As summer is around the corner, we’re all jumping at any and every opportunity to be outside that we can get. In Austin, there are plenty of super enjoyable things to do outside around the city, but here are some that I love to do to get myself connected to nature.
1. Shop at the Farmers’ Market
The farmers’ market is a great way to not only get connected to nature, but your neighbors! I love supporting local businesses and buying fresh produce, and being outside shopping sustainably is an added bonus! Depending on your area of town, there are a couple great farmer’s markets to choose from.
- Wednesday-Saturdays 8am – 1pm
- Location: East Austin, 3414 Lyons Road, 78702
- Saturdays 9am – 1pm
- Location: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, 78701
SFC Farmers’ Market Sunset Valley
- Saturdays 9am – 1pm
- New Location: Sunset Valley Elementary, 3000 Jones Rd, 78745
Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller
- Sundays 10:00am – 2:00pm
- 4209 Airport Blvd. Austin, Texas 78722
2. Paddleboard, Kayak, or Canoe
Having Lady Bird Lake and the Colorado River in the heart of Austin calls for some great opportunities to take a day and either paddleboard, kayak, or canoe! On a sunny day, floating around the water is the perfect way to relax and get away from the busy city center. Most of the services even offer tours around the city through your board or float. There are tons of places around Austin to do these things as well!
- SUP ATX Paddleboard Rentals, 1541 West Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78703.
- Rowing Dock Paddleboard, Kayak, & Canoe Rentals, 2418 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
- Austin Paddle Shack – SUP & Kayak Rentals, Cidercade Austin, 600 East Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704.
- Live Love Paddle, 1610 E Riverside Dr, Austin, Texas 78741
3. Rent a Bike
If you don’t want the perspective of the water to see Austin, consider renting a bike and exploring the city in a new way! Biking around is a great way to get some exercise, and you can do it alone, with a friend, or a group of people! Many bike rental places in the city have the opportunity to book a tour as well, if you want to learn something new about Austin. You can ride your bike in numerous trails throughout the city as well, including Lady Bird Lake Trail, The Shoal Creek Trail, and The Barton Creek Green Belt.
- Barton Springs Bike Rentals , 1707 Barton Springs Rd Austin, Texas 78704
- Austin Bike Tours & Rentals , 102 WEST 3RD STREET, AUSTIN, TX, 78701
- Bike Rental Austin, 512 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX
4. Visit an Outdoor Bar
On a nice day, there are few things better than sipping a delicious cocktail outside! There are many outdoor patios and bars that provide great food and drinks and allow for you to enjoy the weather while socializing. With so many options to choose from in every corner of Austin, you can be sure to get your dose of outdoors while eating and drinking. There are a lot of choices, but here are some of my favorites:
- Cosmic Coffee & Beer Garden – American
- Cedar Door – American
- The Little Darlin – Southern
- Easy Tiger – Breakfast & Lunch
5. Go for a Picnic in the Park
Picnics are a great excuse to dress up, bake some of your favorite treats, or go all out on fancy cheeses or wine. You can plan a photoshoot, bring a nice blanket, and plan a day with some friends enjoying the sunshine and some snacks. Throughout Austin, there are many great places to bring a picnic or just chill on the grass, but these are the biggest picnic spots!
6. An Outdoor Fitness Class
Sometimes fitness outside makes everything better! If you want to get your daily workout in without sacrificing time outside, there are plenty of places around Austin that offer all kinds of fitness classes and bootcamps that are outdoors. Get your endorphins up with outdoor yoga at Lady Bird Lake, or rooftop cycling or weights.
7. Swimming Holes
On a hot summer day, nothing feels better than a fresh swim. Plan a day with your friends or with your pup, and head to one of these amazing swimming holes for a day of fun and relaxation, all while enjoying nature.
8. Visit Zilker Park & the Botanical Garden
You could easily spend a whole day and more in Zilker Park, but you don’t want to miss the botanical garden – with 28 beautiful acres of stunning gardens including panoramic views, oak trees, koi ponds, and themed gardens. You can reserve your tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the beauty of nature!
Hours: 9am-6pm, Open 7 days a week
Price: Austin Resident $6, Non Austin Resident $8
Austin may be a bustling city, but there is no lack of greenery and chances to enjoy nature, even in the heart of the city. You can always find something fun to do outside – and these activities will definitely make your day worthwhile!
