Looking for things to do in Austin on a budget? Look no further! Here is a list of our top picks for free activities in the city. From exploring local parks and museums to taking a walk or bike ride around town, there is plenty to do without spending any money.
“Keep Austin Weird” is the the slogan that the Austin Independent Business Alliance has adopted to promote local businesses and support Austin’s unique culture. One way to keep Austin weird and unique is to explore the many free attractions in the city. Here’s our guide to do just that!
Visit the Texas State Capitol
Visiting the Texas State Capitol in Austin is an absolute must-see experience that no broke college student should miss out on! As the capitol of Texas, it proudly stands as a symbol of the state’s past, present, and future.
Experiencing history first hand is what makes this place so special. Touring inside its halls and marveling at its architecture will leave you in awe and have you truly appreciating the political impact that this building has had for decades! The best part is it’s free to visit, making it perfect for a broke college student looking to explore all that Austin has to offer.
Take a walk or bike ride through Zilker Metropolitan Park
If you’re looking to experience Austin without spending a dime, head over to Zilker Metropolitan Park. Located in downtown Austin, this park offers plenty of landmarks to check out.
On a sunny day, take a stroll or ride your bike along the trails that snake through the lush green hills of the park. Enjoy views of landmarks like Barton Springs Pool and The Nature & Science Center.
Whether you want to relax by Lady Bird Lake, take a dip at Barton Springs Pool, explore Zilker Botanical Garden, or find other free activities scattered throughout the park, Zilker Metropolitan Park is just what any broke college student needs.
Check out the street art in East Austin
Uncover the unique flavor of East Austin by immersing yourself in its vibrant art scene! Easily accessible and profoundly invigorating, it truly is a one-of-a-kind experience.
From traditional graffiti art to outdoor art galleries, art in East Austin has transformed parts of the city into brightly colored walking paths full of creativity.
Many street art murals are accompanied by inspiring messages that remind you why art matters. This unique art scene is must-see when visiting Austin — a city where art has become a form of expression that speaks louder than words.
Enjoy discovering art from local talented young artists from all over the world, expressed on the walls and alleyways of East Austin.
Go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool
If you’re looking for a perfect way to spend a summer day in Austin, look no further than the iconic Barton Springs Pool. Its three-acre size and magnificent springs make it an ideal spot to swim and cool off — especially if you’re on a tight budget!
Located right outside of Zilker Park and in the midst of the beautiful Texas Hill Country, this picturesque swimming hole will transport visitors to another era with its rustic charm. With 68 degrees year-round, swimming at Barton Springs is always refreshing, no matter what the weather’s like.
Whether you are looking for relaxation, exercise, or even just a nostalgia trip to times past, Barton Springs Pool has something for everyone. So grab your (affordable) entry pass and suit up for a splash!
Watch the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge
Each evening, throngs of students and locals alike can be found gathered along the Congress Avenue Bridge to witness an incredible spectacle — that of over a million bats emerging from underneath the bridge for their nightly hunt! It is truly a sight to behold, as hundreds of bats rush out from the crevices at once, swooping and swirling into the night sky in search of insects.
For all those looking for free, exciting things to do in Austin, watching this bat exodus is a must-see experience. Not only is it free, but it’s also awe-inspiring and sure to be a memorable event that you’ll recall fondly during your time in Austin.
Listen to live music on Sixth Street
Austin is known for its vibrant, eclectic music scene. From the majestic waters of Lady Bird Lake to the bustling streets of Sixth Street, there are endless opportunities to experience the soulful sounds and vibes of the city.
For college students who are on a budget, exploring Austin’s live music culture doesn’t need to be expensive. Instead of spending money at bars and clubs, spend an evening at one of the many live music venues on Sixth Street — all offering their own unique take on Austin’s famous music and atmosphere.
Enjoy some soul food accompanied by some soulful tunes and make everlasting memories that go way beyond the price tag.
Visit one of Austin’s many free museums
Austin is home to a number of museums that have free admission opportunities, so there’s always something new to explore and discover.
Check out these free gems:
Bee Cave Sculpture Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life to this tranquil 7-acre sculpture park nestled in a secluded, shaded area off Highway 71, close by the Hill Country Galleria. Here you can admire a display of gorgeous rotating and permanent sculptures set amongst beautiful natural scenery – all for free!
Blanton Museum of Art
The Blanton Museum of Art houses an impressive selection of over 18,000 artworks ranging from ancient Greek masterpieces to modern American and Latin-American works.
Plus, admission is complimentary every Thursday from 10 a.m to 5 p.m., and forever free for children under the age of 12!
Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Museum stands as a beacon of Texas culture, proudly welcoming over nine million visitors each year from around the globe. From unique artifacts to inspiring films and exhibitions, this museum provides its guests with meaningful educational experiences that showcase the history of Texas in an entertaining way. Whether you’re young or old, there is something for everyone at the Bullock Museum!
Experience the Bullock at no cost on the first Sunday of every month — from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission is free!
Laguna Gloria
If you’re searching for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than Laguna Gloria. Located directly on Lake Austin’s waterfront, this romantic Austin museum is one of a kind. Take some time to yourself this week — your much deserved zen awaits at Laguna Gloria!
Admission is free every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center
Located in the heart of Austin, the Jones Center on Congress Avenue offers a state-of-the-art gallery space to experience acclaimed contemporary art from around the globe. From captivating exhibitions to an array of cultural events and activities, this architecturally exquisite building has it all!
Admission is free every Thursday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Mexic-Arte Museum
If you’re looking to experience and honor Mexican, Latino, and Latin American artistry in all its forms — traditional or modern — then Mexic-Arte Museum is surely the perfect destination. A local favorite, this museum has free admission every Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum
The LBJ Presidential Library houses documents and artifacts belonging to our nation’s 36th president. The museum offers free entry for college students who live in Austin, making it an ideal spot for a cheap date night or recreational outing. For non-Austin college students, admission fees are just $4; definitely a great deal that won’t break your wallet!
Take a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country
Texas Hill Country is a miraculous sight that everyone should experience! Taking a scenic drive through the dynamic landscape of Texas Hill Country and its vast rolling hills, canyons, and streams is the perfect way to explore.
Don’t forget to take in the unique sights of lush wildflowers in season or vibrant fall foliage. Circle your way around Austin while catching views of historic landmarks, rivers, and prairies, as well as small-town charm on the side streets you’ll find along the way.
It’s an absolutely free adventure that any broke college student will enjoy and won’t soon forget!
Sample some of Austin’s famous food trucks and trailers
With a bustling food truck culture, Austin is the perfect place for a broke college student looking to experience some of the city’s most delicious offerings. From traditional Texas barbeque favorites to modern fusion takes on classic dishes, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste buds.
Check out some of Austin’s famous food trucks and trailers and satisfy your hunger with succulent and savory bites, all at amazing low prices. And don’t forget to try everything that comes with it, too, for a full culinary journey around this iconic city.
Conclusion
Austin is a great city for college students because there are so many free things to do! Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just getting outside, there’s something for everyone. And what’s even better is that most of these activities won’t cost you a dime. So the next time you’re looking for something to do on a budget, be sure to check out some of these great options in Austin.
For more useful articles and tools to help you save money on everything you buy and budget travel, check here.
