Best Times to Visit Austin, Texas, USA
Quick Answer:
March and April in Austin offer a sparkling blend of pleasant weather and vibrant energy. Days are filled with sunshine and warm breezes, perfect for exploring the city's sparkling greenbelts and hiking trails, while evenings offer the delightful coolness to enjoy live music under the sparkling Texas stars. Fall (September-November) brings a refreshing change, with golden sunsets painting the sky as you stroll through Zilker Park. The summer months (June-August) are hot and humid, but the sparkling energy of outdoor festivals and swimming holes makes it worthwhile for those who don't mind the heat. Winter (December-February) provides a welcome respite from the heat, with occasional chilly days perfect for cozying up in a local coffee shop or enjoying the holiday sparkle of the city's festive events.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
AUS
Coordinates
30.27°, -97.74°
Top Things to Do
Bat Watching on Congress Avenue Bridge
Witness the mesmerizing spectacle of millions of bats emerging from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. Arrive early to secure a good spot and bring insect repellent; the best viewing is from late spring through fall.
Deep Dive into Austin's Food Truck Scene
Explore Austin's legendary food truck scene, venturing beyond the popular areas. Seek out hidden gems in neighborhoods like East Austin or South Congress, sampling diverse cuisines from tacos to gourmet burgers. Check online reviews and social media for daily locations.
Live Music on 6th Street (but do it differently)
Experience Austin's vibrant live music scene, but skip the crowded main drags. Discover intimate venues on side streets or explore the Continental Club, a legendary spot with a rich history. Weeknights offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Zilker Park's Hidden Trails and Barton Springs
Escape the crowds at Zilker Park by exploring its less-traveled trails. Hike or bike along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, then cool off with a swim in the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool. Best in spring or fall for pleasant temperatures.
Essential Travel Tips
Austin traffic can be brutal, especially during rush hour. Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or the city's public bus system, CapMetro, to avoid the frustration of driving and parking, which can be expensive and difficult to find downtown. CapMetro also has a useful app for planning your routes.
Many Austinites prefer to pay with cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller businesses, food trucks, and tipping. You'll find plenty of ATMs, but fees can add up, so check your bank's policies on out-of-network withdrawals.
Austin is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas, avoid walking alone in secluded spots, and don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics. Use ride-sharing apps for late-night travel.
Embrace Austin's unique 'Keep Austin Weird' vibe! Explore the quirky shops on South Congress Avenue (SoCo), check out the live music scene on 6th Street, and don't be afraid to strike up conversations with locals – they're generally friendly and welcoming. You might even discover a hidden gem of a restaurant or bar.
Austin's food scene is incredible, from authentic Tex-Mex to innovative food trucks. Explore beyond the downtown core; some of the best eats are in neighborhoods like East Austin and South Austin. The app 'Eater Austin' is a great resource for finding the latest and greatest.
Pack comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking! The weather in Austin can be unpredictable, so layers are key. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even in the cooler months, as the sun can be intense. And don't forget your swimsuit if you plan on visiting one of the many swimming holes.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 2°C | 55°F | 36°F | 38mm | 6 days | 10h |
| Feb | 15°C | 4°C | 59°F | 39°F | 43mm | 6 days | 11h |
| Mar | 19°C | 7°C | 66°F | 45°F | 61mm | 7 days | 12h |
| Apr | 23°C | 11°C | 73°F | 52°F | 81mm | 8 days | 13h |
| May | 27°C | 16°C | 81°F | 61°F | 99mm | 9 days | 14h |
| Jun | 32°C | 21°C | 90°F | 70°F | 76mm | 8 days | 14.5h |
| Jul | 34°C | 23°C | 93°F | 73°F | 58mm | 7 days | 14h |
| Aug | 33°C | 22°C | 91°F | 72°F | 66mm | 7 days | 13.5h |
| Sep | 29°C | 18°C | 84°F | 64°F | 81mm | 8 days | 12.5h |
| Oct | 24°C | 12°C | 75°F | 54°F | 61mm | 6 days | 11.5h |
| Nov | 18°C | 7°C | 64°F | 45°F | 48mm | 6 days | 10.5h |
| Dec | 14°C | 3°C | 57°F | 37°F | 41mm | 6 days | 10h |
All Things to Do in Austin, Texas, USA
Bat Watching on Congress Avenue Bridge
natureWitness the mesmerizing spectacle of millions of bats emerging from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. Arrive early to secure a good spot and bring insect repellent; the best viewing is from late spring through fall.
Best time: May-October
Deep Dive into Austin's Food Truck Scene
foodExplore Austin's legendary food truck scene, venturing beyond the popular areas. Seek out hidden gems in neighborhoods like East Austin or South Congress, sampling diverse cuisines from tacos to gourmet burgers. Check online reviews and social media for daily locations.
Live Music on 6th Street (but do it differently)
culturalExperience Austin's vibrant live music scene, but skip the crowded main drags. Discover intimate venues on side streets or explore the Continental Club, a legendary spot with a rich history. Weeknights offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Best time: March-November
Zilker Park's Hidden Trails and Barton Springs
natureEscape the crowds at Zilker Park by exploring its less-traveled trails. Hike or bike along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, then cool off with a swim in the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool. Best in spring or fall for pleasant temperatures.
Best time: March-May, September-November
Shopping on South Congress Avenue (SoCo)
shoppingSoCo offers a unique blend of vintage shops, boutiques, and quirky stores. Look beyond the typical tourist shops for hidden gems and local artisans. Check out the numerous murals and street art along the way.
Explore the Blanton Museum of Art
culturalDiscover the Blanton Museum of Art on the University of Texas campus. Explore its diverse collection spanning centuries and cultures, from European masters to contemporary art. Check their website for special exhibitions and events.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake
activityRent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake at your own pace. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding hills. Sunrise or sunset offer the most magical light.
Best time: March-November
Breakfast Taco Crawl
foodEmbark on a culinary adventure by trying different breakfast tacos from various spots around town. Each taqueria has its own unique style and flavor combinations. Explore beyond the well-known places for a true local experience.
Getting Around Austin, Texas, USA
Ride-sharing Apps (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Austin, offering a convenient and flexible way to get around, especially at night or in areas with limited public transport. They are particularly useful for reaching destinations outside the downtown core.
Austin's Public Bus System (Capital Metro)
Capital Metro operates an extensive network of buses covering most of Austin. It's an affordable option for reaching many attractions and neighborhoods. Routes are frequent during peak hours.
Electric Scooter Rentals
Numerous scooter rental companies operate throughout Austin, offering a fun and affordable way to travel short distances. They are perfect for navigating the city center and its many parks.
Ride-sharing with Locals (BlaBlaCar)
While less common in Austin than in some European cities, you might find occasional ride-sharing opportunities on platforms like BlaBlaCar, especially for trips to or from the airport or surrounding areas. This can be a cost-effective option for longer distances.
B-cycle Bike-Sharing Program
Austin's B-cycle system provides a network of bike stations across the city, allowing you to rent bikes for short trips. It's a great way to explore the city's parks and trails.
Taxi Cabs
Taxis are available but generally more expensive than ride-sharing options. They are a reliable option, especially for late-night travel or when ride-sharing apps are experiencing surge pricing.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Austin to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds?
Shoulder seasons, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), offer the most pleasant weather. You'll dodge the scorching summer heat and the massive crowds of SXSW in March. While it can still get warm, the evenings are generally comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities.
How easy is it to get around Austin without a car?
Austin has a decent public transportation system, but it's not comprehensive. The city is quite spread out. For shorter distances, ride-sharing services are readily available and convenient. Consider renting a scooter or bike for exploring certain areas, but be aware of the heat and hills!
What are some unique Austin experiences that aren't in every guidebook?
Check out the Zilker Botanical Garden for a peaceful escape from the city buzz. For a quirky experience, visit the Cathedral of Junk, a truly unique art installation made entirely of recycled materials. And don't miss the many live music venues scattered throughout town, beyond the famous 6th Street.
What's the deal with the food scene in Austin? Any insider tips?
Austin's food scene is incredibly diverse and vibrant. Beyond the trendy food trucks, explore the East Austin neighborhood for authentic Tex-Mex and delicious BBQ. Look for places with lines – they often indicate great food and a local favorite. Don't be afraid to try some of the smaller, family-run restaurants.
Is Austin a safe city for tourists? Are there any specific safety concerns I should be aware of?
Austin is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas, avoid walking alone in less populated areas late at night, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Exercise the same caution you would in any unfamiliar city.
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