“Austin’s most loved park”
This 351-acre metropolitan was donated to the city and named after Mr. Andrew Jackson Zilker in 1917.
The park plays hosts to various activities such as picnicking, music festivals, blues on the grass, holiday tree lights, and more.
Parking is free but on a first come first-served basis.
You can plan you adventure ahead of time by going to their site which we can connect you through here SMC.
“Botanical garden was established as a nonprofit organization and is located at the south bank of the Colorado river near downtown Austin.”
Zilker botanical garden tickets/QR code, can be found on their website and sent to you via email. Which we can channel you there through SMC to make things easier for you.
Also on their website you can find “free admission” dates where donations will be accepted.
For those residents on Texas’s food assistance program (SNAP benefits), free admission will be available on their website and you will receive via email a free admission QR code as well. Upon arrival you will be asked to present your EBT card.
Parking is available and look on their site for directions.
Food/picnicking is permitted only no alcohol and glass.
Pet friendly
“The home for creativity in Austin.“
A nonprofit organization that offers an intimate theatre experience and is the longest running theatre company in Texas operating since 1932.
Shows for adults, family and educational programs with 3 different theatres for plays, musicals, live music, and more.
Serra Skyline lounge provides beautiful skyline views.
“Founded by 3 local artists in 1984.“
This museum is known for being one of the very few Mexican art museums in the United States that showcases art work which spot lights the beauty of traditional simplicity of Mexican, Latinx, and Chicanx through their various art work and exhibitions.
Averaging 75,000 + visitors each year with daily tours and offer musical events.
Sunday’s are free admission and free tours!
“ALL ABOARD“
Very unique and memorable fun experience for families as well as romantic for couples/ date nights offering complementary snacks and drinks!
The vintage carts are fully restored with comfortable seating, bathrooms and central air & heat.
Get on board and capture the beauty of the Texas Hill Country from the view in you cart!
Explore the variety of themed train rides they offer with layovers in towns that allow you to explore, shop, and dine.
Then get back on board for a beautiful return trip back!
“The Greatest Honky Tonk In Austin."
No line dancing here, just good old fashion two step’n with live music and an outside taco truck serving tacos, burgers, nachos and more!
Check out their website to see their calendar featuring great “old school country” live music, two step lessons, even your cover charge on certain nights and more!
The best part is that you will enjoy the people there that you will meet!
A variety of people come here to smile, laugh and dance!
Guess that’s what happens when you combine great music, dancing, drinks and food!
“Restaurant, Bar & Gaming“
This place has an “ All in one “ concept!
Variety of games for kids and adults, video games, bowling, award-winning food, craft cocktails, karaoke and a indoor 9-hole Putt!
On the weekends they offer a fantastic brunch menu as well as all the fun!
H.H.
Gluten Free
Vegetarian
“3 Floors of Texan and American history.“
Having fantastic reviews and I now know why!
Amazing friendly staff which gives off a Texas hospitality vibe!
An IMAX theater with a rotation of cool mini shows.
The museum has multiple levels displaying different history eras and an absolutely amazing history of guitars area with a description and importance of each piece.
Barton pool is a recreational outdoor swimming pool which is filled by a natural spring near by and is located on the grounds of Zilker Park.
Locals live coming here with friends/family listening to their music and have a relaxing day off.
Pet friendly
“Non-profit live music venue”
Located on the beautiful campus of The University of Texas and since 1979, Cactus has been known for attracting well known musical artists in which helped them be named as one of the fifteen “solidly respected, savvy clubs” in the United States by Billboard Magazine!
Legends such as Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen, Lucinda Williams and others have played here early in their careers.
Convenient UT parking garages are located across Guadalupe street from the Cactus which includes UT Co-op garages at 2214 San Antonio or the San Antonio garage at 2420 San Antonio
They do accept donations on their website to help keep the history of Austin’s up and coming musical talents and traveling acts alive!
“EAT•SHOP•PLAY”
Located in the north west portion of Austin this is an up market retail trade shopping area. That offers dining, multiple events, promotes sales/deals, free live paintings w/live music and even free workout classes.
Live Music
“Contemporary American folk art gallery.“
From paintings, pottery, sculptures and more items, you can browse various local artists work and purchase in person or online.
They do offer return options with return policies and even layaway plan.
Two different and unique locations, one of which is located in the heart of downtown and the other is located off of Lake Austin which is just 11 minutes from downtown.
Both offering exhibitions, engaging programs and special events.
Jones Center:
“Exhibitions by acclaimed contemporary artist and a full calendar of cultural opportunities in an architecturally significant building."
"Renovations that include an expansion of gallery space and The Moody Rooftop.“
“Known for the nightly bat show”
When you are standing on the Congress Avenue Bridge you can witness the beautiful bat migration that takes place on a nightly basis and views of downtown Austin and of the skyline.
It is also connected to the Colorado river and Lady Bird Lake as well.
“Located at The University of Texas.“
Largest performance arts venue in Texas with 2,900 seating, an orchestra pit that can hold 100 musicians, top updated lighting and sound system.
Well known for attracting world famous performers and full scale productions for adults and families to enjoy.
“Performance arts venue“
Multiple types of events such as live music, festivals, movies and more are offered here with different indoor and outdoor venues.
They do offer cocktails, beer, wine, and snacks and an amazing view of downtown Austin from their H-E-B terrace.
Pets are allowed on the outdoor areas on certain events.
Inside the theater food and drink polices will vary on certain shows and organizations.
Located in downtown Austin sits the Texas state capital. It was constructed from 1882 to 1888 and the building was added to the National Register of Historic places in 1970 and was recognized as a national historic landmark in 1986.
As their slogan states and I see why it’s true!
“A KICK ASS VENUE WITH TEXAS HOSPITALITY“
This establishment offers a variety of experiences for literally everyone!
Friendly and professional staff while enjoying their restaurant for dinner/brunch, cocktails, live music and they offer rental spaces for special or business events.
Their indoor/outdoor venue is perfect for live music concerts.
The friendly staff with that amazing culinary experience, will allow you to look forward to your next visit!
In an 100 year old building that once had legendary magician Houdini preform here!
Now plays host to various acts such as live music with well known artists, comedy, films, plays and much more.
Beautiful historic decor with a balcony area in an intimate venue which creates a great view any where you sit.
Two different and unique locations, one of which is located in the heart of downtown and the other is located off of Lake Austin which is just 11 minutes from downtown.
Both offering exhibitions, engaging programs and special events.
Laguna Gloria:
(11 min. from downtown)
“On a 14 acre campus offering visitors a unique art-in-nature experience, with opportunities for the public to explore art and the creative process through installations and exhibitions by preeminent International artists, dynamic events and community programs for all ages and classes at the art school.“
“Bring a friend...the dog...heck, bring the whole family!“
A year-round outdoor, rain or shine, farmers market open every Saturday with live music and plenty of food vendors serving up fresh amazing gourmet food using locally grown produce.
You can also find booths where local artists are selling their unique art work and crafts.
“Korean Comfort Food + Dive Bar + Soju.“
Soju is a Korean alcoholic beverage
Located in the Northwend shopping center is where you will find this hidden gem.
Having amazing reviews and personally visiting myself, I now know why!
Unforgettable KFC “ Korean Fried Chicken “ which is always farm raised plus hormone free and they have unbelievable friendly staff that just enhances your experience!
Korean food is meant to be shared so bring friends, family and definitely an appetite. They also offer giant beer towers to share and also enjoy some fun karaoke!
“Oldest performing arts group founded in 1911.“
Providing the community with some FREE concerts, seasonal, and family holiday concerts. In a beautiful modern updated venue.
Multiple balcony seating helps provide easily accessible views.
“Improve Theatre & Coffee Shop."
Talented and upcoming local artists act out on the spot short theater scenes. Which are never rehearsed and/or planned out.
You never know what to expect!
The actors are fueled by the audience’s reaction and their creativity is unfolded before your eyes.
Classes are held here to teach the youth on the art of improve and also offer summer camps.
“SNL type venue making Austin crack up for over 40 years”
Located on famous 6th street this extremely well know venue has been bringing Austin a combination of hilarious comedy skits, magic and music. They offer a full bar as well as a Taqueria that is attached to the courtyard where you can purchase food. Food and drinks are allowed inside Esther’s but the only tables are located in the lobby or the courtyard. They recommend using the Convention Center Parking which is just one block away located on 5th & Red River.
“Indoor Go-Kart Racing.“
Having over 50 locations they all have the same concept, FUN FOR EVERYONE!
This place is perfect for any occasion especially if it is just for wanting to have some fun!
There is a height requirement to ride the karts, 48” and up.
They offer a lounge area to regroup and recharge your batteries with burgers, pizzas and more. For 21 year of age and up they do offer beer and wine as well.
“Open Market on Saturday’s from 9am-1pm”
SFC stands for “Sustainable Food Center” and is located in downtown’s Republic Square.
Since 2003 SFC has been providing Austin with this open air market that has been “boasting the most farm-forward-line up of any Austin area markets”.
You can find small local businesses, community programs, and family activities. Having 75 + vendors you can find fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, even coffee and pastries. As you shop around or just visit you can catch live music as well!
ATM’s
SNAP lone star & WIC EBT cards accepted
FREE metered parking until 11am on Saturday
FREE parking lot adjacent to the market on 4th & Guadalupe from 9am-1pm (enter from San Antonio st. Or 3rd st.)
State Parking Garage $7 market parking in the State Parking Garage “N” if you arrive before 11 am (enter on San Antonio between 3rd and 4th St.).
“Over 19,000 pieces of beautiful and historic art work”
The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas has an art collection extending over 19,000 pieces. Works of their collection stem from pieces such as ancient Greek pottery, European paintings, modern and contemporary American and Latin American art only to name a few.
Focused on providing quality classical live music performances while offering free admission for 18 and under for most events!
This nonprofit organization has volunteer musicians that have a true passion for providing the community with live classical music performances.
“This water park is built for the little ones with safety precautions and is ALWAYS SUMMER HERE“
A 10,000 square foot super fun family water park experience that will make and turn into fun family memories!
They also offer birthday party events and can accommodate private parties by offering an opportunity to rent the entire Splash Shack as well.
Food and beverages are always available.
“30 different water slides, lazy river & more.“
Looking to cool down from the Austin Texas heat with family and or friends?
This water park has plenty to offer for everyone which is located in Pflugerville Tx.
Besides having multiple water park excursions, they also offer live music for the entire family with summer concerts, multiple eatery options plus desserts/Icee areas and the Circle T Bar for the adults.
If you’re just visiting they do offer one day admission and or season passes as well.
“Super Family Fun.”
Full of family fun and a perfect place to make long life memories with your kids or a sweet date night!
You can actually pet and mingle with the animals here like petting slots, lemurs, see up close ocean life and much more!
There is a snack area to take a break and prepare yourself for some more fun!
“Last Of The True Texas Dancehalls.”
Since 1964 this Austin iconic dancehall has attracted many country artists and celebrities!
An historic dancehall with live county music, super friendly staff with Texas hospitality!
This dance hall is also a full restaurant that serves “old school“ Texas plates!
On their website they offer dance lessons on certain nights as well as live music!
“Named after one of First Ladies”
Since 1986 Lady Bird Lake has been a great place to enjoy hike and bike trails, kayaking, paddle boarding, watercraft rentals and of course jogging. The park was named after first lady of the United States Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson.
“Resort & Water Park.“
Located in Round Rock, is an exquisite beautiful resort that has America’s largest indoor water park, that has an authentic African thyme and that is fun for the entire family!
Even locals do a stay-cation here!
During your stay you will experience luxurious accommodations and all the bells and whistles that respected resort should offer.
8 restaurants, 2 bars, spa, game room, bowling and offers live entertainment!
The water park has multiple pools, slides and rides!
“11 minutes from downtown/free admission“
This museum is the former home of Elisabet Ney and now an historic building displaying her art work and showcasing her life through exhibitions as well as family friendly events.
“The name speaks for itself”
Located on famous 6th Street, this museum truly pays homage to “dime museums” which were introduced to us in the 1800s. They have been featured on shows such as Oddities and Mysteries at the Museum. Throughout your stroll you will find real mummies, shrunken heads, wax figures etc. Their main goal is to have you wondering “was that real”!