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With a mild climate and more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Austin, Texas, is the perfect place for an exciting getaway.
Located in the heart of the Lone Star State, Austin grew from a modest frontier town in the 1830s to one of the most populous cities in the United States. Today, nearly 1 million people call Austin home, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
Though best known for its lively music scene, Austin has much more to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies all rave about the amazing range of attractions and activities in Austin. Explore these fun ideas for things to do in Austin. Don’t worry if you find yourself short on time. You can enjoy many of Austin’s best sights in one jam-packed day.
Live Entertainment
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As the Live Music Capital of The World, most tourists plan to check out the live entertainment in Austin. Musicians show off their skills all over the city, from the airport to the grocery stores. There is no shortage of music festivals in the city, including the popular Austin City Limits and South by Southwest. Stop by any of the more than 250 music venues around Austin, including coffeehouses, bars, and concerts halls, to check out the local talent.
Outdoor Activities
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Venture to Pedernales Falls State Park to take a hike through Hill Country. Juniper Ridge Trail offers 9 miles of picturesque pathways through mesquite forest. For an unparalleled view of Austin, head over to Mount Bonnell. At 775 feet high, it’s the highest point in the city and a top tourist spot.
Nature lovers enjoy hiking the 809 acres of trails at Barton Creek Greenbelt in south-central Austin. The Greenbelt has loads of limestone bluffs for rock climbing and plenty of swimming spots, such as Campbell’s Hole.
Another excellent destination for nature lovers is Zilker Park. Located in the heart of Austin, the 351-acre outdoor area offers plenty of fun activities, from hiking and biking to kayaking and paddle boarding. Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, which boasts a balmy 68 degrees year-round.
Historic Sites
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Make a trip to the Texas State Capitol to witness history in action and learn about local legislature. Grab a self-guided tour pamphlet to enjoy the building at your own pace or join one of the free, 30-minute guided tours for an insider look at the site.
In addition to the Texas State Capitol, many Austin museums offer free admission year-round or on certain days of the week, including the Austin Science and Nature Center, the Texas Military Forces Museum, The Contemporary Austin, and the LBJ Presidential Library.
Eating Out
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If you love to eat, Austin is foodie heaven. Join an Austin Eats Food Tour to sample some of the best restaurants in the city. Another fantastic option is to check out the more than 1,000 food trucks in Austin that offer everything from craft meats and lobster rolls to deep-fried Oreo cookies and Tex Mex barbecue.
Looking for the perfect place for a weekend getaway? These are just a few of the fun things to do in Austin, Texas.
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