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, 2026

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 seeing a local production, 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

While this weekend’s weather looks milder, with scattered showers in the forecast, there should still be pockets of sunshine and warm moments made for poolside lounging. 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

Summer blockbusters start rolling out around this time, so it’s a great weekend to catch the action-adventure science fiction film “Star Wars: The Mandalorian And Grogu” or watch the campy crime comedy “I Love Boosters.” 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 “The Maltese Falcon.” The series runs through Labor Day weekend with plenty of iconic films in store.

Small plates from Boni's Bar Next Door in Austin. (Photo by Chad Wadsworth) — Small plates from Boni’s Bar Next Door in Austin. (Photo by Chad Wadsworth)

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. 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.

Blue Genie May Market (photo courtesy of Blue Genie) — Blue Genie May Market. (Photo courtesy of Blue Genie)

Shop Local

This month, Blue Genie Art Bazaar returns with more than 100 regional artists and artisans under one roof. Located at 6100 Airport Blvd., the market features handmade works and giftable goods, including artwork, baked goods, beauty products, home decor and more. It’s an easy place to browse local vendors and find something for just about everyone.

A theatrical performance of the hit Broadway show, "Dear Evan Hansen" — “Dear Evan Hansen” at Zach Theater. (Photo by Axel B Photography)

See a Musical

For theater lovers, “Dear Evan Hansen” is lighting up the stage at ZACH Theatre through May 31. The six-time Tony Award-winning musical features one of the most beloved scores of the decade. Austin Playhouse is also presenting “Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End,” a one-woman show about the beloved American humorist whose syndicated newspaper column captured the humor of suburban family life from 1965 to 1996.

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 more than 80 American modernist paintings from Charles Butt’s private collection.