As the capital city of Texas, Austin offers a sophisticated atmosphere and cosmopolitan experience with a warm, welcoming Texas charm. Mixing history, tradition, an artistic touch and cultural flair, Austin is the type of city that you must experience for yourself to truly appreciate.
Whether you’re heading to Austin for SXSW or you simply have business to take care of in the capital city, you will find that the city has no shortage of things to do and see. For your planning convenience, here are the top nine attractions in Austin.
1. LBJ Presidential Library
- Address: 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705
- Price: $16 Adults, $6 Youth (Ages 13-18), Free admission for children 12 and under
Celebrating the life and legacy of U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, the LBJ Presidential Library is a favorite among history aficionados visiting Austin. On display at the library, you will find a variety of permanent exhibitions including a replica of LBJ's Oval Office, the LBJ presidential limousine and an animatronic President Johnson. In addition, the library hosts temporary exhibits that rotate throughout the seasons, such as exhibits related to the Civil Rights Movement or music history in America.
2. Texas Capitol
- Address: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
- Price: Free admission
Modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C., the Texas Capitol is an imposing and elegant building that is located in the heart of Austin and it has long been considered one of the top attractions in Austin. Visitors who want to learn more about the architecture and design of the building, as well as the role it plays in the state's government, are welcome to enjoy a free guided walking tour. Tours depart between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on weekends, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to learn more about this grand and iconic building.
3. Barton Springs Pool
- Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
- Price: $9 Non-resident Adults, $5 Non-resident Youth 12-17, $4 Non-resident Children 1-11
Often described as one of the crown jewels of Austin, the Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin must see attractions. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, this sparkling pool almost resembles a river, spanning more than three acres. The pool can be found in Zilker Metropolitan Park and is unique in the sense that it is fed by underground springs. It naturally maintains a temperature between 68 and 70 degrees, making it comfortable yet refreshing and allowing swimmers to enjoy the pool throughout the entire year. If you are looking for a relaxing, enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family, then be sure to take a swim in the Barton Springs Pool.
4. Bullock Texas State History Museum
- Address: 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
- Price: $15 Adults, $9 Youth 4-17
As one of the top Austin attractions for history and culture, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is a must-do for families and travelers who are visiting Austin for the first time. Designed to provide all guests with an insider's perspective into the history of Texas, this museum is perfect for those who are hoping to uncover exactly why everything is truly bigger and brighter in Texas.
Inside the museum, the Texas History Galleries are some of the most exciting and insightful exhibits on display. This collection features more than 700 artifacts, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy a first-hand glimpse at the state's history and development. The three floors of galleries take you on a journey from ancient times to the modern era, giving visitors a comprehensive overview of what life has been like in this region for thousands of years.
5. Lady Bird Lake
- Address: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
- Price: Free Admission
Lady Bird Lake is a sparkling public lake in the center of Austin, showcasing the city's commitment to natural beauty amid urban development. The lake itself is free to visit, but there are many watercraft rentals available for those who want to get out on the water. If you are looking to take in the beauty of Austin in the most relaxing way, then consider renting a canoe or a kayak and spending an afternoon on the lake. If you'd rather not paddle your way around the lake, there are boat tours of Lady Bird Lake that you can book.
6. Blanton Museum of Art
- Address: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
- Price: $15 Adults, $8 Youth 6-17, Free Admission for children 5 and under
Consistently ranked as one of the best museums in Austin, the Blanton Museum of Art offers an enlightening and immersive experience for visitors who love contemporary and classical art. Located on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, this art museum has an impressive collection of more than 21,000 pieces. Primarily consisting of contemporary American art, Latin American art, Italian Renaissance paintings and Baroque paintings, this museum's collection offers something for every taste and interest. It is famously home to Ellsworth Kelly's Austin, which is a highlight for anyone who is visiting the museum.
7. Texas Science and Natural History Museum
- Address: 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
- Price: $10 General Admission
Offering exhibits that range from the birth of the planet to the modern era, the Texas Science and Natural History Museum provides an in-depth look at the land that now comprises Texas as well as the people and animals who call it home. The mission of the museum is to inspire curious minds of all ages and to help connect people with the natural history of Texas and many of its exhibits include hands-on learning opportunities and interactive activities. Popular exhibits include the Texas Titans exhibit, which features larger-than-life fossilized dinosaurs and the Geology Gallery, which highlights incredible rocks, stones and fossils from Texas.
8. The Driskell History Tour
- Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Price: $10 for non-hotel guests
The Driskell is the oldest hotel in Austin and one of its most iconic landmarks, but you don't have to stay at the Driskell to enjoy the old-world Texas experience. Those who are interested in the hotel's history and the role the Driskell has played in the local community can book a guided history tour through the building. At the end of your tour, you can stop by the Driskell Bar, which still operates as an old-fashioned saloon, allowing you to truly enjoy the flavor of Texas.
9. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
- Price: $15 Adults, $8 Youth (Ages 5-17), Free Admission for children 4 and under
Another attraction that is located on the University of Texas at Austin campus is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. The botanical gardens here feature native Texas plants, all of which are used to create landscapes that are not only beautiful but also sustainable.
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