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Things to do in Colorado River

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Activities led by local experts

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5 out of 5 average rating, 18 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.

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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.

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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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 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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Taste unique Texan wines with your local veteran Sommelier

Explore Texan wine with me, a sommelier and cofounder of reservation-only wine club Blurred Vines, through a guided tasting of one white and two reds. You’ll discover the flavors you enjoy, learn how to identify tasting notes, and gain insight into where these wines come from within our state. • I’ll welcome you to a private tasting room and give an overview of the basic principles of wine tasting, a demonstration of the correct way to taste wine, and an explanation of key flavor profiles before tasting a white wine. • Taste the first red wine and discuss its origin, grape variety, and tasting notes. • Savor the second red wine, reflecting on its nuances and distinctions compared to the previous red. You’ll leave with a greater understanding of wine, an appreciation for the flavors that suit your palate, and recommendations to keep exploring your wine tastes.

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Taste artisanal Texas cheeses at Antonelli’s

Texas cheeses are gaining well-deserved recognition beyond the state, with more people discovering the skill, tradition, and quality behind them. In this thoughtfully curated tasting, you’ll get to experience that firsthand—sampling some of the finest cheeses Texas has to offer and learning about the craftspeople behind them • We’ll begin with a warm welcome to the tasting room and business that leads to an introduction to the art and science of cheese tasting. • During the 1.5 hour guided tasting you’ll savor a curated selection of Texas-made cheeses (nearly a half pound of cheese so come hungry), each paired with complementary foods, while our amazing cheese hosts share stories about the cheesemakers and their craft. You can also choose to pair the cheeses with expertly matched wines (for an additional purchase). • After the tasting, you'll have the opportunity to relax and spend time with your new best cheese friends and ask any a questions to deepen your understanding of Texas cheese culture. • You’ll leave with some newly refined taste buds, a few new friends, and an appreciation for Texas cheesemakers and their work.

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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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Yoga Class with Gustavo Padron at Zilker Park

Attend a mindful and dynamic 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

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.

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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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4.92 out of 5 average rating, 2631 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. Oct 23rd update: Bats are still here and good. operating 5 days a week now. Pick a date that works! 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

5 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Handcraft a Unique Ring with Traditional Silversmithing

In this beginner Silversmithing class, you will pick out your own stone and create the setting and ring band. We'll get familiar with the torch, jeweler's saw, flex shaft drill, anvil & bench pin, together. We'll solder the bezel, cut out the setting and file it flat. Then we create your ring shank according to your own size and solder them together. We'll finish your ring by setting the stone and polishing the piece. All finished work is in sterling silver and you get to go home with a brand new ring! Patience is required. No experience necessary. *Other things to note* Please dress for the occasion! We'll be sawing metal and using messy materials. Don't wear anything dangly and please have closed toe shoes on. This activity is hands on and messy! Also to note: long fingernails could make this a little harder, but it is doable!

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 320 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!

5 out of 5 average rating, 837 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.

5 out of 5 average rating, 23 reviews

Alcohol ink painting in my art studio

I will start out by giving you a demo of alcohol inks in my New Braunfels studio. I will explain how to use the inks and will provide a step by step process. No experience necessary at all. This is a fun and relaxing painting process. You will go home with two amazing art pieces. The colors are vibrant and beautiful! We will practice using canned air to create flowers and other designs. I will show you how to create a landscape. You can also create whatever you like and I will guide you and give you tips. Classes are $65 each (1-4), however groups of 5 are $55 per person. Let me know if you would like to have a group of 5. I am one of the alcohol ink pioneers in teaching here in Texas!

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 347 reviews

Cuddle with Kunekune Pigs for Adults Only

***Follow @halbertfarm on FB or IG for updates and to meet the pigs before your visit*** This experience is for 18+ only. Message us if you want to book a kids experience. We will start the experience in the backyard where you will meet Ripley the house pig. You'll learn about the history of Kunekune pigs and what makes them so unique. If we have younger pigs that are living in the backyard you'll get to meet them then too. I'll have treats prepared for you to feed the pigs and you'll learn how to make them sit and get their treats. Then I'll take you to meet the adult pigs first the girls and then the boys. We have 20 pigs that make up "Halbert Herd" and their ages range from 4 months to 9 years. You'll get to feed the adults treats and they love getting attention and being petted. Most of them will lay down and want their belly rubbed. If we have piglets you'll get to spend time in the piglet pen, depending on their age, you may be able to feed them treats and when they get to be about 3 weeks old they will crawl on your lap. Other things to note Make sure to wear closed toes shoes, pigs like to chew on toes. Rain, hiking, mud boots are great options. You will get dirty and we will be outside. Pay attention to the weather and dress accordingly. Long pants work better even when its hot because we may walk in tall grass in the pastures.

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 577 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. 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! 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

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 317 reviews

Horseback Riding at Sunset

Experience the beauty of a Texas sunset on horseback with a ~2.5-hour guided ride through the untouched landscapes of our private ranch. Led by experienced wranglers, you’ll follow scenic trails through rolling hills and rugged terrain, taking in the golden light of the late afternoon. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced hand, this ride is all about enjoying the ride at an easy, comfortable pace. On cool evenings, make s'mores over a campfire and have a hot drink. Other things to note: We can accomodate larger groups. Contact us for more details. Closed toed shoes are required. Long pants are highly recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather. We have a bathroom on-site. We provide water and other drinks. 90 Minute rides are also an option.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews

Making Soap in Wimberley

You will go home with 6 to 8 bars of natural soap and the knowledge to create your own recipes and make soap at home. We'll use olive oil, coconut oil, palm oil, shea butter and essential oils to make soap that’s good for your skin. We'll be making soap using the hot process method, using crock-pots. I’ll provide all the equipment, ingredients and a selection of essential oils, textures, colors and additives. You will start with a basic recipe and then you’ll customize it as you like. You will do it ALL with some guidance

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 12 reviews

Deep Creative Writing Collaboration

If you’re working on a screenplay, novel, picture book, children’s book, comic book, select anthologies or poetry - this session is for you. We’ll dissect your work so that it can shine the best it can. We'll discuss all things publishing, editing or anything you’re having trouble bringing to life. I'll offer tips on self-publishing, traditional-publishing and other avenues that’ll support your work. If you're already working with an editor, that's fine, you still might have questions. So whatever you bring to the collaboration I’ll be glad to look it over cuz the more material you have - the better. No topic is offensive so don't worry about upsetting me if you choose to unveil sensitive material no one else knows about. Everything stays confidential. The only subjects I don’t discuss are romance and politics. If you’re a minor- a parent must be present during the entirety of our public session.

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Things to do in Colorado River

Activities led by local experts

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