Austin, TX
Visitors can explore the historic State Capitol, stroll along the bustling South Congress Avenue, or take a refreshing dip in the natural springs at Barton Creek Greenbelt. With a thriving food scene, Austin boasts an array of food trucks, BBQ joints, and upscale eateries to satisfy every palate.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, biking, and paddleboarding around Lady Bird Lake or enjoy a refreshing swim in Barton Springs Pool. Embracing its slogan, "Keep Austin Weird," the city fosters a creative and laid-back atmosphere, welcoming all walks of life. Whether it's the vibrant street art, tech-driven community, or scenic beauty, Austin offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
What to do in Austin, TX
Live Music Scene on 6th Street
Austin’s vibrant live music scene on 6th Street is a must-visit for any tourist. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers an eclectic mix of music venues, from intimate lounges to expansive concert halls. Visitors can explore a variety of genres, including rock, blues, country, and jazz. With numerous bars and clubs lining the street, 6th Street comes to life at night, creating an electric atmosphere that’s perfect for music enthusiasts and nightlife lovers.
Bat Watching at Congress Avenue Bridge
Every evening from March to October, thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge, creating a captivating natural spectacle. Tourists can witness this remarkable event by standing on the bridge, nearby viewing areas, or even taking a bat-watching boat tour. As the world’s largest urban bat colony, this nightly emergence is a unique and unforgettable experience, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Explore the Texas Capitol
The majestic Texas State Capitol, situated in downtown Austin, offers tourists a chance to delve into the state’s history and political landscape. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the building’s stunning architecture, intricate artwork, and learn about Texas’s legislative process. The spacious grounds surrounding the Capitol present a serene setting for picnics and leisurely strolls, adding an extra dimension to the visit.
Outdoor Recreation at Lady Bird Lake
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lady Bird Lake provides the perfect setting for a wide array of activities. Tourists can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards to explore the serene waters amid the city’s skyline. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which loops around the lake, offers picturesque views and a popular route for joggers, walkers, and cyclists. Additionally, the lake’s lush surroundings host numerous parks, picnic areas, and spots for birdwatching, ensuring a delightful outdoor experience for all.
Visit Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool
Zilker Park, nestled in the heart of Austin, is a beloved recreational area offering a plethora of attractions. It’s home to the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool that maintains a refreshing temperature of around 68°F year-round, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim. The park also hosts diverse events and festivals throughout the year, and visitors can enjoy activities such as Frisbee golf, hiking, and relaxing picnics. Zilker Park’s expansive green spaces offer a welcoming retreat, providing a delightful escape in the midst of the city’s buzz.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning:
Start your day at the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park. It’s a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or to simply relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Afternoon:
Head over to the South Congress Avenue (SoCo) and explore the variety of quirky shops, food trucks, and live music venues. Don’t miss the iconic “I love you so much” mural for a great photo opportunity.
Evening:
Experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere of 6th Street, also known as “The Live Music Capital of the World.” You’ll find numerous live music venues, bars, and restaurants to explore.
Day 2
Morning:
Visit the Texas State Capitol to explore the historic building and the surrounding grounds. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of this significant landmark.
Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon at Lady Bird Lake. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the serene waters and stunning views of the city skyline and lush natural surroundings.
Evening:
End your trip with a visit to the Rainey Street Historic District. This area is known for its bungalow-style houses turned into bars and eateries, offering a unique and charming dining and nightlife experience.
Nightlife
Experience Austin's vibrant nightlife with a mix of trendy bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night eateries for entertainment.
Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl
Discover Austin's music scene with our Downtown Live Music Walking Tour. Our expert guides, brimming with charisma and deep knowledge of Austin's musical roots, will lead you on an unforgettable journey.
As Austin's Live Music Capital of the World, this tour offers an unrivalled experience of the city's vibrant history and musical culture. Stroll along 6th Street, where every corner echoes with melodies that have shaped Austin into a globally recognized music hub. Your expert guides will bring to life the stories and sounds that have woven the fabric of Austin's cultural identity.
Join us for an evening where history and live music intertwine, creating a unique and immersive tour experience. Each night on our tour is a new adventure, a chance to experience the dynamic rhythms and storied past of Austin. Embrace the city's musical essence and uncover the reasons behind its prestigious title.
Book Today on Viator From $35.00
Austin Small Group Night Tour with Famous Austin Bat Boat Cruise
Explore Austin - the state capital of Texas, with our fun and friendly local guides who will take you to witness the best views and learn about the city’s fantastic culture and friendly locals. There is no better way to experience the city than with See Sight Tours - Austin’s best small group tours (max. 7 guests).
Enjoy the top attractions and visitor experiences while avoiding long lines and wait times, with our fully guided and narrated tours with all attraction admission fees included along with complimentary hotel pick up and drop off in the comfort of one of our air-conditioned Mercedes Metris vans.
Book Today on Viator From $99.00
Haunted Austin Walking History Tour
Descend into the cover of darkness in the iconic city of Austin, TX with a nationally acclaimed storyteller. Your expert guide will keep your small group scared and entertained during this 90-minute walking tour with historical tales of murder, mystery and of course, ghosts. In addition, you will explore the little known nooks and crannies of Austin and visit popular attractions like the Driskill Hotel.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $27.50
Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour
The Austin Haunted Pub Crawl is our 21+ tour that takes a deep dive into the city during the Old West days, going from bar to bar to look at some of the weird and unusual history and death the city offers. It is meant to showcase the city's history during the days of the Old West and the ghosts that remain. Please keep in mind that Austin is not an open-container city.
If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please get in touch with the private & group sales coordinator with Ghost City Tours.
Book Today on Viator From $29.99
Food and Drink
Indulge in Austin's renowned food and drink scene with diverse culinary offerings, food trucks, craft breweries, and cocktail bars.
Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Join us on our Secret Food Tour of Downtown Austin and let our expert guides and your taste buds take you on a culinary adventure through the bustling streets in the heart of the live music capital of the world. Discover the flavors of Texas as you indulge in a variety of dishes, including the famous BBQ brisket and Instagram-worthy breakfast tacos, among many other mouthwatering options.
Or escape the hustle and bustle of Downtown to discover a living, breathing Texan landmark on our Secret Food Tour of South Congress. Discover Austin's vibrant and unique dining, nightlife, and shopping district that the locals call "SoCo" and stumble upon delicious diner favorites, smoked BBQ specialties, and refreshing sweet treats. See firsthand why this town is so fabulously "weird" and learn why we want to keep it that way!
Book Today on Viator From $99.00
Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin
Experience Austin's culinary diversity and support local, family-owned eateries that define Austin as a haven for food enthusiasts. Our 2 hour guided food walking tour offers a tantalizing array of local favorites, a culinary journey through Texas flavors.
Scenic stops your experienced tour guide will take you along the tour include the Historic Congress Avenue, Town Lake's Natural Beauty and Congress Avenue Bridge.
Please note, infant tickets (0-4 years) does not include food.
Book Today on Viator From $89.00
From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
Searching for an affordable and fun way to get out to the famous Salt Lick BBQ and two (2) beautiful Texas Hill Country wineries? Look no further! This Hill Country BBQ and Wine Shuttle is great for solo travelers, couples, and small groups. The shuttle departs from the Austin Visitor Center at 10:30AM and heads out to the Driftwood area of the Texas Hill Country approx. 35-45 minutes southwest of Austin. Enjoy comfortable transportation in a Mercedes Sprinter van with a friendly local guide. Spend 45-50 minutes at each stop. Food/drinks not included in the shuttle price; guests pay directly at the restaurant and wineries.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $60.00
Austin Mural Selfie Tour by Pedicab
Get ready to travel all over Downtown, East and South Austin stopping for selfies at over 30 murals. Our guides will take you to the popular murals as well as the hidden gems including the 'I love you so much', 'Greetings from Austin' postcard and 'Willie for President' mural and many more. This is a private tour and can be customized to your group.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $69.50
Nature Parks
Discover the natural beauty of Austin by visiting its nature parks, gardens, and wildlife preserves offering scenic trails and outdoor recreation.
Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour in Austin
Experience the world’s largest urban bat colony emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge! This colony made up of 1.5 million Mexican free tailed bats is an amazing sight to see and hear. From the meeting point, join your professional guide at 6pm where afterward, you will paddle and observe one of nature’s wonders and learn about how these nocturnal creatures help create a better ecosystem for everyone. The tour lasts 2 hours and food and drinks are not included.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $69.00
Round Rock & Roll Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Book Today on Viator From $27.00
Sports Events
Catch a sports event in Austin, whether it's college football, basketball games, soccer matches, or other sporting events that bring the community together.
Austin Guided Outdoor Climbing Experience
You can go rock climbing right here in Austin! Whether you are new to the sport or an expert enthusiast, you'll have a fun and safe time climbing with an experienced guide. This activity is great for families, couples and groups.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $127.00
Outdoor Festivals
Attend various outdoor festivals in Austin that celebrate music, food, art, film, and diverse cultural experiences throughout the year.
Check Out Austin: Capitol Bike Tour
Enjoy a leisurely Urban / Natural combo bike tour of 7.5 miles to get acquainted with Austin sights like the Congress Ave Bat Bridge, Texas Capitol, Shoal Creek hike-n-bike trail, Pfluger Ped/bike Bridge, Barton Springs and Butler hike-n-bike trail on Lady Bird Lake. We'll start on the lake hike-n-bike, then downtown to the Capitol, and back to hike-n-bike trails to finish. This 2-hour 30 min tour provides the best overview of the city!
Please note- if you can't ride a bicycle, you will not be able to participate in the tour and will be refunded. Safety and respect of other riders in the group are essential.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Art and Culture
Immerse yourself in Austin's rich art and culture scene with museums, galleries, street art, and cultural events throughout the city.
Austin Art and Architecture Bicycle Tour
Austin has long held a reputation for being a city of innovative creators. What better way to experience that history than on a bike and through the lens of art and architecture? On this tour, you will be guided through Downtown Austin's Art as well as 130+ years of beautiful architectural history. You'll see the hidden jewels of art scattered in unexpected places. And of course, no Austin architecture tour would be complete without a trip to the Capital Building. You'll learn some history, see some beautiful work, and have a great time riding your bike around beautiful Austin, TX. Highlights include: the tallest mural in Austin, historic West Austin buildings, the OBEY Giantess, and the Texas capitol building.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $56.44
Strings in the Woods with Award Winning Austin Violinist
Have you ever walked in the woods with a professional violinist guiding and playing all along the way? On this experience you'll enjoy a nature and music emersion that will take you away from the noise and stress of the city life, and give you a opportunity to recharge, renew and slow down.
You'll learn history, geology, and things about the plant-life and the music that I'll be playing at stops along the way.
I've been a professional violinist and Austin music icon for over 20 years, jamming with folks such as Willie Nelson, Pearl Jam, Gary Clark Jr., Shawn Colvin, Shiny Ribs, Guy Forsyth, the Turtle Island String Quartet at Town Hall in New York City and so many more. I'm a lover of the outdoors and the magic of bringing people into nature for life-changing moments of connection and musical bliss. I have been a concert presenter for over 20 years and in 2006 produced a concert of the Beatles White Album that was broadcast on radio and drew over 1600 folks for two shows.
Book Today on Viator From $30.00
Moon Sound Healing with Live String Music in Austin
This is the only moon event in Austin that includes live acoustic music from an award winning Austin violinist.
We'll set intentions for the new moon or full moon, take a walk on a beautiful greenbelt with live music, and make our way to a spot under the moonlight for a short breathwork and meditation session including more live music.
Book Today on Viator From $40.00
Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Round Rock by Operation City Quest
Operation City Quest of Round Rock is a great way to see the city! Use an app to submit photos of items you find around the city and challenges you complete for points. The items and challenges can be completed in any order you prefer! See your score on the app leaderboard to see how you compare. The scavenger hunt includes a remote host to help via chat along the way. Come discover Round Rock.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $10.00
Historical Sites
Explore Austin's historical sites, museums, landmark buildings, and heritage neighborhoods that reflect the city's rich past and cultural heritage.
The Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour
If you're looking for the perfect ghost tour for the whole family, the Ghosts of Austin is perfect! We've designed this tour to be entertaining for anyone ages 5-100. Combining history with hauntings, this tour is Austin's #1 All-Ages/Family-Friendly Ghost Tour.
Your spooky adventure will begin with an introduction to Austin's haunted past - and then we'll head off to visit some of the most haunted locations in Austin.
If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please get in touch with the private & group sales coordinator with Ghost City Tours.
Book Today on Viator From $24.99
Historic Austin Private Pedicab Tour
Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun and informative tour of Austin in a relaxing open air pedicab. You'll amble through all the sites of downtown, including the Capitol, Governors Mansion, Pecan St, Lady Bird Lake and more. Great for couples, friends and families of all ages. The tour moves at your own pace and is individually tailored to your group.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $69.50
Haunted Austin Outdoor Escape Game
Uncover the Downtown of the Most Haunted City in Texas! Find yourself face to face with the ghosts of Austin’s past, some of which are friendly, others not so much. Learn all about previous sightings, locations, and optimal ghost-spotting hours. Grab a companion and discover more about the dark past of the Capital City of Texas!
Will you explore the haunts of Austin?
Highlights:
1. Explore historical places in Austin such as the Texas Capitol, the Texas Governor's Mansion and lesser-known places
2. Enjoy a uniquely crafted story brought to you by our talented writers.
3. Follow a little-known path of history that may connect America’s first serial killer to one of the most famed assassins of all time.
4. Explore the Haunted Hotels along 7th street.
5. Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt.
Book Today on Viator From $10.03
Austin Ripper 1885: Historical True Crime Walking Tour
Join the search for Austin's 1885 serial killer who targeted vulnerable populations of women. This tour explores the infamous historical murders that threw our city into a state of panic and turmoil. See the locations of the crimes and deep dive into the investigation, suspects, and victims of one of America's most fascinating unsolved mysteries. The unique and controversial theories presented on this tour are expanded upon in our Ripper podcast series- check out Nitty Gritty ATX wherever you get your podcasts.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $55.00
Live Music
Experience Austin's vibrant live music scene with numerous venues featuring local and international artists across various genres.
Austin Live Music Crawl
With over 270 live music venues, Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World! Many of these venues are located outside of downtown and tucked into neighborhoods, so come explore with a true Austin local as we show you some of Austin’s best spots. Have fun jamming out to authentic live music all over the city!
Check out live music shows at 3 (three) different venues. Entry fees/cover charges included. All performances and venues are authentically Austin, but will vary in genre, size, style and neighborhood.
Book Today on Viator From $85.00
Live Music Capital of the World Pedicab Tour
Relax in an open air pedicab as our knowledgable tour guide rides you around to all the venues and sites that gave this city the title - Live Music Capital of the World. Stops include Willie Nelson Statue, Stevie Ray Vaughan statue, Antones- Home of the Blues, Armadillo World Headquarters, Janis Joplin Mural and many more. The pedicab is equipped with a stereo to play music from local legends. This is a private tour and can be customized to your group.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $69.50
Outdoor Activities
Explore the great outdoors in Austin with possibilities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding in parks, lakes, and natural trails.
Double Decker Austin Single Loop Sightseeing Tour
Learn all about Austin and its rich history while enjoying an awesome view of the city from the top of a double-decker bus. You get the best views of Austin from our unobstructed upper deck, making this the best tour for taking photographs. People on the street also love to interact with people on the upper deck! For your comfort, the lower deck is climate-controlled. This tour passes by more downtown attractions than any other Austin tour. Every tour has a driver and tour guide with absolutely no audio recordings. Enjoy your Austin experience much more by interacting with our guides, whose sole focus is making your experience fun and interesting.
This is a single loop tour in which you stay on the bus for the duration of the tour, which will last about 75 to 90 minutes, depending on the traffic. You tour will conclude when you get back to Stop #1 at the Austin Visitor Center.
Book Today on Viator From $36.81
Austin Biker Gang E-Bike Tour
You can be a part of an e-bike biker gang! Our e-bikes are fun and super easy to ride. See the sights and have a blast! We believe that riding is more fun with others, so add another e-bike so your friend can ride along with you! We have a very dynamic experience and with so much to see in Austin each ride is different! It's an incredible way to get the feel of what Austin is and what it is loved by so many! Tours available every day except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Each ticket also included our CYB equipment protection so if you do any accidental damage to our e-bikes you're not responsible (Horseplay is not covered, so calm down there Evel Knievel, no stunts allowed).
You'll also get a wristband during your initiation that will get you EXCLUSIVE DEALS such as 10% off select gift stores throughout the city as well as happy hour specials for those old enough to partake in an adult beverage! Your ticket basically pays for itself!
Book Today on Viator From $81.18
Lady Bird Lake Bike Tour in Austin
This informative, easy 2.5 hour tour of 8 miles with some small hills, makes its way around the lake on the hike-n-bike loop trail, including the boardwalk, Zilker Park, Butler Park, Barton Springs pool and Congress Bat bridge. This tour is a great tour for riders of all ages and skill levels, as it is totally natural, mostly shaded and traffic free. A great way to familiarize your group with the best parks of the downtown Austin area.
Please note- if you can't ride a bicycle, you will not be able to participate in the tour and will be refunded. Safety and respect of other riders in the group are essential.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Guided Sunset Bat Kayak Tour in Austin
Join our guides for the ultimate bat watching experience!
Our Sunset Bat Tour offers stunning views of the Downtown Austin Skyline, fun facts about the local bat colony, and the chance to see the 1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed bats emerge from the famous bat bridge.
We are located minutes away from the Congress Avenue Bridge.
Book Today on Viator From $45.00