A museum that is primarily located outdoors.

The outdoor museum in Austin is a unique cultural experience that combines the beauty of nature with the richness of the city's history. Here, you can explore various exhibits that tell the story of Austin's past, all while enjoying the great outdoors. The museum is set in a picturesque location, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. /n The museum is also known for its educational programs and events, which are designed to engage the community and promote a deeper understanding of Austin's heritage. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the outdoor museum is a must-visit destination in Austin.

An open-air museum showcasing Austin's history and culture.

A trail offering beautiful views and scenery.

The scenic trail in Austin is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The trail offers a challenging workout for hikers and bikers, with steep inclines and rugged terrain. But the real reward is the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding nature. /n The trail is well-maintained and marked, making it easy for even novice hikers to navigate. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of wildlife, adding to the overall experience. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a way to enjoy Austin's natural beauty, the scenic trail is a must-visit.

A scenic trail in Austin offering breathtaking views and a great workout.

A beautiful garden showcasing a wide variety of plant species.

A theater that is primarily located outdoors.

The outdoor theater in Austin is a unique venue that offers a variety of cultural experiences. The theater hosts a range of performances, from plays and concerts to film screenings and festivals. The open-air setting adds a unique charm to the performances, making for a truly memorable experience. /n The theater is also known for its community engagement, hosting workshops and educational programs for the local community. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the outdoor theater in Austin is a must-visit.

An outdoor theater in Austin hosting a variety of performances.

A public park suitable for picnics and outdoor activities.

Austin's park for picnics is a popular destination for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxing day out. The park offers ample green space for picnics, as well as picnic tables and barbecue grills for those who want to cook their own meals. /n The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and nature photography. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely picnic or simply want to enjoy the outdoors, this park in Austin is the perfect spot.

A popular park in Austin perfect for picnics and family outings.

Welcome to Austin, Texas, a city that perfectly blends traditional Southern charm with a vibrant arts scene and innovative tech culture. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin offers an array of music festivals, including the famous SXSW and Austin City Limits. Explore the city's rich history at the Texas State Capitol and Bullock Texas State History Museum. Nature lovers can enjoy the Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool. Foodies will love the city's renowned food trucks and BBQ joints. Don't miss the chance to witness the world's largest urban bat colony at the Congress Avenue Bridge. Austin's warm, sunny weather makes it a perfect year-round destination. Come experience the unique blend of Texan hospitality and progressive culture in Austin.

Outdoor museum

Scenic trail

Start your day with a visit to a popular Outdoor museum. This museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are both educational and fun for the whole family. You'll get to learn about the history and culture of Austin while enjoying the beautiful outdoor setting.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of Austin's many beautiful parks. The park offers plenty of shade, picnic tables, and a playground for the kids. You can either bring your own food or buy from the food trucks nearby.

Spend the afternoon exploring a famous shopping district. This area is known for its unique boutiques, antique shops, and local artisans. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for Tex-Mex, BBQ, or vegan options, you'll find something to satisfy everyone's taste buds.

End your day with a leisurely stroll along a Scenic trail. The trail offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great way to unwind after a busy day.

Exploring Downtown and South Austin

Botanical Garden

Outdoor theater

Kick off your second day with a visit to a famous Botanical Garden. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, a butterfly house, and a children's play area. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Have lunch at a local food court that offers a variety of cuisines. The food court is located in a popular shopping mall, so you can grab a quick bite before continuing your shopping spree.

Spend the afternoon at a popular amusement park. The park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a popular BBQ joint. Austin is known for its BBQ, and this place is one of the best in town. They offer a variety of meats, sides, and desserts, so there's something for everyone.

End your day with a visit to a popular Outdoor theater. The theater offers a variety of shows, including musicals, plays, and concerts. It's a great way to end your trip on a high note.

Discovering East and North Austin

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note: the 50 united states cover six time zones

UTC-5

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Austin, especially if you plan on visiting areas outside of the city center. There are numerous car rental companies available at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and throughout the city.

Austin is served by several ridesharing companies including Uber and Lyft. These services provide a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you don't plan on driving yourself.

Austin is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the city or use the city's bike-sharing program, Austin B-cycle.

Austin's public transportation system, Capital Metro, offers bus and light rail services throughout the city. The bus system has numerous routes, while the MetroRail has nine stations running from downtown Austin to the city's northern suburbs.

Taxis are readily available in Austin, especially in the downtown area. You can hail a taxi on the street, or call ahead to book one.

Pedicabs, or bicycle taxis, are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around downtown Austin. They're especially popular during festivals and other large events.

Downtown Austin is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. The city also has several beautiful trails for longer walks or hikes.

Electric scooters are a popular way to get around Austin. Several companies, including Bird and Lime, offer scooter rentals throughout the city. Simply download the app, find a nearby scooter, and start your ride.

RideAustin is a local nonprofit ridesharing option available in Austin. It operates much like Uber or Lyft, but with a focus on giving back to the local community.

Austin is famous for its Texas-style barbecue, which is typically slow-cooked and smoked over a wood fire.

Barbecue

A popular breakfast item in Austin, these tacos typically include ingredients like eggs, cheese, and bacon wrapped in a tortilla.

Breakfast Tacos

A fusion of Mexican and American cuisines, Tex-Mex is a staple in Austin and includes dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and nachos.

Tex-Mex

A classic Texas dish, chicken fried steak is a breaded and fried steak served with gravy.

Chicken Fried Steak

Texas-style chili is a meaty stew often made without beans, and is a popular dish in Austin.

Chili

A creamy cheese dip often served with tortilla chips, queso is a favorite appetizer in Austin.

Queso

Originally a Czech pastry, Texans have put their own spin on kolaches, filling them with ingredients like sausage and cheese.

Kolaches

A Tex-Mex breakfast dish made from scrambled eggs mixed with strips of tortillas, onions, peppers, and cheese.

Migas

A popular Texas beer, Shiner Bock is a smooth, dark lager that's brewed in the small town of Shiner, just outside of Austin.

Shiner Bock

A staple in the South, sweet tea is a popular drink in Austin and is often served iced with a slice of lemon.

Sweet Tea

A popular cocktail in Austin, margaritas are typically made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, and served with salt on the rim of the glass.

Margarita

A classic Southern dessert, pecan pie is a sweet, nutty pie that's particularly popular in Austin due to the abundance of pecan trees in Texas.

Pecan Pie

New Year's Day

New Year's Day (substitute)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day (substitute)

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

A network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined by bars, shops, restaurants, nature, and public art.

San Antonio River Walk

Known for wineries and its German heritage. Visit the Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche Museum, and the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Fredericksburg

Home to the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos.

Waco

A natural pool that was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

A massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above ground. Popular for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

The largest known commercial caverns in the U.S. state of Texas. The name is derived from the 60 ft natural limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater setting of the cavern's entrance.

Natural Bridge Caverns

NASA’s official visitor center and a Smithsonian Affiliate. It offers a glimpse into the space agency's Mars mission and moon landing exhibits.

Space Center Houston

A barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast in the United States, about 50 miles southeast of Houston. The entire island, with the exception of the little village of Jamaica Beach, is within the city limits of the City of Galveston.

Galveston Island

The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world. Known for its white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters.

Padre Island National Seashore

Houston

San Antonio

A colony of endemic bats flies over Austin

The waterfalls in Prehistoric Park in Zilker Botanical Garden

Cowboy Memorial in front of Texas Capitol dome

Japanese garden at the Zilker Botanical Garden

Austin is the capital of Texas, so expect to see a lot of state government buildings and activities.

The city is known for its live music scene, with many venues featuring live performances every night.

Austin is also known as the 'Silicon Hills' due to the large number of tech companies in the city.

The city is very bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and bike rental services available.

Austin has a warm climate, with average high temperatures in the summer reaching 96°F (35.5°C) and average lows in the winter around 43°F (6.1°C).

The city is home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest universities in the U.S.

Austin is known for its food trucks, which can be found all over the city serving a variety of cuisines.

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many green initiatives and eco-friendly businesses.

Austin is home to many parks and outdoor spaces, including the Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and Barton Springs Pool.

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs located on 6th Street and Rainey Street.

Austin is known for its annual events, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits Music Festival.

The city has a diverse population, with a mix of students, professionals, artists, and musicians.

Austin is located in Central Texas, so it's a great base for exploring the Texas Hill Country.

The city has a strong craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering tours and tastings.

Austin is a very pet-friendly city, with many parks, restaurants, and businesses allowing dogs.

The city has a laid-back vibe, with a casual dress code prevalent even in upscale restaurants and events.

Austin has a strong arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and art events throughout the year.

The city is known for its unique 'Keep Austin Weird' culture, which celebrates individuality and creativity.

Austin has a strong economy, with a low unemployment rate and a high job growth rate.

The city has a good public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and bike-sharing services.

January is the coldest month in Austin, Texas, with an average low of 4°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with an average high of 23°C. The weather is still cool and comfortable for outdoor activities.

March marks the beginning of spring in Austin, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and outdoor festivals.

April is a warm month in Austin, with an average high of 30°C. It's a perfect time to explore the city's music scene and enjoy the outdoors.

May is the start of the hot season in Austin, with temperatures often reaching 34°C. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

June is one of the hottest months in Austin, with an average high of 37°C. It's a good time to visit the city's swimming holes and indoor attractions.

July is the peak of summer in Austin, with temperatures often exceeding 38°C. It's a great time to enjoy water activities and the city's vibrant nightlife.

August is another hot month in Austin, with similar temperatures to July. It's a good time to visit the city's museums and indoor attractions.

September marks the end of the hot season in Austin, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to enjoy the city's outdoor dining and music festivals.

October is a comfortable month in Austin, with an average high of 31°C. It's a perfect time to explore the city's parks and enjoy the fall colors.

November is a cool month in Austin, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 26°C. It's a great time to enjoy the city's food scene and cultural attractions.

December is a cool and comfortable month in Austin, with an average high of 22°C. It's a good time to enjoy the city's holiday festivities and shopping scene.

Austin, Texas is known for its warm climate, with temperatures often reaching the high 90s (35-37°C) in the summer months. If you're planning a trip during this time, be sure to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget to stay hydrated, as the heat can be intense.

The city also experiences mild winters, with temperatures typically ranging from the 40s to 60s (4-15°C). If you're visiting Austin during the winter months, you'll want to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. 

Spring and fall in Austin are quite pleasant, with temperatures usually in the 70s and 80s (21-27°C). These seasons are a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, such as Zilker Park or Lady Bird Lake. 

Rainfall in Austin is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but the city can experience heavy storms, particularly in the spring. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.

Regardless of when you visit, Austin's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and dynamic city!

Cookie consent

2-Day Family Adventure: Outdoor and Shopping Fun in Austin, Texas

About Austin, Texas