Whenever you travel somewhere new, you do not always want to be stuck in the visitor crowd. Traveling like a local is a great way to really experience a new city. Seeing hidden places off the beaten path or having mainstay spots that are repeated is a great feeling. Take a look at A local’s guide to Austin.
A Local’s Guide to Austin
When visiting Austin, you deserve to check out all the hot attractions of summer that everyone is talking about, such as seeing the bats under the Congress Avenue Bridge. This truly is a unique experience found nowhere else and needs to be seen up close. However, the locals know that it is best to stay away from the Congress Avenue Bridge viewing areas, as countless people are there to see the show. Instead of sticking with the crowds, locals know it is best to pick up a rental kayak and paddle out on Lady Bird Lake. The local shops will let you rent out a kayak to explore the lake, as there is no swimming allowed on the lake. Take an hour or two to see how beautiful this local lake is found right in the heart of Downtown Austin. Right before sunset takes place, head over near Congress Avenue Bridge. You will be able to see a direct view of the bats taking flight as night sets in as they head off to feast on insects. This will keep you away from large crowds and have a little fun out on the water too. This is how you enjoy the Austin bats like a local in August.
Drop in Summer Concert Series
If you live in Austin, you have to be a live music fan, as the city is splitting at the seams with local music venues. Locals knows that you can find some of the best up and coming talent at local shows and music festivals. Austin is home to the Drop In Summer Concert Series that takes place from late May to mid-August. Your visit at the end of summer in August can have you enjoy the last few sessions of this returning festival that is always a hit with the locals. The final shows in August will take place on August 7th and 14th at the Long Center. Locals know that each concert performance requires a weekly RSVP that comes out on Friday if you are a Long Center Member or on Monday if you are not. This year’s lineup is already available for you to check out too. RSVP early like a local to ensure a spot at this popular summer series!
Enjoy the Austin Pride Parade & Festival
Austin is a city that promotes equality and celebrates love in all places so make sure you check out the festivities at the Austin Pride Parade & Festival. This is one of the biggest Pride celebrations in the state of Texas with over 400,000 people attending in 2024. Austin locals start the celebrations over at the Texas State Capitol with the annual parade. This huge parade will march down Congress Avenue before reaching an end in the Warehouse District. Visitors will join in on the festivities and watch this giant parade take place. The locals know Pride is a party to dress up and celebrate with. Wear your favorite rainbow colors and check out local events taking place around Downtown Austin. Celebrating love in all places is a great feeling for any vacation.
Zilker Summer Musical
Austin is not just home to live music but live productions of all kinds, including the theater. The month of August will also see the Zilker Summer Musical series return to Zilker Hillside Theater. This is a month-long celebration of weekly free performances for the whole family to see. An outdoor theatre troupe will host the fun with shows starting at 8:15 PM each performance night. Visitors frequent the weekends here in Austin so catching a Friday or Saturday is typically the easiest. However, locals know that you can find a better viewing area when you catch a performance on a Thursday night. Performances are held each week Thursday through Sunday up until August 16th. Bring a blanket and the family for a night full of live theater perfect for the summer season.
Prepare for a Lively Austin in Austin
Locals always know the ins and outs of the city that visitors will want to take notes on. That feeling starts with reserving a vacation rental that is worthy of your visit such as one of our properties. Contact us to book your favorite property today and see for yourself.
