Walk or Bike Along Butler Trail
The Ann and Roy Butler Trail is a 10-mile path encircling Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. Dozens more miles of trails connect it to wonderful spots like Barton Springs or Pease Park - all without touching a road.
Catch Some Live Music
Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World! You can find live music options on any given night, including at mainstay venues like Antone’s, Continental Club and The Hole in the Wall. Check out Do512 and Showlist Austin for a few of the shows happening during your stay.
Go Two-Stepping at Broken Spoke
Founded 60 years ago and still operated by the original owner, Broken Spoke is one of the most revered dance halls in all of Texas. New to country dancing? Fear not: they offer free two-stepping lessons from 8-9 pm, Wednesday through Saturday.
Take a Dip in Natural Springs
Austin is known for its many natural water features, including the spring-fed pools of Deep Eddy and the renowned Barton Springs. Note these may cost a few bucks to enter.
Feeling adventurous? Hike along Barton Creek to the untampered swimming holes of Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls.
See the Bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge
From March to October, North America’s largest urban bat colony returns to Austin, emerging around sunset every day. At their peak in late summer, you can witness over 1.5 million bats taking flight!
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art
Located a few miles north of downtown on the University of Texas campus, the Blanton Museum is an artwork unto itself. You can find regularly rotating exhibits from notable artists.
Stroll Through Zilker Botanical Garden
Think Texas is all tumbleweeds? Think again! Zilker Botanical Garden showcases the best of the diverse flora that thrive in Austin.
Do a Free Tour of the Texas Capitol
The ornate, 140 year-old capitol building regularly offers free tours, outlining the fascinating history of the state of Texas. When you’re finished, the large Capitol Grounds has much more to offer, including 22 monuments.