Guide to a Nostalgic Austin Summer
Explore spots around town that capture the magic of summers past
There’s something so enchanting about slipping back into the “good old days.” Goodbye, screen time. Hello, family time. Summer’s the perfect season to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relish a slower, more intentional pace. For local designer Molly Hiett Dery, owner of namesake fashion brand MOLYAN, summer in Austin is a magical time to enjoy the city.
“Austin is loaded with historical establishments where you wish the walls could talk, and most have swag-worthy shopping to boot,” says Dery. “These are just a few of my favorite nostalgic summer hotspots. As a community, supporting these landmarks will keep those sweet summer feels alive for many more generations to come.” From old-fashioned hamburgers to classic swimming holes to time-honored activities, here’s Dery’s guide to stepping back in time — just for an afternoon or two — into a simpler, slower Austin.
Barton Springs Pool
The three-acre pool in the heart of Zilker Park is no doubt one of Austin’s best, worst-kept secrets. At 68-70 degrees, people from all walks of life flock to the underground spring-fed pool to cool off and bask in the city’s surrounding beauty.
Top Notch Hamburgers
Alright, alright, alright… Top Notch must be on your summer bucket list. Featured in the original “Dazed and Confused,” the retro restaurant is a great place to sit outside and have a hamburger and a milkshake. Don’t miss the restaurant’s regularly hosted classic car and hot rod shows.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf
One of the most quintessential summer activities? Mini-golf. Swing by Peter Pan Mini-Golf for 18 holes of summer fun at one of Austin’s top, family-owned businesses since 1948. Whether a date night or a family outing, you can’t go wrong.
The Broken Spoke
Since 1964, The Broken Spoke has been the place to dance. True to its Texas roots, you’ll feel right at home when you step inside this legendary spot. You never know who you’ll spend the night two-stepping with.
The Long Time Austin
Austin sandlot, The Long Time, is complete with food trucks, music, family and friends for a great afternoon cheering on your favorite local baseball teams.
Waterloo Records
For more than 42 years, Waterloo Records has helped Austin keep the beat. This locally owned, independent business is the perfect place to wander around one summer afternoon and stumble upon both classics, as well as new discoveries. It’s easy to see why this joint has been named one of the best record shops in the world.
Butler Pitch & Putt
Swing easy at this nine-hole, par-three course that’s making golf accessible for all. With an on-site food truck, courtyard seating, outdoor games and a dog-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a summer day. This classic spot also features some witty, fun merchandise that will have you turning heads all summer long.
Deep Eddy Pool and Deep Eddy Cabaret
Regardless of what type of summer experience you’re looking to have, Deep Eddy delivers. Looking to go for a swim? Jump in the Deep Eddy Pool — a cool, spring-fed swimming staple on the Austin scene since 1915. Looking for an adult beverage? Swing by the Deep Eddy Cabaret — Austin’s favorite neighborhood bar since 1951. Or, do both.
Bats at Congress Ave. Bridge
While it may be touristy, that’s just fine when it comes to being nostalgic and sentimental. Stake out your spot 30 minutes before sunset to catch one of Austin’s most spectacular, natural phenomena — the sight of 100,000 bats flying out from under the bridge in the heart of downtown. Late July through August is prime time to catch these beauties in the wild.
Zilker Eagle Mini-Train
All aboard the nostalgia express. Kids and adults alike will relish the opportunity to cruise around the city’s most beloved park in a time-honored tradition that has been going on for 60+ years.
Sandy’s
Since 1946, Sandy’s has been serving up burgers and some of Austin’s coolest treats. From cones to shakes, malts, sundaes and floats, grab a sweet treat that has been enjoyed for generations.
The Paramount Theatre
If you need to cool down, you can catch a classic film at the historic Paramount Theatre. Their annual Classic Summer Film Series offers more than 90 movies to keep you entertained all summer long.
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