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Must-see places and activities in Austin

Austin bears no resemblance to any other Texas city. Here, music escapes from bars before dusk, food trucks mingle with concert halls, and parks stretch to the Colorado River. As Texas's capital and self-proclaimed live music capital, the city brings together students, artists, and travelers seeking that unique energy found only here. Between its museums, natural swimming pools, and vibrant neighborhoods, Austin is explored on foot, by bike, or to the sound of a guitar. From Zilker Park to the Capitol, from South Congress to East Sixth Street, each place tells a part of this free and inventive local culture. A city apart, balancing nature, creativity, and the simple pleasure of outdoor living.

Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park

Austin, United States

Large 142-hectare park in the city center, Zilker combines sports fields, shaded trails, and a botanical garden. Residents gather here for picnics or to swim in the nearby Barton Springs pool.

Texas State Capitol
Texas State Capitol

Austin, United States

Symbol of Texan pride, the Austin Capitol Building, built from pink granite, has overlooked the city since 1888. Its corridors still host local government sessions.

Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool

Austin, United States

Powered by a natural spring, this pool maintains clear and cool water year-round. A legendary spot where Austinites come to swim regardless of the season.

Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake

Austin, United States

Reservoir crossing through downtown Austin, perfect for kayaking or walking on its tree-lined trails. Sunsets over the skyline are striking.

Blanton Museum of Art
Blanton Museum of Art

Austin, United States

This university museum houses over 17,000 artworks from the 14th century to contemporary art. A quiet and bright space in the heart of the campus.

The Moody Theater
The Moody Theater

Austin, United States

Modern venue with 2,700 seats, known for hosting the show “Austin City Limits”. Each week, it brings together local artists and internationally renowned acts.

South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue

Austin, United States

Iconic street lined with vintage shops, restaurants, and galleries. It is one of the most photographed neighborhoods in the city, trendy and deeply Texan.

Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell

Austin, United States

Natural viewpoint overlooking the Colorado River. From the summit, the view extends over Lake Austin and the surrounding hills, perfect at sunset.

Bullock Texas State History Museum
Bullock Texas State History Museum

Austin, United States

Museum dedicated to the rich history and culture of Texas.

Paramount Theatre
Paramount Theatre

Austin, United States

Historic theater providing a mix of film screenings, live music, comedy, and performing arts events.

LBJ Presidential Library
LBJ Presidential Library

Austin, United States

Library and museum preserving and showcasing the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Cathedral of Saint Mary
Cathedral of Saint Mary

Austin, United States

A historic Roman Catholic cathedral with remarkable Gothic Revival architecture.

The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, United States

A public research institution with 50,000 students, several museums, sports facilities and a 307-foot tall clock tower.

Circuit of the Americas
Circuit of the Americas

Austin, United States

A state-of-the-art race track that hosts Formula 1 and major concerts. The adrenaline and engine sounds contrast with the quiet of the nearby parks.

East Sixth Street
East Sixth Street

Austin, United States

In the evening, the street lights up with neon signs and guitar sounds. Bars, clubs, and concert halls follow one after another, showcasing the musical soul of Austin.

Austin Zoo
Austin Zoo

Austin, United States

This wildlife sanctuary houses rescued animals from different regions and offers guided tours with educational programs about conservation.

The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria
The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria

Austin, United States

Modern museum in a 1920s villa with sculpture gardens and exhibition spaces along the shores of Lake Austin.

Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

Austin, United States

A peaceful garden where Charles Umlauf's bronze sculptures interact with the trees. The art merges with nature here.

Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Preserve

Austin, United States

A freshwater basin beneath a rock arch, naturally formed by the collapse of a cave. The site is one of the most photogenic in Texas.

The Broken Spoke
The Broken Spoke

Austin, United States

A local institution since the 1960s, this legendary honky-tonk makes the city pulse to country music. Locals dance the two-step here as they did in the past.

Congress Avenue Bridge
Congress Avenue Bridge

Austin, United States

Every summer evening, thousands of bats fly out from beneath the bridge. This natural spectacle has become a daily routine for locals and visitors.

Austin Central Library
Austin Central Library

Austin, United States

A place of history and remembrance dedicated to Lyndon B. Johnson. It features archives, speeches, and objects depicting America in the 1960s.

Palmer Events Center
Palmer Events Center

Austin, United States

Multipurpose venue hosting conventions, trade shows, and public events.

Elisabet Ney Museum
Elisabet Ney Museum

Austin, United States

Museum dedicated to showcasing the life and works of sculptor Elisabet Ney.

South Austin Museum of Popular Culture
South Austin Museum of Popular Culture

Austin, United States

Features art and memorabilia from Austin’s rich music culture and history.

Shoal Creek Trail
Shoal Creek Trail

Austin, United States

Walking path that follows Shoal Creek through downtown providing access to parks and neighborhoods with opportunities for jogging and cycling throughout the city.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Austin, United States

Large recreational park located along the Colorado River featuring camping facilities, hiking trails, fishing spots, and water access for various aquatic activities and outdoor recreation.

Austin Aquarium
Austin Aquarium

Austin, United States

Interactive aquarium with exotic marine life, rainforest animals, and birds.