Local Guide: 10 Things to Do in Austin

Experiencing Austin Like a Local

Austin, Texas, is a city that blends tradition with individuality. From historic dance halls to spring-fed swimming holes, it’s a place where craftsmanship, creativity, and character show up daily.  

Whether you’re visiting Austin for the weekend or exploring it like a local, these ten spots capture the spirit that makes the city unmistakable. Many are just steps from the Ariat store on South Congress, placing you right in the middle of it all. 

Here’s our curated guide to experiencing the best of the area, with stops for shopping, amazing food, and incredible views along the way!

Allen’s Boots on South Congress

Founded in 1977, Allen’s Boots is one of Austin’s most recognizable Western retailers. Known for its extensive selection of cowboy boots and Western wear, the store reflects the city’s deep ties to ranching, rodeo culture, and Texas craftsmanship. As South Congress has grown from a quiet strip into one of Austin’s most visited neighborhoods, Allen’s Boots has remained a consistent part of the neighborhood’s identity and continues to be the go-to place for visitors and locals alike to shop a wide range of brands, including Ariat.

Barton Springs Pool at Zilker Park

Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre, spring-fed swimming area that maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 68–70 degrees. Fed by the Edwards Aquifer, it has served as a gathering place for Austinites for generations. In addition to being a popular recreation spot, the pool represents Austin’s strong connection to its natural landscape and water resources.

Zilker Botanical Garden

Established in 1964, the 28-acre Zilker Botanical Garden highlights the plant life and ecosystems of Central Texas. The grounds include several themed areas, including the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, rose gardens, and collections of native Texas plants. Located within Zilker Park, the garden also serves as an educational resource focused on conservation and regional ecology.

Josephine House Restaurant

Josephine House operates out of a restored 1930s cottage in Austin’s historic Clarksville neighborhood. The restaurant is known for seasonal menus built around ingredients sourced from nearby farms and ranches. Clarksville itself was established as a freedmen’s community after the Civil War, giving the area a longstanding cultural history that continues to shape the neighborhood today.

La Barbecue

Texas barbecue runs deep in Austin, and LA Barbecue carries forward one of the state’s most recognized pitmaster legacies. Founded by LeAnn Mueller, the restaurant remains faithful to the Mueller family tradition, whose influence on Central Texas barbecue spans generations. The menu centers on slow-smoked brisket, house-made sausages, and the classic smoking techniques that define the region’s barbecue style.

Odd Duck Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Odd Duck began as a small Austin food trailer focused on seasonal, locally sourced dishes before opening as a restaurant in 2013. Chefs Bryce and Dylan Gilmore work closely with Texas farmers and ranchers, emphasizing the availability of local ingredients that shape the menu. Their approach has helped define Austin’s modern farm-to-table dining scene.

The Continental Club

Established in 1955, The Continental Club is one of Austin’s longest-running live music venues. Located on South Congress, just steps from the Ariat store, it has hosted generations of musicians across rock, blues, country, and roots genres. The venue contributed to Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” and remains a cornerstone of the city’s music culture.

The Broken Spoke Texas Dance Hall

Opened in 1964 by James White, The Broken Spoke is one of the last traditional Texas dance halls still operating in Austin. The venue is known for live country music, two-step dancing, and performances by legendary artists including Willie Nelson and George Strait. Today, it continues to preserve the honky-tonk traditions that shaped much of Texas’s musical culture.

Uncommon Objects Vintage Shop

Founded in 1991, Uncommon Objects is a curated antique and vintage collective known for its unusual artifacts and carefully arranged displays. Rather than functioning as a traditional antique store, the space operates as a group of independent dealers presenting distinctive pieces. The result reflects Austin’s appreciation for creativity, individuality, and historical preservation.

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

ACL Live at the Moody Theater opened in 2011 as the permanent home of Austin City Limits, the longest-running music television series in American history, first broadcast in 1974. The venue hosts nationally touring artists while continuing the tradition of live performance that helped establish Austin as a major music city.

Austin’s character shows up in places like these—dance halls, music venues, barbecue spots, and local institutions that have shaped the city for decades. Whether you’re exploring South Congress, catching live music, or cooling off at Barton Springs, each stop offers a different view of what makes Austin unique.

And if you’re spending the day on South Congress, the Ariat store is just around the corner, and it’s the ultimate spot for all of your denim needs, with a wide range of styles for both men and women. 

Not sure what you’re looking for? Our knowledgeable team will provide personalized service to help you find your perfect fit. While you’re exploring our selection, make sure you make time to see the Hat Doctor for custom hat shaping, fitting, branding, and more—an experience tailored just for you.

FAQ: Visiting Austin, Texas

What are the best things to do in Austin for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors usually focus on live music venues, Texas barbecue, and outdoor spots like Barton Springs Pool. South Congress is one of the easiest areas to explore, with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks within walking distance.

What should I wear when exploring Austin on foot?

Expect a lot of walking, especially in areas like South Congress and downtown. Footwear should provide support over long distances and hold up on mixed surfaces.

A well-built leather boot with a cushioned insole works across most settings, from daytime exploring to evening plans, without needing to change.

Shop comfortable men's and women's western boots

Where can I shop for boots in Austin?

South Congress is one of the best areas to shop for boots. Stores like Allen’s Boots and the Ariat retail location offer a range of styles suited for walking, work, and everyday wear.

When is the best time of year to visit Austin?

Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures, making it easier to spend time outdoors. These seasons also tend to have more consistent live music events and festivals across the city.

What should I wear to a Texas dance hall?

Traditional dance halls like The Broken Spoke still follow a classic Western dress code. Boots are preferred because they provide the right amount of structure and slide for two-step dancing.

A boot with a smooth outsole and defined heel helps with movement on the floor. Pair with denim and a breathable shirt to stay comfortable through multiple sets.

Learn more about the best boots for line dancing