Outdoorsy Things to Do in Austin, TX this Summer: 15 Austin Outdoor Attractions
(Updated: 2023)
Embrace the sunny days and warm weather in Austin, Texas, as you explore a plethora of outdoor adventures this summer. Austin is my favorite city in Texas for its mix of urban and nature. With that comes a number of outdoor activities in Austin to get you out of the house, especially during the summer months! The rivers are full of paddlers, trails are full of hikers, and outdoor restaurants and bar patios are full. Here are just some Austin outdoor attractions to add to your list!
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1. Go to the Drive-in Movies
There are a number of drive-in movie theaters around the Austin area to choose from. This is also the perfect date night activity!
2. Book an Austin Brewery Tour
Tour well-known Austin breweries on one of the many private or group tours available on Viator.
3. Browse local plant nurseries
A cute and picturesque little city outing to one of many plant shops around Austin is a perfect way to spend a weekend morning this summer.
4. Zipline over Lake Travis
Are you a thrill-seeker? Lake Travis Zipline Adventures has the fastest and longest ziplines in Texas! Just over a 30-minute drive from Downtown Austin.
Location: 14529 Pocohontas Trail, Volente, TX 78641, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
5. Sunbathe at Hippie Hollow Park
Hippie Hollow Park is an adults-only, clothing-optional park on Lake Travis - the only of its kind in the area.
Location: 7000 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
6. Stroll around Zilker Botanical Garden
Stroll through the beautiful Zilker Botanical Garden in the heart of Austin, TX one of the best Austin parks and green spaces. The garden boasts skyline views of Austin, a zen garden with koi fish, waterfalls, fairy homes, and more.
Location: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
7. Explore the South Congress Murals
If you are big on street art, Austin is a great place to find just that. All along South Congress Street are murals on the sides of abandoned buildings, restaurants, and shops to explore.
Location: 1720 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
8. Have a picnic at the Austin Capitol Building
Grab a blanket, and food and find a large tree to perch up under for a picnic on the grounds and view of the Austin Capitol building - the largest in the US.
Location: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
9. Paddle on Lady Bird Lake
Paddleboard and kayak rentals line Lady Bird Lake. Arguably, being on the water is the best way to experience the river and skyline. Not to mention a great outdoor adventure/workout. Here are a few of these rental companies:
10. Rent a Boat on Lake Travis
Renting a boat on Lake Travis is pretty popular and luckily there are several rental agencies for this around the lake as well. Here are some:
11. See the sunset at Mount Bonnell
Catch breathtaking views and sunsets from atop Mount Bonnell - a lookout point located 106 steps up the side of the highest point in Austin. Sunsets can get crowded so come early to grab your spot!
Location: Get directions on Google Maps
12. Visit the Cathedral of Junk
Cathedral of Junk is a masterpiece of random stuff put together by one heck of an interesting man located in his own backyard. Call to schedule your visit ahead of time. Entry is free but it’s encouraged to bring some cash for donations.
Location: 4422 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
13. Hike at McKinney Falls State Park
Mckinney Falls State Park is a Texas state park in Austin with hiking and biking trails, waterfalls, and rivers. You can easily find solitude in the middle of this bustling city.
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
14. Eat at Food Trucks
Food truck parks are all around Austin and have some of the best comfort food you can find. Check out:
15. Explore Pease Park
Pease Park is an excellent family-friendly park in Austin, as well as a worthwhile outdoor destination for anyone to explore and walk around. A highlight of this park is the unique tree house dome with a net floor.
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