Austin, the capital city of Texas, has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the live music scene, savor the local cuisine, or party all night, Austin has it all.
From entertainment and history to incredible sights, the city offers an unforgettable experience. Here are five fun things to do in downtown Austin:
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1) Get A Bird’s Eye View
Begin your Austin adventure with a breathtaking view from above. At Austin Helicopter Tours, our skilled pilots offer a unique perspective of the city that few get to experience.
Enjoy the stunning sky views of Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park, and the Colorado River. Fly over some of Austin’s most iconic landmarks, including the Texas Capitol building.
Curious about the city? Our knowledgeable pilots are happy to share some insights regarding Austin. Visit our website and book an unforgettable tour today!
2) Experience The Rhythm – Discover Why Austin Is The Live Music Capital Of the World
In August 1991, Austin was given the title Live Music Capital of The World, and rightfully so. The city has more music venues per capita than any other city worldwide. Austin’s appreciation for all genres is deeply rooted in history.
The city’s music journey began in the 1800s with Polka music. Next, Latin music, jazz, blues, and R&B came along. Add in country, rock, heavy metal, Indie, and all the other sounds played worldwide, and you have all the different genres woven together in Austin.
Looking for a place to see some of the best live performances? Here are some of the hot spots:
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Waterloo Records – More than an iconic music store; it is a place to hear live music by local artists. Throughout the year, there are special events, including their own Festival Day Parties.
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Austin City Limits The Festival – Held at Zilker Park, the festival takes place over two weekends in the fall. Local vendors will serve some of Austin’s favorite foods, drinks, and desserts.
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ACL Live At The Moody Theater – A state-of-the-art venue that hosts live music, performances, and more. It is home to the Austin City Limits television show.
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Antone’s NightClub – The club’s nickname is the “Home of the Blues” and is the place where B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan performed.
Fun Fact: Austin is the Bat Capital of the United States. Every evening from March to November, you can witness the spectacular sight of over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. It’s a must-see event that adds a unique charm to the city’s vibrant atmosphere!
3) Downtown Austin – A Place For Fun And Games
Are you a fierce competitor who enjoys completing puzzles, or are you looking for some family fun? Regardless of the type of games you enjoy, Austin has plenty of options. Let’s play:
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The Escape Game Austin – Located Downtown, The Escape Game Austin features eight different adventures. The interactive games are completely immersive, and players work through solving puzzles in several rooms to escape.
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Peter Pan Mini Golf – Many consider Peter Pan Mini Golf an Austin landmark. The mini golf course opened in 1948 and is known for the large, loveable T-rex that overlooks Lamar and Barton Springs. There are two 18-hole mini golf courses. If your goal is to play through all 36 holes, come early. Guests are welcome to bring a cooler.
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Giant Chess – Wooldridge Park, located in downtown Austin, features giant chess matches every Saturday afternoon.
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Cidercade Austin – Cidercade is a fun place featuring over 150 arcade games. It is known for its artisan pizza, wings, cider selection, and soda fountains.
Fun Fact: Did you know? Austin was originally named Waterloo before it became the capital of Texas. The name was changed in honor of Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas.” Today, you can still find traces of the city’s original name in various landmarks and businesses around town.
4) Things To Do In Downtown Austin – Favorite Destinations
Downtown Austin is full of character and fun. Walk through the different areas and explore all the local shops, parks, and art that make the downtown area unique:
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Austin Visitor Center – The center has maps and brochures, and the knowledgeable staff is ready to make personal recommendations based on your interests. Whether you’re looking for the best live music venues, hidden foodie gems, or scenic outdoor spots, they’ve got you covered. Plus, they can help you book tours and provide insider tips to make your visit truly unforgettable.
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Paramount Theatre – The theatre has been a downtown staple for over 100 years. Over 250 performances take place each year, continuing the tradition of bringing diverse programs to Austin.
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Barton Springs Pool – Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre pool filled with spring water. Regardless of the season, the temperature averages around 68 degrees.
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Republic Square – The space dates back to the founding of Downtown Austin. The green space has modern amenities, a cafe, and daily programs.
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Lady Bird Lake – Enjoy plenty of recreational opportunities. Whether you enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing, this is the place for you. The view from Lady Bird Lake can not be beaten.
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Sixth Street – One of the most famous streets in Downtown Austin. Over time, it has developed into three distinct sections: the Old “Dirty” 6th Street, West 6th Street, and East 6th Street. Each section offers a unique vibe, with a mix of bars, upscale restaurants, outdoor spaces, food trucks, craft breweries, and plenty of live music.
Pro Tip: To make the most of your time in Downtown Austin, consider renting a bike or scooter to easily navigate between attractions. This way, you can cover more ground and discover hidden gems along the way!
5) Bites And Brew In Downtown Austin
At the heart of Austin is its culinary scene. From unique food truck offerings to creative cocktails, there are plenty of food adventures to discover. Here are some must-try spots:
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The Picnic – Food Truck Park – The trucks are located on Barton Springs Road and are ready to serve you some of the best local cuisine
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Tony’s Jamaican Food – Enjoy authentic Caribbean dishes
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The Tipsy Alchemist – The upscale cocktail bar combines art and science to make their craft cocktails.
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Azul Rooftop – Azul is home to the tallest rooftop in Austin, with amazing views of Downtown Austin
Pro Tip: Many of these spots can get busy, especially on weekends. To avoid long waits, try visiting during off-peak hours or make reservations where possible. And don’t forget to bring your appetite!
Watch The Sun Go Down On Austin
Ready to witness an unforgettable sunset from the sky? Austin Helicopter Tours offers a stunning sunset tour that is perfect for ending your trip on a high note or creating a magical date night experience.
Let our skilled pilots whisk you away as the city transforms under the golden hues of twilight. Don’t miss out on this magical experience. Book your unforgettable sunset tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
