Things to Do in Austin

There is no shortage of things to do in Austin, TX — which is part of what makes living here so compelling. Whether you've been here for decades or just moved in, Austin has a way of constantly surprising you with something you haven't tried yet.

This city's identity is built on a few pillars that hold up remarkably well: live music, outdoor access, a food scene that punches well above its weight, and a calendar of festivals and events that runs year-round. But the specifics change constantly, and the best Austin experiences are rarely the ones in the tourist brochure.

Outdoor Austin

Austin's outdoor options are genuinely exceptional for a city its size. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail loops around Lady Bird Lake through the heart of downtown — it's free, well-maintained, and used every single day by thousands of people. Barton Springs Pool offers a spring-fed swim in the middle of the city. The Greenbelt provides hiking and swimming access from multiple trailheads in South Austin. And the Hill Country — with its cypress-lined rivers, state parks, and open terrain — starts just 30 minutes west of downtown.

Food, Drinks, and Live Music

Austin's restaurant and bar scene has expanded dramatically over the past decade. The food truck culture that put Austin on the map is still thriving, now alongside a dining scene that includes James Beard-recognized restaurants, internationally influenced neighborhoods, and the kind of casual spots that locals return to weekly. Live music is woven into the city's fabric in a way that isn't performative — you'll find it on weeknights at small venues, at Sixth Street, and at every major festival from SXSW to Austin City Limits.

Festivals and Events

Austin's event calendar is one of the most active in the country. ACL Fest, SXSW, Rodeo Austin, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, and the Trail of Lights are the anchors — but the city fills the gaps between them with food festivals, cultural events, neighborhood celebrations, and seasonal activities that give residents something to look forward to throughout the year.

Explore What Austin Has to Offer

The guides below cover Austin's best hikes, restaurants, events, and neighborhoods — written from the perspective of people who live here. If you're considering a move to Austin and want to understand what day-to-day life actually looks like, this is a good place to start.