Local Life

7 Ways to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Austin

Discover low-cost, laid-back ways to enjoy the holiday weekend in the city

By Cassie Butterfield
May 21, 2025

Austin skyline. (Photo by Daydreamer Creative)

Not every holiday weekend needs a big getaway. Sometimes the best way to recharge is by keeping it simple and local. Whether that means catching a movie in the AC, discovering a new go-to restaurant, or finally checking out that arcade everyone’s been talking about, there are plenty of low-key, budget-friendly ways to spend Memorial Day weekend in Austin. Here are a few ideas to get started:

Arriba Abajo – Poolside Cocktails — Poolside cocktails at Thompson Austin’s rooftop bar and pool. (Photo courtesy of Arriba Abajo)

Cool Off at a Pool

With Austin temperatures predictably climbing this time of year, few things feel more classic—or more necessary—than spending a day at the pool. The city offers a number of public options, but several hotels also offer day passes for those who prefer lounging poolside on a downtown rooftop, margarita in hand.

Screening of "Casablanca" during the Summer Classic Film Series at the Paramount Theatre. (Courtesy of Paramount Theatre) — Screening of “Casablanca” during the Summer Classic Film Series at the Paramount Theatre. (Courtesy of Paramount Theatre)

Catch a Movie

When it’s too hot to be outside, there’s nothing better than escaping into a dark, air-conditioned local theater. Summer blockbusters start rolling out around this time, so it’s a great weekend to catch the live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch” or watch Tom Cruise perform death-defying stunts in “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.” For a more nostalgic experience, head to the Paramount Theatre for its annual Summer Classic Film Series, which kicks off May 22 with a double feature of “Casablanca” and “Breathless.” The series runs through Labor Day weekend with plenty of iconic films in store.

Sushi | Bar Austin sushi offering with caviar — The new 1,100-square-foot Sushi | Bar Austin features two 12-seat omakase rooms, expanding on the original 10-seat setup. (Photo by Garrett Smith)

Try a New Local Restaurant

With so many new restaurants opening in Austin each year, it can be hard to keep up. Luckily, we’ve rounded up some of the best recent additions worth checking out this weekend. From neighborhood bars and cozy cafés to buzzworthy new restaurants, there’s something to suit every craving.

Visit a Retro Arcade or Game Bar

For a dose of playful nostalgia (and solid air conditioning), head to one of Austin’s arcade bars. Pins Mechanical Co.—a recent South Austin addition—features duckpin bowling, classic arcade games, yard games, multiple bars, food trucks, and a BYOF (bring your own food) policy. It’s also dog-friendly. Another great option is Cidercade, where a $12 entry fee grants visitors unlimited gameplay. It’s family-friendly by day and 21+ at night.

Spicewood-Krause-Springs-PC_(Laura Saucedo_Inspire by Laura)jpg — Krause Springs (photo by Laura Saucedo/Inspire by Laura)

Find a Nearby Watering Hole

While Barton Springs and Deep Eddy remain local favorites, there are plenty of other refreshing spots to explore. For a short road trip, consider Krause Springs in Spicewood, about 40 minutes west of the city. Its lush setting and natural springs are well worth the drive. For more options, check out our guide to the area’s best swimming holes.

The cast of the North American tour of "Moulin Rouge! The Musical," which will perform at Austin's Bass Concert Hall May 13-25. (Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade) — The cast of the North American tour of “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” which will perform at Austin’s Bass Concert Hall May 13-25. (Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade)

See a Musical

For the theater lovers, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is currently lighting up the stage at Bass Concert Hall through May 25. It’s bold, hilarious, over-the-top, and undeniably fun. For families, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!“—based on Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books—is playing at ZACH Theatre through July 20.

Blanton grounds_photo by Casey Dunn — Blanton Grounds (photo by Casey Dunn)

Explore Local Galleries and Museums

Austin’s art scene offers a wide range of galleries and museums, each with its own character and curatorial approach. Whether you’re into contemporary installations or classic works, our guides to the best museums and art galleries in town are great starting points. Right now, the Blanton Museum of Art is presenting a compelling exhibition featuring three pairs of artists in dialogue through sculpture, painting, and printmaking.