What’s fun for teens to do in Austin, Texas? We’ve got the scoop from the experts — local high school students! Read on for some ideas on the best activities for teens in a variety of areas of Austin.
About our contributing author, Sela Kime: Living in Austin for 10 years, I’ve had the chance to see my way around this great city. I am a high school senior at Acton Academy West, and a happy Austinite. After interviewing many of my friends, I have compiled a list of Austin’s best places and activities for teens.
10 Fun Things for Teens To Do in Austin
Zilker Park, photo by Sela Kime
— Zilker Park, The Trail, and The Picnic
In the center of Austin sits local food trucks, a big, beautiful park, and a 10-mile trail surrounding quiet Lady Bird Lake. All are great places to hang out with friends. The Picnic includes food truck favorites like Mighty Cone, Coat and Thai, and many more. Zilker Park is a great location for lounging about on a blanket or starting a pick-up game of frisbee, and the trail is a great place to run, walk, or bike with friends.
Barton Creek Square; photo by Sela Kime
— Barton Creek Square Mall
Strolling around the mall for a few hours is so much fun. Barton Creek Square is home to hundreds of places to go with friends. From the AMC theater to the Nordstrom Bistro, the mall has it all. Enjoy the food court, trendy clothing stores, toy stores, and kiosks.
South Congress Ave.; photo by Sela Kime
— South Congress Ave.
South Congress is one of the most interesting and fun parts of Austin. Play dress up at Lucy in Disguise; have great food at Home Slice, Hopdoddy Burgers, and more; and listen to live music as you stroll down the street. Additionally, the well-lit streets and friendly atmosphere make South Congress a safe place to be at night.
Lady Bird Lake, photo by Sela Kime
— Lady Bird Lake
Winding through downtown Austin, Lady Bird Lake is open all year long! Paddleboard and kayak with friends at a great price. Play some music, head out to Redbud Isle, and bring snacks because there is no place like beautiful Lady Bird Lake.
The Domain, photo by Sela Kime
— The Domain
Just 15 minutes north of downtown Austin sits The Domain, like a little town in itself. From luxury to casual shops, great restaurants, and beautiful apartments lining your view, The Domain is the perfect place to hang around with friends. The Domain has something for everyone.
Downtown Austin; photo by Sela Kime
— Downtown Austin
Walking through downtown Austin, there are many places to eat, shop, and play around. For glow-in-the-dark bowling and other activities head over to UT Union Underground. If you’re looking for great food and ice cream there is the Seaholm Plaza and the Fareground. Another favorite downtown location is upper W. 6th Street near Swedish Hill, LuluLemon, Waterloo Records, and more.
Barton Springs Pool; photo by Sela Kime
— Barton Springs Pool
On the grounds of Zilker Park sits an outdoor pool filled with water from nearby natural springs. Barton Springs is open all year long with an average temperature of 70°F. There is a lot of space around the pool to read a book, chat with friends, or just enjoy the fresh air.
Central Market – North Lamar location; photo by Sela Kime
— North Lamar Central Market
This may surprise some parents, but Central Market is a super fun place to hang out with others. Mix and match your favorite foods, talk with friends in the dining area, play a massive playground game of tag, and dance along to the live music. Central Market is a safe location with hours of entertainment.
Austin Bouldering Project; photo by Sela Kime
— Austin Bouldering Project
Austin Bouldering Project (ABP for short) is the ultimate location for athletic teens. Buy a day pass and get ready for adventure. ABP’s massive rock climbing walls are equipped for various skill levels. In addition, ABP has a full gym including weights, cardio machines, and yoga mats.
Thrift Store Shopping; photo by Sela Kime
— Thrifting
With a lot of college students downtown and ‘keep Austin weird’ as the motto, thrifting in Austin is an adventure. You can find thrift stores everywhere. Some crowd favorites include Treasure City, Pavement, and Goodwill. Bring friends along, too, because more friends means more eyes to discover great finds.
Where do your teens love to hang out?
Feel free to email us any additional ideas at [email protected].
