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.