Have a little extra time to hang out and explore Austin? Here’s a quick run-down of things to see and do:
Sight-seeing
Mt. Bonnell
The highest natural point in Austin offers long views of the city, arrived at via a long staircase.
Zilker Park
351-acre park with a spring-fed swimming pool, botanical gardens, canoe rentals & sports facilities.
Barton Springs Pool
Beloved spring-fed pool maintaining a 68ºF temperature year-round with lifeguards on duty.
Butler Park / Auditorium Shores
Butler Park – Winding park with city vistas, a night-lit fountain, a pond, walking paths & other features.
Auditorium Shores is a public park located on Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, Texas.
University of Texas
Hook ’em Horns!
Graffiti Wall
This place captures Austin’s weird with a variety of ever changing spray paint artworks as you climb and hike up the hill.
Fun
Rent a canoe on Lady Bird Lake (aka Town Lake)
Rent ’em by the hour or by the day. Canoes, kayaks, and SUPs.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf
Operating since 1946, this cash-only pair of courses features whales, castles & giant shoes.
Esther’s Follies
Performances combine political satire, magic & musical acts – advance tickets are available.
The Thinkery
Kids’ museum with science exhibits, art, play spaces, story time & free admission Wednesday nights.
Shop at The Domain
Outdoor mall offering a variety of upscale shops & department stores plus dining options & a cinema.
West 6th, East 6th and “Dirty” 6th
Austinites generally refer to W 6th as more upscale, E 6th as hipster and laid back, and dirty 6th as college party.
Food
Mozart’s Coffee & Desserts
Beans flame-roasted on-site, plus bakery goods, frequent live music & patio seating on Lake Austin.
Magnolia Cafe
A local fave for breakfast/brunch, Tex-Mex & vegetarian options.
Home Slice Pizza
Thin-crust slices & pies for dining in or carry out, open late for takeaway on weekends.
Tamale House
Trendy Mexican joint featuring tacos & other hearty eats for breakfast & lunch, plus a patio.
La Barbecue
BBQ fans line up early at this hip, lively spot with picnic tables known for free beer & live music – typically sells out early.
The Salt Lick Barbeque
It’s BYOB at this venerable cash-only, BBQ spot with a rustic setting & live music outdoors.
Franklin Barbeque
Long lines form early for brisket, pulled pork & other smoked meats at this lunch-only spot – typically sold out by 11:30am.