Austin: places to go and things to do

Getting around Austin

Group the Capitol and the university area for a cultural day, and Zilker with a selected section of Lady Bird Lake for an outdoor day. Mount Bonnell and Mayfield are separate northwest stops. Check buses, parking, and event restrictions instead of assuming every park activity shares one entrance.

Plan for the weather

Hot weather changes how much outdoor time is comfortable. Start exposed walks earlier, carry water, and leave an indoor alternative. Check trail and pool notices after storms. Bat emergence is seasonal and depends on conditions; it should remain an optional experience rather than the guaranteed highlight of a booking.

Places covered in these guides

• Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

  Lady Bird Lake · Urban trail. A public walking and cycling trail around Lady Bird Lake with multiple entry points.

• Zilker Metropolitan Park

  Zilker · Public park. A central park with lawns and separately operated recreation and visitor attractions.

• Mount Bonnell at Covert Park

  Northwest Austin · Hilltop viewpoint. A hilltop park viewpoint reached by a climb above Lake Austin.

• Texas Capitol

  Downtown · Civic history. The Texas state capitol with public visitor tours and grounds.

• Blanton Museum of Art

  University of Texas area · Art museum. The University of Texas at Austin’s art museum with galleries and visitor spaces.

• Zilker Botanical Garden

  Zilker · Botanical garden. A botanical garden within the Zilker area with multiple landscaped garden settings.

• Congress Avenue Bridge bat viewing

  Downtown / South Congress · Seasonal wildlife viewing. A seasonal opportunity to observe bats emerging near Congress Avenue Bridge.

• Mayfield Park and Preserve

  Northwest Austin · Public gardens and preserve. A public garden and preserve setting known for its landscaped grounds and resident peacocks.