Austin is bustling more than ever this summer season. The City offers a multitude of activities for locals and tourists to partake in. From the rhythmic strumming of live music, to the serene shores of Lady Bird Lake, there are a variety of ways one can enjoy their last bit of summer.
Sunsets and Bats
Heard of bird watching? Try bat watching! It just so happens that Austin is one of the best places to watch these fuzzy little creatures fly off into the night. From 7:30-9:45 pm, you can watch bats fly off from the Congress Avenue Bridge all throughout the summer and into early fall. Another great spot to watch the bats make their nightly exit is at the Statesman Bat Observation Center.
However, if you want to make an event out of this special experience, head over to the bridge on August 26th and experience Bat Fest! Hundreds of people will gather for what is now considered the largest bat-viewing event of the year. This local event will have tons of activities catered toward kids, a bunch of food, and live music.
The Live Music Capital of the World
If watching multiple bats fly off into the night isn’t your cup of tea, perhaps enjoying some live music at a local event is more up your alley. The city of Austin wasn’t named the Live Music Capital of the World for nothing. The Pecan Street Festival is a great family-oriented event that will allow the whole family to enjoy food and local musicians throughout the weekend.
Here, individuals will also be able to appreciate an array of artisans’ work while also enjoying the culture of Austin. This all-day, 2-day event takes place on September 16th and 17th. But best of all, this event has free admission, so don’t hesitate to simply stop by and look around. You can find more information about the event here.
Beat the Heat
When the hot weather makes outside events too miserable to enjoy, Austin’s swimming holes can provide great sanction from the heat. From the iconic Barton Springs to more secluded places like Hamilton Pool, there are a variety of pools to choose from. Make sure to bring your sunscreen and swim floaties, and make sure to keep an eye on your little ones. It should be noted that many of these swimming holes require a fee and reservation to get in, but the refreshing escape and unforgettable memories made will make the trip worth your while!
If you’d prefer to do something on the water that doesn’t require swimming, check out Austin Kayak Tours! These kayak tours are highly rated on trip advisor and are available for all ages. Not only does this tour company provide kayak tours, they also offer skyline and paddle boat tours as well.
Learning Opportunities for Little Ones
While it’s wonderful to spend time outside in the summer, sometimes indoor activities with air conditioning are all you need! The best way to enjoy summer inside this year could be at the Bullock. This Texas state history museum was completed in 2001 and has a host of exhibits that showcase Texas history and culture. There are also certain galleries that are only displayed in the summer. Films are also being screened in the museum’s massive IMAX theater.
In addition, the museum provides a multitude of interactive summer programs for children. If your child has an imaginative or explorative mind, this may be the perfect outing to take your children to this summer.
To learn more about the unique experience opportunities the events offer, you can locate their website here.