Looking for fun things to do in Austin Texas? You've come to the right place! This city offers a different charm from other tourist destinations out there. I've found 50 awesome places for you to visit in Austin and fun activities in Texas for all interests - food trucks, natural attractions, roof tops, hiking and even free things to do in the city. There's a lots of cool stuff to do in Austin!

FOOD

1.  Rainey Street Food Truck Lot 

I am truly amazed by Rainey St. The energy and variety of food are just unmatched. Tiny cute homes converted into mini restaurants with a mixture of food trucks that offer a variety of selections. This street offered the perfect evening out and we thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I love the fact there were so many options. We literally food hopped and got a chance to sample a good bit. A must visit when in Austin.

Location: 82 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701

2. Edge Rooftop

Connected to the W Hotel in Downtown Austin. I absolutely love coming here for brunch. Their lox sandwich is my favorite but they also make a great aperol spritz, too! Oh, and you have to try the donut holes! - they come with three dipping sauces that are incredibly delicious!!  

Location: 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

3. Taquero Mucho 

If you are looking for a place that has great food and is super instagrammable then you got to try Taquero Mucho. This place is such a vibe and you might find some influencers taking pictures by the phone booth, planet wall, or newspaper stand. This place is such a vibe.  

Location: 508 West Ave, Austin, TX 78701

4. Home Slice Pizza

 

If you are looking for a taste of New York Style pizza in Austin then I would check out Home Slice Pizza. My favorite is the margarita slice. The line may be overwhelming but so worth it. Oh and they have the cutest murals on the side of the restaurant. 

Location: 1415 S Congress Ave

 

5. VooDoo Donuts

If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place. They are very creative with the different flavors they offer. I like the maple bacon bar and voodoo man! Also located on famous 6th street so theres lots of other things to do!

Location: 212 E 6th St

 

6. Barton Springs Food Truck Lot

This is the definition of a true Austin outdoor food truck experience. Enough variety to satisfy every desire, from latin to asian, american to italian, and more!  Price range: $10-$15 Highly recommend for different varieties of food on a nice day out, its also pet friendly and has a doggy food truck!

Location: 1720 Barton Springs Rd

 

7. Lolas Donuts

This place is still standing after covid and theres a reason for it. There donuts and horchata was the best I ever had. My personal favorite was the chai but my second favorite was the brioche. The flavors are super complex yet fun and I love how creative they are with the decor on not only the donuts but also the storefront.

Location: 2406 Manor Rd Suite B

 

8. Jeni's Ice Cream

I wish I knew this place sooner. They have so many variety of flavors. The almond crunch and gingerbread cognac are at the top of the list for me. You can sample as much as you want and they use metal spoons for this. I love knowing that I'm not creating unnecessary waste just to sample ice cream. They also use compostable spoons and bowls! They also sell pints in the store too!

Location: 1208 S Congress Ave

 

9. Little Lucy's Mini Donuts

If you are visiting Austin even for one day, I would highly recommend stopping at Little Lucy's Mini Donuts. This is the cutest little food truck on Rainey St. perfect for if you are in need of a snack, an after dinner dessert or a late night pick-me-up. Essentially, you can't go wrong here. There are tons of options but my go to is the cinnamon sugar or plain sugar with a little dipping side of Nutella! YUM! 

Location: 75 1/2 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701

10. Sandys Hamburgers

Sandy's burgers seems to be an old school icon in Austin and I'm glad it's there instead of more condos being built. One of the best places to get good burgers, fries, and ice cream since 1946. I usually order a burger with fries and a chocolate shake and have yet to be disappointed. If you are in a hurry, the drive thru is great. Otherwise you can order at the walk up window and enjoy your food outside on one of the many tables.

Location: 603 Barton Springs Rd

 

11. Thicket Food Truck Lot 

If you are not sure where you want to eat in Austin, Texas. I would recommend checking out the Ticket Food Truck Lot. They have over 10 different offerings and a nice place to hangout with friends and family. They even have vegan options. 

7800 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78745

12. Gati Vegan Ice Cream

This place is a dream! I've been here a dozen times and have enjoyed all the flavors. I like the chocolate, cookie monster, ash flavor, eggnog bourbon, and also lavender ice cream. Also love that it's all handmade and made with very few ingredients. The golden milk ice cream in a cone is a must! This hidden gem is great on a hot Texas day.

Location: 1512 Holly St

 

DRINKS

13. Alta Coffee

This is a pleasant little coffee shop/bar along the beautiful Lady Bird Lake. They have extensive options for both coffee and beer, and the outdoor patio has great views of the river! Great spot to take a break from a walk or bike ride along the river walk!

PS. Like any city downtown parking can be tough, but there are options for street parking.

Location: 74 Trinity St

 

14. Alfred Coffee

Located in the Line Hotel lobby, the atmosphere is very relaxing.  The decor is sleek and I love that there are a ton of ceiling-hanging plants scattered throughout. I see a ton of people working from their laptops here. They also make a great iced Mocha. 

Location: 111 E Cesar Chavez St

 

15. Houndstooth Coffee

Would you believe me if I told you this coffee shop has a $40,000 espresso machine? This place is known for their great pour overs and Japanese style iced coffee. They also have a great indoor atmosphere.

Location: 11501 Rock Rose Ave Ste 118

 

16. Codependent Cocktails + Coffee

Located in Downtown Austin, this place has the best vibes for relaxing, working on your laptop, or meeting up with some friends. Beautiful place with indoor and outdoor seating and a great ambience. Good cocktails and nice food selection to snack on while drinking with friends. They even have a DJ at night!

Location: 301 West Ave STE 110, Austin, TX 7870

17. Jojo's Coffee

If you are visiting Austin I highly recommend checking out. This is a big tourist attraction because not only do they have great coffee but the mural on the side is one of the most popular in all of Austin. 

Location: 1300 S Congress Ave

 

18. The Meteor

This is your sign to visit The Meteor. I think the biggest reason why I go here a lot is that it's a perfect spot for a beer and bowl after a kayak session on lady bird lake. Great to meet with friends for dinner on their backyard area. They're dog friendly too.

Location: 2110 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

19. Coffee and Crisp

This is definitely a must if you are at The Domain in Austin Texas. The atmosphere is perfect for an afternoon working, reading, or meeting with friends and the coffee is wonderful. My favorite is all the different types of juices they have. Ingredients sourced from surrounding farms is a plus. 

Location: 3220 Amy Donovan Plaza #100

 

20. Yard Bar

Have you ever been to a bar with its own dog park? Then I would recommend checking out the Yard Bar. Enjoy a stack of sliders with a cold beer with your pup by your side. I recommend the chicken stacker. Don't forget the tots and the fat sauce.

Location: 6700 Burnet Rd

 

21. Bouldin Acres

 

Pickle ball, pool, yard games, food trucks, and bar.  What else could a person want? This is a place for people of all all ages. A perfect spot to hang out after work during the week or even to have some fun over the weekend. Fun, outdoor environment and they even allow dogs!

Location: 2027 S Lamar Blvd

 

OUTDOORS:

22. Krause Springs

Krause Springs is located outside of Austin in the Hill Country of Texas. Naturally beautiful Texas waterholes, butterfly gardens, on-site camping and RV set-ups. The best part are the springs which are warm and clear year-round. You can bring a few beverages, float, have a picnic, go for a hike, start a fire, bring that friend that always has a guitar/accordion/harmonica and camp out under the stars. There are not a lot of more appealing ways to spend a day in Texas.

Location: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669

23. Barton Springs Pool

What a great place to cool off on a hot summer! The water is always the same temperature around 68 year round. If you are new to Austin or just visiting this is a great spot to hit! The spaciousness, the happiness of the people, the care of the lifeguards, and the refreshing spring waters combine for a safe and fantastic swimming experience. I can't wait to take my family here again.

Location: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746

24. Barking Springs

Probably the best place to take your furry pet to on a hot summer day. This is a free dog friendly watering hole near the Texas famous Barton Springs pool. The easiest and best way to access Barkin' Springs is down the staircase off of the Hike and Bike Trail just east of the Zilker Park Playground.

25. Bridge 360

If you are looking for a scenic view of the Austin Skyline I would definitely add Bridge 360 to your list. This bridge is free to the public and over looks Lake Austin. This gives a real feel of Austin's natural beauty. Also a famous spot for proposals! 

Location: 4801 Plaza on the Lake

 

26. Mount Bonnell

 

If you are into catching sunsets and the outdoorsy type, I wouldn't miss out on Mount Bonnell. A short climb up about 100 stairs and you will come upon a beautiful view of Lake Austin and the Austin skyline. This is not only of the high points in Austin but also in one of Texas's wealthiest neighborhoods. A quick look down you can see homes of over 10 million dollars. Another perk- parking is free and easy.

Location: 3800 Mount Bonnell Rd; Austin, Texas 78731

27. Hamilton Pool Reserve

Really nice swimming hole in Dripping Springs, TX (about 30 min outside Austin). You have to make reservations to go, and they sell out fast. The swimming area is big enough that it does not feel crowded at all. Water is refreshingly cool in the summer. The entrance fee is $8 per person. There is a 1/4 mile hike to get to the swimming area so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.  Anything you take you will have to carry. I took a cooler with wheels, and had to carry 50% of the way. Don’t even try to take large coolers or strollers. Other than that, place is awesome. 

28. Congress Bridge

Did you know Austin is home to the largest population of bats in the country? Right on Congress bridge overlooking Lady Bird Lake and the Downtown Skyline. The best time to go is during sunset.

Location: Congress Ave

29. Mckinney Falls State Park 

One of our favorite state parks in Texas. Beautiful with lots of wildlife. Nice place for walking. Love the trees, falls, & rock formations. They have 80+ RV and tent camping sites as well as a few cabins. It is easy to get to downtown and enjoy the food, music, and sights of the city and then retreat back to nature. Definitely don't forget to wear your water shoes.

Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy

 

30. Jacobs Well

If you havn't added this place to your bucket list then I don't know what you are waiting for.  The well is 12ft long with crystal clear water. This is a great place to beat the Texas heat. Highly recommend to visit on a weekend as it is a short drive from Austin. Can get freaky busy in the summer but in the off season you have the place all to yourself.

Location: 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676

31. Kayak Lady Bird Lake

If you have ever been to Austin Texas then you have seen hundreds of people on their paddle boards and kayaks on Lady Bird Lake. Most people park in Zilker park and walk down the steps toward Barton Creek pool. There you can put your paddleboard/kayak in the water with no hassle and off you go. You will see people using the rope swims or even competitively rowing with a team out there. Lady Bird Lake is open to all for water activities. 

Location:1610 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741

32. Royal Flush in Waco 

This might be a bit out of Austin city limits but worth the hour drive to have the most epic water experience. It's a really great place to go hang out, cook out (yes, you can bring your own propane or charcoal grill, and cook whatever you want!) You can also BYOB, just NO GLASS. There is music always playing, beach balls flying, and people sliding down the 4 different levels of slides. They provide life jackets. They also have a lazy river, they provide the tubes and a cooler float. I'd definitely say a fun experience!! 

Location: 5347 Old Mexia Rd

 

ROOFTOPS:

33. Zanzibar Rooftop

This is an epic rooftop located on top of the Marriot in Downtown Austin. Great spot to catch a sunset, have a drink, sit next to the pool, and relax next to a fire pit. They have a luxury tropical atmosphere with great music. 

Location: 304 E Cesar Chavez St Unit 700

 

34. Azul 

If you are looking for an amazing view of the Austin Skyline, I would add the Azul rooftop at the Westin onto your list. This is one of Austins best kept secret with the whole city skyline at your finger tips. 

Location: 310 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701

35. P6

If you like sipping cocktails, watching bats fly over Congress bridge, all while enjoying a nice scenic view, then you should check out P6. This bar is exceptionally beautiful and located on the rooftop of the Line Hotel. The Daybreaker and Sundown Cobbler are to die for! If you are alcohol free I would suggest trying out some mocktails here. 

Location: 111 E Cesar Chavez St 

 

36. Wax Myrtles

Fun upscale restaurant in downtown Austin with high-end mediterranean-inspired dishes. Located on the 4th floor of the Thompson Hotel and metered parking is all around the corner. I highly recommend a spicy red pepper hummus and the whipped Gouda. The best part is that it's just a few blocks from Austin's famous sixth street.

Location: 4801 La Crosse Ave

 

37. Rules & Regulations

Located on the 7th floor of the Fairmont Hotel. Rules & Regulations is known for having one of Austin's best city views! It faces the gorgeous pool and has open windows and garage style doors to be able to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Great place to lit up a cigar and reminisces over the good times. 

Location: 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

38. The Edge

The Edge is an elegant and pretty spot with great views of the Colorado River. Located at the top of the JW Marriot with a stellar view of the Austin State Capital Building. Great place for a bachelor party or boys weekend.

Location: 110 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

OTHER ATTRACTIONS:

39. The Domain

The Domain is a great outdoor mall with mostly high end stores. I enjoy coming here for the variety of different foods and stores. There is a very diverse crowd that shops here.  There are also some great restaurants and an upscale theater for entertainment.

Location: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace

 

40. Barons Creek Vineyards

The best part about Texas is that if you ever get bored you never have to leave the state to find something to do. Located in Fredericksburg, this vineyard is a beautiful Italian styled winery with a variety of wines from all over the US and Spain. This is a great place to have wine tastings, celebrate a special event, or propose to your significant other! 

Location: 5865 E, US-290

 

41. Schlitterbahn

Another one located outside of Austin Texas in the city of New Braunfuls. This huge waterpark has 51 attractions on over 70 acres. Food and drink are available in most corners of the park. You can and I highly recommend bringing your own cooler. I usually pack sandwiches and drinks and water. This is like Six Flags for waterparks. There are variety of rides here and the lazy river has strong currents and cooler entrances than most other parks. The looped wave pool is outrageously fun (waves are huge) though recommended for experienced swimmers only! 

Ps. The park is large so expect a lot of walking. You can easily spend a whole day here and everyone will be wiped out at the end. Stay hydrated and lotioned up. Tons of fun!

Location: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130

42. Texas State Tubes 

I highly recommend taking a trip down to San Marcus and floating the river. This has to be on everyones bucket list when visiting Texas. A 3 hour tube float ride down the San Marcus River will leave with memories to remember. The tubes have cup holders and the water is warm! There is no cost to float the river if you bring your own tube but you would have to walk back to your car because you wouldn't have access to the shuttle services. 

Location: 602 E 4th St

 

43. The University Of Texas

Beautiful campus to wander around, great design and sights to check out while in Austin. There are many study spots and incredible views to be found all over campus. Further, they've been working on street infrastructure to make campus walk-areas safer and more accessible to pedestrians or bikers. Overall, great university.

44. Blanton Museum of Art

My favorite museum in Austin. A stunning array of both traditional and contemporary art. This is a small museum but located just walking distance to UT campus with tons of food options nearby. Theres also free admission on Thursday!

Location: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd

 

45. ATX Art Installation

Great photo op if you are in the area. This sign is a must to show friends and family you visited Austin. At night the sign is neon green and looks astounding.

Location: 4301 W William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78749

46. State Capital of Texas

Have you ever been to a major city where the state capital is in the center of their downtown? Great historical place to learn about the history of Texas and Austin. The entrance is free if you do your own tour. Being inside the building you get this feeling of being part of something so important, proud of being an American. Also a great place for pictures inside and out!

Location: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

47. Graffiti Park

Where else can you bring a spray can and paint right over someone else's art and not get arrested? A place of constantly evolving art. A fun place where you could spend an hour if just looking, hours if painting.

Location: 3729 Kandy Dr

 

48. Tau Ceti Mural

Instagrammers heaven thats located right in downtown Austin and close to all the major hotels and restaurants. This is Austin tallest mural that is inspired from a star in the constellation Cetus. It's really something you have to go see in person. 

Location: E 2nd St &, Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

49. "I Love You So Much"

Any visit to Austin isn't complete without the snap of smiling faces at the I Love You So Much Mural. Located on the side of Jo's Coffee, this place always seems to have a steady stream of visitors so usually someone is there to assist in getting the perfect shot (be kind and do this for the next person.  

Location: 242 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

50. Mural Greetings From Austin Mural

One of the most iconic murals in Austin. It seems like everyday someone is stopping by there to take a picture. Yours truly included. If you’re in Austin for the first time or the 20th and haven’t taken a photo with it, you need to. Put it on your Austin bucket list.

Location: 1720 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704