• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. The Blanton Museum of Art ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
The Blanton Museum of Art
© The Blanton Museum of Art

2. Austin Nature and Science Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Kids & Family Fun
Austin Nature and Science Center
© Austin Nature and Science Center

What you are reading: Explore Austin, Texas for Free (and Cheap) This Weekend


3. The Bullock Texas State History Museum

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
The Bullock Texas State History Museum
© Courtesy of JJAVA - Fotolia.com

4. The Austin Aqua-Dome

The Austin Aqua-Dome
© Courtesy of mauriziobiso - Fotolia.com

Best Tourist Attractions & Fun Stuff to See:


5. The Texas Governor's Mansion

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
The Texas Governor's Mansion
© The Texas Governor’s Mansion

6. Mount Bonnell

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Mount Bonnell
© Courtesy of lisandrotrarbach - Fotolia.com

You are reading: Explore Austin, Texas for Free (and Cheap) Near Me Today


7. The Harry Ransom Center

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
The Harry Ransom Center
© The Harry Ransom Center

8. Zilker Metropolitan Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Zilker Metropolitan Park
© Courtesy of stolkl - Fotolia.com

More to See for Adults, Romantic Couples and Families with Kids:


9. Historic Oakwood Cemetery

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
Historic Oakwood Cemetery
© Courtesy of Jill - Fotolia.com

10. Bull Creek District Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Bull Creek District Park
© Courtesy of Melanie - Fotolia.com

Keep reading: Explore Austin, Texas for Free (and Cheap) Near My Location


11. The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge

The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge
© Courtesy of jbyard - Fotolia.com

12. Lady Bird Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Lady Bird Lake
© Courtesy of trongnguyen - Fotolia.com

Rainy Day Ideas:


13. Mayfield Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Mayfield Park
© Courtesy of Faina Gurevich - Fotolia.com

14. Sparky Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
Sparky Park
© Courtesy of Pabkov - Fotolia.com

15. The Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol
© Courtesy of kbose - Fotolia.com

16. The Texas Community Music Festival

Category: Entertainment Near Me
The Texas Community Music Festival
© Courtesy of G. Lombardo - Fotolia.com

17. Toy Joy Store

Toy Joy Store
© Toy Joy Store

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • A large number of public parks and lakes in Austin provide opportunities for free outdoor recreation, serving as popular spots for swimming, boating, hiking, and biking.
  • Many free festivals and events are held in the city throughout the year, and major public art installations are on view temporarily or semi-permanently at many sites throughout the city.
  • For a lower-cost option to explore some of the city's most unique landmarks, Austin's CapMetro system offers bus, paratransit, and commuter rail lines with stops throughout the city's eclectic and vibrant neighborhoods.
  • Some attractions are free only on certain days – please check before you go.

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