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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 2026.
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.
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Check out our recent updates to our guides: Best Indoor Things to Do in Austin, Best Trampoline Parks in Austin Date Ideas in Austin, Things To Do with Teens in Austin, and Best Summer Camps in Austin.
History, Arts, and Culture Things to Do in Austin This Summer
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: Saturday CLOSED | Sunday – Monday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Tuesday 10:00 am – 7:00 pm | Wednesday – Thursday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Friday 10:00 am – 7:00 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 the Renaissance period 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: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Friday: 10 am – 5 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm | Sunday: 10 am – 5 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
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 and breezy cruise along Lady Bird Lake with panoramic skyline views and entertaining (and educational) 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
Outdoor Activities and Things to Do in Austin This Summer
Make a Splash at 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
Where: 3001 Kalahari Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
How Much: Varies
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: Monday – Tuesday CLOSED | 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 and breezy cruise along Lady Bird Lake with panoramic skyline views and entertaining (and educational) narration. Tours book quickly during peak bat season (June through August), so reserve early for this quintessential Austin summer experience.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Friday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 208 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
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
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
Active and Sporty Things to Do in Austin This Summer
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: Monday- Friday 6:00 am – 11:00 pm | Saturday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm | Sunday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: 979 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: Varies
Feel the Rush at iFLY Indoor Skydiving
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.
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday 12:30 pm – 9:00 pm | Wednesday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm | Thursday – Friday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday 10:00 am- 7:00 pm
Where: 13265 US-183 Suite a, Austin, TX 78750
How Much: Varies
Wakeboard and Wipe Out at Texas Ski Ranch
Image credit: TSR 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: 12 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
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: Varies
Where: 400 N Liberty Ave, 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
Enjoy Hill Country Views from Mount Bonnell
Climb 106 limestone steps to reach one of the most iconic views in Austin. Mount Bonnell offers a sweeping panorama 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: N/A
Where: Austin, TX 78731, United States
How Much: Free
Entertainment and Fun Things to Do in Austin This Summer
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 a fun spot for families during the day and makes for 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
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
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
Rev Your Engines at COTA Karting
Image credit: COTA Karting
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: Varies
Where: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle, TX 78617
How Much: Starts at $29
Where to Shop in Austin This Summer
Treasure Hunt at 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: Tuesday – Friday 7:00 am – 10:00 pm | Saturday 8:00 am – 11:00 pm | Sunday 9:00 am – 7:00 pm | Monday 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Where: 410 W 7th St Room 106, Taylor, TX 76574
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: Saturday – Sunday 10 am – 2 pm
Where: 2006 Philomena St, Austin, TX 78723
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: Sunday – Friday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 10:00 am- 7:00 pm
Where: 2932 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705
Know Before You Go
While a large portion of these premier summer activities and water sanctuaries are anchored near Austin’s urban core, the complete summer footprint stretches seamlessly across the entire Greater Austin Metroplex. Iconic suburban centers like Round Rock, Georgetown, San Marcos, Leander, and New Braunfels host some of the largest regional water parks, underground cave systems, and major sports complexes. If you are setting out from central Austin, these key destinations are incredibly easy to access via the main Interstate 35 or Highway 183 thoroughfares, typically requiring a straightforward, stress-free 20 to 45-minute drive. Plan your travels around peak morning and evening weekday rush hours to ensure a smooth, breezy cruise to your summer destination!
Common Questions About Things To Do in Austin This Summer
Are Austin’s natural spring-fed swimming holes kid-friendly?
Yes, the vast majority of Austin’s spring-fed swimming holes are family-friendly, but comfort levels vary by age. Barton Springs Pool features concrete steps and shallow, gravelly beach entry points that are perfect for toddlers. However, parents should keep in mind that the 68°F water temperature can feel shockingly cold at first for small children. Lifeguards are actively on duty across the main pool coordinates.
Do I need to book reservations in advance for Austin summer activities?
Yes, planning is essential for several of Austin’s top-tier summer events. Natural parks and eco-tours, such as the Lone Star Riverboat Bat Watching Cruises or specific cave tours at Inner Space Cavern, fill up completely weeks in advance during peak summer weekends. Always secure your digital booking passes online before heading out.
What are the best ways to enjoy outdoor activities in Austin during a heatwave?
The ultimate strategy for navigating a classic central Texas summer heatwave is to follow the schedules of the locals: split your days. Focus on outdoor activities like kayaking Lady Bird Lake or hiking panoramic steps during the early morning hours (before 10:00 AM) or after sunset. Reserve the blazing midday block (11:00 AM to 4:00 PM) for cool, air-conditioned sanctuaries.
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