Things to do in Austin this Summer
Best Things to Do in Austin This Summer of 2025
History, Arts, and Culture
Outdoor Activities
Family-Friendly
Active and Sporty
Entertainment
Foodie
Where to Shop
Summer in Austin hits different, and 2025 is turning up the heat.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an ATX native looking to shake up your summer plans, the city is brimming with can’t-miss events, outdoor escapes, and unique spots that only Austin could dream up. Think: paddleboarding at sunrise, vintage market strolls by day, and underground concerts by night.
Ready to dive into Austin’s sun-drenched, music-filled, taco-powered summer? Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Austin in 2025.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before making plans.
History, Arts, and Cultural Things to Do in Austin This Summer
Beat the heat while enriching young minds with hands-on exhibits, storytelling, and creative discovery. From interactive science at The Thinkery to theatrical fun and world-class art, these cultural gems offer cool indoor escapes with plenty of learning along the way.
Spark Summer Curiosity at The Thinkery
Image credit: Thinkery
When the midday sun hits peak intensity, The Thinkery offers a cool, air-conditioned escape packed with interactive science and art exhibits designed to engage children’s minds.
Located in the Mueller district, this STEAM-powered museum features seasonal summer programming like “Camp Thinkery” and special maker workshops. Kids can explore water physics or dive into rotating exhibits inside.
Operating Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 10 am – 5 pm | Tuesday: 10 am – 7 pm | Friday: 8 am – 7 pm | Saturday: 8 am – 5 pm
Where: 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
How Much: $18.95
Get a Cultural Cooldown at The Blanton Museum of Art
On scorching afternoons, retreat to the beautifully air-conditioned galleries of the Blanton Museum. Located on the University of Texas campus, the museum boasts over 21,000 works spanning from Renaissance to contemporary art.
Summer 2025 promises a new rotating exhibit featuring Texas-based contemporary artists. Don’t miss Ellsworth Kelly’s “Austin,” a stunning stone chapel of color and light just outside the main building.
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Friday and Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm
Where: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
How Much:
- Adults – $15
- Seniors (65+) – $12
- Youth (6 – 17) and Non-UT Austin College students with ID – $8
- Kids (5 and under), UT-Austin students with ID, and K-12 teachers with ID – FREE
Outdoor Activities and Things to Do in Austin This Summer
Soak up the Texas sunshine with unforgettable outdoor adventures that go beyond your average hike. Whether you’re paddling through illuminated waters with Paddle SMTX or uncovering ancient wonders in the naturally air-conditioned Inner Space Cavern, these outdoor experiences bring the thrill without the summer scorch.
Make a Splash at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions
Image credit: Kalahari Resorts and Conventions
Located just outside Austin in Round Rock, Kalahari is home to America’s largest indoor waterpark, making it a prime destination for families escaping the summer scorch.
With more than 30 water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, a swim-up bar, and even a dedicated toddler zone, it offers thrills for every age. Beyond water play, you’ll also find an arcade, mini bowling, and a spa, making it just as enjoyable for adults.
Operating Hours: Varies by waterpark
Where: 3001 Kalahari Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
How Much: Varies by waterpark
Beat the Heat at Quarry Splash Pad
Nestled within the scenic Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, this seasonal splash pad features fountains, spray tunnels, and waterfall features carved into natural rock formations. Shaded picnic tables and nearby hiking trails also make it easy to extend your visit.
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm
Where: 3005 Co Rd 175, Leander, TX 78641
How Much: $2
Explore the Cool Depths of Inner Space Cavern
Image credit: Inner Space Cavern
Located in Georgetown, just 30 minutes north of Austin, this prehistoric cave system was discovered during highway construction and now offers fascinating guided tours through ancient rock formations, underground chambers, and even Ice Age fossil sites.
Their “Adventure Tour” is perfect for families, while thrill-seekers can opt for the flashlight-only “Hidden Passages” experience.
Operating Hours: Daily: 9 am – 5 pm
Where: 4200 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626
How Much: Varies by tour
Watch Austin’s Famous Bats from a Riverboat
Each summer evening around sunset, over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, and the best seat in the city is from the water.
The Lone Star Riverboat Bat Watching Tour offers a relaxing, breezy cruise along Lady Bird Lake with panoramic skyline views and expert narration. Tours book quickly during peak bat season (June through August), so reserve early for this quintessential Austin summer experience.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX, USA
How Much:
- Adults – $14
- Seniors (60 and over) & Military – $12
- Children (12 and under) – $9
- Children (2 and under) – Free
Unplug and Unwind at Zilker Metropolitan Park
Image credit: Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Park is Austin’s most beloved outdoor playground — and in summer, it transforms into a hub of shaded picnics, impromptu soccer games, and cooling creek walks.
Rent a canoe at Barton Creek, let the kids loose at the sprawling playground, or lounge with a book under century-old oaks.
Operating Hours: Daily: 5 am – 10 pm
Where: Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Free
Paddle Into a Glowing Wonderland with Paddle SMTX
Image credit: Paddle SMTX
For a dreamy, summer-after-dark activity, head to nearby San Marcos and hop on a glow-in-the-dark paddleboard tour with Paddle SMTX. These LED-lit boards illuminate the crystal-clear river beneath you as you drift past fish, turtles, and lush riverbanks.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: 170 Charles Austin Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
How Much: $55
Float the Day Away on a Central Texas River
No Austin summer is complete without a lazy river float. The San Marcos, Guadalupe, and Comal Rivers are all within 90 minutes of the city and offer tube rentals, shuttle service, and plenty of places to stop for snacks and cold drinks.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: Multiple locations across Austin
How Much: Varies
Cannonball Into Barton Springs Pool
Fed by natural underground springs, the water remains a brisk 68°F year-round, offering instant relief from 100°F days. Arrive early for parking and prime lounging spots. Summer mornings are great for a quiet swim, while evenings bring a social, buzzy crowd.
Operating Hours: Every day (except Thursday): 5 am – 10 pm | Thursday: 5 am – 9 pm
Where: 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Varies for residents and non-residents
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Austin This Summer
Keep the kids entertained—and cool—with whimsical activities that the whole family can enjoy. Dive into interactive exhibits, sweet surprises, and sensory overload at spots like the Museum of Ice Cream, where colorful fun meets air-conditioned comfort.
Roar into Prehistoric Fun at Dinosaurs in the Wild
If your little ones are dinosaur-obsessed, don’t miss Dinosaurs in the Wild, a traveling exhibit hosted at Austin’s Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center this summer.
Featuring animatronic dinos, fossil excavation zones, and interactive learning stations, this immersive event is part science fair, part theme park.
Operating Hours: Daily: 7 am – 2 pm
Where: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
How Much:
- Adults – $18
- Seniors (65+) and military with ID – $15
- Youth (2 – 17) – $12
- Kids 2 and under – FREE
Jump Into Sprinkles at the Museum of Ice Cream
Image credit: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
Located downtown, this immersive pop-art-meets-dessert playground is tailor-made for summer selfies and sugar highs. Slide into a giant pool of sprinkles, try unlimited ice cream samples, and explore themed rooms inspired by childhood nostalgia.
It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and fully air-conditioned, making it a sweet escape from the Austin summer blaze.
Operating Hours: Monday and Wednesday – Thursday: 11 am – 6 pm | Friday: 11 am – 7 pm | Saturday – Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Where: 11506 Century Oaks Terrace #128, Austin, TX 78758
How Much: Starts at $24
Putt-Putt With Dinosaurs at Peter Pan Mini-Golf
Since 1948, Peter Pan Mini-Golf has been keeping Austin weird and cool. With two whimsical 18-hole courses featuring giant dinosaurs, castles, and a Peter Pan statue, it’s one of the quirkiest ways to enjoy a summer evening.
Open late and BYOB, it’s fun for families during the day and a classic low-key date night after sundown.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 9 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday: 9 am – 11 pm
Where: 1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
How Much:
- 18 holes per adult or child six and over: $10
- 18 holes per child five and younger: $8
- 36 holes per adult and child six and over: $15
- 36 holes per child five and younger: $13
- additional 18 holes while on site: $5
Active and Sporty Summer Fun in Austin
For thrill-seekers and fitness lovers, Austin offers more than just scenic walks and gyms. Take in panoramic views with a heart-pumping climb up Mount Bonnell, or experience the adrenaline of freefall without the plane at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, and more.
Climb, Sweat, and Chill at Austin Bouldering Project
Beat the summer heat while staying active at one of the largest indoor climbing gyms in the country. The Austin Bouldering Project’s facilities offer over 50,000 square feet of climbing terrain, along with yoga classes, a full training area, and plenty of space to socialize between sessions.
For beginners, intro classes run regularly, and summer is a great time to try their popular youth climbing camps.
Operating Hours: Varies by location
Where: Various locations in Austin
How Much: Varies by activity
Kayak or Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake
Nothing says summer in Austin like gliding across Lady Bird Lake with the downtown skyline as your backdrop. Rentals are available from multiple locations, including The Rowing Dock and EpicSUP, with both single and tandem kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal kayaks.
Mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid peak sun, and you might even spot turtles, herons, or bat flights if you time it right.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX, USA
How Much: Varies
Feel the Rush at iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Image credit: iFLY (Austin)
Don’t want to bake in the sun for an adrenaline fix? Step inside iFLY Austin for a gravity-defying indoor skydiving experience. The vertical wind tunnel replicates free-fall conditions in a controlled (and air-conditioned) environment, making it perfect for summer thrill-seekers ages 3 to 103.
First-time flyers get a pre-flight tutorial, flight suit, and two sessions in the tunnel, no parachute needed.
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday and Saturday: 10 am – 6:30 pm | Thursday – Friday and Sunday: 10 am – 5:30 pm
Where: 13265 US-183 Suite a, Austin, TX 78750
How Much: Varies
Wakeboard and Wipe Out at Texas Ski Ranch
Located just south of Austin in New Braunfels, Texas Ski Ranch is a wakeboarding mecca where you can ride cable lines across glassy water — no boat required.
Beginners can take a lesson, while pros can test out the rails and ramps. There’s also a sandy beach, bar, paintball course, and shaded cabanas, making it a full-blown summer adventure park for all energy levels.
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm | Wednesday – Saturday: 9 am – 10 pm | Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm
Where: 6700 I 35 N Frontage Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
How Much: Varies
Cool Off at Schlitterbahn’s Legendary Water Park
Image credit: Schlitterbahn New Braunfels
A true Texas summer rite of passage, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels is less than an hour from Austin and consistently ranked among the best water parks in the country.
With 51 rivers, rides, and slides — including uphill water coasters and lazy float routes, it’s part thrill park, part tubing experience.
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm
Where: 381 E Austin St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
How Much: Starts at $39 for daily tickets
Star in Your Own Action Movie at Stunt Ranch
Why watch explosions on screen when you can learn to do them yourself? Stunt Ranch is a Hollywood-style action park where you can take classes in high falls, fire stunts, and ziplining through pyrotechnics. In summer, they also host camp-style events for teens and adults.
Operating Hours: Daily: 9 am – 6 pm
Where: 13317 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
How Much: Varies
Get Sweaty Views from Mount Bonnell
Climb 106 limestone steps to reach one of the most iconic views in Austin. Mount Bonnell offers sweeping panoramas of Lake Austin, Westlake Hills, and the downtown skyline.
Summer sunsets here are especially breathtaking. Just bring water, bug spray, and sturdy shoes for the slightly uneven climb.
Operating Hours: Not stated
Where: Austin, TX 78731, United States
How Much: Free
Entertainment and Fun Things to Do in Austin This Summer
Summer nights come alive with performances that entertain all ages. Enjoy a musical under the stars at Zilker Hillside Theater or spark a love for the stage at the charming Austin Scottish Rite Theatre. Discover more below:
Catch Fireworks & Fastballs at a Round Rock Express Game
Few summer experiences match the Americana charm of minor league baseball under the lights. Head to Dell Diamond for a Round Rock Express game, where affordable tickets, family-friendly fun zones, and theme nights keep fans of all ages entertained.
Catch special Friday fireworks shows throughout the season, or cool off with $1 frozen treats on select “Cooldown Days.”
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
How Much: Varies
Introduce the Kids to Theatre at Austin Scottish Rite
Housed in one of Austin’s oldest buildings, the Scottish Rite Theatre offers magical live performances that are especially tailored for children and families.
Their summer lineup often includes fairy-tale adaptations, bilingual shows, and engaging matinees that provide a cultural (and air-conditioned) break from the Texas heat.
Bonus: it’s an easy walk from downtown or Zilker Park, making it a great mid-day stop during summer explorations.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: 207 W 18th St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: Varies
Bring a Blanket to Hartman Concerts in the Park
Celebrate warm summer Sundays with this free outdoor concert series hosted by the Austin Symphony Orchestra at the Long Center’s expansive lawn. Each week features a different genre from jazz and film scores to light classical, performed as the sun sets behind the skyline.
It’s BYO-picnic, so grab your wine, cheese, and charcuterie and enjoy high-quality music in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free
Experience Live Music Under the Stars
From backyard patios to outdoor stages, Austin lives up to its “Live Music Capital” name all summer long.
Catch local favorites at The Far Out Lounge, sunset acoustic sessions at Meanwhile Brewing, or full moon dance parties at Moontower Cider Co. These open-air venues offer shaded seating, food trucks, and cold craft drinks, the perfect ingredients for a summer night out.
Operating Hours: Varies by location
Where: Various locations in Austin
How Much: Varies by activity
Watch Broadway Under the Sky at Zilker Hillside Theater
A beloved Austin tradition for over 60 years, the Zilker Summer Musical transforms Zilker Hillside Theater into an open-air stage for Broadway favorites. 2025’s production is to be announced, but past shows like Newsies and Matilda have drawn thousands.
Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in just before dusk to enjoy high-quality musical theatre.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Free
Catch a Retro Flick at Blue Starlite’s “Kill the Headlights” Series
There’s something magical about watching cult classics under a Texas sky — especially when you’re doing it at Austin’s own urban drive-in.
Blue Starlite’s “Kill the Headlights” nights offer a true retro vibe: no headlights, no interruptions, just the glow of the screen and city skyline.
With limited car slots and themed programming all summer long, this intimate drive-in experience sells out fast, so book your vehicle spot early.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: Various locations in Austin
How Much: Varies
Go Deep-Sea Bowling at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill
Cool off in style at Uncle Buck’s, where the bowling lanes are designed to look like a sunken shipwreck beneath the sea.
Located inside Bass Pro Shops in Round Rock, this whimsical, underwater-themed alley features glowing lanes, giant sea creature sculptures, and an onsite grill with coastal eats.
It’s a unique summer night out for families or date nights, no sunscreen required.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm
Where: 200 Bass Pro Dr, Round Rock, TX 78665
How Much: Varies
Saddle Up for Summer Rodeo Nights
Head to nearby events like the Cedar Park Rodeo, Dripping Springs Rodeo, or Williamson County PRCA Rodeo, typically held June–August. Enjoy bull riding, barrel racing, live country music, and old-fashioned fair food, all under the stars.
Bonus: Many rodeos now include kid zones, petting zoos, and mutton busting.
Operating Hours: Varies by event
Where: Varies by event
How Much: Varies
Rev Your Engines at COTA Karting
Image credit: Circuit of the Americas
Hit the gas at Austin’s Circuit of The Americas (COTA), home to a world-class karting track that’s open to the public. These aren’t kiddie go-karts. You’ll be racing on the actual F1-grade pavement with karts that hit 55 mph.
Open late into the summer evenings, it’s the perfect way to fuel some friendly competition without the midday heat.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 1 pm – 10 pm | Friday and Sunday: 10 am – 10 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 12 am
Where: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
How Much: Starts at $29
Foodie Things to Do in Austin This Summer – Tastes, Tours & More
When the temperatures soar, cool treats and local eats become essential summer experiences like the refreshing stops at Austin’s Snow Cone Trail, where vibrant flavors and icy textures offer sweet relief and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Chill Out on Austin’s Snow Cone Trail
Stay cool and get your sugar fix with a self-guided tour of the best shaved ice and snow cones in town. Favorites include Sweet Caroline’s Snow Shack, Sno Beach, and Casey’s New Orleans Snowballs.
Pro tip: follow the trucks on social media for updated locations and specials. Try fruity flavors like mango chile or keep it classic with rainbow and cream.
Operating Hours: Varies
Where: Multiple locations in Austin
How Much: Varies
Where to Shop in Austin This Summer – Markets, Malls & More
Summer is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe and discover unique finds. Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures and quirky styles at spots like Pavement Modern Vintage, where vintage charm meets modern flair in the heart of San Antonio.
Treasure Hunt at Taylor Market Days
Image credit: Taylor Market Days
Held monthly in downtown Taylor (about 45 minutes from Austin), this outdoor street market features vintage goods, handmade art, furniture, plants, and Texas-style snacks. Summer editions include live music, shaded vendor booths, and lots of iced drinks.
Operating Hours: First and third Saturdays every month
Where: 410 W 7th St Room 106, Taylor, TX 76574
How Much: No cover
Snack Your Way Through the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller
Every Sunday morning, Mueller Lake Park transforms into a bustling marketplace of local produce, pasture-raised meats, small-batch pastries, and artisan finds.
In summer, it’s all about peaches, tomatoes, melons, and cool drink tastings. Arrive early to beat the heat and enjoy the lake views while you browse.
Operating Hours: 10 am – 2 pm every Sunday
Where: 2006 Philomena St, Austin, TX 78723
How Much: No cover
Get Weird (and Stylish) at Pavement Modern Vintage
Scour the racks for one-of-a-kind summer outfits at Pavement, Austin’s favorite curated thrift store. From ’90s band tees to retro swimsuits and western boots, this South Lamar spot helps you build an Instagram-worthy wardrobe sustainably.
Operating Hours: Varies by location
Where: Multiple locations in Austin
How Much: No cover
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In 1894, Austin bought moonlight in the form of towers. Nowadays, these monolithic lamps are super impractical, but in 1895 they were a revelation. Moonlight towers, also referred to as moon towers, liberated citizens from the constraints of nighttime and heralded Austin as “The Coming Great Manufacturer of the South.”
