Zilker Botanical Garden is a peaceful 26-acre retreat within Zilker Park, featuring themed gardens, koi ponds, cacti, and live oaks. Highlights include the Mabel Davis Rose Garden and the serene Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden with a teahouse and Japanese maples.
Zilker Metropolitan Park is Austin’s oldest park, set where Barton Creek meets Lady Bird Lake. Spanning over 350 acres, it’s a favorite spot for outdoor fun and home to Barton Springs Pool, scenic trails, gardens, and iconic events like Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Trail of Lights.
Lady Bird Lake offers scenic paddling with views of Austin’s skyline, whether you follow designated routes or explore at your own pace. Spring-fed favorites like Barton Springs Pool and Deep Eddy Pool are nearby and open year-round. With plenty of shoreline spots to relax and easy access to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, it’s a perfect way to enjoy Austin’s outdoors.
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum is a peaceful six-acre oasis in South Austin, featuring bronze sculptures by Charles Umlauf and rotating contemporary exhibits. Set in a serene garden near Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool, it’s a beautiful place to enjoy art and nature together.
Directing visitors through the heart of the East Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods, the Tejano Walking Trail covers an expansive part of American history, starting in post-Civil War times. Covering a historically Hispanic area, the 4.9-mile trail features 24 sites along the walking trail, which can be completed in about 2.5 hours.
The Mexic-Arte Museum houses a collection of traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and cultural items in downtown Austin. Explore the galleries and be sure to check out the exterior mural along Fifth Street.
Congress Avenue Bridge Bats are one of Austin’s most iconic sights. From late March through early fall, thousands of bats emerge around sunset and stream east over Lady Bird Lake. Arrive early to grab a spot on the bridge or nearby observation areas, bring a blanket or chairs, and enjoy this unforgettable Austin experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual daytime bite or an evening cocktail, Rainey Street Historic District is a fun, easy stop. With bungalow-style bars, brunch spots, and relaxed patios, it’s a great place to pop in and soak up a little Austin energy — day or night. (Rideshare is usually the easiest way to get there!)
Think of this as Austin’s open-air shopping district — a mix of favorite brands, upscale boutiques, and fun places to grab a bite. A relaxed, low-key option if you want something simple and air-conditioned.
Take a free, self-guided tour of the Texas State Capitol while you’re downtown. The building is larger than the U.S. Capitol and features beautiful rotunda views, historic chambers, and impressive architecture. It’s an easy stop between lunch, shopping, or sightseeing — and a great way to see a piece of Texas history up close.