Like everything else, traveling has continued to rise in cost year after year. The rising costs should not scare you away from a much deserved trip but instead have you thinking harder about where to use your money. Part of the joys of traveling is finding free activities to enjoy in the area. Here in Austin, you will find plenty of free activities that are great for the family and take place all year round. Here are the top free things to do in Austin, TX, no matter what time of year it is:
Explore Zilker Park
When you explore Austin you will not find an attraction more cherished than Zilker Park. Whoever said you cannot have a massive outdoor park right next to a downtown neighborhood in a big city clearly hasn’t visited Austin. Zilker Metropolitan Park is a huge 350 acre space that is filled with green grass and shaded trees. The sprawling park features plenty of space where you can set up a picnic with a loved one or challenge the family to a friendly soccer or Frisbee matchup. Zilker Park also features some of the most popular attractions in the city too. These include the Zilker Botanical Garden, Barton Springs Pool, and Austin Nature and Science Center. These attractions are not always free to visit but you will find days throughout the year where they do offer free admission. If you happen to visit in the summer you will able to take a dip in Barton Springs Pool during their free swimming times of early morning and again later in the evening. A visit to Zilker Park is always worthy of your Austin trip.
Explore the Lady Bird Lake Trail
Part of the joy of visiting Austin is seeing all the sights. Lady Bird Lake Trail is the perfect area where you can explore over 10 miles of Downtown Austin. This looping trail is popular for both hiking and biking that will get you close to the water of Lady Bird Lake. One specific area that is always popular with the locals is the Boardwalk that jets out over the water giving you incredible photo opportunities when you visit around sunset.
Find the Iconic Austin Murals
Austin is a city full of vibrant colors and street art when you know you can find them. Finding the iconic murals in Austin makes for a fun scavenger hunt to help you enjoy a few hours for free. The murals can be found in some of Austin’s most popular neighborhoods including East Austin, South Congress, and Downtown Austin. You will probably know of some of the most popular murals including the “I Love You So Much” found around South Congress and “Greetings from Austin” found over on South 1st Street. There are plenty of murals to track down so make sure you have your phone on you to keep track and post all the photos you take!
Enjoy Free Museum Day
Some exciting attractions to visit on any day in a new city are the local museums. These are a great way to look into the past of the area and enjoy exciting exhibits. Austin is also home to several museums that feature free days throughout the year. Stop by the Bullock Texas State History Museum that offers engaging exhibits focusing on the history of our lone star state. Their free days take place on the first Sunday of each month. If you are a Longhorns fan you will want to visit the University of Texas campus for a tour. During your visit to campus make sure you stop by the Blanton Museum of Art. This university hosted museum is free every Thursday that focus on local art work. A visit to the local museums always has you walking way learning more about the community and history of the area.
Check Out the Free Festivals During the Year
Austin is a city of entertainment so make sure you attend one of the many free festivals throughout the year. Blues on the Green is the largest festival and takes place each summer at Zilker Park. This season-long celebration features local blues music to enjoy. The Austin Pride Parade celebrate love and diversity while the Zilker Summer Musical offers free stage performances during the summer season. You will not find a shortage of live entertainment here in the city many of it being free to enjoy!
Free Fun Is Always Celebrated in Austin
Enjoy these free activities and attractions during your visit at Austin at any point of the year. Our vacation rentals will keep you close to the fun while enjoying luxury amenities. Come see for yourself right here when you make your next visit to Austin.
