Austin is one of the hotspots in Texas. Many people come to visit it every year. It's a place where there's good food, beer, and entertainment. There are always some music festivals and live shows happening. There are many tourist spots. We often get overwhelmed with too many things to go and do but with less time. If you are an art and culture lover, then the city has many historical sites, museums, and libraries for you to explore. If you are a party animal, then you are all set to have a blast in the city. The place has many karaoke bars, live music concerts, and vibrant nightlife. So here we bring three best things to do if you are in Austin:
1. Mexic - Arte Museum
If you already don't know, Texas was once a part of Mexico. So Texas does have an influence of strong Latino culture. The Mexic - Arte Museum is an exciting place. Here you can explore our culture and its origin. The place has pictures from the Mexican Revolution and many artworks by local artists. If you decide to visit this place, then don't forget to buy souvenirs from the gift shop.
2. Sixth Street
One of the tops recommended things to do in Austin is to explore Sixth Street. The place is quite vibrant and has something for everyone. If you are looking for a fun outing, then this is the place for you. They have live music venues, restaurants, and bars. This place is definitely going to switch on your party mode. The best time is to go on weekends on Fridays and Saturdays. If you plan your trip in May, then you can also attend the Pecan Street Festival.
3. Texas State Capitol
One of the more popular things you can do is visit the Texas State Capitol. It was built in the 19th century, and much of the historic building has remained unchanged since its opening. Here you can go on a self-guided tour and explore the place. You can also join a free guided tour to gain all the information about the place. Unlike other places, photography is permitted here. So you can get your cameras and click on as many pictures as you want here.
Texas Shuttle will help you plan your ride to all these fun places in Austin. You can book our Dallas to Austin shuttle service. We will pick you up and drop you off at your exact locations. Almost all rides are non-stop in nice cars, SUVs, or shuttles. We are available 24/7. You can also change the time or date with us without being charged. There's less hassle, and you save more money with us. The Texas Shuttle is safer, affordable, flexible, and more convenient than any other ride. Book a ride with us this season to experience that warm and stress-free holiday vibe. It even reduces the unwanted cost incurred on the fare of taxis and buses to reach home. We provide professional chauffeurs with uniform and clean vehicles. Our mission is to create lifetime customer loyalty by exceeding our customer's expectations in terms of service.
Why Austin's Top Attractions Should Be on Every Traveler's List
Austin, Texas, consistently ranks among the most visited cities in the Lone Star State, and for good reason. The capital city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that appeals to visitors from across the globe. Whether you're arriving via Interstate 35 from the north or traveling south from Dallas on the same highway, you'll quickly discover why Austin earned nicknames like "Live Music Capital of the World" and "Silicon Hills." The three attractions highlighted in this guide represent the very best of what Austin offers, from cultural immersion to historic exploration and vibrant nightlife.
Navigating Austin: Practical Transportation Information
Understanding Austin's geography helps you maximize your visit. The city sits at the crossroads of Interstate 35 (running north-south through the city center) and U.S. Highway 290 (providing eastern access). If you're flying in, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport sits just south of downtown via US 183 and State Highway 71. The Texas State Capitol building sits prominently at the intersection of Congress Avenue and 11th Street, roughly one mile north of the Capitol MetroTransit center on 4th Street. Sixth Street's Historic District runs parallel to the highway, making it accessible from multiple directions. For those driving themselves, downtown parking garages and lots are available along Lavaca Street and 4th Street, though traffic peaks between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM on weekdays.
Comparing Austin's Top Three Attractions
| Attraction | Location | Best Time to Visit | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mexic-Arte Museum | 419 Congress Avenue, downtown Austin | Weekday mornings | 1-2 hours |
| Sixth Street Historic District | Sixth Street between Congress Avenue and IH-35 | Thursday through Saturday evenings | 2-4 hours |
| Texas State Capitol | 1100 Congress Avenue | Any time; tours run 9 AM-4:30 PM | 1-2 hours |
1. Mexic-Arte Museum: Immersing Yourself in Latino Culture
The Mexic-Arte Museum stands as Austin's only museum dedicated exclusively to Mexican, Mexican-American, and Latinx art and culture. Located at 419 Congress Avenue in the heart of downtown, this cultural institution offers visitors an intimate look at the artistic traditions that shaped Texas and the broader Southwest. The museum sits just steps from the flagship store of Whole Foods Market on Lamar Boulevard and sits adjacent to the popular Rainey Street entertainment district. Founded in 1988, the museum has maintained its mission to preserve and promote Mexican and Latinx art through rotating exhibitions, permanent collections, and community programs. Visitors should expect to find historically significant pieces alongside contemporary works by emerging artists. The museum's gift shop offers authentic Mexican handicrafts, jewelry, and artwork that make meaningful souvenirs. Photography policies vary by exhibition, so check with staff upon arrival. The museum operates seven days a week, though hours differ between weekdays and weekends, with reduced hours on major holidays.
2. Sixth Street Historic District: Austin's Premier Entertainment Corridor
Sixth Street, specifically the stretch between Congress Avenue and Interstate 35, represents Austin's most concentrated entertainment zone. This pedestrian-friendly corridor transforms each evening as bars, restaurants, and live music venues open their doors to locals and visitors alike. The street sits just south of the Texas State Capitol grounds, making it easily combinable with a government building tour. During the day, the avenue offers boutique shopping and casual dining options, but after dark, the energy shifts dramatically. The district is divided into three zones: the vintage-focused area near Red River Street, the main entertainment stretch, and the quieter lounge area near San Jacinto Boulevard. The Pecan Street Festival, held annually in May, draws thousands to this exact location, transforming Sixth Street into an outdoor marketplace featuring local artisans, food vendors, and continuous live performances. Visitors should note that the area can become very crowded on weekend evenings, particularly between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, weekday evenings offer similar entertainment options with significantly reduced crowds.
3. Texas State Capitol: Understanding Texas History and Government
The Texas State Capitol building, constructed in 1888, serves as both the seat of Texas government and a museum of state history. Standing 302 feet tall, the pink granite structure ranks as the largest state capitol building in the United States by square footage. The Capitol grounds span 22 acres and include the beautiful Capitol Extension (completed in 1993), the Texas Memorial Museum, and the restored 1850s Farm Pavilion. Free guided tours depart from the visitor information center located on the first floor, near the south entrance. These 30-minute tours cover the House Chamber, Senate Chamber, and Supreme Court Room, providing historical context unavailable through self-guided exploration. The Capitol gift shop, operated by the Texas State Historical Association, offers books, apparel, and commemorative items. Unlike many government buildings, photography and video recording are permitted throughout most of the public areas. The Capitol Complex extends north to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and includes multiple historic buildings, including the 1876 Old General Land Office Building, now home to the Texas General Land Office.
Planning Your Austin Day: Combining the Top Three Attractions
Strategic planning allows you to experience all three attractions in a single day. Begin at the Texas State Capitol at 9:00 AM to take a guided tour while energy levels are high. The self-guided mobile tour option provides flexibility if you prefer exploring at your own pace. From the Capitol, walk south on Congress Avenue toward Lady Bird Lake, stopping at one of the many food trucks or cafes along the route. The Austin Convention Center, located just east of Sixth Street on Barton Springs Road, offers numerous lunch options. Afternoon suits the Mexic-Arte Museum perfectly, as indoor air conditioning provides relief from Texas heat and smaller crowds gather during early afternoon hours. Save Sixth Street for evening when the district comes alive with music and energy. This sequence follows a logical geographic path from north to south, minimizing backtracking and maximizing time in each location.
Frequently Asked Questions About Austin's Top Attractions
What are the typical operating hours for these Austin attractions?
The Texas State Capitol is open seven days a week from approximately 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though guided tours operate between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. The Mexic-Arte Museum generally opens at 10:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 AM on weekends, closing at 6:00 PM most days. Sixth Street venues maintain varying hours, but most bars and restaurants open by 4:00 PM and remain active until 2:00 AM Thursday through Saturday.
Is there an admission cost to visit these attractions?
The Texas State Capitol grounds, building, and guided tours are completely free of charge. The Mexic-Arte Museum typically requires a modest admission fee for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and children. Sixth Street itself has no admission cost, though individual venues may charge cover charges for live music or special events.
What is the best time of year to visit Austin for outdoor activities?
Spring months from March through May offer comfortable temperatures and coincide with major events like South by Southwest and the Pecan Street Festival. Fall months from September through November provide similar weather conditions with fewer crowds. Summer months can bring extreme heat exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making midday outdoor activities challenging.
How accessible is downtown Austin for visitors with mobility concerns?
Downtown Austin features ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps, and the Texas State Capitol fully accommodates visitors with disabilities. The Mexic-Arte Museum occupies a historic building where accessibility features have been added, though visitors should contact the museum directly for specific accommodation information. Sixth Street's cobblestone and uneven pavement surfaces can present challenges for wheelchair users, particularly during evening hours when crowds increase.
Can I combine these attractions with other Austin activities in one visit?
Absolutely. The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge sits just south of downtown and offers views of bat colonies beneath the bridge. Lady Bird Lake provides hiking and cycling trails accessible from downtown. The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin, located on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, offers additional cultural programming and sits just north of the Capitol grounds.
What should I know about parking in downtown Austin?
Several public parking garages serve downtown visitors, including facilities on 4th Street, 5th Street, and San Antonio Street. Street parking metered spots operate Monday through Saturday until 6:00 PM. Many restaurants and venues on Sixth Street validate parking at nearby garages for their customers.
Is Austin safe for tourists visiting these attractions?
Downtown Austin and the areas surrounding these attractions generally maintain a strong police presence and are considered safe for visitors. Like any major city, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, secure valuables, and travel in groups when possible, particularly during late evening hours on Sixth Street.
