10 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas

You probably know Texas can be relentlessly hot, but did you know it has plenty of natural swimming holes to cool off in, too? Barton Springs Pool is Austin's most famous swimming area, and nearby Campbell's Hole is an equally refreshing and lively spot to spend a sweltering afternoon. Just outside the city, the Hamilton Pool Preserve is more than worthy of a day trip: This moss-draped natural crater is a must-see.

Nudist recreation area Hippie Hollow is another favorite among locals and visitors alike—it's the only legal clothing-optional spot in Texas. Even if you're not into skinny dipping, the sunny shores and calm waters of Lake Travis might make you overlook the nude beachgoers.

Head to Austin's Congress Bridge before sunset on any given summer evening and you'll likely see crowds of people filling the sidewalks. Why? They're waiting to see the bridge's 1.5 million protected bats that take flight every day at dusk. There's no reason to fear the mass of winged mammals—they'll flock and morph in shape on the horizon like a school of fish in the sky. The spectacle is one of the best free things to do in Austin, not to mention a mesmerizing spectacle in its own right.

Austin is home to one of the largest live-music scenes in the country, and not just the famed music festival SXSW. Whether you're looking for dive-bar rock bands, smooth-jazz lounges, rousing honky-tonk dance halls, or an outdoor act to compliment your dining experience, Austin has something for everyone.

You're sure to stumble upon music at many a bar, restaurant, and food-truck corner, but if you're looking to fit in a show, one of the best things to do in Austin is seek out a few of the top venues. Grab a chair and order some frozen sangria at Shady Grove's outdoor stage, head to the Moody Theater for a marquee event, catch a roof-top rock show at The Mohawk Austin, unwind with jazz and a cocktail at Elephant Room, or give in and two-step the night away to honky tonk at The White Horse saloon.

One of the Lone Star State's little-known wonders is that there are more than 3,000 documented underground caves in Texas—seven of which are expansive enough to be open to the public. One of the best-preserved is Inner Space Cavern, just outside of Austin, and it's also one of the few cave systems where prehistoric remains of animals like saber-tooth tigers and mammoths were found. The cavern is estimated to be 100 million years old and is still growing. Its limestone stalagmites, stalactites, glassy pools, and varying tour types make it one of the best things to do in Austin for travelers of all ages—but especially those with kids.

Austin is home to world-renowned chefs, expert breweries and wineries, and tons of spots that keep foodies full. It's impossible not to find a spot you'll love. Local and ethnic food trucks, Mexican restaurants, pit barbecue spots, coffee roasters, and much more are top-notch culinary options in Austin. Be sure to stop at a food truck of your choosing for cheap eats. Sample local tacos, indulge in smoky southern barbecue, and try something unexpected like creative vegan fare or authentic Japanese sushi.

Explore Rainey Street

A unique Austin neighborhood unlike anywhere else in Texas, Rainey Street is a former residential road of historic bungalow-style homes, most of which have been turned into trendy eateries, outdoor music venues, and light-strung beer gardens. Banger's on Rainey Street combines all three, with a sausage house and massive outdoor beer garden complimented by live music acts—all at a rustic former cottage. One of the best things to do in Austin, Rainey Street has character and delectable offerings to boot.

If you're going to enjoy the nightlife in Austin, you better bring your dancing shoes—or cowboy boots. It wouldn't be Texas without honky tonk dance halls, but salsa dancing meet ups, swing dance lessons, and tango spots are also popular things to do in Austin. Sign up for a class if you want to learn something new, or simply take to the dance floor and improvise with the help of the friendly locals.

Austin has no shortage of green spaces. Adjacent to the Colorado River, Mount Bonnell is worth the climb for its panoramic views of the Lake Austin reservoir and Austin's cityscape. Those seeking an easier trek can stroll Barton Creek's Greenbelt and downtown's Lady Bird Lake, or sunbathe and toss a ball around at skyscraper-nestled Zilker Park.

Tour the Texas State Capitol

Downtown Austin's crown jewel is the Texas State Capitol, erected in 1888 as a Renaissance Revival building housing the state legislature and governor's offices. The Capitol is open to the public daily for self-guided or group tours, both free of charge. Specialty tours vary depending on the time of year and are available at particular time slots, so you can pick the history topic you'd like to explore: learn about women in Texas history that have passed through the building, heroes of the Texas Revolution, haunted tales of the building's halls (around Halloween), and early Texas artists that left their mark on the monumental building.

Catching a football game is one of the best things to do in Austin, but eclectic Austin has a lot more to offer than just its beloved Longhorns. Retro gaming spots like Pinballz Arcade will thrust you back in time, and outdoor oddities like the historic Peter Pan Mini Golf course can keep you busy for hours. Of course, basketball, soccer, and baseball are also popular around the city and at the massive University of Texas at Austin. There's surely something for everyone to play or watch.