Cooler Temps, Hotter Fun: What To Enjoy This Fall In Austin
Cooler Temps, Hotter Fun: What to Enjoy This Fall in Austin
As the scorching Texas heat finally gives way to cooler temperatures, fall is the perfect time to explore all that Austin has to offer. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, this vibrant city transforms into an autumn playground for locals and visitors alike. If you’re planning to visit or just looking for some fresh ideas to make the most of the season, here’s your guide to the hottest things to do in Austin this fall.
1. Take in the Fall Foliage at Zilker Park
Austin may not be known for dramatic fall foliage, but Zilker Park offers the perfect escape for those looking to soak in a bit of seasonal beauty. As the trees along Barton Creek begin to change colors, you’ll find the park’s trails lined with golden hues, creating a picturesque setting for an afternoon stroll or a relaxing picnic.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the Zilker Botanical Garden. The Japanese Garden is particularly stunning in the fall, offering a peaceful retreat with its flowing waterfalls and vibrant foliage. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy Austin’s natural beauty as the weather cools.
2. Catch a Longhorns Game at DKR Memorial Stadium
Fall in Austin means one thing: football season! The University of Texas Longhorns are back in action, and there’s no better way to experience the electric energy of the city than by attending a home game at DKR Memorial Stadium. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a quintessential Texas experience, joining the sea of burnt orange is a must.
Even if you can’t snag tickets to the game, the tailgating scene is legendary. Grab some friends, set up camp, and enjoy the festivities leading up to kickoff. It’s a fall tradition that brings the entire city together.
3. Explore the Austin City Limits Music Festival
Austin’s music scene is world-renowned, and fall is when it truly shines. The Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival, taking place in October, is one of the biggest and best music festivals in the country. Held over two weekends in Zilker Park, ACL offers a lineup of top-tier artists across genres—from indie rock and hip-hop to electronic and country.
Even if you can’t make it to the festival, the city comes alive with unofficial shows, pop-ups, and music-themed events throughout ACL season. Local venues, bars, and even record shops host smaller concerts and parties, so there’s always a way to get in on the action.
4. Paddle or Kayak on Lady Bird Lake
With cooler temperatures making the outdoors more bearable, fall is the perfect time to get out on Lady Bird Lake. Whether you rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenic views of downtown Austin while staying active. The lake is a hub for outdoor lovers, offering calm waters and plenty of room to explore at your own pace.
For a more relaxed experience, consider an evening paddle. Sunset over the Austin skyline from the water is a breathtaking sight, and the cooler fall air makes it even more enjoyable.
5. Attend the Texas Book Festival
If you’re a literary lover, the Texas Book Festival is a can’t-miss event that brings renowned authors and book enthusiasts together for a weekend of readings, discussions, and signings. Held in downtown Austin every November, the festival is a celebration of all things books, featuring a lineup of both local and national authors.
This family-friendly event also includes activities for kids, live music, and food trucks, making it the perfect way to spend a crisp fall day. Whether you’re a serious bibliophile or just looking for a fun outing, the Texas Book Festival offers something for everyone.
6. Hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt
Autumn is the perfect time to hit the trails and enjoy Austin’s natural landscapes without the heat of summer. The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers some of the best hiking in the city, with its rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and seasonal waterfalls. As temperatures drop, it’s the ideal time to explore the miles of trails that wind through the Greenbelt, offering something for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
For those feeling adventurous, take a dip in the cool waters of Barton Creek or bring your bike to explore the more challenging off-road paths. The Greenbelt is a haven for nature lovers, and fall is the best time to experience it in all its glory.
7. Haunted Halloween Fun
Fall means spooky season, and Austin goes all out for Halloween. Whether you’re into haunted houses or ghost tours, there’s no shortage of creepy fun to be had in the city. One of the most popular attractions is House of Torment, a massive haunted house experience that will send chills down your spine.
For those looking for something a bit less intense, consider taking a ghost tour through downtown Austin. These guided tours offer a spooky glimpse into the city’s haunted history, perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit.
8. Take a Boat Party on Lake Travis
No fall adventure in Austin is complete without a day on the water at Lake Travis. As the summer crowds thin out, the lake becomes a peaceful yet lively place to host a birthday party, corporate event, or just a fun family outing. Captain Verde offers party boat rentals that make for the perfect fall activity—think cooler temps, gorgeous sunsets, and a fun time with friends and family.
A boat party on Lake Travis offers a mix of relaxation and excitement, making it a great way to enjoy Austin’s natural beauty while celebrating the cooler season.
9. Enjoy the Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of Austin’s many pumpkin patches and fall festivals. Barton Hill Farms is a favorite, offering pumpkin picking, corn mazes, live music, and more, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Texas Hill Country. It’s the perfect family-friendly outing that captures the essence of fall.
If you’re looking for more local flavor, be sure to check out the Austin Fermentation Festival in November, where you can sample everything from kombucha to kimchi, and learn about the art of fermentation from local experts.
Embrace Fall in Austin
With cooler temperatures and plenty of events and activities to choose from, fall is one of the best times to experience Austin. Whether you’re soaking up live music at ACL, hitting the trails, or cruising Lake Travis, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. So, grab your friends, family, and a sweater—it’s time to dive into fall fun in Austin!