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Local picks

Interesting fun activities in Downtown Austin

Made for those who find standard outings tedious and require their leisure time to offer something genuinely unconventional.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
State government office

Impressive historic architecture with a stunning dome anchors a tranquil space filled with memorials and gardens. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, inviting leisurely walks and reflection. Free guided tours and open access to a reference library enhance the educational experience.

Tours offer fun facts and insights about history and architecture. Standing on the center star triggers a surprising echo. Watching the proceedings adds to the engaging experience.

Free 30-minute tours offer an excellent glimpse at Texas history. The building features massive underground sections, historical exhibits, and a notable library.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are stunning, with gorgeous architecture and impressive views."

"The architecture here is really beautiful and impressive."

"You'll have fun on the guided tour, packed with insights and fun facts."

Good to know

1

Entry to the Texas Capitol is free, with no tickets required.

2

Free guided tours are available every 30 minutes at the Texas Capitol.

3

SXSW takes over the city every March, featuring music, film, and interactive events.

02
Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours image 1

Tour blends historical facts with ghost stories in a calm, respectful atmosphere. Participants use ghost detecting equipment like EMF meters and dowsing rods, adding an interactive element. Guides focus on verified true stories and honor spirits, creating an engaging and informative experience.

Tours feature a well spoken and fun guide who keeps the audience engaged and intrigued. Monica makes the experience fun for everyone involved.

Stories include interesting history and details about spooky places downtown. The tour lets you choose the next stop and shares short, engaging tales along the way.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are incredibly informative and engaging."

"The guides here are so knowledgeable and make the tours really fun."

"I found the history and spooky stories here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot on the tour.

2

The tour covers approximately 0.5 miles, making it easy to walk.

3

Guides are knowledgeable and provide engaging storytelling.

03
Museum of the Weird image 1

Small, three-story building with tight corridors and secret rooms creates a unique layout to explore. Atmosphere blends creepy vintage horror with quirky sideshow oddities, offering a fun and memorable vibe. Live performances and photo-friendly displays add dynamic energy to the experience.

Offers a fun and quirky experience with bizarre exhibits that keep things interesting. Entry is affordable, making it easy to enjoy without spending much.

Exhibits feature super cool and weird stuff that stands out. The gift shop also offers some interesting items to check out.

People are saying

"It's a fun, quirky spot with lots of oddities and playful displays."

"The exhibits here are really interesting with cool props and displays."

"It's affordable and packed with oddball charm and sideshow artifacts."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 for entry to the museum.

2

Allow time to find parking in downtown Austin.

3

The museum lacks accessibility due to uneven steps between exhibits.

04
The Driskill - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt image 1

Historic hotel showcases Victorian decor and ornate architecture with a timeless atmosphere. Ambiance includes live music at a volume that allows conversation, creating a welcoming and elegant environment. Valet parking is convenient and quick, complementing the overall experience.

Exploring the hotel offers a haunted story and a guided tour that adds to the fun. The place is full of history and beautiful details that make wandering around enjoyable.

Haunted events add a spooky vibe. The hotel features beautiful architecture and a classic lobby. A 4 pm historic tour offers interesting and informative insights.

People are saying

"It's a historic icon with stunning architectural details and timeless elegance."

"The bar's drinks, like old fashioneds and martinis, were excellent."

"I did a ghost tour and it was fun!"

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a free historical tour at 4 pm every day.

2

Expect high demand for events; reservations are recommended.

3

The hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from historic attractions.

05
Marlow image 1

Lounge with vintage modern style and custom velvet divans offers a chill, intimate vibe with impeccable music and craft cocktails. Indoor and outdoor spaces provide cozy seating and a serene atmosphere away from busy streets. Dog-friendly environment complements the relaxed, classy energy.

A food truck outside and a lively indoor vibe create a spot for music, dancing, drinks, and cake. Events here feel fun and social, making it a good place for friends to gather.

Cocktails feature interesting and well made recipes with a delicious drink menu. The bar offers an open space with a cool classic design.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are phenomenal and very reasonably priced."

"It's a fun spot for events with a great vibe and music."

"It's interesting how they kept that Austin vibe alive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6pm, with $10 craft cocktails.

2

Parking is available on the street or in the nearby convention center garage.

3

Marlow hosts a monthly bingo event with prizes from spirit brands.

06
Floppy Disk Repair Co. image 1

Hidden speakeasy with horror-themed decor and unique ambiance creates a laid-back, funky vibe. Music ranges from live DJ sets spinning 80s vinyl to varied playlists, balancing energy and conversation. Compact space attracts an outgoing crowd, offering a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere.

Novelty cocktails and a speakeasy vibe create a fun atmosphere. Watching people through a hidden mirror adds a playful touch to the experience.

Drinks feature interesting and creative combinations with unique names like 'Tix are not for kids.' Some cocktails taste less inventive than their descriptions suggest.

People are saying

"It's a super cool, quirky dive bar with a unique horror theme."

"The drinks here are interesting and creative."

"The cocktails here are really good and have clever names."

Good to know

1

You need a code to enter, which can be obtained from the bar next door.

2

Drinks are expensive, with two cocktails costing around $50.

3

The menu does not list prices, so be prepared for surprises.

07
The Guest House Austin image 1

Steak house offers an elegant setting with chandelier sparkle and private seating areas for intimacy. Music ranges from a live DJ to carefully curated playlists, creating a dynamic atmosphere. Signature cocktails feature theatrical presentations that complement the upscale vibe.

Upbeat nights feature a DJ and lively vibes. Creative desserts like the faux cheesy dessert and the campfire sundae add fun and visual appeal to the experience.

Drinks stand out as interesting and tasty. Bartenders at the bar are talkative and engaging. Menu options offer a variety of unique choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to the super nice and proactive staff."

"The servers here are so knowledgeable and attentive, making for a fun atmosphere."

"The drinks here are interesting and tasty with innovative twists."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are required for private events and must be confirmed in advance.

3

A $25 cutting fee applies if you bring your own cake.

08
Casino El Camino image 1
Bar & grill

Dive bar with punk rock and metal vibe combines pre-colonial Mexica decor and lucha Libre elements for a unique atmosphere. Loud music upstairs and a classic jukebox set a buzzing, wild tone. Functional pool tables and a smoking patio add to the laid-back, alternative energy.

Lively bar atmosphere creates a fun vibe especially in the evenings. Pool tables add to the entertainment, alongside beer and burgers for a casual good time.

Interesting decor sets a unique tone with a strong rock, goth, and alternative vibe. The atmosphere feels distinct and stands out from typical spots.

People are saying

"I thought this place had one of the best burgers I ever had."

"It's a great place for fun activities like devouring massive, perfectly cooked burgers."

"The Amarillo Burger is interesting with its spicy serranos and pepper jack."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Expect long wait times after 5pm due to high crowd volume.

3

Take-out orders are available if you prefer to avoid the crowd.

09
Powder Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Vegas-style speakeasy with plush vintage seating and a striking taxidermy leopard centerpiece creates an intimate yet energetic atmosphere. Live music features an incredible DJ and guitarist, enhancing the secret club vibe where phones are locked away to keep focus on the experience.

A fun speakeasy with a beautiful bar offers a glamorous hidden jewel vibe. Friendly staff like Angel enhance the experience and happy hour specials add to the fun.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, balanced, and crafted with care."

"The staff here makes every experience so fun and special."

"The decor is pretty cute, with a stunning setting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 PM with $12 cocktails and half off food.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

3

The venue enforces a strict dress code; smart casual attire is required.

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Downtown Austin, Austin

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