We all like to look forward to our next vacation getaway. Any upcoming vacation can be just what you need to take away the stress of work and school. However, inflation is at an all-time high, and the cost of traveling is higher than ever. Don’t let the increasing cost of goods and services turn you away from an exciting vacation getaway to Austin. You will find that the city offers plenty of free and low-cost activities that will offer an exciting time for you and your family. Take a look at how to vacation in Austin without breaking the bank:
Take a Historic Tour of the City
When you visit Austin you will find that the city has a deep and rich history that is waiting to be explored. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Capitol Building for free during your visit. These self-guided walking tours start at Preservation Austin and take you throughout the state capitol building. Additional buildings that are available to tour include various iconic music venues and historic African American sites too. All you have to do is stop by the Austin Visitor Center and sign up for the downtown walking tours. Additional tours can also be enjoyed with Six Square Historic Tours.
Visit Zilker Park
Austin is home to various lakes right here in the city including the one found at Zilker Park. This is no standard park and is instead a 360-acre lot of land that includes Barton Springs Pool and the Zilker Botanical Garden. The natural springs pool is always a joy to splash around in during the summer. The botanical garden features a variety of beautiful flora that is native to the region. Tickets can be reserved online and to ensure a spot at either attraction at Zilker Park.
Hike Up Mount Bonnell
When one thinks of Texas they typically do not think of mountains to climb up. It is true that Texas is a pretty flat state but Austin is surrounded by Hill Country and has Mount Bonnell as part of it. While Mount Bonnell is not your standard mountain but is still an enjoyable mountain. The trail is easy enough to navigate for the whole family. Best of all, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the entire Austin area afterwards. This is a great spot to catch the sunset but make sure you head back down before it is dark! Mount Bonnell has been a staple in the Austin community since the 1850s and is absolutely free to hike.
Watch the Famous Austin Bats
One of the worst kept secrets in Austin is now a top tourist attraction here in the city. We are of course talking about the bats that live underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge for most of the year from spring through the fall. During this time of year 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats call the underside of the bridge home. Like other animals need to get out and eat at some point of the day. Since bats are nocturnal you can see them take flight for the night at dusk for a mesmerizing experience. Grab a viewing area near the Congress Avenue Bridge to see the bats take to the sky for free. Don’t worry, the bats will not come anywhere near you but it’s never a bad idea to wear a hat to cover up any bald heads in case the bats fly over and have to relieve themselves.
Grab a Pint from a Local Brewery
Austin is a beer paradise for Texas and features dozens of craft breweries in the city. Head over to one of the many taprooms including Austin Beer Garden Brewing that features a happy hour during the week. Enjoy a variety of savings on pints of beer and appetizers to have a low cost time out for the day. Most breweries in the city are also family friendly so the whole gang can go play games and enjoy some delicious food.
Honky Tonk at Little Longhorn Saloon
If you are in the mood for a little country music dancing, head on over to Little Longhorn Saloon. This local country bar is known for the six days a week happy hour where you can get Lone Star beers for cheap. This is a great spot to take your partner for country dancing and enjoy a romantic night out for just the two of you.
More to Do on Your Vacation in Austin
As you can see, there are quite a few different ways to save on your wallet on your vacation in Austin. Book one of our Austin vacation rentals here in the city to experience the best of Austin!
