Are you thinking about visiting Austin, Texas? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Austin worth visiting?
This city is a good place to visit for two to three days. Austin is the capital city of Texas, and while it is home to the iconic Texas Capital Building, most people think about the live music scene first. The city has had a long running influence over many types of music, including country, blues, rock 'n' roll, and more. There are also many parks and natural areas where you can walk, run, or swim. We first visited in early childhood and then we lived in the city for one year in 2011 and have returned several times. During our time here, we fell in love with its vibrant music scene and laid back and quirky atmosphere.
Austin, Texas
Reasons to Visit Austin
Food
It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.
Nightlife
It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.
Music
Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.
Museums
Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building
Shopping
There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.
Authenticity
Austin has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Austin worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Austin is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier. Summer in Austin can be hot, but this doesn't stop Texans. There are outdoor movies, concerts and a number of festivals during these months.
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 30°C (87°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 36°C (97°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums and the nightlife scene.
Summer Weather in Austin
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 30°C (87°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
| August | 31°C (87°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
| September | 28°C (82°F) | 93 mm (3.7 in) |
Is Austin worth visiting in the Autumn?
The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (83°F).
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Austin, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. This is a great time of year to browse the museums and enjoy the live music scene.
Autumn Weather in Austin
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 23°C (73°F) | 77 mm (3 in) |
| November | 17°C (62°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| December | 12°C (54°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
Is Austin worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the low season for travel in Austin. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals. The weather doesn't usually get particularly cold during the winter.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during winter with average temperatures around 11°C (51°F).
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and take advantage of the local nightlife. Also, you can listen to some live music.
Winter Weather in Austin
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 11°C (51°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
| February | 13°C (55°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
| March | 17°C (63°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Is Austin worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Austin. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
The warm weather in spring is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 22°C (71°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops, the museums and landmarks, and the live music scene. Also, you can check out the nightlife.
Spring Weather in Austin
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 22°C (71°F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) |
| May | 25°C (77°F) | 101 mm (4 in) |
| June | 29°C (83°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Austin
Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.
Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Austin might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Austin here or see if Austin is expensive here.
Related
What is Austin most famous for?
Austin is most famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. The city is very popular for its food, nightlife, and music. It is also known for its great museums. And many visitors also come to this city for its shopping. It is often described as eccentric, unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial.
What is the most famous sight in Austin?
The most popular sight in Austin is The Texas Capital. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Austin on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Texas Capital and other attractions here.
How touristy is Austin? Is it a popular city to visit?
Austin is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours with Rooster: $68
- Austin Ripper 1885: Historical True Crime Walking Tour: $55
- Sunset and City Lights E-Bike Tour of Austin: $80
- Check Out Capitol Bike Tour: $75
- Private Segway Tour of Austin: $88
- Bikes and BBQ Tour in Austin: $89
- Austin Guided Outdoor Climbing Experience: $127
- The Good Morning & Good Vibes E-Bike Tour of Austin: $89
How long should I spend in Austin?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Austin is two to three days. Since Austin has a variety of activities such as dining, nightlife, and music, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Austin? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Austin?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.