Fun Things to Do in Austin, Texas – 2009 Update
Are you relocating to Austin, Texas in the near future? Are you new to the area and looking for things to do around town? In either case, you’ve come to the right place.
Not everything on this list will appeal to you. That’s just human nature. We all have our own definition of what’s fun and what’s not. But one thing is for certain — with such a large list of things to in Austin, you’re bound to find something that would be fun for you.
- Watch the bats stream into the evening sky. This is one of the most popular things to do in downtown Austin, for tourists and residents alike. Approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats live beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge downtown, except for the winter months when the fly south. In “season,” you can see them stream out from under the bridge at dusk, venturing into the Austin sky for their nightly feast.
- Rent a kayak or paddle-wheel boat and cruise around Lady Bird Lake (formerly known as Town Lake). This is a fun activity when the weather is nice, and it’s very affordable as well. You can even do this in conjunction with item #1, as well. You can rent a kayak just before dusk and watch the bats fly out of the bride — because the bridge straddles the lake!
- Walk, jog or bike on the trails that parallel Lady Bird Lake. This is a popular activity among residents, and it will take you through the heart of downtown Austin It’s a fun thing to do for the entire family, or by yourself.
- Learn the history of Texas by visiting the Bob Bullock Museum. With three floors of interesting displays and exhibits, this is a great way to learn about the state’s history and culture.
- Visit the state capitol in the heart of downtown Austin, and take the stairs all the way up the dome. It’s the largest state capitol building in the United States, and the second tallest (only Louisiana’s is taller).
- Experience the music scene that gives Austin its nickname of “Live Music Capital of the World.” You’ll find dozens of musical venues downtown and elsewhere throughout the city. You can find great music on a nightly basis, and there are two major festivals every year — the ACL festival and South by Southwest.
- Catch a flick (and maybe some tasty food and beverages) at one of the Alamo Drafthouse theaters. The original theater is located on Anderson Lane in downtown Austin, and there are three others located around town.
- Enjoy the view at the Oasis restaurant, which overlooks Lake Travis. In 2005, a lightning storm sparked a fire that destroyed much of the outdoor seating area (wooden decks), but they have since rebuilt.
- Hang out downtown on a day when the weather is nice. With so many shops and restaurants, there’s plenty to do. On a beautiful day, the Austinites come out to play. I recommend making a stop at South Congress, where you’ll find some neat shops and great places to eat.
- See the animals at the “Austin Zoo.” I used quotes because it’s not a proper zoo — not like the ones you’ll find in Houston, San Diego or other major cities. It’s a wildlife sanctuary. But while you won’t find giraffes or elephants, you will find a variety of exotic animals that are enjoying a new lease on life.
- Enjoy the follies and the first-rate comedy at Esther’s Follies. This popular venue has been an Austin favorite for more than 25 years. It’s a live comedy show with hilarious skits and lively musical numbers. There’s even a bit of magic.
- Take a dip in the always refreshing waters of the Barton Springs pool. This popular swimming spot is three acres in size, so there’s always room for your backstroke. And it gets fed from underground springs (hence the name), keeping the water about 68 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Yes, it’s chilly, but it’s just what the doctor ordered on a hot summer day in Austin, Texas!
What Fun Things Did We Forget?
Do you have a favorite activity that was left off this list? Help us grow the list by leaving a comment below. What fun things do you enjoy doing in the Austin area? We look forward to hearing from you, and adding your suggestion to the list!
Author's Note: Brandon Cornett is a consumer advocate and publisher of the Home Buying Institute. You can visit www.HomeBuyingInstitute.com to learn more about this topic.
June 18, 2009 4:56 pm