Free Things To Do in Austin, Texas
Tips on How to Enjoy Top Austin Attractions Without Spending Money
Aug 21, 2009
Tightening the budget doesn't mean sacrificing a fun day around town. Singles, families, and couples alike can enjoy the diverse activities that Austin offers for free.
Free Live Music at Austin's City Hall
Austin stands by its claim to fame as the "Live Music Capital of the World" by presenting a free concert series every Friday at noon at the outdoor plaza of the Austin City Hall. Visitors can hang out on the building's front steps or nearby lawn to listen to an hour of free live tunes, ranging from latin music to indie rock.
Local restaurant vendors sell food at the event ($6.50 USD lunch special), but visitors are allowed to bring in their own picnic lunches if they prefer. For extra comfort, bring folding chairs.
Visitors don't have to worry about pricey downtown parking either. There's free parking on concert days in the City Hall garage from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Concert goers will be asked by the parking garage's ticket booth clerk to sign a credit sheet in order for the fee to be waived.
Check the concert calendar for upcoming performances at Austin City Hall, located at 301 W. Second Street.
Downtown Austin Butler District Park
The scenic views, peaceful atmosphere, and light and water shows make this 22-acre downtown park a must-see for any local or visitor on a Texas vacation. This one-of-a-kind park features:
- an interactive fountain that displays water and light shows
- a 35-foot observation hill overlooking Lady Bird Lake and the Austin skyline
- a children's garden
- a meadow and pond
Evenings here are especially enjoyable as the water fountain colors light the park up every 15 minutes starting at 8 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Children of all ages can be seen jumping into this Austin splash pad.
For those looking to unwind with an evening stroll, head up to the observation hill for a scenic reward filled with downtown views. This spacious park also makes it a great spot for bikers who can ride along the edges of Butler District Park. Pets can also enjoy this green space.
Butler Park is named after Michael Butler, an Irish immigrant who ran a successful Austin brick-making business in the 17th century. His heirs donated the land to Austin in 1941 for civic purposes.
Butler District Park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and is located between Riverside Drive and Barton Springs Road, next to the Palmer Events Center and the Doughtery Arts Center.
Free Swimming at Barton Springs Pool
Take a dip in Austin's favorite swimming hole for free every morning between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. and every night between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. Barton Springs Pool - which is fed by an underground spring - became a park in 1917, and has been an Austin landmark ever since.
Swimming here is a laid-back haven for water lovers. It's famous for its refreshing 68-degree water temperature, which remains consistent all year round. Barton Springs Pool at Zilker Park is located at 2101 Barton Springs Road.
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