Memorial Day weekend in Austin marks the unofficial start of summer—and there’s no better place to spend it than in the heart of Texas Hill Country. From lake days and live music to food trucks and family fun, Austin offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local looking to take advantage of the long weekend or a visitor planning a quick getaway, we’ve rounded up the best things to do on Memorial Day weekend in ATX—including why you should definitely make time to hit the water with Captain Verde.
1. Start with Brunch (Because, of Course)
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse to linger over a long, delicious brunch. Start your day at one of Austin’s brunch hotspots, where patios are buzzing and the mimosas are flowing.
Some local favorites:
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Snooze, an A.M. Eatery – Known for creative pancakes, breakfast tacos, and morning cocktails.
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Hillside Farmacy – A beautifully restored pharmacy with a Southern-inspired menu and cozy outdoor seating.
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Josephine House – An elegant cottage brunch destination in Clarksville with a great wine list.
Wherever you choose, get there early—tables fill up fast over holiday weekends.
2. Catch Live Music All Around Town
As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin doesn’t disappoint when it comes to Memorial Day performances. Whether you’re into blues, indie rock, country, or laid-back acoustic sets, there’s something playing every night of the weekend.
Check out:
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The Far Out Lounge – A massive outdoor venue with a casual vibe, food trucks, and weekend-long events.
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Mohawk and Empire Control Room – For an edgier downtown music experience.
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Guero’s Oak Garden – Family-friendly and laid-back, with free live music on South Congress.
If you’re staying near Lake Travis or in the hill country, many breweries and wineries also host live bands throughout the weekend.
3. Take a Memorial Day Dip
The temps are rising, and Austin’s swimming spots are the perfect way to cool off.
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Barton Springs Pool – A natural spring-fed pool in Zilker Park, always a refreshing 68°F.
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Deep Eddy Pool – A historic favorite with lap lanes and family-friendly lounging.
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Blue Hole in Wimberley – A short drive outside the city, but a perfect day trip for shaded swimming in a picturesque creek.
Just make sure to arrive early—capacity limits fill fast on holiday weekends, and locals know to get their spots by mid-morning.
4. Hit the Trails or Paddle Lady Bird Lake
For those looking to stay active, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Rowing Dock or Congress Avenue Kayaks and explore Lady Bird Lake. You’ll get incredible skyline views and maybe even spot some turtles or herons along the way.
Prefer to stay dry? Walk or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which loops the lake and offers scenic stops and shaded rest areas. It’s the perfect blend of city and nature.
5. Check Out a Festival or Local Event
Austin always brings the energy on long weekends, and Memorial Day is no exception. While event calendars change each year, you can usually count on:
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Hot Luck Live Food & Music Festival – A weekend-long event celebrating fire-based cooking and live bands, curated by Aaron Franklin (of Franklin Barbecue fame).
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Paramount Summer Classic Film Series – Kick off the outdoor movie season with screenings of iconic films at the historic Paramount Theatre.
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Local brewery events – Keep an eye on Austin Beerworks, Meanwhile Brewing, and Vista Brewing for Memorial Day events with live music, yard games, and new seasonal releases.
6. Float the River
One of Central Texas’s most iconic summer pastimes is floating the river, and Memorial Day is prime time to grab your cooler, sunscreen, and tube.
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San Marcos River – Great for a gentle float with clear water and shady trees.
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Guadalupe River – A bit rowdier and ideal for groups looking to socialize and splash.
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Comal River – Short but sweet, with a spring-fed flow and easy shuttle service.
Expect crowds, but that’s half the fun. Pro tip: Bring water shoes, plenty of hydration, and a waterproof bag for your phone.
7. Spend the Day on Lake Travis with Captain Verde
Of all the things to do over Memorial Day weekend in Austin, renting a party boat on Lake Travis with Captain Verde is the ultimate move. The weather is perfect, the water is calling, and your crew deserves a day of sun, music, and pure lake vibes.
Why Captain Verde is a must:
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Double-decker pontoons with slides
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Spacious layouts with room for coolers, floaties, and your favorite people
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Bluetooth sound systems to bring your playlist to life
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Friendly captains available so you can relax and enjoy the ride
Whether you’re celebrating with friends, hosting a family gathering, or just want to escape the city for a few hours, there’s no better way to kick off summer than on a boat.
Holiday weekends book up fast, so make your reservation early and don’t miss your chance to be on the water when the rest of the city is stuck on shore.
8. End the Day with a Sunset and Some BBQ
After a full day of lake adventures, there’s no better way to wind down than with Texas barbecue and a Lake Travis sunset.
Best BBQ with a view:
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The Oasis on Lake Travis – The go-to spot for sunset views, with multiple decks and a festive atmosphere.
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Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood – Worth the drive if you’re headed south, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Alternatively, pick up some BBQ to-go and enjoy it at a local park or your Airbnb patio. Memorial Day is all about slowing down, remembering what matters, and spending time with the people you care about.
Make This Memorial Day Weekend One to Remember
From lake days and live music to slow brunches and high-energy festivals, Austin brings its best every Memorial Day. But the best way to soak it all in might just be from the deck of a Captain Verde boat, surrounded by sunshine, good tunes, and your favorite people.
Ready to lock in your Lake Travis adventure?
Book your Captain Verde boat rental today and make your Memorial Day weekend unforgettable.
