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Things to do in Austin
Hope Outdoor Gallery — The Austin Graffiti Park
To the west of downtown, this
unique spot features constantly
changing graffiti art spreading
across a maze of half-built walls.
You can often see graffiti artists
creating new works on the walls. If
you make it to the top, you have
nice views of the downtown
skyline. Parking is available along
the nearby streets. It’s free to get
in, bring some shoes! Hope
Outdoor Gallery Map.
Kayaking & Canoeing on the River
If you have an interest in spending time on the water, renting a
kayak or canoe is a great way to get out there. There is a rental
place on Barton Creek, feeding into the Colorado River. You’ll see
lots of Austin wildlife and views of the downtown skyline while
you paddle the waters. Rentals are $15 per boat per hour. Parking
is available at the Zilker Park parking lots, though you may be
charged a fee on weekends (usually $5). Kayak/Canoe Rental Map.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a natural
spring-fed pool that maintains a
year-round temperature of 68-70
degrees. Admission is $3 for the day
(though it is free from 5-8 am and
9-10 pm — no lifeguards at these
times). There are hilly lawns
overlooking the pool for you to
enjoy the sun in between dips in the
pool. Parking is available in Zilker
Park, usually with a fee on
weekends (generally $5). See the
Barton Springs website for more information and a list of prohibited items. Barton Springs Pool
Map.
Mayfield Park & Mt. Bonnell
Mayfield Park is a unique space featuring a
manageable network of small hiking trails and
views of inlets off the Colorado River. In
addition, there is a garden at the park’s entrance
complete with small ponds, flowers, tree canopies,
stone structures and free roaming peacocks—all
in the heart of Austin! Bring some lunch and
walking shoes. Admission is free. Mayfield Park
Map.
Just up the road from Mayfield park is another unique
spot right in the middle of town: Mt. Bonnell. After a
short hike up a few stairs, you reach the top of this
“urban mountain,” you are instantly rewarded with
panoramic views of the Colorado River, the Texas Hill
Country, and the Austin downtown skyline. Admission
to Mt. Bonnell is also free. Mt. Bonnell Map.
6th Street
Austin’s famous 6th Street is a popular spot for a night out. There are several blocks of bars,
restaurants, music venues, gift shops, and more—many of which are located in historic buildings
repurposed for your entertainment! Walking down the street you’ll witness the town’s energy
and hear why Austin is called “the live music capital of the world.” 6th Street is not very family
friendly at night, but it is more relaxed during the daytime hours. There is easy bus access down
Congress Ave. 6th Street Map.
Rainey Street
Full of old houses converted into mildmannered bars and unique restaurants, Rainey
Street is a fun place to enjoy an evening on
the edge of downtown Austin. Rainey Street
also offers a number of Austin’s renowned
food trucks (open starting at 5:00 pm, closed
on Mondays). Lots of outdoor seating and
communal ambiance makes Rainey Street an
open and relaxed atmosphere. Rainey Street
Map.
South Congress (SoCo)
On the south side of the Colorado
River is one of Austin’s more
unique shopping districts. Thrift
stores, boot shops, costume shops,
cafes, local craftsman, and much
more make South Congress Ave. a
special place away from the
downtown hustle. If you go there
around dusk, be sure to enjoy the
famous Austin bats on the
Congress Bridge—a 15-20 minute
walk towards the capital building.
South Congress Map.
For more activities around town:
-365 things to do in Austin:
http://365thingsaustin.com/events/.
-Austin Convention and Visitor's Bureau:
http://www.austintexas.org/visit/events/
-Austin Chronicle's list of events:
http://www.austinchronicle.com/calendar/
If interested in driving to some sites about 1-2 hours outside of town, consider Hamilton Pool
(website) for a day of swimming in a beautiful grotto. Also, you may enjoy a day of hiking at
Enchanted Rock (website) in central Texas.