Best Things to Do in Austin in September 2026

August 31, 2026/Mallory/

Best Things to Do in Austin in September 2026

Looking for things to do in Austin in September 2026? Whether you’re planning a trip to Austin, looking for a fun weekend with the family, or simply want to get outside and enjoy the start of fall, September is packed with things to do.

From major festivals and live music to free cultural events, sporting events and outdoor adventures, there is something happening almost every weekend.

But if you want to make one activity the highlight of your September Austin itinerary, make it an outdoor adventure on Lake Travis.

The Fall Must-Do Activity: Ride the Longest and Fastest Zipline in Texas

If you’re searching for the best things to do in Austin in the fall, this is one adventure worth putting at the top of your list.

Just outside Austin, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures combines breathtaking Texas Hill Country scenery, Lake Travis views, hiking and serious adrenaline into one experience.

The attraction is home to the longest and fastest zipline in Texas. Its signature Double Barrel Shotgun stretches approximately 2,800 feet and can reach speeds of up to 65 mph, sending riders soaring over Lake Travis.

And this isn’t just a quick zipline ride.

The full experience includes five ziplines, a guided Hill Country hike, a boat ride and incredible views of Lake Travis. The full course takes about three hours, while the Single Line Double Barrel Shotgun experience is designed for people who want the big thrill without committing to the entire course. 

For families and groups looking for something beyond the usual Austin attractions, it’s a memorable way to get outside, try something new and experience the Texas Hill Country from above.

The 2026 season runs through late November, making September a great time to add this outdoor adventure to your Austin plans. Austin Monthly

Why put ziplining on your September Austin bucket list?

  • It’s an unforgettable outdoor adventure near Austin.
  • You can experience the longest and fastest zipline in Texas.
  • The full adventure combines ziplining, hiking and a boat ride.
  • You get panoramic views of Lake Travis and the Texas Hill Country.
  • It’s a fun option for families, groups and visitors who want something more adventurous than a typical sightseeing day.
  • September is a great month to start transitioning from summer activities into fall adventures in Austin.

If your goal is to get outside and make some memories, this should be near the top of your list.

Once you’ve checked the zipline off your list, there are plenty of other Austin events to fill your September calendar.

September 1–6

1. Cybercab Launch Event — September 3

If you’re interested in Austin’s technology and transportation scene, keep an eye out for the Cybercab event on September 3. Confirm event details before attending, as schedules and access information can change.

2. Lone Star Le Mans — September 4–6

Head to Circuit of The Americas for the Lone Star Le Mans and a weekend of World Endurance Championship racing. The 2026 event runs September 4–6, with on-track action and fan activities throughout the weekend.

3. Austin Bat Fest — September 5

Watch one of Austin’s most famous natural spectacles during Austin Bat Fest on September 5. The event celebrates the city’s famous Mexican free-tailed bats beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge with music, entertainment and activities. 

4. UT Football vs. Texas State — September 5

College football is back in Austin. The University of Texas opens its 2026 home schedule against Texas State on September.

5. The Front Fest — September 4–6

Celebrate women and nonbinary creatives through music, art, film and community during The Front Fest over Labor Day weekend.

6. Austin Women in Jazz Festival — September 5

Spend Labor Day weekend listening to incredible jazz during the Austin Women in Jazz Festival. The 2026 festival features performances celebrating women in jazz, culture and community. 

7. Brandi Carlile in Concert — September 6

Catch Brandi Carlile live in Austin on September 6. If you’re looking for a big concert to add to your September itinerary, this is one to watch.

8. Austin Restaurant Weeks — Through September 13

Austin Restaurant Weeks runs August 28 through September 13, 2026, giving food lovers plenty of opportunities to try special prix-fixe menus and dining deals around the Austin area. A portion of proceeds benefits the Central Texas Food Bank. 

September 7–13

9. Levitation — September 10–13

Austin’s psychedelic music festival returns September 10–13 with performances throughout the city.

10. Zilker Relays — September 11

Get moving at the Zilker Relays. The 10-mile relay takes place at Zilker Metropolitan Park, and public viewing is free. 

11. Shaboozey in Concert — September 11

Add some country, hip-hop and Americana energy to your Austin weekend with Shaboozey live.

12. UT Football vs. Ohio State — September 12

One of the biggest football weekends of the month arrives September 12 when Texas takes on Ohio State.

13. Fall Pecan Street Festival — September 12–13

The Fall Pecan Street Festival is a classic Austin event featuring artists, crafts, live music, food vendors and kids’ rides. Admission is free.

14. Kathleen Madigan — September 12

Looking for a night of comedy? Kathleen Madigan performs in Austin on September 12.

15. Chance the Rapper — September 13

Catch Chance the Rapper on September 13 for another major live-music option.

16. ArmadilloCon — September 11–13

Science-fiction, fantasy and horror fans can spend the weekend at ArmadilloCon, which runs September 11–13 and features panels, readings, gaming, workshops, an art show and more. 

17. Viva México — September 12

Head to the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center for Viva México on September 12.

This is a particularly good pick for families: the event is free, family-friendly and all ages, with mariachi, folkloric dance, youth activities, food trucks and more. 

18. Final Weekend of Austin Restaurant Weeks — September 13

September 13 is the final day of Austin Restaurant Weeks, so it’s your last chance to take advantage of participating restaurants and support the Central Texas Food Bank.

September 14–20

19. Fantastic Fest — September 17–24

Movie lovers can head to Austin for Fantastic Fest, the city’s genre-film celebration featuring horror, science fiction, fantasy and other unique films.

20. Arte Agave Tequila & Mezcal Festival — September 18–20

Explore agave culture, food and entertainment during this September festival.

21. You Me She Festival — September 18–20

Add another creative and cultural event to your September calendar with You Me She Festival.

22. UT Football vs. UTSA — September 19

Keep the college football weekends going when Texas faces UTSA on September 19.

23. Golden Harvest Half Marathon, 10K & 5K — September 19

If your idea of outdoor adventure is running rather than flying through the air, the Golden Harvest race offers a half marathon, 10K, 5K and kids’ dash. The 2026 race takes place in Marble Falls on September 19. 

24. Austin Museum Day — September 20

Explore Austin’s museums for free during Austin Museum Day on September 20. More than 30 museums and cultural institutions participate with special programming, tours and activities for visitors of all ages. 

25. Yoga Underground at Natural Bridge Caverns

Trade the city for the Texas Hill Country and try an unusual yoga experience at Natural Bridge Caverns.

It’s another great reminder that some of the best things to do around Austin involve getting outside the city.

September 21–30

26. Crossroads Guitar Festival — September 26–27

Music fans have a major weekend ahead with Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival, returning to Austin’s Moody Center September 26–27. The lineup includes Eric Clapton, John Mayer, Gary Clark Jr., Billy Gibbons, Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa and more. 

27. Texas Woodworking Festival

See woodworking, craftsmanship and Texas makers come together at the Texas Woodworking Festival.

28. Black Outside Fest — September 26

Black Outside Fest returns September 26 at the Carver Museum and Cultural Center with music, art, food, storytelling and activities celebrating Black culture and creativity in Austin. 

29. Austin Chinese Culture Festival

Celebrate Chinese culture, food, art and community at this Austin cultural festival.

30. Comal County Fair — New Braunfels

If you’re up for a short road trip from Austin, head toward New Braunfels for the Comal County Fair.

31. Latino Moonlight Serenades

Get out on Lady Bird Lake for an evening of live Latino music under the moonlight. The experience takes place on the water and is kid- and dog-friendly, making it a unique Austin activity for families and visitors. Check the organizer’s latest schedule before booking because the September date has been update.

32. Violet Crown Trail Fun Run for National Public Lands Day

Get outside and explore one of the area’s popular trail systems while celebrating National Public Lands Day.

33. Oktoberfest

Start getting into the fall spirit with Oktoberfest celebrations around the Austin area.

Make September Your Month to Get Outside

Austin has no shortage of festivals, concerts, food events and things to do in September. But if you’re looking for something that feels like a true adventure, don’t spend the entire month inside a concert venue or walking around downtown.

Get outside.

Head toward Lake Travis. Take the boat ride. Hike through the Texas Hill Country. Then clip into a harness and fly across the lake on the longest and fastest zipline in Texas.

At approximately 2,800 feet long and reaching speeds of up to 65 mph, the Double Barrel Shotgun is the kind of experience that turns an ordinary September weekend into a story you’ll remember. 

For families, visitors and locals looking for a fun outdoor activity near Austin, it’s a fall must-do.

And after the adrenaline rush, you can spend more time enjoying the lakefront property, relaxing in a hammock, playing games or taking in the Hill Country scenery. 

So, when you’re building your list of the best things to do in Austin in September 2026, make room for an adventure.

Which Austin activity are you doing first?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Austin in September?

Some of the best things to do in Austin in September include ziplining over Lake Travis, attending Austin festivals, watching UT football, exploring museums, listening to live music, visiting Pecan Street Festival and getting outside on Austin’s trails and waterways.

What is the best outdoor adventure in Austin?

For an adrenaline-filled outdoor adventure, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is a standout. Its Double Barrel Shotgun is approximately 2,800 feet long and reaches speeds of up to 65 mph. The company describes it as the longest and fastest zipline in Texas. 

Is the Lake Travis zipline family friendly?

Yes. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures welcomes families and groups looking for an active outdoor experience. However, participants should be prepared for hiking and physical activity. Current published requirements list a minimum weight of 70 pounds and a maximum weight of 250 pounds. Check the operator’s current requirements before booking. 

How long is the longest zipline in Texas?

The Double Barrel Shotgun at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is approximately 2,800 feet long. 

How fast is the fastest zipline in Texas?

The fastest zipline at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures can reach speeds of approximately 65 mph. 

How long does the Lake Travis zipline adventure take?

The full five-line adventure takes approximately three hours. There is also a shorter Single Line Double Barrel Shotgun experience that takes approximately 1.5 hours. 

What should I wear ziplining in Austin?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Because you’ll be outdoors for several hours, sunscreen and plenty of hydration are also a good idea.

Is September a good time to visit Austin?

Absolutely. September brings a packed event calendar, college football, festivals, concerts and opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities around Austin and the Texas Hill Country. Just remember that Central Texas can still be hot, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.

What are some free things to do in Austin in September?

Free options include events such as Viva México and Austin Museum Day, along with public viewing of some events such as the Zilker Relays. Always check the official event page for current details. 

External Links & Resources

Event dates, performers, schedules, admission requirements and other details can change. Always confirm information with the official event or venue before heading out.

Save this Austin September guide and share it with someone who needs a reason to get outside.