A weekday in Austin can be a treat: quieter museums, easier lunch reservations, and trails before the crowds arrive. If you’re looking to shake up your routine, try one of these 15 outings.
Get Outside While the Weather Is Good
1. Walk a Stretch of Lady Bird Lake
You don’t have to walk the entire Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail to enjoy it. Pick a section, take in the downtown views, and stop for coffee afterward. Weekday mornings are especially pleasant when the weather cooperates.
2. Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Even if you’ve been before, the Wildflower Center is worth another visit. The gardens change with the seasons, and there’s always something different blooming or growing. Take your time exploring the paths or check the calendar for educational programs and special events.
3. Spend a Morning at Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is a convenient place to enjoy some fresh air. With wooded trails and open spaces, it’s an easy place to spend a morning outdoors without driving across town.
4. Explore Mayfield Park
If you haven’t visited Mayfield Park in a while, put it on your list. The historic cottage, gardens, and resident peacocks make it one of Austin’s more unusual little escapes. It’s a lovely place to spend a quiet morning, especially when the gardens are in bloom.
5. Stroll Through the Zilker Botanical Garden
The Zilker Botanical Garden is a favorite for good reason. Between the Japanese garden, rose garden, and other landscaped areas, there’s plenty to see without committing to a strenuous outing. Because it’s right in the city, you can easily combine your visit with lunch nearby.
Enjoy Austin’s Arts and Culture
6. Spend an Afternoon at the Blanton Museum of Art
The Blanton Museum of Art at The University of Texas at Austin has an impressive collection, along with changing exhibitions. It’s an enjoyable way to spend a few hours, whether you’re interested in the permanent collection or a visiting exhibition.
7. Revisit Texas History at the Bullock Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of those places you can visit more than once and still learn something new. It’s especially interesting if you enjoy Texas history or have family visiting from out of state.
8. Explore the Harry Ransom Center
Located on the UT Austin campus, the Harry Ransom Center is a fascinating stop for anyone who enjoys literature, photography, or history. Its exhibitions feature rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and other cultural treasures.
9. Visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden
The Umlauf Sculpture Garden + Museum offers a peaceful setting with sculptures displayed throughout landscaped grounds. It’s a nice alternative to a traditional indoor museum, particularly on a mild Austin afternoon.
Try Somewhere Different for Lunch or Coffee
10. Have Lunch at The Domain
The Domain has plenty of choices for a weekday lunch. Meet friends at North Italia, True Food Kitchen, or another favorite, then browse the shops or stop for coffee afterward. For residents of The Villas by Buckner, it’s a convenient destination close to home.
11. Revisit an Old Austin Favorite
Everyone who has lived in Austin for a while has a restaurant they remember fondly. Maybe it’s a barbecue spot, a Tex-Mex restaurant, or a diner you’ve been visiting for decades. Pick one you haven’t been to in a while and see if it’s still as good as you remember.
12. Try a New Coffee Shop
Instead of heading to your usual coffee spot, choose a neighborhood you’ve been meaning to explore. Bring a book, meet a friend, or simply enjoy a change of scenery. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to make an ordinary weekday feel a little different.
Keep Learning and Listening
13. Attend a Program at Austin Public Library
Austin Public Library branches host a variety of programs, including book discussions, workshops, and educational events. The Central Library downtown is also worth visiting for its architecture and views.
14. Catch Some Live Music
Austin’s music scene isn’t limited to Friday and Saturday nights. Check the calendars at the Saxon Pub, Continental Club, or other local venues for weekday performances. You might discover a new favorite musician.
15. Volunteer at the Central Texas Food Bank
If you’d like to spend some of your free time helping others, the Central Texas Food Bank offers volunteer opportunities. Volunteers help with activities such as sorting food donations and preparing food for distribution.
Enjoy Austin on Your Schedule
You don’t need to fill every day. But when you feel like getting out, Austin gives you plenty of choices, especially when you can go during the week.
At The Villas by Buckner, residents have fewer home maintenance responsibilities and convenient access to many of these Austin favorites.
About The Villas by Buckner
Located in Northeast Austin, The Villas by Buckner is a nonprofit, faith-based senior living community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Respite Care. Residents enjoy thoughtfully designed residences, maintenance-free living, engaging programs, and opportunities to connect, with additional support available if needs change.
If you’re exploring retirement living in Austin, schedule a visit to The Villas by Buckner and see what planning ahead can make possible.
