Free Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird” — and the city delivers an enormous amount of free weird (and wonderful) experiences. Free live music on every corner, 1.5 million bats emerging from a bridge at sunset, and swimming holes that look like they belong in a magazine.

Congress Avenue Bats (Free)

The Congress Avenue Bridge is home to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats — the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening from March through October, the bats emerge in a massive cloud at sunset, spiraling into the sky to feed on insects. Stand on the bridge, the hike-and-bike trail below, or from the TGI Friday’s patio (yes, seriously) for the best views. Completely free.

Live Music (Free)

6th Street — Bars and venues along Dirty Sixth (between Congress and I-35) have live music every night of the week. Many have no cover charge, especially on weeknights.

Continental Club (South Congress) — Free happy hour shows with quality bands. The Continental has been an Austin music institution since 1957.

South Congress (SoCo) — Street musicians, boutiques, and the “I Love You So Much” mural (free to photograph).

Austin City Limits filming — Free tickets to TV tapings at the Moody Theater. Limited and competitive, but worth trying.

Outdoors (Free or Cheap)

Barton Springs Pool — A 3-acre spring-fed pool in Zilker Park. The water is a constant 68°F year-round. Swimming fee is $5-9 for adults (free before 5 AM and after 9 PM). One of the most iconic swimming spots in Texas.

Lady Bird Lake — 10+ miles of hike-and-bike trail around the reservoir on the Colorado River. Walking, running, and cycling are free. Kayak and paddleboard rentals available.

Mount Bonnell — 102 stone steps to a cliff overlooking Lake Austin and the Hill Country. Free. The best sunset view in Austin. Short climb, massive reward.

Zilker Park — Austin’s central park. Frisbee, picnics, kite flying, and access to Barton Springs and the hike-and-bike trail. Free.

Street Art & Culture

HOPE Outdoor Gallery / Castle Hill — Though the original graffiti park has moved, Austin’s street art culture continues at various sanctioned murals and spaces throughout the city.

“Hi, How Are You” Mural (Guadalupe & 21st) — Daniel Johnston’s frog mural is an Austin landmark.

South Congress Art Galleries — Several galleries along SoCo are free to browse. First Thursday SoCo stroll has special events and extended hours.

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