things to do in austin tx

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its eclectic music scene, outdoor recreation, and a thriving food culture. Here are some popular things to do in Austin:

Music and Arts:

1. 6th Street: A lively entertainment district with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
2. South by Southwest (SXSW): A world-famous festival that showcases music, film, and interactive media.
3. Austin City Limits Live: A music venue that hosts live performances and taping of the popular PBS show.
4. Bullock Texas State History Museum: A museum that showcases the history of Texas through interactive exhibits.
5. Contemporary Austin: A contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Zilker Park: A 351-acre park that offers hiking, biking, and picnic areas.
2. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail: A scenic trail that runs along the lake and offers stunning views of the Austin skyline.
3. Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool that’s perfect for swimming and relaxation.
4. McKinney Falls State Park: A park that features hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas.
5. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore Lady Bird Lake or Barton Creek.

Food and Drink:

1. Franklin Barbecue: A world-famous barbecue joint that’s a must-visit for any meat lover.
2. Uchi: A renowned sushi restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
3. Home Slice Pizza: A popular pizzeria that serves New York-style pies with a Texas twist.
4. Torchy’s Tacos: A quirky taco joint that serves creative, delicious tacos.
5. The Continental Club: A legendary music venue that also serves great food and drinks.

Other Attractions:

1. Texas State Capitol: A historic building that offers guided tours and stunning views of the city.
2. LBJ Presidential Library: A library that showcases the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson.
3. Barton Springs Mall: A shopping center that features a variety of stores and restaurants.
4. Austin Nature and Science Center: A nature preserve that offers hiking trails, exhibits, and educational programs.
5. The Domain: A upscale shopping and dining complex that features a variety of stores and restaurants.

Events and Festivals:

1. Austin Food + Wine Festival: A festival that celebrates the city’s food and wine scene.
2. Austin City Limits Music Festival: A two-weekend music festival that features local and national acts.
3. SXSW: A world-famous festival that showcases music, film, and interactive media.
4. Austin Reggae Festival: A festival that celebrates reggae music and culture.
5. Texas Book Festival: A festival that celebrates literature and authors.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Austin, Texas. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in music, food, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions.