Looking for something fun to do in Austin this summer? With outdoor adventures, tasty bites, and unique music venues, the only problem you’ll have when planning your Austin summer bucket list is finding enough time to do it all!
“Austin really shines in the summer,” says Coleen Karpf, the Zimmerman Group’s Austin agent. “There’s truly something for everyone at every price point.”
Check out our Austin bucket list and get ready for an amazing summer.
1. Rent a Pontoon for a Day on Lake Travis
Lake Travis is over 63 miles long with 271 miles of shoreline and it’s known amongst locals as an epic party lake.
You can rent a pontoon for an entire day for around $85 per hour (depending on the water craft’s size and your timing). Bring a designated driver and meet your friends at Devil’s Cove for the ultimate Lake Travis experience!
2. Go Kayaking or SUPing on Lake Austin
If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure, grab your kayak or SUP board and head over to Lake Austin. Don’t have your own equipment? Rent what you need at ATX Peace Paddling.
You’ll find the public boat ramp on Loop 360 near the Pennybacker Bridge.
3. View the Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. It’s a breathtaking sight that’s not to be missed.
The bats are in Austin from early March to late October. You’ll want to plan to arrive in time to see their nightly departure 30-60 minutes before sunset, but we suggest arriving a full 90 minutes early to get a good view of this amazing spectacle.
4. Have a Sunset Picnic on Mount Bonnell
Grab your hiking shoes, pack a picnic and head up the 0.5 mile loop trail to the top of Mount Bonnell. This moderately challenging hike will take about 12 minutes to complete.
You can set up at one of the area’s picnic tables or find a secluded place to view Austin’s breathtaking sunsets from the city’s highest point.
5. Tackle the Entire Barton Creek Greenbelt
Hike, bike, and climb your way through the Barton Creek Greenbelt’s 12.68 miles of beautiful trails.
2011 Barton Springs Road is considered the trailhead for this popular hiking destination. Here you’ll find ample parking and a low access point that’s perfect for beginners. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and supplies. There are no bathrooms, trash cans, or water fountains on the greenbelt.
6. Catch a Show at Mozart’s
Not your typical coffee shop, Mozart’s features gourmet coffees and extraordinary views of Lake Austin.
In addition to their amazing coffee and great atmosphere, they also host a variety of live events. From indie rock to blues and jazz, there’s something for everyone. Check out their list of upcoming events to find the perfect fit for you.
7. Spend a Day Brewery Hopping
Austin boasts 37 craft breweries within its city limits. With so many choices, you can find a place that suits your taste buds and your lifestyle.
Our top picks are woman-owned brewery Independence Brewing Co., Texas Hill Country’s Jester King Brewery, and family-friendly Meanwhile Brewing Co.
8. Take in a Show at Moody Amphitheater
Moody Amphitheater is the perfect place to catch a concert or attend a festival. Its grounds boast 11 acres of green space including hiking and biking trails, gardens, food trucks, and more.
The amphitheater pays tribute to the historic Waterloo Park which hosted classic Austin events like Spamarama and Mess with Texas.
However you prefer to spend your summer, inside or outside, full of adventure or chilling out with friends, Austin is full of activities to meet your needs.
