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Summer in Austin - Adventures You Can't Miss Out On!

LOCAL


Top Summer Activities in Austin You Have to Try


Summer in Austin, Texas, is nothing short of magical. From live music and nature explorations to food trucks and unique cultural experiences, our city comes alive under the sun. Whether we’re locals or visitors soaking up the season, there’s always something new for us to discover. In this guide, we’re exploring the top summer activities Austin has to offer, including one of our favorite must-try experiences: the thrilling and immersive challenges at Escape Hour Austin. Let’s make this summer memorable with these can’t-miss activities!



Cool Off at Barton Springs Pool


People swim in a clear blue natural spring surrounded by lush trees and a grassy area with sunbathers. A lifeguard watches nearby.

Escaping the heat at Barton Springs Pool, is one of Austin’s most iconic summer indulgences. Nestled in Zilker Park, this natural spring-fed pool maintains a refreshing temperature of 68-70 degrees year-round, making it an ideal spot to cool off. Whether we’re looking to swim laps, unwind on the grassy hillside, or simply soak up the laid-back vibes, there’s something for all of us to enjoy here. Plus, the crystal-clear water and beautiful surroundings give us the perfect backdrop for snapping a few photos to remember our summer adventures. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, as Zilker Park’s open spaces are perfect for lounging after a swim!


Visit the Food Trucks and Outdoor Markets


Let’s dive into Austin’s vibrant food and market scene - there’s no better way to connect with our city’s unique flavors and culture! Austin is a food lover's paradise, with food trucks serving up everything from mouthwatering tacos and gourmet burgers to exotic fusion dishes and decadent desserts. Stroll through popular food truck parks like The Picnic or South Congress, sampling bites from local vendors that cater to every craving.


Food trucks with colorful signs in a tree-lined area. People sit at picnic tables eating. Relaxed outdoor dining vibe.

For those of us who love to shop local, outdoor markets like the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller are a must. Here, we can browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts while enjoying live music. Make it a full experience by grabbing a fresh-squeezed lemonade or a locally roasted coffee! Whether we’re discovering a new favorite dish or supporting local artisans, this is a quintessential Austin activity we won’t want to miss!



Challenge Ourselves at Escape Hour Austin


Step into a world of adventure and excitement at Escape Hour Austin, a local, family-owned business that’s as much a part of Austin’s charm as it is about fun! Together, we can put our teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills to the test as we dive into intricately designed and customized escape rooms. Whether we’re cracking codes, uncovering hidden clues, or solving challenging puzzles, every moment is packed with suspense and fun.


Dimly lit library with lanterns, wooden shelves, and "MORE THAN AN ESCAPE ROOM®" text. Mysterious, atmospheric mood.

What makes this experience even more special is knowing we’re supporting a local, family-run business that pours their heart into creating remarkable experiences for all of us to enjoy. Each escape room is crafted with care, offering a unique story and challenge - so whether we’re tackling a daring heist, decoding a mysterious artifact, or saving the world from disaster, we’re guaranteed an incredible adventure.


Plus, Escape Hour Austin is fully air-conditioned, making it the perfect indoor activity to beat the summer heat while staying entertained. It’s a great way to bond with friends, family, or even new acquaintances, sharing laughs and celebrating victories as we race against the clock. So, let’s rally our team and accept the challenge - it’s time to create lasting memories with an authentic Austin experience!


Catch a Live Show at Zilker Hillside Theater


Soak up the magic of Austin’s summer evenings at the Zilker Hillside Theater! Pack a cozy blanket, some snacks, and maybe even a picnic dinner to enjoy an unparalleled outdoor performance under the stars. The Zilker Hillside Theater also offers free shows that bring the community together to celebrate art and entertainment in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.


We can look forward to dazzling musicals that have us singing along and captivating Shakespearean dramas that transport us to another time - there’s always something special happening on stage. 


A group of people in period costumes gather around a speaker on stage, set against a brick backdrop, creating a lively, theatrical scene.

It’s not just a show - it’s an experience that connects us to the heart of our city’s creative spirit. As the sun sets and the stage lights come alive, we’ll find ourselves immersed in the magic of live performance and the unique energy of Austin. So, let’s gather our crew, grab some lawn chairs if we want extra comfort, and make a summer night to remember at Zilker Hillside Theater!


Explore Lady Bird Lake by Kayak or Paddleboard  


Imagine hitting the water and exploring the serene beauty of Lady Bird Lake! As we paddle across the calm waters, we’ll be treated to breathtaking sights of the city skyline, lush greenery, and even glimpses of local wildlife.  Renting a kayak or paddleboard is a perfect way for us to connect with nature, stay active, and soak in some of the most stunning views Austin has to offer.



This adventure is for everyone - whether we’re seasoned paddlers or trying it for the first time. It’s a chance for us to relax, laugh, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the water at our own pace. We can paddle alongside friends, share stories, and snap photos of the incredible scenery that makes Lady Bird Lake such a beloved Austin gem.


Skyline view of Austin with tall buildings and a bridge over Lady Bird Lake. Yellow kayaks lined up on the calm water, clear blue sky.

For an extra memorable experience, we can plan our paddle during sunrise or sunset when the water shimmers with warm, golden hues and the city takes on a magical glow. Or, if we’re up for a little excitement, we can join one of the nighttime paddles lit by twinkling lanterns. 


The Perfect Summer Day in Austin Itinerary 


Morning: Start with a Sunrise Stroll Down South Congress


A sunrise stroll down South Congress in Austin, Texas, is a peaceful and enchanting experience that lets us soak in the city’s unique charm. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the iconic street, the pastel hues of the sky create a serene backdrop for us to admire, highlighting the eclectic shops, vibrant murals, and historic architecture. This usually bustling avenue feels calm and quiet in the early morning, giving us a rare moment of shared tranquility before the city fully comes to life.


Breakfast: Fuel Up with Breakfast Tacos


No trip to Austin is complete without breakfast tacos! After our paddle, we can head to a local favorite like Veracruz All Natural or Taco Deli to grab some fresh and flavorful tacos. Let’s pair them with an iced coffee or agua fresca to keep things cool and refreshing.


Mid-Morning: Explore Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool


Next, we’ll make our way to Zilker Park for a stroll or some outdoor fun. After soaking up the greenery, we can cool off with a dip in Barton Springs Pool. The natural spring-fed pool is the perfect spot to relax, refresh, and enjoy an ultimate Austin experience.


Aerial view of a city skyline with a river, autumn trees, and a park featuring a Ferris wheel and tents. Clear blue sky above.

Lunch: Enjoy Food Truck Delights


When lunchtime rolls around, we’ll head to one of Austin’s iconic food truck parks, like The Picnic or South Congress. With so many options, there’s something to satisfy all our cravings, whether it’s tacos, barbecue, or plant-based dishes. Let’s grab a shaded spot and savor every bite.


Afternoon: Escape the Heat with a Thrilling Adventure


As the sun gets hotter, we’ll head indoors to Escape Hour Austin, a local, family-owned escape room experience. Together, we can test our problem-solving skills and teamwork as we tackle one of their themed challenges. It’s air-conditioned, exciting, and a fantastic way to beat the heat while having fun.


A man faces a tentacled creature in a dim, mystical room. Text reads "Call of the Ancient" and "Escape Hour." Ominous, dramatic mood.

Evening: Catch Dinner and a Sunset View


For dinner, we’ll head to a lakeside spot like Hula Hut or the Oasis on Lake Travis, where we can enjoy delicious food with stunning sunset views. Whether we’re craving Tex-Mex, seafood, or a refreshing cocktail, this is the perfect way to wind down after an active day.



Late Night: Grab Dessert


If we’re not ready for the day to end, we can treat ourselves to something sweet, like a scoop of creamy, customizable ice cream from Amy’s Ice Creams or a warm, indulgent pastry from 24 Diner. Whether we’re enjoying a cone under the stars or relaxing with a cozy dessert at the diner, it’s the perfect way to wrap up our Austin adventure on a delicious note.



Colorful ice cream shop with a "Now Hiring" sign. People at the window ordering. Murals and neon "Open" sign visible, creating a lively vibe.

This summer, let’s beat the heat and create unforgettable memories right here in Austin! Start by booking an exciting escape room adventure at Escape Hour Austin, where you can challenge yourself, bond with friends, and support a local family-owned business. You can also follow them on Instagram to stay in the know of their exclusive summer events and offers. Once you’ve conquered the puzzles, dive into all the other incredible activities our city has to offer - from paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake to enjoying live performances under the stars. 


Austin is calling, and your perfect summer adventure awaits - let’s make it one to remember!

The NERDNCO logo in olive green signifying a LOCAL blog.

LOCAL


Welcome to the LOCAL Topic of the blog, where we celebrate the small businesses and localized news that make your community special. Our mission is to shine a spotlight on the people and places that make our neighborhood unique, and to provide a platform for local voices to be heard. From highlighting the best local shops and restaurants to reporting on important community issues, we aim to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in staying connected to their community. Thank you for joining us, and we hope you enjoy reading about all the amazing things happening in your neighborhood.


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