These quintessentially Austin activities are great for locals and visitors alike. Fall in love with your city all over again, or show your out-of-town guests your favorite gems with these Classic Austin Activities.
Enjoy These Classic Austin Activities
— Take in the view at Mount Bonnell.
Nothing beats this great view of the city! One of the highest points in Austin, Mount Bonnell is 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.
— Have fun at 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. Click here for info about walking the Hike & Bike Trail, and here for info about renting watercraft on the lake.
— Explore Zilker Park.
Oh, how we love Zilker Park! In 1917, Andrew Zilker donated 350 acres of land that has since become our beloved space to enjoy cold water swims in Barton Springs Pool, jogs through the Hike & Bike Trail, strolls through the garden of Zilker Botanical Gardens, playtime on the playground, kite flying on the sprawling lawns and so much more. Zilker Park is such an essential part of Austin culture and one of the big reasons why our unique city is such a great place to call home. Click here to view our list of 100 things to do in Zilker Park.
— Tour Austin’s iconic street art.
Austin is home to such a colorful variety of murals and street art! Take a tour from your very own car, or map out a few spots to hop out and snap pics. Click here for a roundup of some of our favorite art.
— Explore Austin’s green spaces.
Austin is home to a variety of amazing green spaces. When you need to let the kids get some energy out or when you need to unplug and get some nature therapy, there are plenty of places to do so. Go for a hike or bike ride, or pack a picnic at a local park. At this time, trying a smaller, less popular park is a great idea! Check the park directory from Austin Parks Foundation for a huge list and browse the listing of our detailed park experiences on our website.
— Enjoy the beauty of Lake Travis.
Check out the many spots along Lake Travis where you can fish, go boating, or swim on a warm day. Check out our Favorite Things to Do on Lake Travis, as well as Pace Bend Park, Lakeway City Park, and Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area.
— Play at Peter Pan Mini-Golf.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf is such a classic Austin establishment. In fact, it’s been an Austin tradition since 1946! You can’t help but love being surrounded by such an assortment of giant, whimsical, brightly-colored sculptures. It’s great for all ages, affordable, quirky, and totally fun. Click here to read all about why we love this spot.
— Bite into BBQ, tacos & more.
Head out to some of Austin’s most beloved restaurants for some local cuisine like BBQ and Tex-Mex Favorites. A tour of the Austin food scene wouldn’t be complete without checking out The Weirdest Foods to Eat in Austin.
— Enjoy the scenic lookout at the Pennybacker Bridge.
A popular picture-perfect view of Austin can be found at the 360 Bridge, also known as the Pennybacker Bridge. A short but steep little climb will lead you to this gorgeous view, but of course, be very careful along the edge as you’re snapping your selfies! Click here for details about getting to this spot.
— Take a stroll through the UT Campus.
The University of Texas at Austin is certainly a big part of the Austin community, and the campus is especially fun to stroll through on weekends or when students are on a holiday break. For families with young kids, the best part about a visit to the Forty Acres might just be a stop at the UT Turtle Pond. Read about our visit.
— Be a good neighbor.
One thing we appreciate about living in Austin is that we support one another! Check out some ways you can get the whole family involved here: Volunteering with Kids in Austin.
