Things to Do in Austin, TX

By Soomin Kim

Whether you're new to the area or have lived here for years, I’m always excited to share the best things to do in Austin, TX. From iconic music venues and food truck gems to quiet trails and buzzing festivals, this city never runs out of experiences. Let me show you why I love calling Austin home—and how you can make the most of it, too.

• Discover Austin activities that suit any mood or interest
• Find local food, music, and outdoor highlights
• Explore seasonal events and hidden gems
• Get insider suggestions from a local perspective

Austin is known for its sunny days and natural beauty, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

• Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail: Great for walking, jogging, or paddleboarding with downtown views.
• Barton Springs Pool: A spring-fed swimming hole in Zilker Park that’s iconic for a reason.
• Mount Bonnell: Short hike, big payoff—one of the best views in town.
• Zilker Botanical Garden: Peaceful paths, themed gardens, and local plant life.
• Congress Avenue Bridge bats: From March to October, watch millions of bats take flight at sunset—peak viewing is usually in late summer, especially August.

Food is part of the culture here, and I always recommend diving in headfirst.

• Franklin Barbecue: Worth the wait—just show up early.
• Veracruz All Natural: One of my favorite spots for authentic breakfast tacos.
• Uchi: For incredible sushi and a more upscale experience.
• Food truck parks: Explore clusters like The Picnic or South First for variety and local flavor.
• Craft breweries: Try spots like Meanwhile Brewing or Zilker Brewing for a laid-back afternoon.

Austin’s title as the Live Music Capital of the World is well-earned.

• The Continental Club: A legendary venue with nightly shows.
• Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park: A newer outdoor venue opened in 2021, hosting both local and touring acts.
• ACL Live at The Moody Theater: Home of the famous Austin City Limits show.
• Blanton Museum of Art: A cultural anchor near the University of Texas.
• East Austin Studio Tour: A fun, self-guided peek into local artists’ workspaces each fall.

There’s always something going on in Austin, no matter the month.

• South by Southwest (SXSW): Music, tech, film, and more every March.
• Austin City Limits Festival: A huge fall event in Zilker Park.
• Blues on the Green: Free summer concerts in the park.
• Texas Book Festival: A downtown literary celebration each fall.
• Holiday lights at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters: A festive lakeside tradition in December.

Spring and fall offer great weather and a full calendar of events—but there’s something to enjoy year-round.

Many of them are! Especially outdoor options, food truck parks, and daytime festivals.

Try a weekday paddle on Lady Bird Lake or an early morning taco run to a lesser-known spot like Joe’s Bakery.

I love helping clients connect with the heart of Austin—whether you’re exploring neighborhoods, looking for the best places to spend your weekend, or searching for a home in a community that fits your lifestyle. Living here means having access to world-class culture, nature, and food, all in one city.

Reach out to me at Soomin Kim, and I’ll help you discover both the real estate opportunities and the local experiences that make Austin, TX, such an incredible place to call home. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I’m here to make sure you feel confident every step of the way.