Deep in the heart of Texas, Austin presents a vibrant blend of music, culture, and natural beauty. From its iconic live music scene to its eclectic museums and art galleries and picturesque outdoor spaces, this city offers a myriad of sights to explore for the intrepid traveler. I recently spent a week in central Texas to view the Total Annular Eclipse. During this trip, I explored the many attractions of both Austin and San Antonio, as well as the stunning surrounding Hill Country.
The Austin area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes including the Comanches and Lipan Apaches. A Spanish mission was established in 1730, but later moved to San Antonio. Pioneers began to settle the area in the 1830’s, and after Texas became an independent country in 1836, Austin was selected as its capitol. Growth continued throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and continues today due to the city being a high tech hub, as well as the state capitol and home of the University of Texas. The city is also known as a music hub for its many live music venues, and made popular by the Austin City Limits Festival and the South by Southwest music festival.
The local slogan, “Keep Austin Weird,” was originated over twenty years ago to promote the city’s small local businesses and unique culture. Today, Austin is one of the fastest growing cities in the US, and is now the tenth most populated. With this growth, the city seems to be losing some of its uniqueness that made it famous. But it still has plenty of appeal and offerings for any visitor. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage, or simply enjoying its natural beauty, this dynamic city never fails to captivate and inspire.
Downtown Austin Attractions
The urbanized area of Austin sprawls in a north-south linear fashion for about fifty miles. The downtown sits in the middle, on the north bank of Lady Bird Lake, which is formed by the Colorado River. Downtown is the heart of the city, as well as the center of government. My first visit to Austin was in 2005. Since then, the downtown has become barely recognizable. Austin is experiencing a skyscraper boom, with modern glass office and residential towers in various shapes and colors sprouting in every direction, some reaching nearly 60 stories.
Texas State Capitol – A good place to start an Austin visit is at the Texas State Capitol, which stands proudly in the north end of Congress Avenue. The capitol building is a majestic testament to the Lone Star State’s history and governance, with its pink granite exterior and soaring dome against the Texas sky. Crowning the dome is the Goddess of Liberty, inspired by the Statue of Liberty, and made of 80 pieces of zinc melded together. The capitol building was designed by architect Elijah E. Myers and completed in 1888. Inside, visitors are greeted by the grand central rotunda adorned with intricate marble and ornate detailing. Surrounding the Capitol are lush grounds with statues honoring notable Texans and serene gardens. Visitors can take self guided tours, or a free guided tour (offered Monday thru Friday, 8:30-4:30pm, Saturday and Sunday, 12:30-3:30pm).
Congress Street Bridge – Under the Congress Avenue Bridge, a natural spectacle unfolds every evening as thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge into the dusky sky. The bridge hosts one of the largest urban bat colonies in the world. Hundreds of tourists and locals alike gather along the banks of Lady Bird Lake, eagerly awaiting this nightly ritual. As the bats emerge, a mesmerizing display is provided to the viewers. Against the backdrop of the city skyline, the bats’ flapping wings create a rhythmic symphony, punctuated by their high-pitched echolocation calls as they search for insects to feed on. This display is a testament to the harmony between urban life and the natural world.
Rainey Street – Located on the east side of downtown just north of the river, Rainey Street is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere and bustling nightlife. The narrow, half mile long street is a former residential area of bungalows that have been converted to restaurants and bars. The street also hosts plenty of outdoor beer gardens and food trucks. Visitors can wander and explore a diverse array of bars and eateries, offering choices such as TexAsian, donuts, empanadas, pizza and more. Live music spills onto the streets, creating an electric energy that pulses through the neighborhood well into the night. Lining the rear of the former bungalows is a growing number of modern highrise apartments and condominiums, slowly changing the homey appeal that Rainey Street offers.
Sixth Street Historic District – No visit to Austin would be complete without experiencing its legendary live music scene, which is primarily focused on East Sixth Street. The Sixth Street Historic District, locally known as “Dirty Sixth” is a vibrant and eclectic hub of culture, entertainment, and nightlife, lined with an array of bars, food trucks, restaurants, comedy clubs, quirky shops and plenty of live music venues. During the day, visitors can explore the street’s numerous shops and boutiques, colorful murals, and kitschy signs. At night, the excitement builds with the sounds of live music pouring out from its many venues, from blues and rock to country, jazz and indie.
Attractions North of Downtown
The University of Texas at Austin – A mile north of downtown is the sprawling campus of the University of Texas. Visitors are greeted by the Beaux Arts style main building and tower that includes a carillon of 56 bells. The university, founded in 1883, has over 50,000 students and is ranked among the 40 best universities in the world. A leisurely stroll through the picturesque grounds will captivate visitors with the Spanish Renaissance architecture and beautiful landscaping. Within the campus is the Blanton Museum of Art. It is one of the largest university art museums in the US, with a collection of 21,000 works including contemporary art, Latin American art, Western American art, European art, and Old Master paintings.
The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum – The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum located on the east side of the University of Texas campus stands as a monument to the legacy of the 36th President of the United States. It is one of 13 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. The modernist library and museum is home to a wealth of historical artifacts, documents, and multimedia exhibits that chronicle the life and times of President Johnson. From his childhood in the Texas Hill Country to his transformative presidency marked by landmark legislation including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, the library offers visitors a comprehensive journey through one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. It includes personal mementos, such as the presidential limo, and gifts from various heads of state. The 8th floor has a replica of Johnson’s Oval Office, and an exhibit on Lady Bird Johnson.
Bullock Texas State History Museum – Just south of the University of Texas is the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Named after former Texas Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock, this dynamic museum provides visitors with an in-depth exploration of the state’s diverse cultural heritage, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. Through state-of-the art interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and artifact displays, visitors can witness key moments in Texas history, including the era of Spanish exploration, the fight for independence, and the legacy of the cowboy culture.
Attractions South of Downtown
The Austin Riverfront – On the south bank of Lady Bird Lake, nestled against the vibrant Austin cityscape is a massive greenbelt comprised of various parks that provide a serene haven in the middle of a bustling city. The largest is Zilker Park, a 350 acre park west of Barton Creek containing expansive lawns, picnic areas, sports fields, a sculpture garden as well as the Zilker Botanical Garden and the Austin Nature and Science Center. A popular spot for joggers and cyclists, the park also offers kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals. Visitors can stand at the river’s edge to watch the gentle currents beckon kayakers and paddleboarders, while taking in the city skyline. East of Barton Creek is Butler Shores which features ball fields and a performing arts stage, and Butler Metro Park which features an observation hill, and a children’s garden. The 10-mile long Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail forms a complete loop around Lady Bird Lake. Along the trail are picnic areas, exercise equipment, and restrooms.
Zilker Botanical Garden – Zilker Botanical Garden, within Zilker Park, spans 28 acres and provides a lush sanctuary of themed gardens. Theme gardens include the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, The Riparian Streambed, The Hartman Prehistoric Garden, and The Mable Davis Rose Garden. Visitors can wander the winding paths adorned with vibrant blooms, aromatic herbs, and towering trees. With its rich biodiversity and serene atmosphere, it’s a cherished retreat for both locals seeking solace in nature and tourists eager to immerse themselves in Austin’s greenery.
Barton Springs Pool – A great place to beat the Texas heat is at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool located in Zilker Park just south of downtown. The three acre pool is the nation’s largest natural swimming pool in an urban area. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this oasis offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking to swim laps or simply soak up the sun, Barton Springs is a must-visit destination.
South Congress Avenue (SoCo) – South Congress Avenue, affectionately known as SoCo is a favorite place for both locals and tourists to shop, dine, and be entertained. This popular commercial strip begins about a mile south of the Colorado River and the Congress Street bridge. Lined with quirky shops, vintage boutiques, trendy eateries, and live music clubs, SoCo embodies Austin’s unique spirit. Don’t miss the opportunity to snap a photo in front of the iconic “I Love You So Much” mural or sample some mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine at one of the local cafes. Cowboy lovers can pick up some boots at Allen’s Boots, and Amy’s Ice Creams is an Austin institution. For down-home live music, check out the Continental Club, which has welcomed music lovers since 1955.
Sculpture Falls – Tucked away in the picturesque Barton Creek Greenbelt in southwest Austin is Sculpture Falls and Trail. The 3.3 mile loop trail, flanked by rugged limestone cliffs and shady groves, offers hikers an urban oasis with the accompanying serene sounds of Barton Creek. There are actually two sets of falls along the way, with the first being Twin Falls (from the south trailhead). Another mile past Twin Falls, Sculpture Falls emerges like a hidden gem. The creek offers an adjacent swimming hole with temperate, crystal clear water. There are two different trailheads, including a south one located on Frontage Road, near Highway 1, and a north one located in a residential area off Camp Craft Road.
Ladybird Johnson Wildlife Center – The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is located on the far south end of Austin and is a haven for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike. The original research center was founded by former first lady, Lady Bird Johnson, and actress Helen Hayes in 1982 in East Austin, with the purpose of preserving North America’s native plants. In 1995, the center was relocated to its current site, which encompasses 284 acres featuring over 1,00 species of native Texas plants and 70 species of native Texas trees. The center showcases a stunning variety of indigenous wildflowers, trees, and shrubs, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Texas Hill Country. Visitors can stroll along winding paths through fields of vibrant blooms, admire the native cactus garden, or wander through woodlands filled with towering oak trees. The center, committed to environmental stewardship, hosts numerous educational programs and interactive exhibits.