The 10 best things to do in Austin, Texas

24.04.2024 - 16:49 / lonelyplanet.com

Austin has been slowly turning the heads of travelers for the last ten years. It first attracted folks with its quirky slogan of "Keep Austin Weird," and this was followed by music lovers who wanted to experience the live music capital of the world. Today, it draws people who love the city's outdoor offerings, want a Tex-Mex and barbecue foodie experience, or just simply want to have a good time.

No matter your reason for visiting Austin, we want you to experience the very best the city has to offer. We cover all the bases – art, music, hiking, and festivals. While you may not be able to do them all in one trip, we're sure that Austin would welcome you back with open arms time and time again.

When the city of Austin turned part of the Colorado River into a reservoir, the intention was to create a cooling pond for a power plant. Little did they know how the reservoir, named Lady Bird Lake, would become such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Lady Bird Lake is located just south of downtown Austin, and the 468-acre reservoir is a go-to destination for water sports enthusiasts. Expect to see kayakers, canoers, rowers and paddleboarders on the water every day of the week. Six watercraft rentals, like Zilker Park Boat Rentals and EpicSUP, are located along its shores, making it easy for visitors to rent a watercraft and get out there.

If canoeing and kayaking aren't your thing, you've still got options. Enjoy the serene views of the reservoir via the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and the many lakeside parks that it meanders through.

Planning tip: Experience Lady Bird Lake with someone else at the reins – Lone Star Riverboats offers sunset and bat-watching cruises, whereas Capital Cruises is a local go-to for dinner and lunch cruises. Austin Duck Adventures is a fun option that takes you on a land and water tour in a Hydra Terra vehicle, which is basically a vehicle that drives right into the reservoir and turns into a boat.

Rainey Street is a charming little district that cozies up to Lady Bird Lake and isn't too far from the Austin Convention Center. It is comprised of historic little bungalows that have been renovated and turned into bars like Half Step and Clive Bar and restaurants such as Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden and Emmer & Rye. Because of the neighborhood's compact size, it's easy to hop from place to place on foot. The lively district feels cozy thanks to the house-style bars – like you're having a drink in your friend's backyard.

Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre spring-fed pool in the city limits, is a truly natural wonder. Fed by four different springs, the average temperature of the water is 68-70°F, which means you can swim here year-round. The water is clear and