If you love hot weather, outdoor activities, and a vibrant nightlife, Austin is the perfect summer destination. With so much to do and see, you’ll never get bored in Austin during the summer. While many attractions require a fee, there are plenty of free things to do in Austin, Texas to keep your wallet happy.
Austin Summer Activities
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, you can go swimming or kayaking at Lake Travis, hit all the thrift stores in South Congress, or lounge by the lake with live music at Auditorium Shores. For a true Austin experience, don’t miss out on the amazing food trucks. Whether you’re looking for breakfast tacos, brisket sandwiches, or ice cream, these trucks offer delicious and affordable treats perfect for the Austin summer heat.
If you head downtown, you can explore the Congress Avenue Bridge and enjoy the famous “bat bridge” nightly emergence of Mexican free-tailed bats from underneath the bridge. Other free activities downtown include people watching at SoCo’s nearby bars, taking a photo at the Austin “I Love You” wall on S. 1st Street, and visiting the many street art murals in the area.
The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum offers free admission on Thursdays. Dedicated to the work of 20th century American sculptor Charles Umlauf, this garden is a great place to relax and learn about Austin’s art scene. The Master Gardner volunteer program offers regular guided tours through the Zilker Botanical Garden, a 31-acre beauty with more than 300 species of plants.
Free Things to Do in Austin This Summer
For free entertainment, there are always some type of festivals or events running on the weekends like Zilker Summer Musical, don’t miss the Blues on the Green, Yoga in the Park, and of course, City of Austin fireworks shows at Auditorium Shores on the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.
So don’t wait any longer and enjoy the beauty that is Austin, Texas during the summer – you won’t regret it!
