12 Fun Free Things to Do in Austin
Austin has plenty of big-ticket experiences, but some of the city’s best outings don’t cost a thing. From scenic overlooks and spring-fed swimming to museum free days and one of the most famous bat colonies in the world, these free things to do in Austin are great for locals, visitors, families and anyone trying to enjoy the city on a budget.
1. Walk Among Peacocks at Mayfield Park
3505 W 35th St.
Tucked away in West Austin, Mayfield Park and Preserve feels like a small escape from the city. The historic cottage, gardens and nature preserve are best known for the free-roaming peacocks that strut through the grounds and perch in trees. The park is a great stop for a slow morning, strolling through the gardens and the surrounding preserve trails.
Good to know: Pets are not allowed at Mayfield Park, so leave dogs at home for this one.
2. Visit an Austin Museum on a Free Day
Various locations
The Blanton Museum of Art offers free admission on Tuesdays, making it a great way to see one of the city’s major art collections without paying general admission. The Contemporary Austin offers free admission on Thursdays at both its downtown Jones Center and Laguna Gloria locations. Other options include Mexic-Arte Museum, which offers free admission on Sundays, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum, which offers free exhibition admission on the first Sunday of each month through H-E-B Free First Sundays.
3. Walk the Trail Around Lady Bird Lake
1820 S. Lakeshore Blvd.
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s most beloved outdoor spaces. The full loop stretches 10 miles, but you do not have to commit to the whole thing to enjoy it. Start near Auditorium Shores, the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, the Boardwalk or Festival Beach and take in skyline views, shaded stretches, water views and plenty of people-watching along the way. It is one of the easiest free activities in Austin to make as short or as ambitious as you want.
Good to know: Bring water, especially in the summer, and watch for bikes and runners on busier sections of the trail.
4. Browse the Shelves at BookPeople
603 N Lamar Blvd.
You do not have to buy a book to enjoy a trip to BookPeople, though it may be hard to leave empty-handed. The longtime Austin bookstore is a downtown favorite, with shelves full of new releases, Texas authors, staff picks, gifts and children’s books. It is a great free stop when you want something indoors, especially on a hot day. Wander the aisles, read a few book jackets, check out the local section or see what author events are coming up.
Good to know: BookPeople is located near the Texas Capitol and the Central Library, making it easy to pair with other free Austin stops.
5. Play Sand Volleyball at Zilker Park
2100 Barton Springs Road
Bring a ball, gather a few friends and turn a free afternoon into a casual game at one of Austin’s favorite parks. Zilker’s courts are first come, first served and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so availability is not always guaranteed. Still, it’s a fun, active way to enjoy the park without spending money.
Good to know: If the courts are full, make the most of the trip with a walk through the park or a stop along the nearby trail.
6. Explore the Austin Central Library
710 W Cesar Chavez St.
The Austin Central Library is much more than a place to check out books. Located downtown near Lady Bird Lake, the building has become a destination in its own right, with multiple floors of reading areas, public art, city views and a rooftop garden. It was even named by TIME Magazine as one of 25 buildings that represent America. It’s an ideal free stop for a quiet solo outing, a work break, a family visit or a downtown detour. Browse the shelves, take in the architecture or find a cozy corner to read for a while.
Good to know: The library’s underground parking garage offers free parking for the first hour.
7. Tour the Texas State Capitol
1100 Congress Ave.
The Texas State Capitol is one of Austin’s most recognizable landmarks, and touring it is free. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the building’s history, architecture and role in Texas government, or explore parts of the Capitol and its grounds at their own pace. Tours are available Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4:15 p.m., with the last tour departing at 4:15 p.m.
Good to know: Tours generally leave every 15 to 30 minutes and last about 40 minutes.
8. Take in the Views at Mount Bonnell
3800 Mount Bonnell Drive
For those looking for great Lake Austin views, head to Mount Bonnell. The short climb up the stairs is worth it for sweeping views of the water, hills and surrounding homes. It is especially popular around sunset, but mornings can be quieter and cooler.
Good to know: Parking is free, but spots can fill quickly during peak times.
9. See the Bats Take Flight From the Congress Avenue Bridge
100 South Congress Ave.
Watching the bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge is one of Austin’s most unique experiences. The bridge is home to a massive colony of Mexican free-tailed bats, and during peak season, crowds gather near sunset to see them stream into the evening sky. The timing is not exact, because the bats are wild animals and weather can affect their emergence. For the best chance of seeing a strong flight, plan around warmer months and arrive early to find a viewing spot.
Good to know: Popular viewing areas include the bridge sidewalk and on the water.
10. Swim Early at Barton Springs Pool
2201 William Barton Drive
Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s most popular destinations, and early risers can often enjoy it for free during the city’s “swim at your own risk” morning hours, which run from 5 to 8 a.m. and until 9 a.m. Thursdays. The 3-acre pool is fed by underground springs and stays around 68 to 70 degrees year-round, making it a bracing but refreshing swim in any season. Morning swims are especially peaceful, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Good to know: Parking outside the pool is free Monday through Friday and costs $3 per hour on weekends and holidays.
11. Dig for Fossils at the Austin Nature & Science Center
2389 Stratford Drive
For a free family-friendly outing, visit the Austin Nature & Science Center in Zilker Park. The center features interactive exhibits, wildlife experiences and the popular Dino Pit, where kids can dig for replica fossils in a shaded outdoor space. Admission is free, though donations are accepted.
Good to know: The center is located on the western edge of Zilker Park, so it pairs well with a walk, picnic or a ride on the Zilker Eagle mini train.
12. Play at Pease Park
1100 Kingsbury St.
The beloved central Austin park stretches along Shoal Creek and features shaded trails, open green space and Kingsbury Commons, a playful gathering area with a splash pad, basketball court, nature play space and the whimsical Treehouse. It’s an easy free outing for families, dog walkers, runners or anyone looking for a shady place to spend time outside near downtown.
Good to know: Park hours are 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
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