posted on July 10, 2026
Discover some of the best things to see in Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World. This vibrant city is as diverse as it is dynamic. It’s home to tech festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW), world-famous Texas-style smoked barbecue, legendary live music venues, sprawling outdoor spots, and so much more.
Whether you’re looking to soak in the Austin skyline, brush up on Texas history, or venture further out to nearby attractions and towns (like Hamilton Pool Preserve or Fredericksburg), driving your own car is the best way to get the most out of your time in Austin, Texas.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- What you need to know before visiting Austin
- The best things to see in Austin
- Top things to do for every kind of traveler
- Frequently asked questions
What you need to know before visiting Austin
With so much to see beyond downtown Austin, renting a car is one of the best ways to beat the heat (especially in Austin’s brutal summer temperatures) and venture into the spectacular Texas Hill Country. Here are a few helpful pointers to keep in mind before visiting Austin:
- Closest airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is located just five miles southeast of Austin (approximately 20–30 minutes from downtown), welcoming both domestic and international flights. Booking on Turo means you can collect your car from a nearby location within a short distance of the airport.
- Best time to visit Austin: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit Austin, offering both a packed calendar of cultural events and festivals, as well as the chance to spot stunning wildflowers.
- What you’ll love about Austin: Austin offers an unbeatable combination of live music, top-notch Texan barbecue, and stunning outdoor spaces. Plus, the city is known for its “keep Austin weird” ethos, with locals known to be friendly, casual, and highly inclusive.
- Getting around: As a sprawling city, a car is the most practical way to get around Austin. Having your own wheels will make it easy to zip between South Congress, East Austin, downtown, and the lake. Browse and book a wide range of vehicles in Austin on Turo.
- Best vehicle to rent: Compact cars (such as a Toyota Corolla) will be ideal for drivers sticking to downtown Austin, while an SUV (like a Toyota Highlander or a Jeep Grand Cherokee) offers a more spacious experience for those heading to the Texas Hill Country and beyond.
- Heat warning: Austin summers are intensely hot, with temperatures in June to August regularly exceeding 100°F. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or evening if you’re visiting during the peak of summer.
The best things to see in Austin
As the Texas state capital, Austin is packed with incredible things to see and do. From live music to natural swim spots and beautiful outdoor spaces, here are the top 10 spots not to miss when visiting.
1. Sixth Street and Red River Cultural District
Experience the heart of Austin’s live music and nightlife scene at two destinations that earn the city’s “Live Music Capital of the World” reputation.
Sixth Street is widely considered Austin’s most famous entertainment strip, offering a corridor of dive bars, live music venues, and bustling restaurants that come alive well after dark. Head to the western section (affectionately known as the “Dirty Sixth”) for rowdy crowds and lively music performances, or venture east into the Red River Cultural District (the Stubb’s Amphitheatre is a must-see, one of the most beloved outdoor concert venues in the country).
- Best for: Nightlife fans looking to soak in the energy of Austin’s famed bars and live music venues.
- Don’t miss: Sipping an Old Fashioned at the iconic Driskill Bar, experiencing the quirky displays at the Museum of Weird, or dining at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q (it’s renowned for its hearty Texas barbecue).
- Best time to visit: Visiting in March (ideally on a Friday and Saturday) will allow you to see this entertainment district come alive as part of SXSW.
2. South Congress Avenue
Ready to explore Texas’ capital city on foot? South Congress Avenue (known as “SoCo” by locals) is one of the most walkable spots in downtown. Not only is this Austin’s most photogenic street, but it’s brimming with vibrant eateries, electric boutique shopping, vintage stores, and more.
Within a few blocks, you’ll stroll between iconic stores like Allen’s Boots (packed with cowboy boots and western fashion), historic record stores, and iconic live music destinations (like The Continental Club). From the north end of the street, you’ll even score an incredible view of the streets of Austin, too.
- Best for: Boutique and vintage shopping, lively patio dining, and mural hunting.
- Don’t miss: The iconic murals along South Congress Avenue, including the “I Love You So Much” wall painted on the side of Jo’s Coffee (a popular photo spot).
Tip from the author: South Congress is best on a weekday morning. You get the murals and the storefronts without fighting the weekend crowds. Most shops open around 10–11am; grab coffee at Jo’s and explore before the street fills up.
3. The Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony
Located on the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, you’ll find the largest urban bat colony in North America. There are estimated to be up to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats living under this iconic Austin bridge, emerging each night at dusk to hunt for insects.
The stream of bats lasts for roughly 30 minutes, offering one of the best free natural spectacles in any US city. Some of the best vantage spots to watch the bat colony take flight include on the bridge, on the banks of Lady Bird Lake, and from the Statesman Bat Observation Center.
- Best for: Nature lovers looking for a truly unique tourist attraction in the heart of a major US city.
- Best time: Dusk (from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm) offers the best chance of spotting this mesmerizing moment, with the colony known to be most active during the warmer evenings of July and August.
Tip from the author: Consider renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake to watch the bats emerge overhead. It’s one of Austin’s most memorable experiences, and several rental operators run bat-watch paddle tours in the evening.
4. Lady Bird Lake and the Hike-and-Bike Trail
Officially known as the Ann and Roy Butler Trail, this 10-mile loop trail takes you around a reservoir on the Colorado River, offering one of the most popular urban trails in the US. The Hike-and-Bike Trail is free and open to the public, connecting downtown to Zilker Park (passing through several of Austin’s best outdoor gathering spaces along the way).
- Best for: Anyone looking to break a sweat. Run, jog, or cycle along this mostly shaded track.
- Don’t miss: Renting a kayak or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, soaking in the skyline views from the Auditorium Shores, or snapping a few scenic photos from the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge (it’s an epic vantage spot).
5. Barton Springs Pool
Located in the heart of Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is an incredible 3-acre limestone pool fed by underground springs. This Austin institution maintains a consistent temperature of roughly 68°F year-round, making it an ideal spot to escape the sweltering Texan heat during summer.
Settle in with a book on the grassy rolling hills and cool off in the fresh, unchlorinated waters of this natural pool. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter fish or turtles during your visit!
- Best for: Summertime visits and swimmers of all abilities (the pool’s depth ranges from 0 to 18 feet, perfect for both casual waders and serious lap swimmers).
- Admission: Entry passes are required and can be purchased online via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The pool is typically open from 5 am to 10 pm, and is usually closed on Thursdays from 9 am to 7 pm for cleaning.
Tip from the author: Barton Springs is one of Austin’s most beloved outdoor spots, but it gets packed on summer weekend afternoons. Go before 9 am or after 6 pm for a more relaxed experience.
6. Texas State Capitol
Did you know that the Texas State Capitol is the largest state capitol building in the US? It even towers over the US Capitol in Washington, D.C.
A visit to this site is a must, offering incredible 19th-century architecture set on 22 acres of landscaped grounds. From the building’s pink granite exterior to the impressive 218-foot-tall rotunda (featuring an 8-foot Lone Star), there’s plenty to see and do at the Texas State Capitol.
- Best for: History buffs looking to deepen their knowledge of Texas’ rich history.
- Don’t miss: The free 30-minute tours operating throughout the week, giving you a guided experience through the building’s historic halls.
7. East Austin
As Austin’s most rapidly evolving neighborhoods, East Austin is one of the best spots to visit in the city. Spanning East Cesar Chavez and East 6th Street, this area offers the city’s strongest concentration of street art, colorful murals, and art galleries.
Plus, foodies will be treated to the best of Austin’s dining scene. Expect award-winning eateries and globally acclaimed spots (from Birdie’s and Franklin Barbecue to must-see gems like Nixta Taqueria). If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a distinctively local experience, East Austin has to be at the top of your list.
- Best for: Legendary dining options, bustling arts and culture, and renowned music venues.
- Don’t miss: A world-famous plate of Texas barbecue from La Barbecue or Micklethwait Craft Meats (best washed down with a cocktail from Whislers).
8. Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt
As Austin’s oldest metro park, Zilker Park tops the list as the best outdoor spot to visit in the city. Spread across 351 acres, the parklands are home to Barton Springs Pool, frequent outdoor concerts and events, and the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival.
At the southern edge of the park, you’ll find the Barton Creek Greenbelt. From hiking trails to swimming holes to limestone rock climbing, this is the perfect spot for adventurers looking to get active in nature.
- Best for: Fitness buffs, nature lovers, and families looking to soak in the best of Austin’s natural beauty (without leaving downtown).
- Don’t miss: The Zilker Botanical Gardens or the Zilker Hillside Theatre, playing host to musicals and even Shakespeare in the Park performances.
9. The Blanton Museum of Art
Located at the University of Texas, the Blanton Museum of Art is one of the largest university art museums in the US. Explore over 21,000 works spanning European masters, Latin American art, and contemporary work.
Austin by Ellsworth Kelly is an absolute must-see. The freestanding stone building is considered one of the artist’s greatest works (and is the only architectural piece ever designed by the artist).
- Best for: Art lovers looking to explore striking pieces like Teresita Fernández’s Stacked Waters, a two-story atrium installation that creates an incredible optical illusion.
- Don’t miss: Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, located in a standalone building adjacent to the museum, and considered a major work of American art.
Tip from the author: The Blanton is free every Tuesday, a great option if you want to escape the heat without spending money. The museum is compact enough to explore thoroughly in 2 to 3 hours.
10. Rainey Street Historic District
Slow down the pace with a visit to Rainey Street Historic District. This block of historic 1920s bungalows has been converted into bars and restaurants, with popular spots offering large porches and string-lit patios.
Located on the edge of downtown and Lady Bird Lake, expect a more laid-back alternative to Sixth Street with cocktail spots and upscale eateries frequented by locals.
- Best for: Enjoying a relaxed evening out without the chaos of Sixth Street.
- Don’t miss: A craft cocktail from Lustre Pearl, offering an indoor-outdoor backyard setup that’s relaxed yet refined.
Top things to do in Austin for every kind of traveler
No matter what brings you to Austin, you’ll find something to see and do in this vibrant city.
For music lovers
From outdoor concerts to world-renowned festivals, music lovers are spoiled for choice in Austin.
- Stubb’s Amphitheatre for outdoor concerts: A famous multi-level concert and barbecue venue offering authentic Texas brisket and a wide array of live shows (from acoustic sets to headline tours).
- Continental Club on South Congress: One of Austin’s oldest and most beloved live music venues, offering nightly shows featuring country, blues, rockabilly, and swing acts.
- Austin City Limits Music Festival (October) or SXSW (March) for festival season: Enjoy world-renowned acts taking the stage at these two landmark festivals.
For food lovers
Sample the best of the Southern dining in Austin, with an abundance of food trucks, diners, and upscale restaurants to explore.
- Franklin Barbecue: Regularly ranked among the best barbecue in the country (arrive early as the lines are long!).
- South Congress and SoCo food trucks: Head to The Picnic Food Truck Park, offering everything from tacos to vegan bites and more.
- Breakfast tacos: This dish is a Austin classic, available at dozens of spots across the city.
For outdoor enthusiasts
Offering a mix of rugged rolling hills and lush urban parklands, there are plenty of spots to get outdoors in and around Austin.
- Barton Springs Pool: Ideal for escaping the summer heat, whether you’re doing laps or jumping off the diving board.
- Lady Bird Lake: Kayak along the water, exploring 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, or simply soak in Austin’s skyline views.
- Mount Bonnell: Make the short climb to the highest point in Austin with panoramic Colorado River views.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Austin
What is Austin most known for?
Austin is best known as the Live Music Capital of the World. Hundreds of live music venues operate nightly, and the city hosts major festivals, including SXSW and Austin City Limits. It’s also famous for its barbecue scene, the locals’ “Keep Austin Weird” ethos, Barton Springs Pool, and the Congress Avenue bat colony.
How many days do you need in Austin, TX?
Three to four days is a comfortable amount of time to spend in Austin. This allows you to cover the main sights, like Sixth Street, South Congress, Lady Bird Lake, a live music show, and some of the city’s best food.
If you’re considering a longer visit in Texas, why not add on the Dallas to Houston drive or explore some of the must-see places on your Texas road trip.
When is the best time to visit Austin?
The best time to visit Austin is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), which offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Is Austin walkable?
Downtown Austin and South Congress are reasonably walkable, but the city as a whole is spread out. A car or rideshare is helpful for moving between neighborhoods. Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs are accessible on foot from South Congress but a longer walk from downtown.
Explore Austin at your own pace with Turo
Austin, Texas is a city defined by its distinct neighborhoods, lush outdoor spaces, and vibrant cultural heartbeat. The best moments in Austin tend to happen when you have the freedom to follow the music, the food, or the hiking trails at your own pace.
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Lucinda Starr
Lucinda Starr is a travel and automotive writer with 5+ years of firsthand experience road-tripping across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. She writes road trip guides for Turo, drawing on her experience behind the wheel to share practical insights on long-distance drives, destinations, and vehicles. Her travels have taken her across Australia’s East Coast, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, and both islands of New Zealand. One of her most memorable journeys was an 11-day, 2,600+ km route from Auckland to Punakaiki and Queenstown. Lucinda has a particular passion for classic, rugged 4WD vehicles and the freedom they bring to exploring new places.
