Austin, Texas is known for its music scene, with both indie rock and country being prominent subcultures. The city’s Central Business District is also home to the Austin City Limits Music Festival, showcasing the best of independent music in one place every October. Due to this thriving culture, there are plenty of things to do in Austin year-round. If you’re interested in exploring the city and its numerous attractions, check out these top things to do in Austin, Texas.
Visit the Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is the home of the Texas legislature, and is one of the most visited monuments in the country. The capitol building itself is one of the most significant landmarks in Austin. Inside the capitol, visitors will find important symbols, such as the Texas state flag, a replica of the Capitol’s bell, and the state seal, which depicts the Texas Revolution. There are also numerous sculptures inside the capitol building, including The Texas Heroes and the Texas Creed. The Texas Heroes sculpture depicts the state officers who fought in the Texas Revolution. The Texas Creed sculpture reflects on the importance of liberty and freedom. The Texas State Capitol is open 9AM to 5PM daily. Admission to the Capitol is free, but visitors must get in line 45 minutes before the building opens to ensure they are able to get in that day.
Take a Guided Tour
Browse website. If you’re interested in learning more about Austin, the capitol is a great place to start. Inside the building, visitors can sign up for guided tours led by a representative from the Texas State Library and Archives. These tours are free, but you must sign up for them 15 minutes before the tour begins. The tours cover the entire capitol building and are approximately one hour long.
Visit Zilker Park and hike the Barton Trail
One of the best things to do in Austin is to visit Zilker Park and hike the Barton Trail. Located just minutes from Downtown Austin, Zilker Park is an 885-acre urban wildlife refuge. The park provides a habitat for plants, animals, and birds, while also preserving the city’s natural landscapes. Zilker Park is especially great in the spring and summer because it is home to the Texas Wildflowers and Texas Trail, two hiking trails that are open year-round. The Barton Trail, which is the longest loop in Zilker Park, stretches 15 miles and is a great workout for the body and the mind. The park also features a swimming pool, several spas, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend a day with friends, family, or lovers.
Foz do Iguaçu Falls
Visiting Texas is only one reason to visit the Falls of Iguaçu, the world’s largest waterfall located in Brazil. The falls are located in Iguaçu National Park, which is also home to the Park Museum of Natural History, Iguazu Falls, and the Barro Colorado Negro Lighthouse. The park is a great place to get outdoors and explore a natural wonder. The park also has a number of attractions that are perfect for lovers. The park has several romantic spots, such as the Love Bridge, and has a number of activities that are great for couples, including horseback riding and kayaking. The Iguazu Falls are also one of the best things to do in Austin. The falls are located in the Garden of the Gods, and are what people commonly think of when they think of the city. The falls are beautiful, and the surrounding area is perfect for exploring. There are museums and restaurants located near the falls, meaning you’ll have plenty of options for food and lodging once you’re done exploring.
Get cultured at the Long Center for the Performing Arts
The Long Center for the Performing Arts is perfect if you’d like to get cultured while in Austin. The center’s main focus is on music, with numerous venues, such as the Levinson-Starr Theater, that showcase live music. The center also hosts various other types of performances, including plays, concerts, and orchestral music. The center’s Austin Opera is a popular event that is followed by many. The center is also home to the MASS MoCA, the first museum of modern art in the U.S. The Long Center is a great place to visit year-round, with many events taking place during the summer months when Austin is one of the best cities to visit.
Point of Interest #1 Capitol Grill, 1400 Congress Ave. Suite E1.002, Austin, TX 78701
Point of Interest #2 Senator Kel Seliger, 1100 Congress Ave. Room 1E.12, Austin, TX 78701
Point of Interest #3 Texas Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701