Experience Austin Beyond ACL Fest: A Local’s Guide to the Best Things To Do
If you are traveling to Austin for ACL Fest, you have probably already heard the usual recommendations.
Visit South Congress.
Take a photo at the “I Love You So Much” mural.
Spend an afternoon at Barton Springs.
Explore Zilker Park.
While these iconic Austin experiences are worth visiting, there is so much more to discover beyond the festival crowds.
Whether you are visiting for your first ACL weekend, planning a group trip, a couples getaway, or extending your stay, this local guide highlights the best things to do in Austin including outdoor adventures, hidden gems, local restaurants, nightlife, and unforgettable experiences.
Start Your ACL Weekend With a Lake Travis Adventure
One of the best ways to experience Austin is by getting outside the city and exploring the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
Before spending hours walking through Zilker Park and enjoying live music, trade the festival crowds for an adrenaline filled outdoor adventure at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures.
Located just outside downtown Austin, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is one of the top outdoor activities near Austin and a must add to any ACL Fest itinerary.
Home to the longest and fastest ziplines in Texas, guests soar across five incredible ziplines reaching speeds up to 65 mph while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Hill Country.
This is the perfect Austin adventure for visitors looking for:
• Things to do near Austin
• Outdoor adventures
• Unique Austin experiences
• Group activities
• Thrilling experiences during ACL weekend
Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or a significant other, ziplining over Lake Travis is an unforgettable way to experience the adventure side of Austin.
Austin Restaurants Locals Recommend During ACL Fest
Austin is known for its incredible food scene. While there are plenty of trendy restaurants throughout the city, these local favorites offer a true taste of Austin.
Matt’s El Rancho
A longtime Austin favorite since 1952, Matt’s El Rancho is known for classic Tex Mex, famous margaritas, and iconic dishes like Bob Armstrong Dip. It is a great stop before ACL Fest or after exploring the city.
Chuy’s Original Location
The original Chuy’s on Barton Springs Road captures Austin’s colorful personality with classic Tex Mex, creative cocktails, and a fun atmosphere. It is a must visit for anyone wanting a true Austin dining experience.
Austin Hidden Gems To Explore Beyond ACL Fest
Austin is famous for being creative, unique, and a little weird. These local favorites offer a different side of the city.
Cathedral of Junk
Hidden in South Austin, the Cathedral of Junk is one of Austin’s most unusual attractions. This massive art installation made from recycled materials is a perfect example of Austin’s “Keep Austin Weird” personality.
Local tip: Schedule your visit ahead of time since it is located on private property.
Pott Daddy Studio
Looking for a unique Austin souvenir? Stop by Pott Daddy Studio for handmade pottery and locally created artwork that captures the creativity of Austin.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Skip the Zilker crowds and explore one of Austin’s favorite outdoor escapes. Barton Creek Greenbelt offers hiking trails, swimming spots, limestone cliffs, and beautiful Hill Country scenery just minutes from downtown.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Located just outside Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of Central Texas’ most beautiful natural attractions. With a waterfall, limestone cliffs, and turquoise swimming hole, it is a perfect day trip for visitors wanting to explore beyond the city.
Reservations are required, so plan ahead.
Relax After ACL Fest With an Austin Recovery Day
After a weekend of live music, walking, and late nights, take some time to slow down.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the JW Marriott Austin pool or head outside the city for a spa day at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa.
Austin is the perfect place to balance adventure with relaxation.
Want To Get Out of Town? Explore Lake Travis
One of the biggest mistakes ACL visitors make is staying only downtown.
Just 30 minutes from Austin, Lake Travis offers a completely different side of Central Texas with beautiful views, outdoor activities, waterfront restaurants, and unforgettable adventures.
From boating and hiking to ziplining above the lake, Lake Travis is the perfect escape from the festival crowds.
For visitors looking for a true Austin adventure, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is one of the best ways to experience the area.
Austin Nightlife Locals Recommend After ACL Fest
ACL may end when the final performance finishes, but Austin’s nightlife continues all night long.
Skip the typical tourist bars and check out these local favorites.
Wanderlust Wine Cave
A unique underground wine experience near Barton Springs featuring tastings, small bites, and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed evening after a busy festival day.
IFYKYK
True to its name, IFYKYK is a hidden style cocktail experience featuring creative drinks and a more intimate atmosphere than the larger downtown bars.
Zanzibar
Located downtown, Zanzibar combines rooftop views, craft cocktails, music, and a lively atmosphere. It is a great option for groups looking to continue the night after ACL.
Sunset Strip Comedy and Entertainment
Austin is known for more than music. Catch a comedy show at Sunset Strip Comedy and Entertainment for a fun alternative to another night of concerts.
Why ACL Visitors Should Explore Beyond the Festival
ACL Fest brings visitors to Austin for the music, but the best Austin trips include so much more.
Experience:
• Live music
• Outdoor adventures
• Local restaurants
• Hidden Austin gems
• Lake Travis experiences
• Texas Hill Country views
From flying across Lake Travis on a zipline to eating legendary Tex Mex and exploring Austin’s unique culture, the memories you make outside the festival are what turn a weekend trip into an unforgettable adventure.
Austin is not just a festival destination.
It is an adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About ACL Fest Austin
What are the best things to do in Austin during ACL Fest?
The best things to do in Austin during ACL Fest include exploring Lake Travis, visiting local restaurants like Matt’s El Rancho and Chuy’s Original, experiencing Austin nightlife, hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt, visiting Hamilton Pool Preserve, and discovering hidden gems like Cathedral of Junk.
What should I do before ACL Fest starts?
Before heading to Zilker Park, consider booking an outdoor adventure like Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. Morning activities are a great way to experience Austin before spending the afternoon and evening at the festival.
Is Lake Travis worth visiting during an ACL trip?
Yes. Lake Travis is one of the best places near Austin for visitors who want outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and a break from festival crowds. Popular Lake Travis activities include ziplining, boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and waterfront dining.
What are some hidden gems in Austin?
Some hidden gems in Austin include Cathedral of Junk, Pott Daddy Studio, Wanderlust Wine Cave, IFYKYK, Barton Creek Greenbelt, and local restaurants like Matt’s El Rancho and Chuy’s Original.
What are the best outdoor activities near Austin?
Popular outdoor activities near Austin include Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt, visiting Hamilton Pool Preserve, kayaking Lady Bird Lake, exploring Mount Bonnell, and spending the day at Lake Travis.
Where should I eat during ACL Fest weekend?
Some local Austin favorites include Matt’s El Rancho for Tex Mex, Chuy’s Original Location for classic Austin dining, and the many local restaurants throughout South Congress, East Austin, and downtown.
What are fun things to do in Austin besides ACL Fest?
Austin offers many activities beyond the festival, including outdoor adventures, wineries, comedy shows, rooftop bars, museums, local art experiences, shopping, and exploring the Texas Hill Country.
How far is Lake Travis from ACL Fest?
Lake Travis is approximately 30 minutes from downtown Austin and Zilker Park depending on traffic. It is an easy day trip for visitors who want to experience the outdoors during their ACL weekend.
Do I need reservations for Hamilton Pool Preserve?
Yes. Hamilton Pool Preserve requires reservations, especially during busy travel periods like ACL Fest weekend. Visitors should plan ahead because availability can be limited.
Helpful Links and Resources
Plan your ACL Fest Austin trip with these helpful resources:
Official Austin Travel Resources
Visit Austin
https://www.austintexas.org
Do512 Austin Events Calendar
https://do512.com
Austin Chronicle Events Calendar
https://www.austinchronicle.com/events/
ACL Festival Official Website
https://www.aclfestival.com
Austin Attractions and Experiences
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
https://www.ziplaketravis.com
Thinkery Austin
https://thinkeryaustin.org
Austin Parks and Recreation
https://www.austintexas.gov/parks
Texas State Parks
https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/
Hamilton Pool Preserve
https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve
Local Austin Food and Entertainment
Matt’s El Rancho
https://mattselrancho.com
Chuy’s
https://www.chuys.com
Wanderlust Wine Co.
https://wanderlustwine.com
Zanzibar Austin
https://www.zanzibaratx.com
Sunset Strip Comedy and Entertainment
https://www.sunsetstripatx.com
Final Thoughts: Experience ACL Fest Like a Local
ACL Fest is one of the best music festivals in Texas, but the best Austin memories often happen outside Zilker Park.
Skip the standard tourist checklist.
Explore the hidden gems.
Try the local restaurants.
Get outside.
Find your own Austin adventure.
From thrilling zipline rides over Lake Travis to late night cocktails, local food, and unforgettable experiences, Austin offers endless ways to make your ACL Fest trip one you will never forget.
Come for the music. Stay for the adventure.