Posted by Mikki Ludecke in Austin, Local Guides and Resources

Summer is here! Not only is Austin a great place to be for some great summer weather, but it also has a plethora of activities to check out.

There’s no need to go vacationing when there is plenty of fun to be had right in central Texas. Here are some of our favorite things to do during the summertime in Austin!

Enchanted Rock

Spend the Day at Zilker Park

Austin’s famous park sits just southeast of downtown and Lady Bird Lake, offering pristine views of the city in a wide-open park.

Lush with green grass and plenty of trees, Zilker park is an urban escape where people find themselves picnicking, playing fetch with their four-legged friends, kicking around a soccer ball, attending a workout class, playing sand volleyball, and the infamous Blues on the Green, a yearly summer live music event!

Family Picnicking

Go to a Concert or Live Event

Although it is known as the live music capital of the world, Austin had been lacking one thing until recently: a stadium style event center. Luckily for Austinites, the city now has the brand new Moody Center!

This state-of-the-art facility sits on the University of Texas Campus and has already been host to some great names in entertainment with a stellar lineup throughout the summer.

Chill Out on a Rooftop Patio

Downtown views, a warm breeze, and a cold adult beverage… doesn’t that sound nice?

There are plenty of options when it comes to rooftop restaurants in Austin. Some of our favorite include Zanzibar, Group Therapy, Geraldine’s, and P6. Discover all of the rooftop restaurants, patios, bars, and more in the area.

Rooftop Patio

Buy a Day Pass at One of the Area’s Pools

No pool? No problem! Suit up and grab some sunscreen because a handful of hotels around the city offer day passes that range in price. Some even include cabana rentals!

Whether you prefer a downtown view or something more Hill Country focused, there are options for you. 365 Things Austin curated a list of some of the more popular pools around the city, but ResortPass shows all the available day passes in the Greater Austin area.

Hike Enchanted Rock

This pink granite uplift is sure to challenge you on a summer day. The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers a wide variety of activities including the following:

  • Camping
  • Nature trails
  • Rock climbing
  • Cave exploration
  • Interpretive exhibits
  • …and so much more!
Enchanted Rock

Take a day trip and drive just 1 hour and 45 minutes west of Austin and enjoy a fun filled day in nature. Adults above 13 years of age can expect to pay an $8 entry fee for a day pass.

Paddle Board or Kayak on Lady Bird Lake

This is a staple activity for Austin for good reason! The water in Lady Bird Lake stays nice and cool, thanks to the nearby Barton Spring that flows into the lake. Downtown views make paddle boarding all the better!

Paddleboarding

Rentals can be purchased at multiple locations—our favorite being Texas Rowing Center. This is also the best location to watch fireworks over the city on the Fourth of July!

Take a Dip at Barton Springs Pool

The average water temperature in Barton Springs Pool stays between 68 and 70 degrees no matter the temperature outside, perfect for those days where it gets above 100 degrees in Texas!

This natural spring attracts adults and kids alike since there are no reservations required and passes are only needed during certain days and time.

Sunbathe, practice your canon ball, or just float around—Barton Springs is a must do!

Indulge in a Spa Day

Escape from the hustle and bustle of your busy summertime schedule to take a day to pamper yourself.

Austin is host to some amazing spas that are sure to have you feeling refreshed. Get a facial, enjoy a deep-tissue massage, soak in a hot tub, and enjoy a day to yourself. Who could resist that?

Woman at Spa

Plan a spa day at one of the many buzz-worthy Austin spas.

Zip Line Across Lake Travis

Ready to take on the fastest and longest zip line in Texas? Head out to Lake Travis Zip Line Adventures and enjoy the thrill.

Zip Lining

Your pass includes all the needed equipment, boat transportation, and plenty of water to keep you hydrated through a hot summer day. Make your reservation on their website and try a new adventure this summer!

Take the Kids to a Water Park

Texas Typhoon and Kalahari Resort are attractions right out of your kids’ dreams! Located in Pflugerville and Round Rock, these parks sell passes online and are loads of fun.

Kids Going Down Slide at Water Park

Rent a Boat or Jet Skis on Lake Travis

Are there lake days in your future? From party barges and pontoons to sailboats and speedboats, no matter the type of boat you need, find it all at Lake Travis.

A wide list of vendors and rental locations can be found on the Lake Travis website.

Woman on Boat

Attend an Austin FC Game

Austin FC is Austin’s major league soccer team, and their games are worth the watch!

The brand new Q2 stadium is sure to impress, and the food and drink options are endless. Every seat in the house is a great view, so buy your tickets now, and don’t forget to wear green.

You might even catch of glimpse of actor, Austin native, and club owner, Matthew McConaughey, while your there. Verde! Listos!

Explore Austin’s Surrounding Cities

Austin’s neighboring cities are full of things to do and are just a short drive away:

Summer sticks around for more than your average 3 months here in Austin, so there is plenty of time to cross these activities off your summer bucket list!



Author

Email | Mikki Ludecke | Signature Photo
Mikki Ludecke

Blog Author

Mikki has over 15 years of experience in new home sales and a deep passion for real estate, inspired by her father's work in home building industry. She fell in love with Central Texas while attending Southwestern University in Georgetown and now enjoys helping people navigate the homebuying process in her role as Internet Sales Manager at M/I Homes! Outside of work, she cherishes time with her husband, two daughters, and three cats.

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