Articles

Chickipedia

Things To Do In Austin Tx

By: Edward Swanson

Break Studios Contributing Writer

As “The Live Music Capital of the World,” there are plenty of things to do in Austin, Texas. There are also numerous attractions centering around the environment. Along with the importance of Austin in Texas state history, you will not be bored when visiting there.

  1. Texas State Capitol. Don’t let the intimidating facade stop you from visiting the Texas State Capitol. Prominently located in downtown Austin, the capitol has spectacular views of the surrounding scenery. Aside from being the site of government, it has many exhibits on Texas history. Visiting the state capitol is one of the most educational things to do in Austin, Texas.
  2. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum. Undoubtedly one of the most fascinating things to do in Austin, Texas, visiting the Johnson Presidential Library and Museum is a trip back in time. As U.S. President from 1963 to 1968, Lyndon Johnson oversaw a turbulent period in American history. The museum, free to visitors, has stark exhibits around the Kennedy assassination and civil rights history. Seeing the letters that Jackie Kennedy wrote Johnson is an emotional experience, powerful and chilling.
  3. Town Lake Metropolitan Park. With more than 10 miles of hiking trails, Town Lake Metropolitan Park runs alongside the Colorado River. If you are in the mood for a long walk or bike ride, the trails offer sights such as the Austin Skyline. While on the trail, you can stop off at a nearby restaurant. It also features a miniature train for children. 
  4. The Congress Avenue Bridge Bats. It may sound weird, but Austin has one of America’s biggest collection of bats. They live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Late summer through autumn, you can catch sight of the bats as they fly around at dusk. The bats qualify as one of the creepiest things to do in Austin, Texas.
  5. Sixth Street. Austin prides itself on its live music. If you aren’t able to get to one of Austin’s annual festivals such as SXSW, you can visit Sixth Street. There are numerous historical buildings and live music bars. The music ranges from jazz to punk. Grab a bite to eat and listen to some of the best music in the south. It is one of the hippest things to do in Austin, Texas.
  6. Austin City Limits Studio Tour. KLRU public television station houses the Austin City Limits studio. The station offers tours of the studio on Fridays. Admission is free. You can bring a camera to take pictures.
  7. Harry Ransom Center.  Located at the University of Texas at Austin, the Harry Ransom Center has exhibitions, original manuscripts, and events. You can view the archives of Norman Mailer or take a cooking class. The center celebrates creativity in all forms.
  8. Austin Children’s Museum. If you have children, you can take them to the Austin Children’s Museum. The exhibits allow children to explore how to solve problems through creativity.  With an emphasis on engineering and science, the programs invite children to build paper airplanes and make crafts with recycled materials.
  9. University of Texas Observation Deck Tour. For a striking view of Austin, visit the University of Texas Observation Deck. Renowned as the site of the 1966 shooting by Charles Whitman, the deck was closed for many years. You may bring a camera or binoculars to the tour, but pocketbooks and personal belongings must be left behind.
  10. Lake Travis. Many Austinites go to Lake Travis for rest and recreation. You can fish, go boating and scuba diving, or camp at a variety of locations near the lake. Every outdoor enthusiast should include Lake Travis on their list of things to do in Austin, Texas.
Posted on: Mar. 27, 2011