20 BEST Things to do in Austin, Texas [2023 UPDATED]

Austin is known as the fastest-growing city in the United States, which attracts 150 new residents daily.  The city is known as The Live Music Capital of the World since it has more bars, restaurants, clubs and other venues that offer live music every day.  This zany city likes to live up to its motto, “Keep Austin weird.”  This motto is a representation to support unique local artists and businesses with the SXSW festival, which is Austin’s second-largest music festival.

Austin has something that everyone can enjoy, wither you are a resident looking to explore your city or if you have come to Austin looking for some awesome places to explore, you are sure to find something interesting to do with your time.  The Live Music Capital of the World is a great place to visit, it does not matter what time of the year you plan on visiting, you will find that there are many interesting things to do here.  You will see that Austin is an interesting place to visit that also has some remarkable history.  If you are planning a trip to Austin, Texas, this guide will help you find the perfect places to visit during your stay.

Get Outdoors

There are so many exciting ways to spend your time outdoors in Austin.  You will find that there are many honey holes to test your fishing abilities, as well as many remarkable parks to visit while you are in Austin.  Here are a few ways you may want to experience the outdoors.

See Also:

 

1. Texas Hawgs

Best Things to do in Austin,

If you have come to Austin looking for a great spot to fish, let Texas Hawgs show you the right places to fish.  Fishing is the perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy.  If you like topwater fishing, Austin has many places to catch some monster bass.  You could throw a spook out over the trees and rocks and enjoy the fight with a possible monster.  However, it is said that the biggest fish are caught on a square bill crankbait.  If you are hoping to catch Texas’ Guadalupe Bass, central Texas is the only place to catch them in the world.  There are many ways to fish for these monsters, and Texas Hawgs can put you on ’em.

Phone: +1  512-762-0190
Address:13800 Bullick Hollow Rd, Austin, TX 78726
Website: www.texashawgs.com

 

2. McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park

Experience nature up close and personal at McKinney Falls State Park.  This is the perfect opportunity to get the whole family outdoors.  If you enjoy nature, this is the right place to be.  You will enjoy the wonderful sights this place has to offer.  With the remarkable views of Onion and Williamson Creek, the winding trails and the nature within them, you will be glad that you chose to experience the great outdoors at McKinney Falls State Park.  This is a great place to go hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.  This is one of the best outdoor things to do in Austin.

Phone: +1 512-243-1643
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway Austin, TX 78744
Website: www.mckinneyfalls.com

 

3. Red Bud Isle

Best Things to do in Austin,

Red Bud Isle is located in the Colorado River in Austin.  This is a great park that your fur-baby can tag along for.  At this park, your dog does not have to be on a leash.  Many who visit Red Bud Isle, go for the kayaking, hiking, and canoeing, but it is also the perfect place to cast a line to see what fish are biting.  This is the perfect place to enjoy the day with your dog.

Phone: NA
Address: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746
Website: www.redbudisle.com

 

4. Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake

This river-like reservoir is located on the Colorado River.  It was created as a cooling pond for a new city power plant in 1960.  Now, this lake is used for flood control and recreation.  If you need a good trail to walk or jog, there is a beautiful trail located here as well that you may want to use.  Many would say that this lake is one of Austin’s gems.  You will be glad that you stopped by.

Phone: NA
Address: Austin, TX
Website: www.ladybirdlake.com

 

5. Bassquatch Fishing

Best Things to do in Austin,

Here is another guide service that can put you on some big bass.  Ander Meine is a professional bass fisherman, and when he is not competing in tournaments, he wants to put other fishing freaks on some of the “biggest and baddest bass in central Texas.”  This is the perfect opportunity to go fishing with the kids.  Bassquatch Fishing is dedicated to showing some tricks and secrets with you to help you catch the big bass.  After you slay all the bass, you will want to come back for more.

Phone: +1  435-313-1838
Address: Austin, TX
Website: www.andermeine.com

 

6. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

Best Things to do in Austin,

Mayfield Park is located in the middle of Austin and is an island of relaxation.  Around the park is the Mayfield Preserve, which is 21 acres of trails and wildlife habitats.  Most people who visit this park look forward to seeing the peacocks and the charming scenery.  Mayfield Park is the perfect place to escape the city while you are in the city.

Phone: +1 512-974-6700
Address: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Website: www.mayfieldpark.org

 

7. Austin Zoo

Best Things to do in Austin,

If you are looking for something fun for the whole family can enjoy.  The Austin Zoo is the right place for you.  They have a wide variety of animal exhibits to enjoy.  This is the perfect place to let the kids enjoy many things that nature has to offer.  You will also have the opportunity to feed the goats, deer, llamas, alpacas, and sheep.  This is a great place to visit while you are in Austin.

Phone: +1 512-288-1490
Address: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
Website: www.austinzoo.org

 

8. Barton Creek Greenbelt

Barton Creek Greenbelt

Here is a great opportunity to see some caves and explore nature in Austin.  Barton Creek has many access points, with many interesting things to see along your discovery of the greenbelt.  Violet Crown Trail runs through much of the greenbelt.  If you follow it, you will end up at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.  This is a remarkable place to visit while you are in Austin.

Phone: NA
Address: Austin, TX
Website: wwwbartoncreekgreenbelt.com

 

9. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

Best Things to do in Austin,

Take exploring nature to the next level with this extraordinary 76-acre preserve.  There is always some sort of interesting event happening like nature walks and stargazing.  There is something that everyone in the family would enjoy.  You will be glad you chose to visit Westcave to discover the beautiful outdoors.

Phone: +1 830-825-3442
Address: 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd, Round Mountain, TX 78663
Website: www.westcave.org

 

10. Palmetto State Park

10. Palmetto State Park

If you are looking for something unusual to do while you are in Austin, Palmetto State Park is where you should go.  This is an overgrown forest with a variety of tropical vegetation like the Palmetto plant.  This is the only park with tropical vegetation in the state.

Phone: +1 830-672-3266
Address: 78 Park Rd 11 S, Gonzales, TX 78629
Website: www.palmettostatepark.com

 

Austin’s Exhilarating Attractions

There are so many different attractions to experience when you are in Austin.  You will find that this place is full of diversity, so finding something that you would enjoy doing should not be too hard.  There are places for adults, there are places that are perfect for the kids and there are also places that are just right for the whole family.   Here are a few places that you may not want to miss when you are in Austin.

 

11. The Escape Game Austin

Best Things to do in Austin,

Do you want to see if you have what it takes to escape?  If you think that you have the tactile skills it requires to escape one of six rooms, then you should try out The Escape Game in Austin.  There are plenty of twists to keep you on the edge.  This will be one epic adventure you will not want to miss.

Phone: +1 512-643-0043
Address: 405 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.theescaperoomaustin.com

 

12. Texas State Capitol

Best Things to do in Austin,

Here is one remarkable historic site you will want to visit while you are in Austin.  This building is widely recognized as one of the nation’s eminent state capitols.  This building shines brightly with its brass dome to the brass door hinges.  There are 17 monuments for you to admire as well as the amazing architecture, this is an interesting place to visit.

Phone: NA
Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.texas.gov

 

13. Bullock Texas State History Museum

This is a great place to visit to learn all about the history of Austin.  Here, you will find that there is plenty happening.  There are many exhibits to see and unique programs to participate in.  You will also find that they have many innovative films to watch as well.  This is a great place to learn about Austin.

Phone: +1 512-936-8746
Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin TX 78701
Website: www.thestoryoftexas.com

 

14. ACL Live

If you are in the mood for some live music, The Moody Theater always has some sort of live band playing.  Every year, they host around 100 concerts.  There is always a diversity of performers to “keep Austin weird.”  This is an incredible experience you will not want to miss while you are in Austin.

Phone: +1  512-225-7999
Address: 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.acl-live.com

 

15. LBJ Presidential Library

This library is named after the 36th president of the United States,  Lyndon Baines Johnson.  At this library, you will find many ways to spend your time.  There are many exhibits to choose from there are also some events always taking place.  This is an interesting place to visit that is more than just a library, but also a museum too.

Phone: +1 512-721-0200
Address: 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78712
Website: www.lbjlibrary.org

 

16. Science Mill

Science Mill is an interactive learning environment for all ages.  Your child will appreciate science more with a trip to this innovative museum.  Your child may become inspired to pursue their career in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).  This is an interesting place to visit with the whole family.

Phone: +1 844-263-6405
Address: 101 S Lady Bird Ln, Johnson City, TX 78636
Website: www.sciencemill.org

 

17. Paramount Theater

Paramount Theater

Paramount Theaters is one of the first and very few remaining examples of theatrical architecture.  This venue was and still is important to the community and the cultural landscape to help “keep Austin weird”.   You will feel as if you have been taken back in time, and it seems to wrap its self around you in a way to make you feel welcome.

Phone: +1 512-474-1221
Address: 713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Website: www.austintheatre.org

 

18. The Range at Austin

If you come to Austin and don’t go to a shooting range, have got the full experience of Texas?  They offer classes and also have many packages to choose from like the machine gun package.  The Range has many shooting bays for pistols and rifles.  This is a great way to experience Texas.  You will be glad you stopped by.

Phone: +1 737-802-3700
Address: 8301 S IH 35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78744
Website: www.therangeaustin.com

 

19. Circuit of America at Austin

Circuit of America at Austin

If you love racing and live music, you will love being at Circuit of America.  This incredible place is found in The Music Capitol of the World and has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment and music.  It is also home to the only Formula 1 and MotoGP races in the country: The United States Grand Prix and Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas.  You will have a wonderful time at Circuit of America.

Phone: +1 512-301-6600
Address: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
Website: www.circuitoftheamericas.com

 

20. Inner Space Cavern

The Texas Highway Department core drilling team found this cavern in 1963.  It is one of the best-preserved caves in Texas.  Passing water through Edwards limestone carved the cavern.  It is estimated that the cavern is 90-100 million years old.  This could be an epic adventure for anyone.

Phone: +1 512-931-2283
Address: 4200 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626
Website: www.innerspacecavern.com

 

Conclusion

Austin is a fun and exciting place to visit.  Since the city’s motto is “Keep Austin weird,” you will find that many weird things are happening all over Austin.  There are many awesome ways to spend time with your family.  Austin has many awesome places to go fishing, there are also many interesting museums to visit while you are here.  If you have come to Austin looking for live music, you have come to the right place, you will find live music around almost every corner.   There is so much happening in Austin, and this guide will help you find the perfect places to go.

20 BEST Things to do in San Diego, CA [2023 UPDATED]

Sunny San Diego is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year. With a temperate climate, access to beautiful beaches on the Pacific Ocean, and world-class activities such as the San Diego Zoo, there is so much to love about San Diego. Whether you plan to travel solo, as a couple, or as a family, San Diego offers something for every age and interest. Read on to discover more about this beautiful city, and begin planning your list of things to do in San Diego!

See Also: Areas to Avoid in San Diego

 

1. USS Midway Museum

uss midway museum san diego

A long-standing naval base, San Diego has a rich slice of American military history. Head to downtown San Diego to the USS Midway Museum, which highlights the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Journey into the history of the Midway, which has been home to some 225,000 service people over the years. This interactive museum is fun for all and includes beloved exhibits such as a theater, flight simulators, and “floating city” that Midway once was.

Address: 910 N Harbor DriveSan Diego, CA 92101-5811
Phone: +1 619-544-9600
Website: www.midway.com

 

2. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo

One of the best-known zoos in the United States, the San Diego Zoo is home to some 3,500 species, as well as a botanic collection that includes 700,000 plants! Founded in 1911, the zoo is an overhead organization for the zoo, safari park, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, and the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy. The zoo itself is huge, so be prepared for a half-day or day of walking. Additionally, for an extra treat at the zoo, upgrade to an Inside Look Tour, which gives the ultimate insiders view into the San Diego Zoo.

Address: 2929 Zoo DriveBalboa ParkSan Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 619-231-1515
Website: www.zoo.sandiegozoo.com

 

3. La Jolla Cove

la jolla cove san diego

Southern California nature at its finest, La Jolla Cove is a must-see destination while in San Diego. With sweeping views of the ocean, walking paths, and tidal pools to explore, you may not ever want to leave this natural oasis. Check for sea lions who make frequent showings in the area, as well as a diverse group of sea birds. Come for dinner along the coast and then stay for an unforgettable sunset view.

Address: 1100 Coast BlvdLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3600

 

4. Mt. Soledad National Veterans Museum

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Museum

Another stop along the military tour of San Diego, Mt. Soledad National Veterans Museum commemorates veterans from the Revolutionary War to the current time. Set atop a mountain, overlook the Pacific Ocean and glimpse views of Mexico as you pay tribute to America’s military history. Owned by Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, this veteran operated memorial is important and thought-provoking.

Address: 6905 La Jolla Scenic Drive SouthLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Phone: +1 858-459-2314
Website: www.soledadmemorial.com

 

5. Balboa Park

Balboa Park san diego

A San Diego gem, Balboa Park is beloved by locals for being a green space that has it all. Home to the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park is also a must-see for local art, a plethora of museums, cultural events, and opportunities to play outside. Bring Fido to head to one of the many dog parks, or check out historic buildings, while stopping along the way for lunch. Truly, as good as it gets, you could visit Balboa Park alone while in San Diego and leave a satisfied visitor.

Address: 1549 El PradoSan Diego, CA 92101-1660
Phone: +1 619-239-0512
Website: www.balboapark.com

 

6. La Jolla Shores Park

La Jolla Shores Park san diego

If white-sand beaches are your reason for being in San Diego (if they’re not, they should be!), head to the mile-long La Jolla Shores Park to play. Popular with novice scuba divers, La Jolla Shores Park is one of the most gentlest beaches. Manned by lifeguards, La Jolla Shores Park has playgrounds, beach volleyball, surfing, and picnic spots; everything you need for a perfect day at the beach!

Address: 8300 Camino del OroLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Website: www.sandiego.com

 

7. Children’s Pool

Children's Pool san diego

If you have young ones in your crew, head to the Children’s Pool, a small beach protected by a seawall. Even if you don’t, it’s a great spot to spend an afternoon or to check out harbor seals who frequent the area during pupping season. With reefs just offshore, scuba divers flock to this beach. People love Children’s Pool beach for the awe-inspiring views that this locale provides.

Address: 850 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4254
Website: www.sandiego.com

 

8. Torrey Pines Gliderport

Torrey Pines Gliderport san diego

If extreme sports are your thing, you cannot miss the opportunity to paraglide from Torrey Pines. Known as a premier gliderport, Torrey Pines offers the chance to paraglide, tandem glide, and hang gliding. Okay, you can also just come to Torrey Pines to watch others paraglide; the view alone is worth the trip. The Cliffhanger Cafe is a great place to grab a bite and check out the action as well as the gorgeous ocean below.

Address: 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic DrLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-1004
Phone: +1 858-452-9858
Website: www.flytorrey.com

 

9. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park san diego

The name says it all at Sunset Cliffs. This incredible park spans some 68-acres along the Pacific Ocean, making it the premier place to see the sunset while in San Diego. Check out the carved coastal bluffs, and bring your binoculars for the unique chance to spot a California gray whale below. With three different viewing points of the sunset: Ladera Street, Luscomb Point, and Osprey, take your pick of where to view the day’s end.

Address: 1253 Sunset Cliffs BlvdSan Diego, CA 92107-4015
Website: www.sandiego.com

 

10. Petco Park

Petco Park san diego

Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres, part of the MLB network. Celebrated for unique architecture, take in a baseball game as well as the city skyline when you come to visit Petco Park. If baseball isn’t your thing, check out a concert at Petco Park, or come for a Supercross event. Petco Park is a staple in San Diego culture and a great stop on any sport’s fans agenda.

Address: 100 Park BlvdSan Diego, CA 92101-7405
Phone: +1 619-795-5000
Website: www.mlb.com

 

11. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Birch Aquarium at Scripps san diego

Anyone interested in marine life must head to Birch Aquarium at Scripps, a renowned look into the world of oceanography. Set atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, scenic and exploratory, Birch Aquarium is home to over 60 exhibits. Check out habitats from the Pacific Northwest down to Mexican waters, and be sure to stop by and see the seahorses and sea dragons. Free parking helps to keep costs down at Birch Aquarium. Check out the website for special events, including programming for children.

Address: 2300 Expedition WayScripps InstituteLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Phone: +1 858-534-3474
Website: www.aquarium.com

 

12. Windansea Beach

Windansea Beach san diego

A calmer part of La Jolla, Windansea Beach is a great place for a stroll. Not necessarily a swimming beach, Windansea is known for its rocky beach that is a haven for surfers. Street parking is available but must be sought out when coming to visit. Winter and summer are quite different at this beach, as winter waters tend to wash away the sand. If you love the beach life, a visit to Windansea is worth it.

Address: 6800 Neptune PlaceLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92083

 

13. Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument san diego

Cabrillo National Monument honors Portuguese explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who was the first to set foot on now-San Diego-territory in 1542. Run by the National Park System, a visit to Cabrillo National Monument is equally a chance to learn some history and to immerse oneself in the great outdoors. Check out the tidal pools or head to Old Point Loma Lighthouse. With incredible views of San Diego, the optimum views can be found at the top of the lighthouse.

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial DrSan Diego, CA 92106-3601
Phone: +1 619-557-5450
Website: www.nps.com

 

14. San Diego Factory Outlet Center

San Diego Factory Outlet Center san diego

Who doesn’t love a good bargain? At San Diego Factory Outlet Center shop names such as Kate Spade, The North Face, Polo Ralph Lauren, and J.Crew Factory. It’s a great place to get the most bang for your buck if you need a new wardrobe, or just want to have some retail-therapy fun. While shopping, take a break to enjoy a plethora of dining options ranging from Japanese to Mexican, and of course, not missing the ever-present Starbucks.

Address: Camino de la Plaza at Highway I-5San Ysidro, San Diego, CA
Phone: +1 619-690-2999
Website: www.premiumoutlets.com

 

15. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve san diego

Yet another reason San Diego scores high for natural beauty; Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is within city limits and provides ample, approachable hiking trails. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, these trails are great for hikers of all levels. Still one of the wildest stretches of land on the Southern California coast, come to see migratory birds, native plants, and unspoiled land. No dogs are allowed at the reserve, and be sure to check the website before going, as some trails are currently closed due to the effects of heavy rain.

Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines RdSan Diego, CA 92037
Phone: +1 858-755-2063
Website: www.torreypine.com

 

16. Coronado Bridge

Coronado Bridge san diego

Connecting San Diego to Coronado, Coronado Bridge is an impressive sky bridge. More than two miles long, this bridge is truly an engineering wonder to behold. Yet another scenic vantage point to take in San Diego from, this bridge is idyllic with windows rolled down, and the fresh breeze of the Pacific rolling in. Coronado itself is worth checking out; a historic tourist town, beautiful beaches, and locally-owned shops and restaurants are a fun change of pace.

Address: State Route 75South EmbarcaderoSan Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 855-268-1219
Website: www.dot.ca.com

 

17. Little Italy

Little Italy san diego

An enclave of delicious food and history, Little Italy pays tribute to some 6,000 Italian families that settled in this neighborhood. Helping to create the tuna industry in San Diego, a visit to Little Italy is worth the time. Public art, piazzas, and yes, pizzas too, give an intimate look into how Italian Americans have contributed to this part of the country. Little Italy can be reached by the hop-on, hop-off trolley, eliminating any parking worries.

Address: 1668 Columbia StFrom Laurel south to West A StreetSan Diego, CA 92101-2502
Phone: +1 619-233-3898
Website: www.littleitalysd.com

 

18. Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Ellen Browning Scripps Park san diego

Ellen Browning Scripps Park is reportedly the most photographed spot in all of San Diego, and a popular spot for weddings. Grassy lawn, ocean views, and great climbing trees for the young are just a few reasons to come for a stroll. Additionally, sea lions frequent the cove, making it a wonderful place to take in some wildlife viewing. Dr. Seuss gleaned inspiration from this park, with the Truffle Trees in the Lorax resembling those at Scripps Park.

Address: 1133 Coast BlvdLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-3638
Phone: +1 858-538-8085
Website: www.sandiego.com

 

19. Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach san diego

One of the most popular beaches in San Diego, Pacific Beach is clean and ready for fun. A great place to take a surf lesson, hang-ten or just bask in the California sun before taking a dip. Locals and tourists alike love this beach, whose amenities include an area for fishing, public showers and bathrooms, and lifeguards. Even in the winter, the beach is worth a walk or for a visit at sunset.

Address: Grand AvenueSan Diego, CA
Website: www.sandiego.com

 

20. Salk Institute 

Salk Institute  san diego

Salk Institute is home to award-winning scientists who strive to answers some of the most vexing medical research questions in modernity. Visitors flock to Salk Institute to soak up this greatness, but also to bask in the architectural wonder of Salk Institute, named after Jonas Salk who developed the polio vaccine. Book a tour to learn more about Louis Kahn’s incredible structure, completed in 1965. Self-guided tours are available for a modest $7.50 or opt for the pricey, but well-worth-it option of a private tour at $150.

Address: 10010 N Torrey Pines RdLa Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-1099
Phone: +1 858-453-4100
Website: www.salk.com

 

Conclusion

It’s easy to see why San Diego should be on the top of your list for American cities to visit. With a wealth of nature, culture, and history, San Diego is a non-fail choice for your next vacation. With this list of things to do, you’ll be ready to soak up all the fun and sun that this Southern California gem has to offer!

See Also: Hotels in Gaslamp area of San Diego