The capital of Texas, Austin, is an inland city known for its outdoor activities including hiking, outdoor swimming, and off-road biking.
Known as the live music capital of the world, Austin is also a haven for music lovers from around the globe, especially those who love blues, country, and rock.
Whether you want to spend all your time exploring the great outdoors or want to unwind with a glass of wine and some live entertainment, this city has everything you’ll need.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular attractions in Austin…
Barton Springs Outdoor Pool
The Barton Springs Outdoor Municipal Pool should be at the top of your list if you’re visiting Austin in the summer. The Barton Springs Pool is a large outdoor pool that is filled with water from the natural springs nearby.
The water here is remarkably clear and refreshing and the views of trees and lush green grass on either side really give it an edge over typical indoor pools. If you love swimming and being outdoors, this is the place for you.
Lady Bird Lake
Austin’s Lady Bird Lake is another aquae-related attraction that draws a number of visitors each year. Lady Bird Lake, also known as Town Lake, is a reservoir in the Colorado River that flows through Austin.
Along the banks of Lady Bird Lake, you’ll find beautiful views across the water and plenty of places that are ideal for a summer picnic.
Congress Avenue Bridge
The Austin Congress Avenue Bridge is an essential main transport route (with 6 lanes!) sightseeing spots and, surprisingly, a bat-watching hotspot. At night, many visitors gather to watch the swarm of bats around the bridge, which has been found to be home to the world’s largest urban bat colony.
During the day the bridge is a great backdrop for taking holiday photos and also a handy landmark if you get a bit lost.
The Continental Club Music Venue
Austin’s Continental Club is one of the city’s most popular live music venues. The Continental Club is especially known for rock, blues, country, and jazz performances and it hosts both local and international artists.
If you’re looking for delicious food and drinks along with some top-class live entertainment, this is the perfect place to go.
Blanton Museum of Art
The Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art is actually part of Texas University and is one of the largest art museums in America. The museum is made up of a selection of temporary exhibitions, permanent collection galleries, storage facilities, classrooms, a print study room, an auditorium, a shop, and a cafe.
The museum charges a small fee – between $5 to $12 – and there’s plenty to explore inside so you can easily spend half a day there.
The Driskill Hotel
The Driskill Hotel has become another one of Austin’s iconic tourist attractions. The building itself is a fascinating example of the architecture of the 1880s and its status as the dream of a cattle baron turned boutique hotel gives it a unique history.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that has character, lovely decor, and is conveniently located in the city center, this is the place for you.
LBJ Presidential Library
The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library is the library and museum of America’s 36th president. The library, which is located just behind the University of Texas, is open to the public throughout the week for a small admissions fee.
The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library is a must-see for history buffs, book lovers, and of course anyone interested in politics.
Austin Aquarium
The Austin Aquarium is a relatively new attraction in the city, having just opened in 2013. The aquarium has a vast collection of marine life, from birds to fish and other amphibians.
The Austin Aquarium is popular with families and children since there’s a range of kid-friendly activities. There’s plenty to see so it’s easy to spend at least a few hours here.
Circuit of the Americas Racetrack
The Circuit of America’s Racetrack is a Grade 1 FIA-specification 5.514-kilometer motor racing track located just outside of Austin. For motor and racing enthusiasts the Circuit of the Americas is a must-see.
The track has proved popular with F1 drivers who have described it as ‘challenging’ with a nice atmosphere.
Stevie Vaughan Statue
The statue of Stevie Vaughan is another Dallas classic attraction that always draws tourists. The statue is a bronze sculpture that was created by the artist Ralph Helmick.
The statue makes a great selfie prop and the surrounding park is also a great place to spend some time, especially in the summer when the sun’s out and there’s plenty of room to spread out a blanket and have a picnic.
Zilker Botanical Gardens
Austin is a metropolitan city that has a lot of artificial structures but not so much nature. If you’re craving some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the lush oasis of the Zilker Botanic Gardens is the perfect solution.
Walk, relax or photograph the wonderful scenery here. Enjoy miniature waterfalls, lime green stretches of grass, and hidden, shaded walkways throughout thai beautiful park.
