15 Keys to a "Weird" Weekend in Austin Texas

Austin, Texas, is a city that never stops surprising. From a rich cultural scene to endless outdoor activities and some of the best food in the country, this city has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Austin, whether you're an art lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a night owl ready to dive into the city’s nightlife.

Get Artsy Fartsy at the Blanton Museum

Start your Austin adventure with a visit to the Blanton Museum of Art. Located on the University of Texas campus, the museum houses an impressive collection of European paintings, modern art, and contemporary installations. One of the highlights is Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, a meditative stone building with stunning colored glass windows that fill the space with radiant light.

See the Bats Fly at Congress Bridge

Austin’s iconic Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening around sunset, you can witness over a million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge and fill the sky, creating a breathtaking display. This nightly event is one of Austin’s most unique and free attractions. Grab a spot early, or watch from the nearby park for a full view of this amazing natural show.

Drink like a Hipster in East Austin

If you’re a fan of craft beer, East Austin is where you want to be. This area is buzzing with breweries like Zilker Brewing Company, Lazarus Brewing, and Blue Owl Brewing, which offers unique sour-mashed beers. After sampling the local brews, kick back at Yellow Jacket Social Club, an unassuming bar with a great outdoor patio and an easygoing vibe perfect for enjoying a sunny afternoon with friends.

Hike McKinney Falls

Located just a short drive from downtown, McKinney Falls State Park offers a beautiful escape into nature. Here you can hike along scenic trails, explore rocky landscapes, and relax by peaceful waterfalls. It’s a great spot for hiking, camping, or enjoying a picnic by the water—ideal for those seeking a break from the city’s hustle.

Nerd out at the LBJ Presidential Library

For history lovers, a visit to the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library is a must. The library offers an in-depth look at the 36th U.S. president’s life and legacy, with exhibits on civil rights, the Vietnam War, and the sweeping social programs of the 1960s. It’s an engaging and interactive way to learn about a pivotal era in American history.

Sip in Style at the Vineyards in Hill Country

Just outside of Austin lies Texas Hill Country, a region known for its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Spend a day touring some of the area’s best wineries, such as Becker Vineyards, Fall Creek Vineyards, or Driftwood Estate Winery. You can sample local wines while taking in stunning views of the countryside. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful day trip, the Hill Country’s vineyards are the perfect retreat.

Laugh Until It Hurts at a Comedy Show

Austin is known as the Live Music capital of the world, because of it's sheer volume of Live Music venues, but it's also becoming one of the larger comedy scenes in the country. Lots of Comedians are filming specials there, Joe Rogan opened a comedy club there, and the famous Kill Tony show moved from LA to Austin.

Eat BBQ and then eat some more BBQ

No trip to Austin is complete without diving into the city’s legendary BBQ scene. Franklin Barbecue is perhaps the most famous and Salt Lick may be the best, but be prepared to line up early for a taste of their smoked brisket. Other local gems include La Barbecue, Micklethwait Craft Meats, and Terry Black’s BBQ, where you can feast on mouthwatering ribs, sausage, and more, all slow-cooked to perfection.

Swim at the Barton Springs Pool

Cool off with a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a natural, spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park. The water stays at a refreshing 68-70°F year-round, making it the perfect place to escape Austin’s heat. Bring a towel, a good book, and enjoy a relaxing day in this iconic Austin spot.

Get Drunk in your 30's on Rainey St.

When the sun sets, Rainey Street comes alive with its distinctive nightlife. This quirky, bungalow-lined street has been transformed into a lively strip of bars, food trucks, and patios. Some favorite spots include Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden, which has an extensive beer list, and Lustre Pearl, one of the original Rainey Street bars. The street's unique blend of historic charm and modern nightlife makes it a must-visit for a night out in Austin.

Shop Til You Drop in "SoCo"

The South Congress neighborhood, affectionately known as SoCo, is a lively area filled with quirky boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll down the avenue, stopping by famous spots like Jo’s Coffee (don’t forget to snap a pic by the “I Love You So Much” mural), grab some pizza at Home Slice, or catch live music at the legendary Continental Club. SoCo perfectly embodies Austin’s creative and laid-back spirit.

Jam Out All Over Town

Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin has dozens of legendary music venues, and bars with live music playing all night. Whether it's White Horse, Friends Bar, Blind Pig, or The Dizzy Rooster, there is no shortage of places to jam. You can also head to Austin City Limits to see a show or take a tour of the venue.

Explore the Waters Around Town

Whether you're kayaking in Lady Bird Lake, Boating on Lake Travis, or drinking beers as you tube down the Colorado River, there is no shortage of great water activities around Austin.

Chow Down at Torchy’s Tacos

A trip to Austin wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some tacos, and Torchy’s Tacos is a local institution. Known for their creative taco combinations like the “Trailer Park” and “Brushfire,” Torchy’s offers bold flavors in a laid-back atmosphere. With multiple locations around Austin, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to grab a few of these iconic tacos.

Get Drunk in your 20's on the "Dirty Six"

For a more high-energy experience, head to 6th Street, Austin’s famous party hub. Whether you’re into live music, dive bars, or dancing the night away, 6th Street has it all. Known as “Dirty Sixth,” this stretch of bars and clubs is legendary for its rowdy atmosphere. Catch a live band at The Parish, sip craft cocktails at The Roosevelt Room, or dance the night away at one of the many clubs along the strip. It’s a wild, vibrant side of Austin’s nightlife that never disappoints.