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Things to do in Central Texas

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Activities led by local experts

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5 out of 5 average rating, 21 reviews

Season, smoke, and savor la Barbecue’s brisket

Spend the afternoon at Michelin-starred la Barbecue, where I’ll give you a pitmaster’s tour of our restaurant and show you how to season and smoke meats at home. • We’ll start with a cocktail or beer while I share the story of la Barbecue, from its food truck origins to its Michelin star. • I’ll lead you on an exclusive tour through our barbecue pits and discuss the best way to smoke meats. I’ll also show you how to trim and season a brisket. • Then you’ll sit down to enjoy a family-style Texas supper with all the fixings. We source our beef from a local ranch, then cook our brisket low ’n’ slow over Texas post oak. It’ll melt in your mouth! You won’t just leave full and happy—you’ll learn all the steps that go into cooking classic Texas barbecue.

5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Paint Texas wildflowers with a watercolor artist

Settle into Nomadic Beerworks, one of my favorite South Austin breweries, for a laid-back and creative painting session. In this two-hour experience, you’ll paint Texas’ vibrant wildflowers and plants while learning fundamental watercolor techniques—all in a relaxed atmosphere where you can sip on craft brews, coffee, or other refreshments from the bar. • Explore watercolor techniques through guided exercises. We’ll practice brushwork, color mixing, and layering to create depth and texture using materials I’ll provide. • Sketch and paint Texas wildflowers, focusing on their distinct shapes and colors. I’ll demonstrate techniques for bringing bluebonnets, prickly pears, and other native plants to life on paper. • Add texture and refine details as you personalize your painting. We’ll discuss composition, balance, and finishing touches to make each piece unique. We’ll wrap up by sharing our work and reflecting on the process. This class is more than just a painting lesson—it's an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and express your artistic vision, all while enjoying the welcoming energy of a South Austin brewery. Private lessons available. Send me a message on preferred date and time.

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Outdoor workout with a University of Texas football alum

In my outdoor fitness class, you’ll learn professional training techniques, build strength, and enhance your skills—all while enjoying one of Austin's most picturesque spaces. • I’ll guide you through a structured session, including a dynamic warmup, body weight strength and conditioning, cardio, and guided stretching. • Together, we'll power walk or run up Butler Park Hill, which offers panoramic views of downtown Austin, encouraging each other along the way. • Build endurance, improve overall strength, and boost your confidence in movement. Leave feeling stronger and more energized to tackle the rest of your day.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Craft cocktails like a master mixologist at Eden speakeasy

Tucked behind an unmarked door, Eden is a portal to another era, one where carefully crafted cocktails are designed and desired. In this private, pre-opening masterclass, you’ll step behind the bar and into the world of mixology, learning to make two signature drinks using Texas spirits. • You’ll have the chance to settle into Eden’s hidden oasis and snack on a charcuterie platter before the class starts. • Next, we’ll tell you about the evolution of classic cocktails, the role of selected Texas spirits and the chemistry behind balanced flavors. • Get one-on-one guidance as you learn to make two signature drinks—an option from a manhattan classic or an old-fashioned using a Texas based Whiskey and a choice between a mule variation or a "Agave special" using Sotol (an agave spirit based in Texas). • Finally, it’s time to taste your handcrafted creations. As you sip, I’ll share pro tips and mix up one more cocktail, demonstrating advanced techniques before the evening ends. By the end of the class, you won’t just know how to follow a cocktail recipe; you’ll understand the why behind every shake, stir, and garnish. Pull up a barstool, raise a glass, and let’s make some magic in this behind-the-scenes experience at one of Austin’s most exclusive speakeasies.

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Hit the trails around Lady Bird Lake with a running coach

Join a Runner’s World Plus coach for a 90-minute run around Lady Bird Lake. This loop offers a great training ground for runners of all levels, with its mix of surfaces and scenic views. • We’ll meet at a local cafe and start with a dynamic warmup routine while I introduce you to our route. • Our run takes us around the northwest section of the lake in a four-mile loop with plenty of landmarks to see along the way. • We’ll finish with a guided cool-down and some personalized tips to leave you feeling strong, accomplished, and excited for your day. Austin is a runner’s paradise, and this is a great way to see the sights while getting some expert guidance from an experienced coach.

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Native Texas plant walk and meditation with a herbalist

Join a tour of native Texas plants and a guided meditation in the heart of Austin, learning to identify bioregional plants and their healing properties. • We’ll tour Austin’s Festival Beach Food Forest, where I'll share about local native plants, explaining how they've been used in traditional practices and what their restorative qualities are. • After the walk, we'll gather in a peaceful spot within the forest or garden for a calming meditation, where you'll tune into your senses and connect with the natural environment. • We'll conclude with a grounding and uplifting breathwork session, followed by a sacred botanical ceremony, wherein you'll offer gratitude to the plants, honoring their role in our healing and growth. You'll leave feeling rooted, rejuvenated, and connected to the land—and with the new knowledge about the power of plants to affect our well-being.

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Yoga Class with Gustavo Padron at Zilker Park

Attend a mindful and dynamic 45 minute yoga class in Zilker Park, Austin’s crown jewel, with an experienced teacher who brings a lighthearted and welcoming approach to movement and meditation. • All you need to bring is comfortable clothing, and perhaps water and a towel. Gustavo will provide the yoga mats. • This outdoor class will weave mindful movement and conscious breathing creating an experience that’s both accessible and energizing. • Gustavo will lead lead you through a gentle yet invigorating practice, surrounded by nature and the amazing view of the Austin downtown Skyline. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, centered, and ready to take on your day.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Take a meditative drawing class with an Austin artist

Join me for a meditative drawing workshop to explore the magic of creating in nature as a way to relax and return to the present moment. I recommend wearing closed-toe shoes and long pants for comfort. Feel free to bring a blanket or towel to make yourself comfortable in your chosen spot. • We’ll gather as a group to set intentions for the session. Through mindful observation, we’ll connect with the textures, sounds, and energy of Mayfield Park, allowing nature to guide our creative process. • As a warm up, using simple ink marks, we’ll practice intuitive movement, letting go of any pressure to create something "perfect." We’ll pause to share insights, thoughts, or emotions that may have come up during the warm-up, embracing creativity without judgment. • Next, we’ll explore different mark-making techniques inspired by nature. You’ll be encouraged to experiment with various strokes, patterns, and movements to discover what feels most natural and freeing. • We’ll shift our focus to the deeper symbolism in our marks and explore how "mistakes" can become part of our artistic language. We’ll close with a few final thoughts on how to carry this intuitive and meditative approach into your daily life. You’ll leave with your artwork, a refreshed sense of creativity, and a deeper connection to both art and nature.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Hike the greenbelt with a master naturalist

This guided 1.5-mile hike through Austin’s beloved natural treasure, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, blends outdoor adventure with environmental education. • We’ll meet at Spyglass Trailhead, where I’ll introduce the greenbelt and its significance. We’ll explore and learn about limestone cliffs, the Edwards Aquifer system, the creek’s water flow and quality, and much more. • On our hike, I’ll point out various native plants, indicate signs of wildlife, and discuss endangered species like the Barton Springs salamander. • As we return to the trailhead, I’ll talk about ongoing conservation challenges and answer your questions. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the greenbelt’s vital importance to the area’s ecosystem—and, I hope, with a sense of determination to protect our natural resources.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Go glam with a wig and makeup glow-up

Step into a new version of yourself with the transformative power of wigs and makeup at Coco Coquette, where an expert Wig Whisperer will guide you in finding your perfect ’do, and a talented makeup artist will treat you to a mini-makeover. • Try on a few styles and colors and choose your perfect wig with my help. I’ll ensure a proper fit, helping you feel confident in your new look. • Next, sit with a professional makeup artist for a personalized Coco Coquette makeover, focusing on eyelids, lashes, and lips. • Use our murals and backdrops to take amazing selfies and photos with our ring light. If you'd like to buy your wig, you’ll get a $25 discount (wigs are priced between $36-$90). You’ll leave feeling confident and fabulous in your new look, ready for your next adventure!

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4.93 out of 5 average rating, 2670 reviews

Downtown Sunset Kayak with 1.5M Bats!

Welcome to Austin's #1 booked tour! I can say with confidence this is the best group on the water. April 9th Update: The bats have been amazing and we have brand new kayaks! Come join us. Let's meet up for an epic night of kayaking. It's 4 incredible trips in one. 1st you paddle the length of downtown during the day and then we catch the sunset over the water. The bats are the main event and we end with downtown paddle at night! Add in a full moon or bright stars occasionally and this trip is one not to miss! If trip is sold out, ask if I can fit you in. Book through me because: I'm a traveler and Airbnb host as well so I know what you want out of the trip. On top of bat facts, i'll give you more freedom to kayak, make sure to take great photos of you on the tour, and make sure you meet other like minded travelers in the group who can share their tips or even join you for a night out afterwards. I've got good travel stories for days and lots of local insight to help you build out the best plan for the rest of your stay. Bad weather = full refund. You won't find a guide who tries harder to make sure you have the best night possible. You'll also be given high quality photos at the end of your trip! Need one more reason to book? My auto reply to your booking confirmation comes with my custom "Must do" in Austin link to help you plan the rest of your trip

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 323 reviews

Creek Side Horseback Ride In Austin, Tx

At Southern Trails you will enjoy a genuine Texas experience! There's no better way to explore Central Texas than on horseback. Misti and I will take you on a scenic, guided horseback ride, show you the reins, and ensure you have a fun experience. First, we will pair you with one of our highly trained and lovable horses! (Whiskey, Bear, Mississippi, Comanche, or Dolly!). Next, we will have a brief lesson where you will learn to stop, turn and ride the proper way on the trails. Then we will head out and take an hour trail ride through the beautiful Texas countryside. We will ride through trees, up hills, down hills. We will pass some creeks and ponds and even some cows that free graze on the property! An interesting fact about This ranch is that it was a shooting location for the famous western movie…Lonesome Dove! We will stop to take a couple pictures along the way! If you have younger children please call and ask about "Little Dude Ride." It is perfect for kids and families that aren’t quite ready for the hour trail ride. We want everyone to be able to have an awesome horseback riding experience. Other things to note Once you have booked we will send you an email with gate code, instructions and address. If you would like to tip please use cash to do so! Our guides also accept most major cash exchange platforms. Thanks!

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 338 reviews

Austin Unlocked- A Speakeasy Tour

Go on a walking, cocktail tasting, tour of downtown Austin! We'll stop and talk about several hidden-face speakeasy style bars - some stashed inside parking garages, behind bookshelves, down alley ways, pass-code and password protected, and private clubs! We'll get you into three where we can order drinks! Meet downtown and we'll sit and chat for a few minutes introducing ourselves and what it means to call a bar a speakeasy in Austin, TX. Then, we walk to the first bar. All the bars are located downtown within a few blocks of each other. We'll spend 30-45 minutes in each of three bars, having drinks, learning about the place, and appreciating the aesthetic. Throughout the night we will continue on past several more hidden-face speakeasy style bars, stopping in some and just stopping to talk about others. The night ends once you get into the third and final bar and get your drinks ordered. We do not to include drinks to give you a lower price and more choice. We will have a group tab which can be paid for via cash, Apple Pay and Cash App. Prices vary by venue but $15-25 per drink (including a 20% tip) is a good ballpark.

5 out of 5 average rating, 250 reviews

Ride-Along with Good Vibes E-Bike Tour

Our tours have 100% 5 star reviews. Ride around town with Good Vibes as we share our 30-year knowledge of Austin, making stops at our favorite iconic sites and landmarks. Hey, y'all. I'm Rooster, our guides and I are here to show you the real Austin. The one that's full of love, peace and weirdness. Hop on our e-bike and let's cruise through the city's most groovy spots - from funky murals and cosmic sculptures to stunning views and quirky houses. You'll get to see Austin through our eyes - and trust me, it's pretty awesome. We'll stop at some rad places like the Capitol, where the man makes the rules; SoCo, where the vibes are funky; Zilker Park, where you can connect with nature; Rainey Street, where the party never stops; and 6th Street, where the music rocks. We’ll play some tunes and we'll share with you some stories, jokes and wisdom along the way. So come on, join us for a ride-along that will make your heart sing and your soul smile. It's gonna be wild! Est. Total Riding Time: 90-100 mins Est. Total Time in Stops: 20-30 mins

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 582 reviews

Giant Paddleboard at Sunset w/ Bats

This is the best way to experience the bats hands down. The journey on the 5-6 person giant paddle board starts with epic downtown views during the day, continues with the sunset, then observing the 1.5 million bats fly out and ends the night paddling back after dark in the city glow. April 2025 - The bats have been epic lately! Booking this tour for the sunset and bats puts you along side Austin's #1 experience "kayaking w/ the bats" only you're on a board! Its the same trip just a different vessel. Don't let the word "Paddleboard" fool you. This is 15 feet long and 4.5 feet wide. It is ultra stable. You will not get wet unless you choose to go for a swim. You can sit down, stand up, or even lay down. It's impossible to fall into the water on accident. The mega paddle boards make for an excellent family or group option cause you get to stay together and share the experience. As a bonus, as soon as you book, my auto-reply welcome message has my personal guidebook to Austin that can help you plan the rest of your Austin vacation.! View my IG: @boatsandbats

5 out of 5 average rating, 841 reviews

Boozy Tubing in Austin Area's Spring Water

Are you planning a fun and unique experience for your bachelor/bachelorette party or large group, or are you a single traveler looking to meet some friends while visiting Austin? Look no further! Join us at Cosmic Coffee and Biergarten (121 Pickle Road) where we will kick off the festivities and then take a short 25-minute drive to San Marcos, home of the crystal clear, spring-fed waters of the San Marcos River. Unlike the murky waters of the Colorado River in Austin, the San Marcos River is a refreshing oasis where you can enjoy a lazy tube ride down the river for 2.5-3.5 hours (depending on your preferred timeline). There will be plenty of time to soak up the sun, enjoy local wildlife, and, of course, have a little party on the water. BYOB, so bring along your favorite beers and seltzers (NO GLASS CONTAINERS, please!), and leave the rest up to us. We'll have a small cooler for everyone to share. Whether you're planning a bachelor/bachelorette party or team-building event, this is a great activity for all. Private bookings are available, just ask us for details! Don't miss out on the fun! If the trip is sold out, reach out to us to see if we can fit you in. And remember, you will get wet, so be sure you're comfortable swimming. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure and a desire to have a good time - we'll take care of the rest, including transportation.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 80 reviews

Explore the Hill Country on Horseback Near Canyon Lake

At Southern Trails you will enjoy a genuine Texas experience! There's no better way to explore the Hill Country than on horseback. Misti and I will take you on a scenic, guided horseback ride, show you the reins, and ensure you have a fun experience. First, we will pair you with one of our highly trained and lovable horses! (Dolly, Sunny, Applejack, Howdy and Comanche) Next, we will have a brief lesson where you will learn to stop, turn and ride the proper way on the trails. Lastly, we will ride through one of the most beautiful stretches of “The Devil’s Backbone.” This limestone ridge is famous for it’s mountainous views and winding roads. You will ride up hills, down hills, near ponds and creeks, as well as take in the most unique and breathtaking views in all of Texas! We will stop to take a couple pictures along the way! If you have younger children please call and ask about "Little Dude Ride." It is perfect for kids and families that aren’t quite ready for the hour trail ride. We want everyone to be able to have an awesome horseback riding experience. Other things to note Once you have booked we will send you an email with gate code, instructions and address. If you would like to tip please use cash to do so! Thanks!

4.84 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

Secret Food Tours Austin

We'll meet in front of the Ellis cocktail bar at 111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704. First up, you'll dig into some Central Texas pit-style BBQ brisket served with the best pinto beans ever. Next, you'll enjoy a breakfast taco, a local favourite with a cult-like following. On our stroll, we'll say "howdy" to Willie Nelson, an Austin icon, and pass by where Austin City Limits is held. Afterwards, we will stop at one of our favorite food trucks for a secret bite– a fusion dish that will blow your mind. Then it's time for a cool down with a smoothie made with local Texas wildflower honey. After several great bites, we'll take a stroll down Congress Ave to see and talk about some of our protected historic buildings. As if you weren’t already full, we are right back where we started to sample a local staple food truck turned brick and mortar. And finally, we'll round things out with a flan-inspired creation made just for our tour. We end the tour pretty much where we start it.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews

Giant Glow Paddle Boarding the Downtown Skyline w/ Bats

This tour uses Giant Paddleboards with glow bars to explore the downtown skyline at Sunset. We'll watch the bats together and get some extra photos of your group after dark when we turn on the lights. Oct 23rd update: Bats are still here and good. operating 5 days a week now. Pick a date that works! Last day = Nov 23rd. Open again February 21st! We'll paddle back in the dark with the city lights leading the way and take some amazing photos that you'll be able to share with friends. You'll have 12 different color combinations to choose from and your lights will illuminate the water below. We will definitely be the last people out on the water and it feels like you have the city to yourself. I will bring everything you need including: Paddleboard, drybox, paddle, life jackets, and glow lights. I'll also take photos for you! Think of this trip as a more photogenic version of the downtown sunset paddleboarding with bats. August 1st update: We are entering peak bat season now and the sunsets are epic since they line up with the river. As with all our other tours, when you book you'll automatically be sent a link with all of our other Austin recommendations to help you plan the rest of your trip!

5 out of 5 average rating, 80 reviews

An Austin Skyline Mini Photo Shoot

An Austin Skyline Photo shoot for up to 20 people! We will explore the downtown areas of Town Lake and take some fun, and beautiful photos with the Austin Skyline as our backdrop! Join me and bring your friends and/or family for an exciting way to make great memories in the heart of Austin! We will start at Auditorium Shores and make our way around the park to capture the best background settings with the Austin Skyline! Light walking is required and please be prepared to walk through some grassy areas. (Think back up shoes.) All photos are taken with a professional digital camera. Editing process takes approximately 10-14 days and edited proofs will be provided through a link, which will be emailed to the client, once completed. *Larger groups, please allow for longer editing process.*

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Things to do in Central Texas

Activities led by local experts

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