A Winter Weekend Itinerary in the Capital of Texas
Austin is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, unique attractions, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Thanks to our affinity to budget travel, we found some epic flight deals to visit in the off season. Temperatures during the winter time range from highs of 60s to lows of 40s, leaving many outdoor activities inaccessible. Despite spring being the best season to enjoy the most of the city, there is still plenty of activities to experience during the winter months. Here’s the perfect itinerary for exploring Austin during the winter!
1. Texas State Capitol Building
The Texas State Capitol is a beautiful building that showcases the state’s rich history and politics. This iconic landmark is the tallest domed capitol in the country. Guided tours are available, and visitors can see the chambers of the Texas House of Representatives and Senate, as well as the Governor’s office. Tours are free and operate from 9:30 am to 3:30pm during weekdays and 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm on weekends.
2. Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s rich history, culture, and diverse communities. Visitors can see interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that highlight the state’s unique character. It’s open daily from 10 am to 5 pm but closed on Mondays.
3. Austin Wonderspaces
Step into a whimsical wonderland of interactive art and immerse yourself in the imaginative realm of Wonderspaces Museum in Austin, Texas. Marvel at the captivating displays that tantalize the senses, spark your creativity, and leave you in a state of enchantment. Whether you’re a connoisseur of culture, an aficionado of art, or simply seeking some lighthearted levity, this museum is a veritable treasure trove of visual and sensory delights that is guaranteed to delight and entertain.
4. Austin Texas Barbecue
Embark on a gustatory tour de force through the lush landscape of Texas BBQ and cuisine in the foodie haven of Austin. Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of juicy brisket and savory ribs, expertly crafted by pitmasters who have perfected the art of low and slow cooking. Sample the succulent offerings of the city’s eclectic food scene, where regional traditions meet innovative gastronomy and local ingredients are elevated to new heights. Franklin’s BBQ is the most popular spot, but be prepared to arrive early or be forsaken in a multi hour long line.
5. Esther’s Follies Comedy & Magic Show
Esther’s Follies is a mesmerizing and whimsical theatrical production located on the edge of downtown’s infamous 6th Street. With a captivating blend of sophisticated humor and impeccable showmanship, the performance is an unforgettable experience. The troupe of talented performers artfully blend music, comedy, and satire to create a spellbinding spectacle that will leave you in stitches. The grandiose stage and intricate set designs only serve to augment the enchantment of the performance. Book your tickets well in advance here.
6. Downtown Austin 6th Street Bar Scene
Move over over Nashville, Austin is actually known as the live music capital of the world! The 6th Street bar scene in Austin, Texas is a beehive of scintillating activity, where revelers converge to indulge in a smorgasbord of libations and debauchery. With an eclectic array of establishments to choose from, ranging from upscale cocktail lounges to boisterous dives, there’s something to satiate the thirst of even the most discerning drinkers. 6th street shares the same party vibe as New Orleans’ notorious Bourbon St. or Miami’s Ocean Drive. Experience a mechanical bull ride or revel in the plethora or live music to embrace Austin’s nightlife to the fullest.
7. Walk Around Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Austin. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, take in the city skyline, and watch the local wildlife. Ride along the waterfront on an ebike or electric scooter tour for one of the coolest ways to see the city.
8. The Range at Austin
The Range at Austin Shooting Range is a bastion of marksmanship and firearms education. This state-of-the-art facility offers a comprehensive range of services, from basic firearms training to advanced shooting classes. The Range is equipped with the latest in shooting technology, providing a safe and controlled environment for individuals to hone their shooting skills. The knowledgeable and affable instructors are a delight to learn from, combining technical expertise with a healthy dose of humor. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a novice shooter, The Range at Austin Shooting Range is the premier destination for firearms education and target practice. Reserve a time slot by booking tickets online here.
9. Rainey Street Bars
The Rainey Street bar scene is the polar opposite of 6th Street. With a plethora of charming patios and eclectic establishments to choose from, this lively neighborhood provides the perfect setting for a night of revelry and merrymaking. From artisanal cocktail lounges to bustling biergartens, Rainey Street has something to offer even the most discerning drinkers. The festive atmosphere is infused with sophisticated humor and convivial conversation, providing a delightful backdrop for an evening of libations and leisure. During the holiday season, many bar are adorned with vibrant lights and many bars adopt a Christmas theme along with specialty drinks and decorations.
10. Mexi-Arte Museum
The Mexi-Arte Museum is a mesmerizing mecca of contemporary art, showcasing the diverse and vibrant cultural heritage of Mexico and its diaspora. This sophisticated museum features a stunning collection of art, ranging from modern paintings and sculptures to traditional folk art and crafts. The museum’s eclectic exhibitions and curated displays highlight the rich history and evolving identity of Mexican art and culture, providing a fascinating and immersive experience for visitors. The museum is very small and relatively inexpensive ($7 for adults), and can easily be squeezed into an afternoon downtown.
There are so many cool activities to experience in Austin even in the off-season, these are just a few of our favorites. There is also an amazing food scene to explore including delicious Tex-Mex & other innovative gastronomical fusions (like Texas-Japanese BBQ at Kemuri Tatsu-ya), and the plethora of inspirational art murals scattered around town. However, we might need to return for the infamous South by South West (SxSW) festival, Austin City Limits festival, the bats, and other outdoor activities during summer time. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out our Austin travel vlog for even more insight into the amazing activities you can experience during the winter!
