The city of Austin Texas has a contemporary yet casual feel with many layers waiting to be peeled back and discovered. Different from Houston and Dallas, it has it’s own unique heartbeat and soul that define it as a one-of-a-kind city. Locals take great pride in their community networks, colorful and exciting nightlife, flourishing cultural variety and excellent dining and shopping. Distant from the ordinary with a dash of unconventional and quirky, things to do in Austin Texas abound.

Austin Museum of Art

Mirroring the rare city spirit Austin Texas attractions include the highly regarded Austin Museum of Art. The galleries, which lie in the heart of the city, offer an excellent way to wile away a relaxing afternoon. Impressive permanent and changing exhibitions showcase art work from the 20th century and forward at the modern facility. An even broader range of art displays can be seen at the museums original home, the AMOA Gloria Luna, a 1916 Italianate-style villa.

State Capitol

A list of things to do in Austin would not be complete without a visit to the Texas State Capitol.

Historical fact and legend are blended together completing a fantastic tour of the Capitol Complex. Inspirational, astonishing and educational, this tour is a must-see.

6th Street Entertainment District

Things to do in Austin most always include a visit to 6th Street for some classic Austin entertainment and nightlife. An intertwining network of avenues and cross-streets over seven blocks comprise this exciting quarter. The center of the live music scene is one of the most favored Austin Texas attractions where clubs and bars pulsate with great live music. There’s no need for transportation as everything’s within walking distance.

Shopping

Shopping is also a favorite of things to do in Austin. Great Hills Station and 10001 Research Boulevard shopping area is an expanse of shops big and small with an assortment of goods. The cozy network of shops at 26 Doors Shopping Center is much like a sanctuary in the city center with eclectic and rare shops and restaurants. When looking for upscale shopping head to the Arboretum Market for more retail-centered things to do in Austin Texas. Over 25 more great shopping centers define Austin’s shopping scene.

Texas Governors Mansion

Home to every Texas Governor since 1856 the Texas Governors Mansion is one of the most visited Austin Texas attractions. Built in Greek Revival style, the building has seen renovations big and small over the years. Located at the corner of Colorado and 11th other things to do in Austin near the mansion include the State Capital and Congress Avenue.

Barsana Dham

Most visitors to Austin make the trip to the south of Austin to snap a few photographs of the Barsana Dham, a stunning Hindu temple. The temple is unexpectedly situated in the middle of the countryside with its towering dome creating an unexpected vision of beauty.

South of Austin, it may be a bit of a drive for tourists on a tight schedule but this beautiful Hindu temple is worth the trip. The dome towering over the treetops is an eerie and unexpected sight in the middle of the hill country.

Lyndon B. Johnson Library

Visiting the Lyndon B. Johnson Library is another of the interesting things to do in Austin Texas. Information about some of the most extreme times of contention in the nations history lie inside the library walls from the JFK assassination to the Vietnam War. An Oval Office replica, famous tapes and an excellent museum will please history buffs to no end.

Barton Springs Pool

Cool down during hot weather with a visit to Barton Springs Pool. Not a drop of chlorine makes this natural swimming pool, flanked with mossy rocks and grassy slopes, a perfect place to take it down a notch for an afternoon. Concession stands, diving boards and restrooms are available as is a kids Playscape. When it’s time to get out of the water head for a hike at the Barton Creek Greenbelt on the almost 8 miles of trails.

Austin Zoo

Things to do in Austin can also include a visit to the zoo. Though there’s nothing grandiose about it, the well designed area and interesting assortment of animals is great way to spend a few hours outdoors while visiting Austin.