Plan your spring retreat to a year-round warm climate full of sun and fun that heats up as the weather turns from winter to spring in anticipation of summer. There are a number of things to do and see to make your spring vacation one to remember for years to come.
Capitol
Austin is the capital city of Texas and plays host to all the government buildings needed to maintain everything that keeps the state running. The capitol building that stands today was completed and dedicated in May of 1888. If you’ve been to the U.S. capitol in Washington, DC, you may feel like the Texas capitol building is bigger.
Everything is bigger in Texas, including our capitol building! In fact, the Texas capitol building is 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. capitol, as measured from the ground to the top of the Statue of Freedom atop the U.S. capitol and from ground to the tip of the Goddess of Liberty on the Texas capitol.
Texas Military Forces Museum
Wander and take in all of the 45,000-square foot facility to explore the history of the Texas militia and volunteer forces dating back to 1823 – before Texas joined the United States. Permanent exhibits include samples of uniforms, weapons, equipment, soldiers’ personal items, film, music, and more that reflect life in the military at various times in history. The museum also hosts several “living history” programs, as well as battle reenactments and other special events. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Austin Aquarium
Meet the wildlife that make their home in the water. Encounter sting rays, sharks, tropical fish from all over the world, as well as koi fish, and many more. You’ll learn about coral reefs and how they nourish the underwater environment and provide shelter, then watch sharks as they swim silently through their tanks. Once you’ve gotten to know the aquarium’s inhabitants, schedule a special encounter where you can feed stingrays, tortoises, and even sharks for an unforgettable experience this spring.
Austin Zoo
Spend some time outdoors this spring, wandering the zoo and getting to know its residents. You’ll meet lions, tigers, cougars as well as other cats. Marvel at majestic mammals including North American black bears, wolf hybrids, or the unique coatimundi – a member of the raccoon family that lives 7-15 years and can weigh up to 17 pounds!
Primates include the ring-tailed lemur and a variety of monkeys. The zoo showcases native Texas wildlife too, including the Texas leaf-cutting ant and the eastern fox squirrel. Wrap up a visit with domesticated animals like longhorns, miniature donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, and even llamas!
Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
A great way to see and experience Austin in the spring is to get out and get right in the middle of it. With the scorching summer temperatures not yet upon us, spring is the perfect time to be outside in Austin. Lace up your walking shoes or hop on a bike and head to the Hike and Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake and the surrounding area.
The low-grade, paved trail is fit for pedestrians and cyclists alike and winds its way through downtown. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Austin skyline. Because of its location, the ten-mile loop is dotted with parking and access points so you can create an adventure that takes in just a little bit or even all of the route. There are restrooms, water fountains, foot showers and other conveniences, too. There are boat launches into the lake, and a pedestrian/cyclist-only bridge over Lady Bird Lake.
Haunted History Walking Tour
Much of Texas, and especially its capital city of Austin, has a storied history consisting of many battles and events. These have left behind echoes and spirits of bygone eras. There are organizations and tour companies around Austin that will take you on walking tours of the downtown historic areas of the city and fill you in on what made Austin what it is today.
Some companies even offer a paranormal investigation where you can actively seek out the spirits for an encounter and spirit story of your own. Before making your plans, contact your company of choice and inquire about age or other restrictions. If you’ve brought your pup along with you on your Austin spring retreat, some invite your dog along for the journey!
Zilker Botanical Garden
The garden was created in the 1950s in a part of Zilker Park in Austin. The garden boasts over 30 acres of land that plays host to hundreds of plants that thrive in Austin’s arid southwestern conditions. Wander the garden or take part in any of its many special community programs, including wellness programs, the Woodland Faerie Trail, Music in the Garden, Dog Days, and more.
Breweries & Distilleries
Enjoy some adults-only time this spring on your Austin retreat. The city is home to a variety of breweries and distilleries. Grab something to eat and wash it down with brews from companies like Austin Beerworks, Austin Craft Brewing Company, Treaty Oak Distilling, Still Austin Whiskey Co., and several others. You may even be able to buy some to bring back to your rental to enjoy with your next home-cooked meal.
Spas
Achieve total relaxation on your Austin spring vacation. Austin hosts a number of spas and salons offering a myriad of relaxing services. Head home relaxed, rejuvenated, and refreshed when you select from services including manicures, pedicures, body wraps or scrubs, massages, and more.
The spa isn’t just a ladies’ day. Many spas and salons offer men’s services including manicures, pedicures, scalp treatments, and more that cater to “his” unique needs. Select spas even have salons where you can get a new haircut or color, or have your makeup done by a pro – while also getting an informative lesson to keep up the routine once you’re home.
The Driskill
It’s like walking into a piece of Austin history. Opened in 1886, the hotel was considered “One of the Finest Hotels in the Whole Country” by the Daily Statesman. The hotel was built for approximately $400,000 at the time, an equivalent of over $92 million today. The hotel features a variety of rooms, including suites, rooms, and handicap accessible accommodations that keep the vintage style and feel of the historic hotel in its heyday.
Fishing
Not many people think of fishing when they think of a busy city like Austin. But there are a number of ponds and lakes within the city and nearby that offer the relaxing activity. Hit Kingfisher Pond and Bullfrog Pond in Travis County East Metro Park, or McKinney Falls State Park. Cast a line into Lady Bird Lake while you’re there enjoying its other activities, or find your way to Lake Austin, Walter E. Long Lake, or Red Bud Isle for some of Austin’s best fishing.
Austin Mural Tour by Pedicab
While you may think the “Greetings from Austin” mural is the only mural you’ll want to get a selfie at, you’d be wrong. Austin is full of murals and street art, each perfect for a photo op. The tour includes stops at the famed “Greetings from Austin” mural, as well as the “I Love You So Much” mural, “Willie for President” mural, and many others throughout the area.
Urban Axes Austin
Try out an activity that has been growing in popularity across the U.S. Axe throwing has become increasingly popular in the last several years, and you can try your hand at it during your Austin spring vacation. The indoor venue is located on Austin’s East Side and is fun for patrons 12 years old and older. They are a “BYOB” venue, but please no hard liquors. They also offer complimentary drinks to patrons based on the length of your stay.
Cap City Comedy Club
If you’re looking for a laugh during your Austin spring retreat, Austin is the place to find it. Now located in The Domain shopping center, the club is celebrating 35 years of providing comedic relief to the people and visitors of Austin. The location features two state-of-the-art showrooms hosting a variety of national acts, local comedians, and up-and-coming talent. Choose from a wide variety of food and drink offerings while you enjoy the show.
Visit their website to see who’s on the bill and make sure the show is appropriate for all ages in your group.
Museum of Ice Cream
The frozen treat is sure to keep you cool during your spring trip to Austin, so why not celebrate its history? Learn all about the delicious treat and its history across several multi-sensory installations, or play in the world-famous “sprinkle pool.” In addition to all the fun, you’ll be able to enjoy your pick of unlimited treats in nostalgic flavors across five different ice cream shapes and forms. There’s also an indoor play space where you can climb, slide, or even ride replica iced animal cookies!
Shopping
The are a variety of shops, boutiques, and malls to explore. Many malls and outlets offer national brands like Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., Bath & Body Works, and more. Local shops and boutiques offer items that are unique to Austin. No matter where you shop, you’ll find a sweet Austin souvenir to remember your trip.
Dining
From national chain restaurants to local eateries, Austin has a delicious food scene. Local flavors you don’t want to miss include Stella San Jac, Corner Restaurant, Moonshine Grill, La Barbeque Austin, and Magnolia Cafe. Those are just a few of the delicious dining options you’ll have to choose from during your springtime Austin retreat.
Thinkery
If your Austin spring retreat comes while the kids are off school, you might want to save this one until the end of the trip. The museum features nearly a dozen separate rooms where you can learn about motion, light, electricity, and more. Visit the Innovators’ Workshop – a mix of art and science to challenge your skills and imagination for building and inventing. Take some time out to hear a story in the story nook, or head to the Move! Studio or Bloom where kids can run and play to their heart’s content.
The Escape Game Austin
In the last several years, escape rooms have become a popular activity for fun for the whole group. Work together with your group members to solve a series of clues and puzzles and break out in 60 minutes to win the game. There are different themed rooms to choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty. Choose the topic or difficulty that’s right for you and make sure to book in advance. Book your time at the downtown Austin venue and choose from themes like Gold Rush, The Heist, The Depths, Playground, and more.
Texas Music Museum
Learn about the Texas music scene throughout the years. The museum collects and preserves various artifacts, documents, and other reference material related to the diverse traditions of music in Texas. The items are displayed in a variety of presentations and exhibits. The museum also offers several educational programs, as well as performances and music festivals highlighting the achievements of Texas musicians to the art and culture of the state.
Ultimate Accommodations for an Ultimate Spring Stay in Austin
When you stay in a vacation rental in Austin provided by Renter’s Club this spring, you’ll enjoy easy access to the many area attractions, shopping, dining, and more to make a spring respite to remember for everyone. We offer one-bedroom units for a more intimate stay, all the way up to a ten-bedroom unit for a unique spring retreat to Austin with all your loved ones.
Prepare a meal in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in a spacious dining area. Afterward, spread out in an open living space. Enjoy a private balcony or patio or spend some time near a private pool. For a premium experience, choose a unit with bonuses like multiple flat screen TVs, table tennis, a putting green, stainless steel appliances, and more.
Contact us today!
If you are like most of us around the country, you have probably dealt with a colder-than-usual winter this year. The cold winds rose quickly, and we cannot wait for spring to finally get here. There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a Spring Break getaway to Austin. Our Texas home has everything you could want to celebrate, from warm temperatures to exciting activities and attractions. Best of all, our vacation rentals will make sure you stay comfortable during every moment of your stay. Take a look at why you need to consider a spring break in Austin this year:
Tour the University of Texas
Anyone who is into collegiate sports will know that Austin is home to the University of Texas. A great way to spend a few hours during your Spring Break stay is to tour the campus or one of its facilities. The University of Texas has some of the most stunning architecture and is home to tens of thousands of students. Their sports teams are known to be some of the best, not just in the state but also in the nation. It is best to know that the University of Texas also takes its Spring Break in 2023 from March 11th through the 18th.
Try Your Hand at Zip Lining
All Spring Breaks deserve a little adventure, and you will find that here in Austin. Take your family on a zip-lining adventure with Zip Lost Pines. This outdoor adventure company is ready to take you through the treetops of McKinney Roughs Nature Park. Your zip line experience will have you enjoying thrilling views of the Colorado River, canyons, and forest scenery. Reservations are available for many times during the spring so make sure to book early before everyone else snags them first!
Explore Zilker Botanical Garden
If there is any place that deserves a quiet walk it is Zilker Botanical Garden. This state garden is one of the most beautiful places in the city and deserves a chance to show you around. Zilker Botanical Garden hosts several different free admission days throughout the year and often hosts one around Spring Break. They previously held one on March 15th, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for guests to enjoy this park on a budget. While the park is always cost-friendly to get into a free admission day will always help save funds for even more adventures during your Spring Break in Austin.
Visit the SXSW Festival
All around the country, you will find a variety of music festivals throughout the year where artists and musicians take the stage for thrilling performances. There is no festival bigger in the country than SXSW. This is no ordinary music festival though and is instead a giant celebration of the fine arts. SXSW is a multiweek event with each week focusing on something new. The main attractions for each week include music, movies, and art. The movie portion of the event sees many Hollywood movies screened for the first time with many actors and directors in attendance. You can also catch these crews available for interviews talking about the movies before they are publically released. The music portion of the festival features the biggest names in music playing at some of your favorite Austin venues. The main event for the music performances plays a free concert for all at Zilker Park to commemorate the festival. A variety of ticketing tiers are available for SXSW depending on what you all want to see. Do not miss out on seeing this legendary festival in person while visiting for Spring Break in Austin!
Visit a Drive Through Zoo
One of the more unique attractions found in Austin and other central Texas areas are drive-thru zoos and safari parks. Here you can see some exotic animals from the comfort of your own vehicle. Safari parks such as Exotic Resort Zoo and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch are both a short drive away and make for an exciting yet educational experience for your family. Exotic Resort Zoo is located on 137 acres and features over 700 different animals. You can do the drive-thru or guided tour areas of the park, letting you decide how you want to see everything. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a drive-thru only and is located on 450 acres of beautiful rolling hills. You will trek over 4 miles which takes most visitors around two hours to see everything. You won’t find anything like them anywhere else!
Plan an Exciting Spring Break in Austin
Do not wait to book your Spring Break adventure here in Austin. As you can see, there are quite a few different ways to enjoy your time away from school and work. Make sure to book one of our vacation rentals today!