Whether you’ve been in Austin forever, or are new to the city, it’s always exciting to explore it anew while showing friends and family around. Whether you’re into hiking, dining, shopping, or adventuring, there’s something for everyone in ATX. Check out our roundup below of Where to Take Out-of-Town Guests in Austin. For special events going on right now, check our Family Calendar for markets, theater performances, and more.
BBQ, Breakfast Tacos & More
For any visitors coming from out of state, they are going to expect to be treated to a big, heaping plate of barbecue. Click here for some ideas on where to go for some delicious BBQ. You also can’t visit Austin without sampling some of our most delicious breakfast tacos and other Tex-Mex favorites.
Also, check out:
- Austin Restaurants Where You Can See Animals
- Restaurants and Breweries with Giant Yards
- Family-Friendly Restaurants With Giant Yards
- Where to Enjoy Fancy Afternoon Tea
- The Weirdest Food to Eat in Austin
- Choices for the Whole Family at Fairground Food Hall
- Top Spots for Family-Friendly Brunch
Mount Bonnell
Nothing beats this great view of the city. One of the highest points in Austin, it’s a perfect spot for viewing the city and surrounding hills. Plus, if you need a little physical activity with the fam, you can choose to climb the steps for a great mini-workout.
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Texas State Capitol
A visit to the Capitol offers a great opportunity to get a crash course on the inner workings of Texas politics and provides a close-up look at one of the most impressive buildings in Texas. And a selling point for kids? The Capitol sits on wonderful park-like grounds that invite you to relax on the grass for a picnic or to run around and roll down hills. Get the full scoop here.
Also, check out:
- 20 Fun Things to Do In Downtown Austin
- Austin’s Downtown Playground: Alliance Children’s Garden
- Where to Play in Wide Open Spaces in Austin
- Best Places to Picnic With the Family
Lady Bird Lake
When you want to feel connected to the community of Austin, a walk along Lady Bird Lake will have you soaking in the city’s happy vibes as you enjoy gorgeous lakeside views of downtown. Check here for info about walking the Hike & Bike Trail, and here for info about renting watercraft on the lake.
Also, check out:
— Zilker Park
Austinites adore Zilker Metropolitan Park — for good reason! Whether you’re out climbing on the rocks, heading to Barton Springs Pool, running around the playground, visiting the Botanical Garden, or digging for dino bones at the Austin Nature & Science Center, Zilker has so many great spots to choose from.
Also, check out:
South Congress Ave.
Who can resist posing for a photo in front of the i love you so much sign? SoCo is a vibrant area of the city that’s fun for window shopping as well as dining to suit a variety of interests, with a distinct Austin feel. Shop for cowboy boots and hats at Allen’s Boots, get some sweet treats at Big Top Candy Shop, hear live music at Guero’s, and get yourself a slice or two of pizza at Home Slice.
Also, check out:
- Weirdest Things You Can Do in Austin
- Where to Play Mini Golf in Austin
- Drive-In Movie Theaters Around Austin
— Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Take your friends and family for a nature walk or a picnic surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The Family Garden includes many opportunities for the little ones to enjoy creative play with giant bird’s nests, a grotto with caves and a waterfall, giant tree stumps, and limbs for kids to climb on.
Also, check out:
Bullock Museum
History buffs will love exploring the Bullock’s three floors of interactive exhibits that tell the “Story of Texas”. Plus you can watch a movie in Austin’s premier IMAX Theatre. Click here to learn about current exhibits, and special events and to view the movie schedule.
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Austin’s Iconic Street Art
Austin is home to a colorful variety of murals and street art. Whether you’re looking for a fun setting to snap a group photo of your out-of-town guests, or want to simply show off Austin’s charm at these awesome Instagram-worthy photo stops, we’ve got plenty of colorful backdrops to smile and “say cheese”!
Also, check out:
— Austin Central Library
Our beautiful downtown library is a great place for locals and visitors alike. This “library of the future” is 200,000 square feet featuring six floors full of natural sunlight, a variety of cool reading nooks, rows and rows of reading materials, technology, art, and more! Be sure to take your guests to the rooftop for sweeping city views.
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MORE IDEAS:
- Best Playgrounds Around Austin
- Visiting the Cathedral of Junk
- Guide to Seeing the Bats in Austin
- Best Places to Take Babies
- Best Places to Take Family Photos
Check out our Do512 Family Calendar for details about daily events to customize your sightseeing plans.
