What is worth your time in Austin
Zilker Metropolitan ParkDo not miss
Austin's 350-acre central green space anchors the city's outdoor life with botanical gardens, a great lawn, canoe rentals, and festival grounds.
Park · 2.3 hr4.8
Blanton Museum of ArtDo not miss
The University of Texas flagship museum holds a deep European and modern collection plus Ellsworth Kelly's luminous standalone Austin chapel.
Museum · 2 hr4.7
Franklin BarbecueDo not miss
James Beard-winning brisket draws hours-long lines and is the definitive stop in Austin's legendary barbecue scene.
Food District · 2.3 hr4.7
South Congress Avenue, AustinDo not miss
SoCo's walkable strip of vintage shops, boutiques, food trucks, and the iconic skyline photo spot captures Austin's quirky character.
Neighborhood · 2.3 hr4.7
Texas State CapitolDo not miss
The pink-granite dome stands taller than the U.S. Capitol and offers free self-guided and docent tours of the rotunda and grounds.
Landmark · 1.5 hr4.7
Barton Springs PoolDo not miss
A spring-fed three-acre pool inside Zilker Park holds a steady 68-70F year-round and is Austin's beloved natural swimming hole.
Nature · 2.3 hr4.6
Congress Avenue BridgeDo not miss
At dusk from spring to fall the world's largest urban bat colony, around 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats, streams out from under the bridge.
Viewpoint · 1.1 hr4.6
Mount BonnellDo not miss
A short stair climb to Austin's highest point delivers sweeping sunset views over Lake Austin and the Hill Country.
Viewpoint · 1.1 hr4.6
6th Street, AustinDo not miss
Austin's signature live-music strip packs honky-tonks, bars, and venues block to block and is the heart of the Live Music Capital scene after dark.
Nightlife · 2.3 hr
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird LakeDo not miss
The 10-mile loop and its over-water boardwalk wrap the downtown lake with skyline views, kayakers, and the city's favorite walk-run-bike path.
Scenic Route · 1.8 hr
Texas Hill Country Wine Trail
A full day touring the tasting rooms and vineyards along Highway 290 toward Fredericksburg, the heart of Texas wine country.
Day Trip · 8 hr4.9
HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Austin's community graffiti park stacks ever-changing murals across tiered walls, a free hands-on outdoor art experience.
Cultural Experience · 1.1 hr4.8
Lake Austin
A calm stretch of the Colorado River for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat rentals framed by Hill Country bluffs.
Nature · 3 hr4.8
St. Mary Cathedral
Austin's 1874 Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral downtown features soaring stained glass and ornate altarwork.
Historic Site · 45 min4.8
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.