I have lived in Austin 17 years now. Wow yall, time flies! Austin has an abundance of cheap, fun things to do, especially in this time of the year. It’s not too hot yet, we even get some rainy and cool days, and everything just seems fun!
I am a personal trainer in Austin, so I am partial to active and outdoor activities like swimming, and hiking. This list includes many of those, but also includes cultural and artsy cheap things too!
Top Budget-Friendly Activities & Attractions in Austin, Texas
Of course, top on my list of cheap, fun things to do in Austin is going to gyms. There is such a fit and active culture in Austin, that you could go to a new gym practically every day. That actually wouldn’t be cheap. So, to help you start your gym quest here, this is a list I made of my 5 favorite gyms in Austin.
Moving beyond gyms, here are the best cheap fun things to do in Austin, especially when it is hot hot!
Zilker Metropolitan Park & Lady Bird Lake Area
- Zilker Park – A great place for the whole family. You can have picnics, play frisbee, or enjoy people-watching near downtown Austin.
- Barton Springs Pool – A natural spring-fed pool with a low admission fee; perfect in summer. Way more fun than going to a movie theater! Though the Alamo Drafthouse is pretty cool.
- UMLAUF Sculpture Garden – Enjoy works by local and international artists; often has free admission days.
- Zilker Botanical Garden – Inexpensive, peaceful, and a perfect place for a self-guided tour.
- Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake – Affordable rentals or bring your own gear.
- Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail – A scenic bike trail around the lake with skyline views.
- Austin Nature & Science Center – A great way to entertain kids with free admission.
- Barton Creek Greenbelt – Hike to Twin Falls or Sculpture Falls; some of the best outdoor adventures.
Art, Culture & History
- Texas State Capitol Building – Free self-guided tours of this iconic piece of Texas history.
- Blanton Museum of Art – Often offers free admission on Thursdays.
- Contemporary Austin (Laguna Gloria) – Outdoor sculptures meet modern art; check for affordable options.
- Tejano Walking Trail – A history-rich route through East Austin, showcasing local artists and culture.
- Street Art Tour – Visit famous murals like “I love you so much” or “Greetings from Austin.”
- Mexican Free-Tailed Bats – Watch the evening bat emergence at Congress Avenue Bridge or South Congress Bridge—a must-see free thing in summer.
- Bullock Texas State History Museum – Offers free museums days and is a fun field trip experience.
- University of Texas at Austin – Explore the historic campus with art galleries, museums, and the Texas Memorial Museum (sometimes free).
Food & Drink (Budget-Friendly)
- East Austin Food Trucks – Try tacos, BBQ, and fusion food from some of the best in town.
- Rainey Street – Lined with bungalow bars and affordable things to food trailers, restaurants and bars.
- Downtown Austin Farmers Markets – Support local, grab breakfast, and enjoy live music.
- South Congress Avenue – Browse quirky shops and grab coffee from a food truck. Don’t forget your cowboy boots!
- Picnic in Zilker with Food Truck Eats – Grab food nearby and enjoy a chill afternoon.
Parks, Views & Natural Wonders
- Mount Bonnell – The highest point in Austin and one of the best places for a beautiful sunset.
- Mayfield Park – Walk among peacocks and lily ponds; free and serene.
- Lake Austin or the Colorado River – Enjoy the scenic views or fish along the banks.
- Round Rock’s Playgrounds & Water Features – A short trip for a free family day.
- Hill Country Drive – Explore the outskirts of Austin for wildflowers, trails, and wineries (many with free admission for tastings or music).
Here’s a comprehensive list I made of Austin hiking trails with water. This was last summer. We’ve just had rain recently so these places should be flowing.
Music & Entertainment
- Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater – ACL is a big part of why Austin is the live music capital of the world! ACL has live tapings, special events and sometimes free shows.
- Free Summer Concerts at Zilker Park – A great way to experience local music and culture.
- Outdoor Movie Nights – Free things like movie screenings in parks or downtown Austin.
- Alamo Drafthouse (Early Showings) – Catch a movie at a discount price for a fun indoor option.
- Museums on the Cheap – Keep an eye on museums offering general admission discounts or monthly free museums nights.
Tips for the Best Time in Austin on a Budget
- Visit in the summer months for free festivals, bat watching, and sunset swims.
- Many places offer free admission days—check websites or tourism boards. The Blanton Museum of Art often does free Thursdays.
- For inexpensive things, download free walking tour apps or follow the city’s park events calendar.
- If you’re into photography, sunsets at Mount Bonnell, mural hunting in East Austin, or Lady Bird Lake skyline views are unbeatable.
Cheap, Fun Things to do in Austin: Did I Miss Any?
If I missed any of your favorite cheap fun things, to do in Austin, let me know! I am always up for new adventures! Hope you have a great and healthy summer!
Work With Me!
If you are looking for a personal trainer in Austin, I’d love to talk with you! If you are not in Austin, Round Rock, or central Texas, let’s talk about online training.
Message me here for a free consult about personal training in Austin, Texas, or here for online personal training, and we’ll discuss your goals, background, equipment availability, schedule, and exercise preferences.
Let’s get you strong and healthy! 💪
About the author
Kathryn Alexander is a strength coach and personal trainer in Austin, Texas. She loves hiking, college football, and the feel of a perfectly knurled barbell. Read more about Kathryn here.
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