global grooves and a free dinner buffet.
|Veracruz All Natural Breakfast Taco. Credit @burgerchild.
2. Eat Your Way Through Austin's Food Scene
Austin's culinary landscape is a delicious mix of old favorites and exciting newcombers. Don't leave the city without trying what we're most known for—barbecue and Tex-Mex. We're also known for our unique food trucks, which can be found all over town.
- Grab breakfast tacos from Veracruz All Natural or Juan in a Million
- Feast on legendary barbecue at Sam's Bar B Q or modern smoked meats at KG BBQ
- Experience flavors from across the Caribbean at the critically acclaimed Canje or indulge in fresh Mexican seafood at Este
- Vegan friends can get their fix at Bouldin Creek Cafe and Amy's Ice Creams makes for a perfect sweet treat
Courtesy of Meanwhile Brewing.
3. Enjoy a Cocktail, Craft brew or Local Wine
Austin's beverage scene is just as creative as its music and food, from bold craft beers to expertly mixed cocktails and Hill Country wines.
- Sip inventive cocktails at downtown speakeasies like Garage Bar and Small Victory, or sample agave forward cocktails at Suerte. Sample a selection of local spirits at dive bars like Mean Eyed Cat.
- Beer lovers can tour local breweries like Meanwhile Brewing, Austin Beerworks and Zilker Brewing Company, each offering laid-back vibes and rotating food trucks
- For a taste of the Texas Hill Country, take a short drive to Driftwood Estate Winery or Fall Creek Vineyards. You'll find several local wines available right here in Austin at wine bars like House Wine or local winery The Austin Winery.
Butler Hike & Bike Trail. Credit to Jeff Djayasaputra.
4. Get outdoors
Austin's sunny skies and natural beauty invite you to expend time outside year-round.
- Kayak, paddleboard or cruise along Lady Bird Lake
- Swim in the refreshing waters of Barton Springs Pool or hike the shaded trails of the Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Bike on dedicated trails like the Butler Hike and Bike Trail or the Veloway
- Explore parks and golf courses to have fun while getting some sun
Congress Avenue Bats. Credit JType Photography (@jtype).
5. See the Famous Congress Avenue Bats Take Flight
One of Austin's most iconic experiences happens just after sunset, and it's completely free. From March through October, around 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, filling the sky in a breathtaking nightly display. The best ways to watch the bats include:
- From the bridge: arrive about 30-45 minutes before sunset for a good spot on the east side of the bridge
- On the water: book a kayak, paddleboard or boat tour with Live Love Paddle or Capital Cruises for a unique view of the flight
- From the lawn: bring a blanket to the Statesman bat observation lawn for a relaxing bat viewing experience
Texas State Capitol Building. Credit David Aguilar.
6. Visit Iconic Film Locations Around Austin
Lights, camera, Austin! With its striking landscapes and eclectic neighborhoods, Austin has starred in countless movies and TV shows. Film fans can explore the city through some of its most famous filming locations.
- Walk through the Texas State Capitol, seen in movies like Miss Congeniality, Spy Kids, and The Rookie
- Grab a burger or fried chicken basket from Top Notch Hamburgers, the retro drive-in from Richard Linklater's Dazed and Confused
- Stroll South Congress and spot familiar scenes from Friday Night Lights and Death Proof
- Explore the UT Austin campus, a backdrop for films like Boyhood and Everybody Wants Some!!
Courtesy Blanton Museum of Art.
7. Visit Museums, Murals & Historic Sites
Feed your mind and Instagram feed at some of Austin's most interesting attractions.
- Marvel at outdoor sculptures at The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria or UMLAUF Sculpture Garden
- Walk the vibrant plaza at Blanton Museum of Art, featuring the stunning Ellsworth Kelly Austin installation
- Dive into local history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum and visit the LBJ Presidential Library
- Snap photos at iconic murals like "Greetings from Austin," "Your My Butter Half" and "i love you so much" or discover new street art in East Austin
Courtesy of AO Tours.
8. Take a City Tour
One of the best ways to explore Austin's personality is by letting a local guide show you the sights, Whether you're into history, food, art or outdoor adventures, there's a tour for every style.
- Hop on a guided city tour with AO Tours or Austin Detours to learn the stories behind Austin's most iconic landmarks
- Taste your way through town with a food tour from Austin Eats Food Tours or City Brew Tours, where you can sample tacos, barbecue and local brews
- Get spooky with a ghost tour downtown and hear tales of Austin's haunted past with Austin Ghost Tours
- Tour the city by foot with a Downtown Walking Tour or Black Austin Tours and learn about the city's history while you get your steps in
2ND Street District. Credit Inti St. Clair.
9. Shop Local & Find Hidden Gems
Support local artists, makers and boutiques across the city.
- Browse eclectic shops on South Congress Avenue and 2ND Street District
- Explore vintage treasures at Revival Vintage and Charm School Vintage
- Find curated gifts from talented local makers at Austin Visitor Center and Slow North
Hot Luck. Credit to Chad Wadsworth.
10. Experience Austin's Festival Spirit
There's always something happening in Austin, from one-of-a-kind events like a birthday party for Eeyore to music and food festivals that will create core memories.
- Celebrate film, music, comedy and technology at SXSW each spring.
- Dance in Zilker Park during Austin City Limits Music Festival every fall
- Savor chef-driven dishes and catch local performances at Hot Luck
- Celebrate Austin's beloved bats at Bat Fest each summer