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Things To Do In Austin Today: Your Ultimate Guide to the ATX

Austin, Texas, affectionately known as the ATX, is a vibrant city brimming with live music, outdoor adventures, delicious food, and a unique culture that’s all its own. If you’re wondering about things to do in Austin today, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will provide you with a curated list of activities and attractions to make the most of your time in this dynamic city. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor eager to explore, Austin offers something for everyone.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, we’ll cover a diverse range of options to suit various interests and budgets. Get ready to discover the best of Austin and create unforgettable memories. Consider this your go-to resource for planning your day in Austin. We’ll ensure you’re never short of ideas on things to do in Austin today.

Live Music Scene

Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and experiencing its music scene is a must. Checking out live music is among the top things to do in Austin today. Here are a few options:

Continental Club: A legendary venue that has hosted music icons for decades. Catch a show at this historic spot for an authentic Austin experience.
The Cactus Cafe: Located on the University of Texas campus, this intimate venue showcases singer-songwriters and acoustic acts.
Saxon Pub: Another Austin institution known for its eclectic mix of genres and local talent.
Broken Spoke: A true Texas dance hall with live country music and two-stepping lessons.

Many bars and restaurants throughout the city also feature live music, so be sure to check local listings for up-to-date schedules. Exploring the live music scene is easily one of the best things to do in Austin today.

Outdoor Activities

Austin’s beautiful weather and natural surroundings make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. When considering things to do in Austin today, don’t forget the great outdoors:

Zilker Park: A sprawling green space that offers a variety of activities, including picnicking, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in Barton Springs Pool.
Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool that maintains a year-round temperature of 68 degrees. A refreshing escape on a hot day.
Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the scenic waters of Lady Bird Lake. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail provides a picturesque path for walking, running, or cycling.
Mount Bonnell: Climb to the top of Mount Bonnell for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Perfect for a sunset picnic.
Sculpture Falls: A natural swimming hole and hiking area located in the Greenbelt. A great spot for a refreshing dip and a scenic hike.

Enjoying outdoor activities is certainly among the most popular things to do in Austin today. [See also: Best Hiking Trails in Austin]

Food and Drink

Austin’s culinary scene is diverse and delicious. From food trucks to upscale restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Trying new restaurants should definitely be on your list of things to do in Austin today.

Food Trucks: Austin is famous for its food trucks. Explore the various food truck parks and sample everything from tacos to gourmet burgers.
Franklin Barbecue: Be prepared to wait in line, but the legendary barbecue at Franklin Barbecue is worth the effort.
Uchi: A renowned sushi restaurant that offers innovative and creative dishes.
Odd Duck: A farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on seasonal ingredients and creative preparations.
Breweries: Austin boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Visit local breweries like Zilker Brewing Co., Austin Beerworks, or Jester King Brewery for a taste of Austin’s finest brews.

Exploring Austin’s food scene is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Austin today. [See also: Austin’s Best Food Trucks]

Arts and Culture

Austin is a hub for arts and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Immersing yourself in the local art scene is one of the most enriching things to do in Austin today.

Blanton Museum of Art: Located on the University of Texas campus, the Blanton Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world.
The Contemporary Austin: With two locations, the Contemporary Austin showcases contemporary art in various mediums.
Mexic-Arte Museum: Dedicated to showcasing Mexican and Mexican-American art and culture.
Paramount Theatre: A historic theater that hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, films, and plays.
ZACH Theatre: One of Austin’s leading professional theater companies, offering a diverse range of productions.

Experiencing the arts and culture scene is among the most rewarding things to do in Austin today.

Shopping

Austin offers a unique shopping experience, with a mix of local boutiques, vintage shops, and national retailers. Finding unique souvenirs and gifts is a fun way to spend your time and makes shopping one of the enjoyable things to do in Austin today.

South Congress Avenue (SoCo): A vibrant street lined with eclectic shops, vintage stores, and art galleries.
The Domain: An upscale outdoor shopping center with a mix of national retailers and local boutiques.
2nd Street District: A downtown shopping district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Uncommon Objects: An antique store filled with curiosities and unique finds.

Unique Austin Experiences

Beyond the typical tourist attractions, Austin offers some truly unique experiences. Looking for something different to do? Consider these options when planning things to do in Austin today:

Graffiti Park (Hope Outdoor Gallery): A public art space where artists can freely create graffiti art.
Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: Witness the nightly emergence of millions of bats from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. A truly spectacular sight.
Cathedral of Junk: An elaborate structure made entirely of junk. A quirky and fascinating attraction.
Peter Pan Mini Golf: A classic Austin institution that has been providing family-friendly fun for decades.
Deep Eddy Pool: Another historic Austin swimming pool that offers a refreshing escape.

These unique experiences are definitely worth considering when planning things to do in Austin today. [See also: Weirdest Attractions in Austin]

Day Trips from Austin

If you have some extra time, consider taking a day trip from Austin to explore the surrounding area. Expanding your horizons with a day trip is a great way to enhance your list of things to do in Austin today (and tomorrow!).

Texas Hill Country: Explore the picturesque towns, wineries, and breweries of the Texas Hill Country.
San Antonio: Visit the Alamo and explore the River Walk in this historic city.
Hamilton Pool Preserve: A natural grotto with a stunning waterfall. Reservations are required.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: Hike to the top of Enchanted Rock for panoramic views of the Hill Country.

Taking a day trip is a great way to add variety to your list of things to do in Austin today and the surrounding days.

Conclusion

Austin offers a wealth of activities and attractions to suit every interest and budget. Whether you’re looking for live music, outdoor adventures, delicious food, or cultural experiences, you’ll find it all in the ATX. So, get out there and explore all that Austin has to offer! Remember to check local listings for up-to-date information on events and activities. With so many options, deciding on things to do in Austin today is an exciting prospect.

We hope this guide has provided you with some inspiration for planning your day in Austin. Enjoy your time in this vibrant and dynamic city! No matter your interests, you’re sure to find plenty of memorable things to do in Austin today. Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and embrace the Austin vibe!