Texas’s capital city, Austin, is known for its vibrant culture, eclectic mix of attractions, and laid-back charm. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, sports enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, this city offers an exciting blend of experiences that cater to all tastes. So whether you’re a resident on the hunt for trendy coffee shops in your Austin neighborhood, or a visitor searching for world-class comedy shows or outdoor adventures, here are some of the best and most unique things to do in Austin recommended by our local experts.
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1. Coffee shops: Fuel for the day
Austin is home to a thriving coffee culture, and the city’s independent coffee shops are a key contributor to the unique community that has been built in the Austin area. Philip Homnack from Tipsiti dives deeper into what makes the coffee scene worth checking out:
“So much of Austin centers around community, which is not often said about a large state capital. Independent coffee shops can be the grassroots of these communities – places where neighbors connect and regulars slowly become friends. This makes them great places for visitors to observe and assimilate. Make a cafe crawl of it. Flat Track Coffee and Fleet Coffee’s flagship location are within walking distance in East Austin. Then a stroll across the river gets you to Jo’s – not so much a unique spot, but a part of the city fabric, nonetheless. These are the places that make the first day in a big city feel a little less impersonal.”
Another must-visit coffee spot, Houndstooth, comes to us courtesy of Erin Ruoff from Hi Lovely, who shares, “With a few locations across Austin, Houndstooth Coffee crafts some of the best brews in town. Their focus on quality, from bean sourcing to precise pours, makes every cup a masterpiece. Pair your coffee with a pastry, sit back, and enjoy the minimalist yet cozy vibe.”
Whether you’re starting your day with a cup of coffee or grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up, don’t miss out on experiencing the premier brews at these local spots! Keep in mind that these shops offer more than just caffeine — they’re also a reflection of Austin’s community and creative spirit.
2. Savor the best of Austin’s culinary scene
Austin is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse range of dining options that reflect the city’s diversity. If you’re looking for good eats in the Austin area, check out the below recommendations from our local experts:
“You can’t do Austin without immersing yourself in some of the best BBQ in the country. And while you really can’t go wrong, one of our favorites is KG BBQ. But it’s not just BBQ that is a must-eat. Austin is home to seven Michelin star restaurants – including one of my favorites, barley SWINE, which sources ingredients from local Texas farmers.” – Cassidy Rapoport from BoomPop
“As a mother-daughter duo, one of our favorite unique things to do in Austin is enjoy a nice dinner at Fonda San Miguel. It’s been a staple in our family for years, and we absolutely love the vibrant atmosphere and delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. It’s the perfect spot for making special memories with great food & drinks.” – Edis Rezende, owner of Edis Chocolates & Bakery
“My wife and I, you could say, are probably addicted to Matt’s El Rancho restaurant on S. Lamar street. We live north close to the Domain, but we make the journey at least twice a month to eat there. We have been going there for the last fifty years and discovered them when the restaurant was located on First Street (aka Cesar Chavez). Our favorite menu item is the Deluxe Mexican plate which comes with a free tea. For special occasions, I recommend going for the Ben Crenshaw steak, you won’t be disappointed!” – Reynaldo Alaniz from Reynaldo Alaniz Art
Finally, the city’s famed food truck scene has become a tourist attraction in itself. If you’re craving tacos, Austin has a taco truck on nearly every corner. Try Torchy’s Tacos for their inventive, bold flavors. Or for a more upscale Italian dining experience, the trendy eatery L’Oca d’Oro offers a unique, locally inspired twist on Italian classics.
3. Explore Austin’s eclectic bars and breweries
Austin’s nightlife is legendary, and the city’s bars and breweries reflect its fun, creative, “Keep Austin weird” energy. The bar scene is as diverse as its culinary scene, with options ranging from laid-back breweries with savory craft beers to lively bars with dancing and live tunes. Cassidy Rapoport at BoomPop shared that “When it comes to activities, Austin has an unlimited number of things to keep you entertained, and taking a day trip to the Hill Country Breweries is one of them”, with John Deboer from The Perfect Black and Tan adding that “Vista Brewing in the Hill Country is a true favorite. They have a great beer selection and lots of tree-covered outdoor seating to enjoy them under. They are about 40 minutes south of downtown Austin.”
If you’re looking for options closer to the heart of the city, The Oasis on Lake Travis is famous for its stunning sunset views over the water, paired with creative cocktails. For something quirky, The Roosevelt Room offers expertly crafted cocktails in a vintage-inspired space with an impressive selection of spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or an energetic night out, Austin’s bars have something to fit every mood.
4. Comedy shows: Laughter is the best medicine
Austin has a strong comedy scene that rivals those of several major cities. While venues like The Velveeta Room (An intimate club regularly features both local talent and national comedians) and The Hideout Theatre (offering improv shows that are both funny and interactive) are Austin comedy staples, Greg Michael, publisher and owner of Dad is FIRE, shares his favorite venue to catch a show:
“Joe Rogan’s Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas, is one of my favorite spots for a great night out. I enjoy catching a show there because it always delivers top-tier comedy in a cozy, intimate setting. Expect a long wait if you go. It’s a good idea to get there early, around 45-60 minutes before the show starts, to secure a good spot. The venue has a first-come, first-served seating policy, so the earlier you get there, the better your chances of getting a good seat.”
Regardless of where you end up, Austin’s comedy scene is sure to keep you entertained throughout your night. So check out these spots to catch up-and-coming comics and enjoy a night of laughter in a relaxed setting.
5. Music and dance venues: Create nights to remember
Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” is well-earned, as it is home to hundreds of live music venues and hosts some of the premier live music festivals in the country. If you’re looking for a fun dance venue to spend the evening, consider this recommendation courtesy of Greg Hastain from Greg With One G: “I’m a sucker for a good dance music venue, and especially at spaces that are owned and operated by passionate creatives. My recommendation is Concourse Project! They’re relatively new to the Austin music scene, but they are doing it right. Super friendly staff and really well-organized dance music events. If you like house music or EDM, then Concourse is one of those spots you need to be checking out!”
If you really want to dive into some Texas culture while in Austin, learning some country dance moves might be in the cards for you. Cassidy Rapoport at BoomPop encourages “everyone who visits Austin to learn the Texas Two-Step at Broken Spoke. If you’re not a dancer, you might feel weird at first, but it’s these moments that help the city live up to its tagline of ‘Keep Austin Weird.’”
Also, don’t forget to check out The Continental Club (known for its intimate atmosphere and diverse music genres) and Mohawk Austin (offering both indoor and outdoor spaces with a wide range of musical acts) while in the city. Austin’s music venues offer something for every taste, ensuring that you’ll find a show that suits your style.”
6. Walk along South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo as locals call it, is the heart of Austin’s shopping scene. Lined with trendy stores and tasty eateries, it’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and grab a bite to eat. Erin Ruoff from Hi Lovely recommends that visitors “stroll down South Congress Avenue and discover funky shops, eclectic boutiques, and amazing restaurants. From custom cowboy hats to craft cocktails, this area buzzes with creativity and charm.”
If you’re feeling peckish while in the SoCo area, there are some great eateries to grab some fuel.
Erin suggests eating at Guero’s Taco Bar, sharing that “Guero’s serves up mouthwatering Tex-Mex with an unbeatable vibe. We try to check out new spots but somehow always end up here. The outdoor patio, complete with live music, makes it more than just a meal—it’s an Austin experience. Be sure to try their homemade tortillas and three types of salsa! Before you leave the area, grab a picture in front of the “I Love You So Much” mural in front of Jo’s to top off your day!”
Lastly, if you need a sweet treat to finish off your SoCo experience, Don’t forget to stop by Amy’s Ice Cream. Their unique flavors and mix-ins are an Austin favorite.
7. Discover outdoor adventure spots
For outdoor enthusiasts, Austin is a paradise. The city boasts numerous trails, parks, and lakes that make it easy to connect with nature. Unsurprisingly, many of our local Austin experts are nature enthusiasts, and below they have detailed their best recommendations for spending time outdoors in the area:
“I love hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin, Texas. It feels secluded and beautifully natural, providing a perfect escape without the need to venture far from the city. It’s a serene oasis right in Austin’s backyard!” – Greg from Dad is FIRE
“One of the most unique outdoor activities in Austin is paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake. The serene waters offer a perfect view of the city skyline, and the peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for those looking to relax and explore nature. There are many rental shops along the lake, which offer boards for all skill levels, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, if you bring your pet along with you, many spots allow dogs to join you on the water—just be sure to bring a life jacket for them!” – Zach from Romingo
“Visit Barton Springs Pool and dive into Austin’s most iconic natural oasis! This spring-fed pool stays a chilly 68–70°F year-round, perfect for cooling off on a miserably hot Texas day. It’s more than just a swim; it’s a slice of Austin culture, surrounded by Zilker Park. Don’t miss the vibrant people-watching – seriously, the best part. Go early to grab close parking and wear pool shoes because it’s slippery!” – Erin Ruoff from Hi Lovely
“I love going to Mount Bonnell. It is only about 15 minutes from downtown Austin. After climbing a long set of stairs you will have a gorgeous overlook view of the Lake Austin section of the Colorado river. Be sure to take some water and a snack so you can spend some time at the top.” – John Deboer from The Perfect Black and Tan
While there are numerous spots within Austin city limits that allow visitors to connect with nature, there are great outdoor experiences that lie outside of the city as well. Philip Homnack from Tipsiti shared more insight below:
“It might be a little contentious for us to say when going to Austin, get out of Austin. Not for the whole time – just maybe for one day. Sure, you can do the outdoor and adventure gig at Town Lake, but why not make a road trip of things? Take the I-35 south to San Marcos. Hire some kayaks and get into the water near Rio Vista Park – just make sure to dodge the people tubing.” – Philip Homnack from Tipsiti
8. Sporting events: For fans of all kinds
Austin is home to a variety of sporting events that cater to different tastes. Sports fans can catch a game at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, where the University of Texas Longhorns play football, or a basketball game at Frank Erwin Center. Meredith Norman from Goodies Cookie Delivery shares her favorite way to get in on the Austin sports action below:
“Catching a UT Women’s Basketball game at the Moody Center is such a fun way to soak up Austin’s energy and cheer on the Longhorns! The vibe in the arena is electric, and you can’t help but get swept up in the excitement. After the game, head to Ramen Del Barrio for a cozy bowl of ramen with a Tex-Mex twist—it’s the perfect way to wind down and savor some local flavor. Longhorn game day doesn’t get much better than this – Hook ’em, y’all!”
For soccer enthusiasts, Q2 Stadium hosts Austin FC, the city’s Major League Soccer team. The electric atmosphere at these games is a great way to experience Austin’s passionate sports culture. However, if motorsports are more your speed, the Circuit of the Americas hosts the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix, attracting fans from around the world.
9. Visit the Texas State Capitol
No trip to Austin would be complete without a visit to the Texas State Capitol. Located in downtown Austin, this historic building offers free tours that give insight into Texas’ rich history and political culture. The Capitol grounds are also beautiful, with statues, gardens, and panoramic views of the city’s skyline. It’s a great stop for history buffs or anyone interested in Texas’ past, and the beautiful grounds surrounding the Capitol are also a great place to relax and take in the view.
10. Take a Bat Tour at Congress Avenue Bridge
Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening at sunset, Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from the bridge, creating a spectacular night-time visual. Emilie Given from She’s A Given shares that “Watching the bats take off from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (mid-March to early-November is the best time) is such a unique Austin experience.
Millions of bats take flight together, creating an incredible nature show right in the heart of the city. Grab a spot on the bridge or hop on a boat for an amazing view — it’s a must-see whether you’re visiting or if you call Austin home!”
To experience this one-of-a-kind event, take a guided bat-watching tour, where you can learn about the bats’ migration patterns and the city’s bat conservation efforts. It’s an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and one that highlights Austin’s quirky charm.
11. Take photos at some of Austin’s visually stunning locations
Austin is a photographer’s dream, with countless picturesque spots perfect for snapping photos. Ashley Schmick, founder of Ashley Nicole Affair and nominee for Austin’s best event planner shared a couple of her favorite spots to take some great photos in the area:
- “South Congress Avenue (Austin, TX 78704): Got a thing for murals and cool hangout spots? South Congress has many retail shops and restaurants with fun murals on their exteriors from local artists. Looking north, you can also get a great shot of the Capital Building in your photos!
- Laguna Gloria (3809 West 35th Street, Austin, TX 78703): Venture through the grounds at Laguna Gloria to discover art by contemporary artists from around the world, from awe-inspiring monumental sculptures to quiet moments with art in nature along meditative wooded pathways. There are a ton of different photo opportunities at this amazing venue!”
Reynaldo Alaniz from Reynaldo Alaniz Art also provided great insight into unique, picturesque places that should absolutely have a spot on your list of unique things to do in Austin:
“Sculpture Garden (409 W. North Loop Blvd): A very unique place to visit is my sculpture garden in front of my studio. North Loop Blvd. area has experienced an exponential growth in auto and pedestrian traffic over the years which has been positive for business in the area and has benefited me greatly. Most artists are hidden away deep in East or South Austin, or in the suburbs, but I am very blessed to be where I am in such a supportive, high-traffic community that is well worth a visit.
Red Bud Trail: While there are many places to get a view of the gorgeous Austin skyline, I wanted to share a breathtaking view that is well worth a drive down Redbud Trail from Westlake Dr. to Lake Austin Blvd. I have experienced the visual both at night and during the day. The nighttime view is far more impressive, but a little dangerous to stop because of fewer lights and traffic, so please be safe and enjoy the view!”
Last but certainly not least, Marlene Llanes from Marlene Llanes ART shared this short but powerful blurb encompassing elements that many locals love about the city, and recommending one of the most visually stunning places in the Austin area:
“I love being so close to nature. Hiking, swimming, and admiring scenic views — all within minutes of driving! Austin seamlessly merges city life with nature’s beauty. Everywhere I look, I find inspiration for my paintings. The Wildflower Center is one of my favorite places to visit and is at the top of my list for unique things to do in Austin!”
Regardless of whether you take photos professionally or just for fun, the above hot spots are great places to find beautiful backdrops for all of your picture needs and create memories that can be cherished for years to come.
Unique things to do in Austin, TX: Wrapping up
With its mix of outdoor activities, unique attractions, and vibrant nightlife, there are numerous unique things to do in Austin, TX that are worth experiencing. Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue feast, exploring the city’s art scene, or soaking up the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, Austin is a city that never fails to impress. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, buckle up, embrace the quirky spirit of Texas’ capital, and dive into the many adventures that await in this dynamic, ever-evolving city.
