Discover Austin, Texas—a vibrant city full of culture, music, and outdoor activities. From scenic parks to historic landmarks, Austin offers endless experiences for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a music lover, or a foodie, this city has something special to offer. Explore our list of top attractions to make the most of your Austin adventure.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1917, Zilker Park represents Austin’s dedication to preserving green spaces, offering a cultural and recreational hub for locals and visitors alike.
What to Expect: Explore lush picnic areas, Barton Springs Pool, trails, and seasonal events that make it perfect for outdoor relaxation and family gatherings.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry is free, but parking fees apply on weekends. Accessible by bike, car, and public transport.
Spanning over 350 acres along the Colorado River, Zilker Park is an outdoor haven for both locals and tourists. It houses attractions like the Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Botanical Gardens, plus plenty of open spaces for picnics, sports, and strolls. Families can enjoy the kids’ train, sports courts, and seasonal events. Plan for a half-day of relaxation and exploration in this lush urban park.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
Address: Austin, TX, USA
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: This trail, named after Austin’s former mayor and his wife, connects downtown’s green spaces along Lady Bird Lake, promoting community wellness and outdoor activity.
What to Expect: Stunning views, boardwalks, and diverse wildlife make it ideal for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Great for bat-watching at sunset.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with free access. Accessible restrooms and parking spots are available at key entry points along the trail.
The Ann and Roy Butler Trail, also known as the Lady Bird Lake Trail, is a peaceful 10-mile path popular among runners, walkers, and cyclists. The trail offers stunning views of downtown Austin and passes through picnic areas and boardwalks lined with song lyrics. It’s ideal for unwinding, staying active, and even spotting Austin’s famous bats, especially around sunset.
Texas State Capitol
Address: 1100 Congress Ave.
| Type | Free, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Completed in 1888, this red granite landmark symbolizes Texas pride and is taller than the U.S. Capitol, showcasing grand architecture.
What to Expect: Free guided tours explain Texas history and legislative processes; the grand dome and rotunda are must-sees.
Visitor Information: Open weekdays; free entry. Paid parking is nearby, and security screening is required for all visitors.
Standing tall in central Austin, the Texas State Capitol is a proud landmark with Texas sunset red granite architecture. Opened in 1888, this historic building is 14 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol. Tour the building for free to learn about Texas politics, enjoy the grand dome, and explore the recent 667,000-square-foot underground extension. A must-see for history and architecture lovers.
University of Texas at Austin
Address: 110 Inner Campus Drive
| Type | Free, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1883, UT Austin is Texas’s flagship university, shaping academic, cultural, and sports pride with a rich tradition of excellence.
What to Expect: Visit sports stadiums, art galleries, and public art installations; catch events and enjoy student life vibes.
Visitor Information: Open to the public; sports tickets vary in price. Parking available at campus garages, and visitor information desks offer campus maps.
Home to 52,000 students, the University of Texas offers visitors more than just academic vibes. The campus features iconic venues like the Moody Center for concerts and the massive Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Whether you’re catching a show, exploring campus art installations, or cheering on the Longhorns, this lively university hub is rich in entertainment and local culture.
Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater
Address:
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Recreation, Tours |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The iconic venue has hosted “Austin City Limits” since 2011, putting Austin on the global music map.
What to Expect: Enjoy top-notch acoustics and a cozy atmosphere at live shows; take a guided tour to learn about the venue’s history.
Visitor Information: Located downtown; tickets available online. Tours operate daily. Street and garage parking options are nearby.
Austin City Limits Live is a legendary venue famous for its live music shows and hosting the “Austin City Limits” TV series. Located in the heart of Austin, this theater provides top-notch acoustics and a cozy vibe, making every seat a good one. Music fans can tour the venue, learn its history, and check out the Jack & Jim Gallery’s iconic photo collections.
Lake Travis
Address: Lake Travis
| Type | Natural Wonders, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Swimming/Pools |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Created in the 1940s, Lake Travis serves as a recreational spot and essential water source, known for its scenic beauty.
What to Expect: Boating, swimming, and lakeside dining, with options for scuba diving and camping at nearby parks.
Visitor Information: Access points vary; many parks have entry fees. Boat rentals and sunset cruises are available from various vendors.
With 64 miles of lake views and 271 miles of shoreline, Lake Travis is an outdoor paradise. Spend the day swimming, picnicking, or scuba diving at nearby parks like Mansfield Dam Park. For a unique experience, head to the scenic Hippie Hollow, or visit The Oasis on Lake Travis to catch breathtaking sunsets over the water with a drink in hand.
Circuit of the Americas (COTA)
Address: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd.
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Sports |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 2012, COTA is a premier U.S. racetrack hosting Formula One and other high-profile events, attracting motorsport fans worldwide.
What to Expect: Catch thrilling races, concerts, and holiday events; ascend the 250-foot COTA Tower for panoramic views.
Visitor Information: Ticket prices vary by event. Parking is ample, but pre-booking is recommended for popular events like Formula One.
As a world-renowned race track, Circuit of the Americas hosts events year-round, from Formula One to NASCAR. It also features concerts and holiday events like Peppermint Parkway. For panoramic views, climb the COTA Tower and enjoy the scenery from 250 feet up. Racing fans and thrill-seekers alike will find this venue an unforgettable part of their Austin visit.
Mount Bonnell
Address: 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: A historic viewing spot since the 1850s, Mount Bonnell offers iconic views of Lake Austin, drawing nature lovers and photographers alike.
What to Expect: Short but steep hike to Austin’s highest point with rewarding sunset views over the lake and skyline.
Visitor Information: Free to access; open daily. Limited parking, so arrive early to secure a spot, especially at sunset.
A scenic spot for panoramic views, Mount Bonnell is Austin’s highest point at 781 feet. This landmark has attracted tourists since the 1850s, offering breathtaking sights of Lake Austin, the city skyline, and surrounding hills. Visit around sunset for stunning vistas, bring water, and take care of your valuables. A short hike rewards you with one of the best viewpoints in Austin.
South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
Address: Austin, TX, USA
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Festivals, Free, Cafes, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: A cultural gem in Austin, SoCo has evolved into a vibrant shopping and dining area, capturing the city’s creative and eclectic spirit.
What to Expect: Find boutique shops, live music venues, and colorful murals. Don’t miss iconic photo spots like the “I Love You So Much” wall.
Visitor Information: Accessible by bus and car; parking can be limited. Best visited on weekends for lively street performances.
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is Austin’s cultural hotspot filled with boutiques, murals, and vibrant dining spots. Shop for unique finds, enjoy live music, and take selfies at famous murals like “I Love You So Much.” From food trucks to fine dining, SoCo’s lively atmosphere and Instagram-worthy spots make it an essential Austin experience.
Blanton Museum of Art
Address: 200 E Martin Luther King Blvd
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1963, the Blanton Museum enriches UT Austin with a vast collection, making it one of the largest university art museums in the U.S.
What to Expect: Diverse art collections including Latin American, modern, and contemporary works, ideal for culture and art lovers.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday to Sunday; admission fees apply. Free parking is available at designated campus garages with a museum pass.
Located on the UT campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is one of the nation’s largest university art museums. It houses over 21,000 art pieces, including impressive Latin American and modern art collections. Art enthusiasts can spend hours exploring its diverse exhibits, making it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in culture, creativity, and visual storytelling.
Barton Springs Pool
Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd
| Type | Swimming/Pools |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This natural pool in Zilker Park has been a popular swimming spot for centuries, spring-fed and maintaining a constant cool temperature.
What to Expect: Swim in a refreshing spring-fed pool surrounded by greenery, perfect for escaping the Texas heat.
Visitor Information: Entry fees apply; open year-round. Free parking at Zilker Park during weekdays, with lifeguards on duty seasonally.
Within Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a beloved natural swimming hole fed by underground springs. The three-acre pool is a popular spot for cooling off, open year-round and averaging around 68-70°F. Visitors can swim, relax, and soak up Austin’s outdoor vibe at this unique spring-fed oasis, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave.
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Founded by Lady Bird Johnson, this center preserves Texas’s native plants, promoting sustainable landscaping and environmental education.
What to Expect: Stroll through beautiful gardens, learn about native flora, and enjoy seasonal blooms and educational exhibits.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry fees apply. Free parking on-site. Guided tours and children’s activities are available seasonally.
Founded by former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, this center preserves Texas’s native plant species across stunning gardens and scenic trails. Located south of downtown, the Wildflower Center offers visitors a peaceful escape to admire wildflowers and native plants. It’s perfect for nature lovers seeking educational tours, serene gardens, and hands-on activities about Texas’s diverse flora.
The Driskill Hotel
Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin
| Type | dining experience, historic art, entertainment |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1886, The Driskill is Austin’s oldest hotel, known for its Victorian charm, luxury, and rumored ghostly encounters.
What to Expect: Admire historic decor, explore galleries, and relax with a cocktail in a setting that blends history with luxury.
Visitor Information: Open to guests and visitors; located downtown. Limited on-site parking, with valet services available for hotel guests.
One of Austin’s oldest landmarks, The Driskill Hotel exudes history and charm. Built in 1886, this elegant hotel in downtown Austin is renowned for its luxurious decor, historic art, and even ghost stories. Guests can explore the grand architecture, enjoy a fine dining experience, or stop by for an evening cocktail. It’s a taste of Austin’s heritage in a classic setting.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Address: Austin, TX
| Type | Hiking, rock climbing, swimming, entertainment |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: This 7-mile greenbelt is cherished as Austin’s outdoor playground, featuring hiking trails, cliffs, and creeks for adventure seekers.
What to Expect: Scenic hiking, swimming holes, and limestone cliffs for rock climbing; waterfalls appear after rain for extra scenic beauty.
Visitor Information: Free access year-round. Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so early arrival is recommended. Trails vary in difficulty.
A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Barton Creek Greenbelt spans over 7 miles and features limestone cliffs, trails, and waterfalls. Hiking, rock climbing, and swimming are popular activities here. After a rain, the waterfalls are especially impressive. This greenbelt’s natural beauty and adventurous trails make it one of Austin’s top places to connect with nature and escape the city buzz.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Address: 1800 Congress Ave.
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Named after former Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock, this museum celebrates Texas’s unique heritage through engaging, interactive exhibits.
What to Expect: Discover Texas history, from independence to space exploration, through dynamic exhibits, artifacts, and a giant IMAX theater.
Visitor Information: Admission fees apply; open daily. Located downtown with nearby parking options and easy access by public transport.
Dive into Texas’s storied past at the Bullock Museum, where interactive exhibits cover everything from Texas independence to its rich culture. Located downtown, the museum offers hands-on experiences, a large IMAX theater, and seasonal exhibits. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of Texas’s unique history and contributions, making it a meaningful stop for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
