What Richard and Shruti love most about Austin is its unique ability to combine the comforts of a large city with the adventures of the outdoors. For those who are traveling to Austin, we have listed some of our favorite things to do in and around the city. If you are able to, we highly recommend taking a few extra days to stay, explore, and enjoy the city!
Outdoor Adventures
Kayak on Lake Austin/Lady Bird Lake
For those who want some sun, a good workout, serene views of the lake with glimpses of the city, we highly recommend renting a kayak, canoe, or a stand up paddle board. Our favorite location to dip our kayaks in the water is right next to the Rowing Dock.
Views on Mount Bonnell
If you don’t mind a quick (but steep) stair climb to see views of the Colorado River, Mount Bonnell is a picturesque location. It looks best during sunset. Catch the warm rays and glimpses of the multi-million dollar homes lining the river.
Relax on Lake Travis
If you’re water lover (like Shruti), you’ll love Lake Travis! Approximately a 40-45 minute drive from the city it’s a great place to rent a boat for an afternoon, take a dip in the perfectly cool water, check out the local restaurants and bars near by, and have a meal and drink at The Oasis. The Oasis has fun drinks and a large outdoor patio where you can view the picture perfect sunset. Be warned, the patio gets crowded at sunset. But if you don’t mind a bit of a crowd, it’s a great place to wind down for the evening.
Hike it out at Barton Creek Green Belt
For those who want to break a sweat while enjoying the outdoors, the Barton Creek Green Belt is a great option. It has many access points so it is easy to get to. There are various levels of difficulty to explore.
Texas Hill Country
One of the most prominent features of the Central Texas Area is the Hill Country. If you have some extra time and might be willing to spend a night away, the Hill Country is one of Richard and Shruti’s favorite getaways. Just west of Austin you’ll get a chance to view beautiful rolling hills, peaceful countryside, and local wildlife (Shruti once saw a real life Roadrunner!). They tend to be most stunning at sunset. There are many gems to visit in the Hill Country. Some of the more popular ones include Enchanted Rock, Fredericksburg, Marble Falls, and Dripping Springs. These locations offer a variety of outdoor activities, restaurants, wineries (check out the 290 Winery Trail), and that small Texas town feel.
Cool off at Barton Springs
For those who like a dip in the water and want to keep cool, we highly recommend Barton Springs Pool. Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring fed area near Lake Austin/Lady Bird Lake. The water is extremely clear, clean, and cold. Prefect place to spend a hot afternoon. A little past the pool is where the spring feeds into the lake. That stretch of the river is a great place to hang out on the banks and relax in the water.
City Comforts
The Capitol
Austin is the state capitol of Texas. That means you’re in the perfect place if you want to learn a little about Texas’ history. The Capitol Building offers tours and is beautiful to see inside.
South Congress
Austin has made a name for itself for its eccentricities. One of it’s most popular sayings is “Keep Austin weird.” If you’re wanting to explore some of that weird, take a walk down South Congress. Filled with colorful shops ranging from eclectic antiques, legitimate cowboy boots, to costumes, to high end clothing boutiques, South Congress has it all! Have a bite at Torchy’s Tacos or cool down with Amy’s Icreams. South Congress is also the place to catch all those funky street art walls and snag some cool pictures!
Get Batty
A very unique aspect of Austin is our bats! From late March through early fall, you can witness thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset as they begin their nightly search for food. Visit the link above for more detailed information on when the best time is to catch this sight.
The Domain
Looking for more city comforts? Take a drive to The Domain where you can walk around and shop in an upscale area filled with restaurants, bars, and open spaces. Maybe even take some time to visit what’s known as the Domain “Instagram” Bar called Wonder Bar and get some funky pictures for the “gram.”
Foodies Unite!
One of Austin’s most iconic features is the numerous food trucks available around the city. Offering many types of cuisines at a variety of locations, take an afternoon to grab lunch at some of them. The Picnic is one area which has multiple food trucks, a shady area, and tables in one location. Other food truck sites are located at the Rainey Street District. One of Shruti’s favorite places serves authentic South Indian food (dosas, idlis, and more!). Check out Austin Dosa for these delicious treats.
Rooftop Chic
Want to have a chic night out with views of the cityscape? Consider going to the rooftop of the JW Marriott to the Edge Rooftop. Fun drinks, music, even a pool if you wanted to jump in. The Edge is a fancy way to spend an evening in Austin.
Heart of Austin- Music
Last but certainly not the least, want to hear the soul of Austin? Visit the historic 6th Street. Jam packed with multiple restaurants, bars, and oh the LIVE music! Many artists have started their careers in Austin so you know it’s a place to be for good music!