Austin, Texas, has many fun activities for under $20 a pop. Whether traveling solo or with a group, it’s an exciting place to visit.
Even without a massive budget, there are hundreds of experiences waiting for you. And, with such a low price point, you can pack in the adventures. Just save some for next time.
We’ve picked out some of our favorites in Austin that are all under $20. Filling your itinerary with these can help you avoid breaking the bank and maximize your fun.
Let’s get weird!
Visit Austin on an Under $20 Budget
If you’re looking for live music and a vibrant culture, Austin, Texas, is an excellent place to travel. This energetic city sits almost perfectly in the middle of the state. It’s roughly 80 miles north of San Antonio and 160 miles northwest of Houston. Folks trekking along Interstate 35, which runs from San Antonio to Dallas, pass right through.
Over the years, it has earned a reputation for being quirky. During the early 2000s, the unofficial motto became “Keep Austin Weird.” While primarily a marketing gimmick to encourage tourism, most residents embraced it. As a result, you’ll likely see peculiar things during your trip.
Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
We mentioned that one reason to travel here is for the music scene. It’s so good that the bars and venues can stand toe-to-toe with Broadway Street in Nashville, Tennessee. Many have crowned it the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
However, it’s more than just tunes and an odd personality. The natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country makes it easy to spend time outdoors. Doing so is a great way to enjoy numerous low-cost activities. As you’ll see, we’ve gathered plenty of ways to spend time in Austin for under $20.
Top Ten Austin Experiences Under $20
You don’t have to spend a small fortune to have a good time if your travel plans involve Austin. Grab a $20 bill and head out the door to see what adventures await.
#1 Enjoy a Day on the Water at Lady Bird Lake
While winter in this region can be mild, summer is downright brutal. If you travel to Austin in the summer, highs are typically over 100 degrees. You’ll likely be looking for a spot to stay cool along with the rest of the city.
Thankfully, Lady Bird Lake is a clean and safe place for all ages to do just that. This 400-acre lake is perfect for floating on the water and enjoying the view. Whether on a kayak, canoe, or SUP, you’ll have the skyline as the backdrop for an epic adventure.
Didn’t bring a vessel with you? No problem! You can find several vendors that rent watercraft. Many will take that $20 off your hands for an hour on the lake. They’ll provide everything you need to get out and spend time on the water.
Another popular activity is fishing. Despite its urban location, officials stock it with catfish, sunfish, carp, and largemouth bass. Just make sure you have the proper licenses and follow any other rules and regulations.
#2 Grab a Bite at Austin’s Favorite Sandy’s Hamburgers
Just a few miles from Lady Bird Lake is Sandy’s Hamburgers. These old-fashioned sandwiches are the perfect way to fill your belly after working up an appetite exploring. Unlike many nearby restaurants, this one’s been around for a while.
Andy and Goldie Harris opened the establishment in May 1946 and named it after their daughter. Then, it changed hands several times until the current owner, Jearl Ledbetter, purchased it in November 1979. With over 75 years in the community, it’s trendy amongst locals and travelers.
If you want to dine in Austin for under $20, this is a great place. Their budget-friendly menu has burgers, fries, and hot dogs. And if you want something sweet to end your meal, they’ve got that too! Deserts like malts, shakes, and ice cream are the perfect finishing touch.
More than 2,700 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating reveal how patrons feel about the restaurant. A relaxed environment, quality food, and budget prices are what their customers enjoy most. Those who grew up here love that it’s remained the same after all these years.
#3 Tour the Beautiful Texas State Capitol
With your belly full from the deliciousness at Sandy’s Hamburgers, it’s only a short 1.5-mile walk to the Texas State Capitol. This government seat offers a chance to see the incredible architecture, well-maintained landscaping, and educational exhibits.
One of the best things is that visiting this historic site doesn’t cost you a dime.
If you want to learn about its history, hop on one of the free 30-minute guided tours. These are available seven days a week and are a fantastic educational opportunity. If you’d rather go at your own pace, self-guided pamphlets are also available.
Residents of the Lone Star State often claim that everything is bigger in their neck of the woods. And it’s hard to argue with them as the capitol building is the largest of its kind in the country. It even dwarfs the US Capitol by approximately 14 feet.
The well-maintained grounds are home to 22 monuments and many historic sites. Be sure to grab a brochure and map from the visitor center to get the most from your visit.
If you’re addicted to doughnuts, visiting these might not be under $20 – but it’ll be worth it! In Search of the Best Doughnuts in Austin, Texas.
#4 See the Famous Austin Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
The easiest way to go from Sandy’s Hamburgers to the statehouse is by crossing the Congress Avenue Bridge. If you travel to Austin from late March until early fall, the region’s famous bats are visible underneath.
These winged mammals began calling the Congress Avenue Bridge home after a significant renovation project in the early 1980s. What started as a handful quickly grew into approximately 1.5 million. They typically make an appearance 30 to 60 minutes before sunset. Arrive early to ensure you get a good seat to watch them exit.
Some of the best views are available through vendors providing guided tours. They fill up quickly during the peak season. A few options are Capital Cruises, Lone Star Riverboat, and Live Love Paddle.
They’ve become beloved members of the community. Those who travel to Austin in mid-August can attend the annual Bat Fest. It’s a party-like atmosphere with music, local food vendors, and activities for the whole family.
#5 Explore the Umlauf Sculpture Garden
The next location on our list of experiences in Austin for under $20 is the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. Charles Umlauf was an American sculptor born and raised in South Haven, Michigan. He moved to the area in 1941 after accepting a position at the University of Texas School of Art.
He retired in 1981 and donated his home, studio, and 168 art pieces to the community. Officials hired Aan Coleman to design the garden and Lawrence Speck for the gallery and terrace. Both opened in 1991.
This location is excellent for anyone who appreciates art. What’s even better is that it’s family-friendly. You can even feel free to touch the bronze sculptures respectfully. So, parents don’t need to worry about little ones setting off alarms or breaking something.
Be sure to check the event calendar. Staff regularly offer fun events like yoga and other educational activities.
#6 Take a Dip in a Spring-Fed Pool at Barton Springs
Pack your bathing suit before heading to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy Barton Springs. The Barton Springs Municipal Pool is less than five minutes away. All you have to do is cross Barton Creek and hang a left.
This three-acre pool is fed by underground springs, which allow it to maintain a 68 to 70 temperature year-round. As you can imagine, it’s become the place to be, especially during the summer heat.
Officials estimate nearly 800,000 guests come to splash in the water each year.
When planning, it’s important to note that it’s typically open every day except Thursdays. In addition, closures can occur due to flooding and bacterial growth. Give them a call beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Tickets generally range from $2 to $5 for residents and $4 to $9 for non-residents. They usually offer discounts for veterans and young children. If you make multiple trips while you’re there, it might be worth investing in a season pass.
#7 Experience the Austin Live Music Scene at The Little Longhorn Saloon
The Little Longhorn Saloon is a lively hangout in Austin for under $20. They’ve got cold drinks, honky-tonk music, and plenty of room for dancing. It’s open to all ages, especially on Sundays.
Remember to bring your ID if you’re planning to purchase alcohol.
The bar has been a staple in the community for more than four decades. They host more than 600 bands each year, including local country acts. People come for the drinks and music, but Chicken Shit Bingo has become a Sunday tradition.
Players make donations of $2 to $5 and receive a ticket. Everyone gathers around and waits for the chicken to “select” the winning number. The saloon typically plays four to eight rounds each Sunday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Depending on the cash pool, winners can receive between $114 to $300.
Most of these spots are under $20, too! Famous Movie Locations You Can Visit in Austin.
#8 Take in Amazing Views of Austin at Mount Bonnell
Located along the Colorado River, Mount Bonnell is the highest point in the city. Its name comes from the gentleman who served as the Commission of Indian Affairs for the Texas Republic, George Bonnell.
This beloved tourist spot is one of the best things to do in Austin for under $20. Everything about Mount Bonnell is free, including parking.
Additionally, you can bring your leashed pet with you. Bring enough water for both of you, especially during the summer. The trail may be short, but there’s little shade to protect you from the sun.
Once you exit your vehicle, it’s only a short half-mile trip to the top.
While it’s a relatively easy path, it does require conquering 102 stairs. If you’re physically able, the view is worth the effort. You’ll get to see downtown from a new perspective, and it’s a great location for capturing the skyline on film.
#9 Explore Austin on a Self-Guided Mural Tour
The city has many murals of all shapes, sizes, and themes. They’re magnificent in their own regard but can also make for incredible backdrops for those Instagram-worthy pictures.
Artists use the sides of buildings as their canvas. And, as the motto suggests, some are downright weird.
A few of the most famous are “Greetings from Austin,” “You’re the Yee to My Haw,” and “Willie for President.” Depending on when you visit, you may have to wait in line to snap a photo in front of them.
One of our favorites is “Austintatious.” It sits near the campus of the University of Texas and includes some of the most iconic imagery. Two students at the university painted it in 1974, which makes it one of the first and oldest murals around.
#10 Visit the Mexic-Arte Museum
The Mexic-Arte Museum is a few blocks north of the Texas State Capitol. Artists Sylvia Orozco, Sam Coronado, and Pio Pulido joined forces in 1984 to charter a non-profit organization. Their goal was to create a space promoting Mexican art and culture.
Today, approximately 75,000 individuals come to the Mexic-Arte Museum each year. In addition, the museum has been hosting a Day of the Dead parade since its creation. It’s the longest-running Dia de los Muertos celebration in the Lone Star State.
Visitors can view more than 5,000 historical and contemporary pieces. Some of the most well-known are the Ernesto F. de Soto Collection, the Taller Grafica Popular Print Collection, and the Series Print Project Archive.
Check their website to see what’s currently on display. What you find may make you want to adjust your travel plans to Austin so you don’t miss something spectacular.
They’re typically open every day of the week but have limited hours on Sundays.
Find even more ways to travel to Austin on a budget with Super Cheap Austin: How to enjoy a $1,000 trip to Austin for under $250.
It’s Easy to Keep Austin Weird for Under $20
While you can drain your pockets in Austin, it’s possible to see and do unforgettable things for under $20. The city provides opportunities for a wide range of budgets. We’ve shared some great options to help you enjoy every moment of exploring this remarkable place.
So, start working on your itinerary for your next trip and be ready to keep it weird.
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