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New Years Eve Cruise
Lone Star is having our annual New Years Eve Dinner Cruise! On Friday, December 1st from 8pm to 10:30pm, we will enjoy the lights of downtown plus the City of Austin fireworks show from the best spot in town. We will be serving a deluxe fajita dinner plus unlimited non-alcoholic drinks (bring your own alcohol) on this very special night to start off the celebration. Cruise, dinner, and tips are included in the price of $95.00PP – great for the whole family. Purchase tickets online. Use the button below for more information.
4 th Of July Cruises
Lone Star is hosting our annual 4 th Of July Cruises! Our Dinner cruise has already sold out, but you can still view Austin's bats and annual firework show on one of our pontoon boats. Space is very limited, so get your tickets now!
Austin's Most Popular Tours
Weekend sightseeing cruises, evening bat watching tours, friday night moonlight cruise, optional pretitle -->public tours.
Pick from one of Lone Star Riverboat's public tours down Lady Bird Lake. These tours include commentary by the captain. You are welcome to bring your own beverages on the Little Star, Southern Star, and Lone Star. The Lone Star has a non-alcoholic cash bar available.
Optional pretitle -->Our Boats
Choose from one of three different Lone Star Riverboats to host your next Austin adventure. Lone Star offers a luxurious double-decker paddle-wheel riverboat and three smaller boats ideal for sunsets and bat watching.
Optional pretitle -->Private Charters
Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard a Lone Star Riverboat. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people.
Lone Star Riverboat About Us
Located on Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) in Austin, Texas. Lone Star Riverboat Cruises and Austin are the two shining stars of Texas!
Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We offer public, narrated sightseeing cruises or witness the spectacular emergence of the world famous Mexican free-tailed bats on our sunset/bat watching cruises! Come see the sights and learn about Austin or jazz up your next occasion and have a private party aboard The Lone Star, the largest electric powered paddle wheeler in the nation.
Our staff at Lone Star Riverboat is committed to excellent customer service and making your trips as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. We want to show you Austin in Texas-friendly style.
We are a city concession and a portion of our gross sales goes to support our nationally recognized park system. Fred DuPuy is the new owner of Lone Star Riverboat which has been in business as an Austin icon since 1987.
Reviews Everybody Loves Cruises
"Lone Star Riverboat tours have consistently been one of the most popular tours in Austin. Their sightseeing, moonlight and afternoon cruises are a great way to see the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake. Their bat watching tour lands them consistently at the #1 activity in our Things to do in Austin Guide during bat watching season." ~ Ivan Collins Austin City Guide
"It was so fun, Captain Chris was so interactive and fun. I would recommend coming here if you are in Austin! Make sure to make a reservation so they can secure your spot on the boat!" ~Rachel E. October 2020
"Really enjoyed our boat ride on Lady Bird Lake! The host was funny, the ride was smooth, and the city landscape was BEAUTIFUL! I definitely would recommend and plan on bringing my family next time." ~Sarah M. October 2020
"We rented the boat for our reverse Rehearsal Dinner...The price is very reasonable and then you get to bring your own alcohol and food...The Captain walked me through how the night would go and then walked me through the invoice at the end. He is very kind! Joye was our sales contact and she was very accommodating and helpful through the whole process, answering all of my questions on linens, food, timing, etc." Kristin Davis November 2019
"Great excursion in Austin. Our boat captain was very fun and knowledgeable. Put us in the perfect location for bat viewing." ~Alison August 2020
"Beautiful sunset and Austin skyline. Educational and fun! The captain talked about the buildings in the Austin skyline and another person educated about the biology of the bats." ~Bonnie M. April 2019
"In addition to watching the bats, the boats will take a quick tour down Lady Bird Lake. The captain gave us information on the different landmarks (Stevie Ray's statue, etc.) while downtown Austin moves all around us. It was wonderful!" Kathy Roy November 2019
Special Offers
Check out valentines day cruise.
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Austin Duck Adventures Is Open!
Masks are recommended but not required.
Holiday Sing-Along Tour
Join us December 19 th and 20 th at 5:30 PM to tour through the streets of Austin and into Austin Lake. There is limited seating so book ahead. Happy Holidays! Masks are recommended but not required.
The Splash is Back!
- Passengers must wear masks at all times on the tour bus.
- Tickets must be purchased online or by phone (512) 477-5274. No physical tickets will be used. A passenger list will be used to check off registered customers.
- The tour guide will assign passenger seats to ensure a safe distance.
- Customers should use the distancing tape found on the sidewalks while waiting to board.
Limited Capacity Tours
Our tours are running 7 days a week with limited capacity due to Covid. Use the button below to learn more about Covid related changes before purchasing a ticket.
Join us December 19 th , 20 th and 21 st at 5:30 PM to tour through the streets of Austin and into Austin Lake. There is limited seating so book ahead. Happy Holidays!
(512) 477-5274 602 E 4th Street Austin, Texas 78701
Austin Duck Adventures
It's The Best Way To tour Austin, Texas!
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About us land and water tours.
Tour Austin with a Splash!
The original Austin tour, Austin Duck Adventures offers an amphibious tour that includes tours of downtown Austin and beautiful Lake Austin in UNSINKABLE, US coast guard inspected, Hydra Terra vehicles. Austin Duck Adventures is Austin's best tour with 75 minutes of sightseeing that includes Historic Sixth Street, the State Capitol Building, the Governor's Mansion, and Lake Austin.
Austin Duck Adventures is a top Austin tour and sells out quick. Don't wait til the last minute, please buy your tickets online here.
The fun begins when you board your Austin Duck Adventures "Duck" near the Austin Visitors Center. Please check your confirmation FAQ for specific details.
Groups & Parties
Are you planning an event for a group of passengers? Use the button below to learn more about our group and private lake tours in Austin, Texas.
Videos Check out our Videos!
Reviews Everybody Loves Duck Tours!
"Austin Duck Adventures is one of the longest running tours in Austin for a reason. The tour shows you some cool parts of Austin with a spin around Lake Austin that is known for making a splash with the entire family. It's great to get out of downtown and see the surrounding areas. Due to its high popularity and reasonable pricing, it stays in our Top 5 Things to Do in Austin ." ~ Ivan Collins Austin City Guide
"After visiting Austin a few times over the last year, we finally had a chance to take the Duck Tour. We had fun, enjoyed the views, and learned a bit about Austin along the way. This tour definitely helps keep Austin weird." ~Scot C. April 2019
"Super cool and fun way to tour the city of Austin on land and water. Our tour guide was very entertaining, friendly, and knowledgeable of the city. He provides each person with little quackers to offer up quacks to those we pass along the way." ~Chirrita R. June 2020
"The best tour for adults and kids! If you don’t see Austin from the water, you’ve missed half the beauty. Great for littles as they get a “quacker” and rubber ducky. My 2 and 4 year old were engaged the whole time!" ~Amberly Marston November 2020
"Erik was our guide, and he was a lot of fun. Told us lots of interesting facts, but kept us laughing as well. Well worth the money, and I would definitely go again." ~Junkmel M. July 2020
"Great experience, a wonderful way to see and to learn a little Austin history. Thank you Captain Bob!" ~Monica B. August 2020
"An absolute blast that everyone needs to experience! We learned so much about Austin and the area on this unique tour. I can't imagine you finding a better way to get to know the area than by land and sea! Give the Duck Tours a chance! You won't regret it!" ~Aaron Bunting November 2019
Contact Us Parking, Departure, & Contact
Our tours start outside of the Austin Visitor Center located at the corner of Red River and 4th street in downtown Austin. The closest parking is at the 5th Street Garage, a 5-story parking garage with 685 spaces, located at 601 E. 5th Street. Enter the garage off 5th street on the North side of the building. You can exit on the south side.
(512) 4-SPLASH or (512) 477-5274
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Discover the Ultimate Adventure on the Water with Austin Boat Rentals by Austin’s Boat Tours
Nestled in the heart of Texas, Austin is a city renowned for its vibrant culture, live music scene, and picturesque landscapes. Beyond the hustle and bustle of the city, the serene waterways offer a tranquil escape for locals and tourists alike. Austin's Boat Tours stands out as a premier provider of boat rentals, including the popular option of Austin boat rentals, offering a unique way to experience the city's natural beauty.In this detailed guide, we'll explore the exceptional offerings of Austin's Boat Tours, providing insights into the fleet, preferred routes, and the unparalleled experience awaiting those who opt for a boat rental austin tx.Ready to set sail? Contact us now for the best boat rental austin tx !
Pontoon Boats
Experience boat rental austin tx with Austin's Boat Tours, featuring a diverse fleet to cater to different preferences and group sizes. Whether you're looking for an intimate pontoon boat for a romantic sunset cruise or a spacious party barge for a lively gathering, our options are plentiful. Our meticulously maintained fleet prioritizes safety and comfort for all passengers.Ready for a Water Getaway? Click to book rent a boat in austin tx now!
Party Barges
For those looking to celebrate special occasions or enjoy a day of fun with friends, the party barges are a popular choice. With ample deck space, music systems, and optional BBQ grills, these boats set the stage for memorable gatherings surrounded by the beauty of Austin's lakes.
Kayaks and Paddleboards
If you're seeking a more active and immersive experience in Austin, look no further than Austin's Boat Tours. They offer a variety of options, including kayaks and paddleboards for rent. Navigate the picturesque waters of Lady Bird Lake or the Colorado River, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. It's not just a workout; it's a chance to connect with nature. Explore at your own pace with austin boat rentals and make the most of your time on the water.
Popular Routes
The waterways surrounding Austin offer a myriad of scenic routes, each with its own unique charm. Austin's Boat Tours, your go-to source for exploring these picturesque landscapes, provides suggested routes, ensuring that every journey is as enjoyable as it is picturesque. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make the most of your experience by checking out austin boat rentals, adding an extra layer of excitement to your exploration of the stunning water vistas. Choose Austin's Boat Rentals for a memorable and leisurely voyage through the captivating beauty that the city's waterways have to offer.
Lady Bird Lake Loop
This iconic loop takes boaters on a journey around Lady Bird Lake, offering stunning views of the downtown skyline and the lush landscape of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
Lake Travis Adventure
For a more extended excursion, the Lake Travis route provides a taste of the Hill Country's beauty. Cruising along the clear waters of Lake Travis, boaters can marvel at limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and the expansive reservoir.
Sunset Cruise on the Colorado River
As the sun sets over the Colorado River, Austin's Boat Tours offers a magical experience with their sunset cruise. The warm hues reflecting on the water create a romantic ambiance, making it a popular choice for couples and those seeking a peaceful evening on the water.
Unforgettable Experiences with Premier Austin Boat Rentals
Beyond the choice of boats and scenic routes, Austin's Boat Tours prides itself on delivering a unique and personalized experience for every customer. The knowledgeable and friendly staff provide thorough briefings on boat operation and safety, ensuring even first-time boaters feel confident navigating the water.Experience the thrill of the open water! Contact us today to reserve your Austin boat rental.
Customizable Packages
Recognizing that each group has different preferences, Austin's Boat Tours offers customizable packages. Whether you're planning a corporate outing, a bachelorette party, or a family reunion, the team can tailor the experience to meet your specific needs.
Expert Guidance
For those unfamiliar with the waterways, Austin's Boat Tours provides expert guidance on navigating the lakes and rivers. Their staff is well-versed in local regulations and can offer recommendations on the best spots for fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery.
Event Hosting
Austin's Boat Tours goes beyond simple boat rentals by offering event hosting services. From birthdays to weddings, their team can assist in planning and executing a memorable event on the water, complete with catering options and entertainment.
Safety Measures for Party Barge on Austin Lake Travis
Ensuring the safety of passengers is a top priority for Austin's Boat Tours, specializing in austin boat rentals. The company adheres to strict safety protocols, including regular maintenance checks on all watercraft and thorough safety briefings for every rental. Life jackets are provided for all passengers, and the staff is trained to handle emergency situations efficiently.Create Lasting Memories – email at [email protected]
Boat Operation Training Before embarking on their journey, renters receive comprehensive training on boat operation, navigation, and safety procedures. This ensures that even those with little to no boating experience can enjoy a worry-free excursion.
Weather Monitoring Austin Boat Tours keeps a close eye on weather conditions and provides timely updates to renters. In case of inclement weather, the team is prepared to reschedule or cancel trips to prioritize the safety of all passengers.Don't miss out on the fun! Contact us to reserve your Austin boat rental adventure.
Emergency Preparedness The staff at Austin Boat Tours undergoes rigorous training in emergency response. From medical emergencies to mechanical issues, the team is equipped to handle various situations swiftly and effectively.
Discover with Us: Austin Boat Tours Ready for Your Adventure!
Austin's Boat Tours, your go-to destination for austin boat rentals, offers more than just a gateway to the natural beauty and tranquility of the waterways surrounding Austin. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the lake, a lively celebration with friends, or a romantic evening cruise, our diverse fleet and personalized service ensure a memorable experience. With a steadfast commitment to safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, Austin's Boat Tours stands out as a premier choice for those eager to explore the enchanting waters of Austin, Texas. So, gather your friends, pack a picnic, and set sail for an unforgettable adventure on the lakes and rivers that define the soul of this vibrant city.
For more information reach out to our team directly. Discover the joy of cruising on Austin's waters with our exceptional boat rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)
Potential customers often inquire about the reservation process to secure a boat rental from Austin's Boat Tours. Providing clear instructions on how to book, including any required information, deposit procedures, and available payment methods, can help streamline the booking experience. Don't Miss Out on the Fun – Reserve Your Austin Boat Rental Today!
Austin’s Boat Tours offers a variety of boats for rental, including pontoon boats, party barges, and ski boats. Each type is equipped with different features to suit various preferences. You can find more details on the available boat options and their amenities on our website or by contacting our team directly.
Safety is a top concern for those considering boat rentals. This question aims to gather information about the safety protocols implemented by Austin’s Boat Tours, such as life jacket requirements, emergency procedures, and any other relevant guidelines for a secure boating experience. Adventure is calling – answer with a boat rental! Contact us today for details in Austin.
When considering austin boat tours, customers often inquire about the navigable areas with the rented boats and seek information on suggested routes or popular destinations. This inquiry aids customers in planning their boating itinerary, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
This question seeks information about the terms and conditions related to canceling a boat rental reservation, including any refund policies or rescheduling options specific to austin boat rentals.
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Boat Rentals in Austin
#1 rated boat rental service in austin, austin rental boats, lake austin boat rentals & lake travis boat rentals.
Boat Rentals on Lake Austin and Lake Travis. Great Prices, safe Captains, and clean boats is why we are the most rated boat rental company in Austin.
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Lake Austin / Lake Travis - 10 Minutes from Downtown
Austin Boat Tours
We offer party boats in Austin on any of our pontoon rentals, ski boats and party boats on Lake Austin and Lake Travis . Our boat tours come fully equipped with an aqua lily pad, foam pong table, XL Cooler with Ice, water bottles, life jackets, Captain and Fuel. We can accommodate groups up to 32 passengers. You can reserve your Captained boat rental today with only a $100 fully refundable deposit. Our main pickup location is at the Loop 360 Boat Ramp. This location is only a 15 minute Uber ride from downtown Austin. We can arrange for other pickup locations as well.
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Things to do in austin.
Things To Do On Lake Austin
Wondering what else you can do on Lake Austin? Then take a look at our blog of all things you can on Lake Austin.
Austin Bachelorette Party Ideas
Need Bachelorette party ideas? Then check out a few cool ideas from us locals on fun things to do during your stay in Austin.
Boat Rental Questions?
Our main pickup location on Lake Austin is at the Loop 360 Boat Ramp just 15 minutes from downtown Austin.
We include everything in our boat rentals ! This includes: 12' Lay on floating mat, floating pong table with cups and balls, XL cooler with water bottles and lots of Ice, fuel and a captain .
Almost all of our groups get a nice cruise up the lake and head over to the party cove. This is where all the action is. We will tie up with other boats, layout our floating mats, pong tables and jam out to some tunes! A tour of Little Venice is a Lake Austin favorite.
Lake Austin is rated the overall best Lake. Lake Austin is definitely the closest, cleanest and safest Lake out of the two. While both Lakes boast party coves, Lake Travis is home of Devils Cove which is the infamous party barge cove.
Capital Cruises’ Internationally Famous Bat Watching Tour
The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge is the home of the largest urban bat colony in the world. Austin's bats are Mexican free-tailed bats and use the bridge as their maternity roost, migrating each spring from central Mexico to have their pups here before returning to Mexico in autumn. Our cruises provide the best possible vantage point for one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles in the world! Bat viewing is available on a nightly public tour, March through mid-November, or you can customize a private excursion with dinner, cocktails, and more. Please use the GET A QUOTE button for rates for a private cruise.
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Comprehensive pricing information and additional cruise "add-on" options. Enter as many quotes as you like, change the number of guests or catering and entertainment options and let the quote generator do the work for you.
Ready for a quote? Click the button below to build an instant online quote today. Final bookings must be made over the phone.
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November through February (weather permitting), we offer a nightly sunset tour for those wanting to get out on the lake at sunset. A small portion of the bat colony does stay year-round, though viewing tends to be very limited this time of year. This tour is primarily to get out on the water at the perfect time – sunset! Bring a jacket, a beverage of your choice, and some snacks, and enjoy the scenery!
- Public nightly bat watching tours depart approximately 30 minutes before sunset and last roughly one hour in length. Bat Watching Tours available March through early November. Rates for the Sunset Bat Watching tour: $14.00 for adults, $11.00 for seniors & $9.00 for children ages 3 to 12.
A Typical Emergence Good viewing of the bat emergence happens consistently March through mid May; more inconsistent viewing of emergences happen mid May through June (birthing time); BEST viewing is July through September/October.
Sunset/Sightseeing tours available November through February, (weather permitting) excluding holidays. Rates for the Sunset/Sightseeing tours: $14.00 for adults, $11.00 for seniors & $9.00 for kids 3 to 12.
Book a Bat Cruise or call at ( 512) 480-9264 .
- Reservations require check-in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
- Not checking in at this time may result in a loss of your reservation to patrons on the wait list to whom we release reservations 15 minutes prior to departure.
- Departure times are subject to change depending on the bat emergence and sunset times.
- This tour runs March through October (weather permitting). The Bat-Watching Tour is not available November – February, but our Sunset Sightseeing Tour is still an option to get out on the lake.
REMINDER — bats are wild animals and can be unpredictable any time of year for a variety of factors. We do our best to put you in the right place at the right time to view the bats’ flight from the bridge based on current/recent emergence patterns and give a great tour of the area. We cannot guarantee a good or great emergence. If you have questions about what the emergences have been like prior to purchasing tickets, just give us a call, and we’ll be happy to discuss what we have been seeing!
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Friends of Capital Cruises Dedicated to Helping the Bats
- Merlin Tuttle Bat Conservation
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- Bat Conservation International
Austin's Boat Tours
Located at Angel's Landing Marina on Lake Travis, Austin's Boat Tours is the perfect way to spend a day out on the lake. Austin's Boat Tours boasts a wide range of options for those who want to zip around the lake on a speed boat or spend the day anchored in Devil's Cove on a pontoon boat. Voted the Official Best of Texas eight years running, Austin's Boat Tours are ready to treat you and your friends to a great time on the lake.
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A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days
Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary
A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.
My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.
Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.
Day 1: Pool party & pickles
Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.
Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .
In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.
Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).
If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.
After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.
Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats
Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.
You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.
Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.
After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.
After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s .
As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .
Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.
Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.
Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers
It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.
For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.
In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.
For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.
Question Time
When is the best time of year to visit austin.
There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.
Is Austin expensive?
Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Will I need a car to get around Austin?
Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.
Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris
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