What to do in Austin while house and pet sitting

What is there to do in Austin, Texas? The answer is “lots”. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself house sitting in Austin, you will have the most fantastic time in the Texan capital.

Because Texas enjoys so much warm weather, life in Austin is built around being outdoors while staying cool. There are shaded parks, rivers and lakes, plenty of swimming places, and you’ll find some of the country’s best patio restaurants in Austin, Texas. If you’re pet sitting a pooch who loves their walks, you two will have a wonderful time exploring the city’s parks and trails. 

As the state capital, it also has incredible museums, galleries, and theater, and we’ve all heard of Austin’s live music scene. And as for the retail… If you like to shop, you’ll find plenty of places in Austin.

Austin attractions

We know, you shouldn’t have favorites, but this chilled-out city has to be one of our top places to hang out. There’s such a perfect balance between arts, culture, outdoor relaxation and simply exploring. Here’s a selection of some of the best places to visit in Austin, Texas.

1. Austin Visitor Center: first things first. Call into the modern visitor center to get your bearings, collect some useful maps, and find out more about the city. You can pick up your first pair of cowboy boots and a stetson in the gift shop; and don’t forget to find out what live music will be on at the Center during your stay.

2. State Capitol: everyone visits this imposing, red granite building during their stay. You can book onto a tour of the magnificent rooms, or simply take the self-guided tour around the building and gorgeous grounds. There are exhibitions in the Visitor Center, and the grill is a great place to grab some lunch before or after your tour.

3. Blanton Museum of Art: this incredible place is part of the University campus, and with such a large collection (18,000 items) you could easily spend a day here. The permanent collection comprises works from around the world, with some incredible contemporary installations. There’s also a program of temporary displays, live music and performances.

4. Barton Springs Pool: this lovely, outdoor swimming pool is a three-acre stretch of spring-fed water in Zilker Park. The average water temperature is around 70 degrees, so you’ll even enjoy a dip in the winter. 

Free things to do in Austin

If you’re hoping to stick to a budget while you’re away, there are plenty of free activities to do in Austin, Texas.

1. Mount Bonnell: for incredible views, take a hike up Mount Bonnell (Covert Park). Look out over the city, Lake Austin and the surrounding landscape. Climb the historic limestone stairs then gaze down over Austin and don’t forget to pack your phone or camera...

2. Zilker Metropolitan Park: the city’s beloved 350-acre park is home to a botanical garden, a nature preserve, countless sports facilities, Barton Springs Pool, a theatre… If you’re dog sitting, your four-footed friend will doubtless know the best stretches of parkland for a runabout (we know how much dogs like a routine!).

3. Austin Bats: one of the best free things to do in Austin is go bat watching. The Mexican long-tailed bats migrate here each spring and in the summer, there can be up to 1.5 million bats in the Austin sky! Look out for Bat Fest, which has become quite the party...

4. Texas Hill Country: if you don’t mind a short drive, head out of town to enjoy some stunning walking in the hills. There are parks, museums, river-based activities and some great places to pick up some local food.

There are so many places in Austin to walk with your new dog friend, or to enjoy an invigorating hike followed by a cuddle on the couch with the cat. For more budget tips, take a look at our blog.

Fun things to do in Austin

Fancy doing something a bit different? What fun things are there to do in Austin, Texas? Here are a few great ideas for a really unique day out.

1. SoCo District: South Congress Avenue, to give it its full name, has a laid-back vibe and is simply made for a relaxed weekend stroll. This characterful neighborhood has a great range of places to shop, eat and drink. There are also galleries and music venues. It’s in a great location just south of Lady Bird Lake.

2. Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail: also at Lady Bird Lake, this is a 10-mile network of paths for walkers, cyclists and joggers. The boardwalk is the perfect place for a stroll or if you feel more adventurous, you could hire a kayak or paddleboard on the water. Lady Bird Lake always feels like the heart of the city.

3. Sixth Street: this historic street is in downtown Austin and is lined with atmospheric 19th-century buildings. This is the place to go for bars, clubs and Austin’s legendary live music. Look out for street food and music festivals.

4. The Paramount Theater: this iconic venue has stood here since 1915. When you arrive here, check out the theater’s program. There’s a great mix of music, comedy, shows and films. Make a night of it, as there are plenty of great places to eat in the neighborhood.

Best restaurants in Austin: Food and drink

What are the best restaurants in Austin? Well, there are a lot to choose from and you can’t leave without visiting at least one Mexican restaurant and one good ole Texan grill. Whether you’re after a quick pit stop for lunch or a more sophisticated dinner, here’s a look at the best places in town.

Best restaurants in Austin for lunch 

There’s a lot of good places to grab a bit of lunch in Austin. Here are a few to try while you’re staying here.

1. Bouldin Creek Cafe: where do vegetarians go to eat in such a meat-centered city? This welcoming cafe, of course. The sandwiches are awesome.

2. Salt & Time: it’s a crowded field in Austin when it comes to choosing burgers, but this place is seriously good.

3. Little Deli: pizzas, sandwiches, cookies and outdoor picnic tables. The perfect grab and go Austin lunch.

4. Franklin Barbecue: Texas is famous for its BBQs, and this is a great place for the full experience. They also do take-out.

5. Elizabeth Street Cafe: a popular lunch spot. Noodles for mains and pastries for dessert. Absolute perfection.

And for brunch? La Condesa is famous. Try the ceviche.

Best restaurants in Austin for dinner

And in the evening? Well, we’re spoiled for choice again! Here are a few favorites.

2. Sway: delicious Thai food served at communal tables. Great fun. Try the divine satay.

2. Odd Duck: fabulous field-to-table fare. This restaurant has long been an Austin favorite, and you can see why. If you like meat, go for the wagyu burger.

3. Suerte: one of the best Mexican restaurants in Austin, Texas, you’ll find Suerte on hip East Sixth Street. Do not leave town without eating their tacos.

4. Emmer & Rye: gorgeous modern American food served in small plates and sharer platters, with a dining room or patio area.

5. Tamale House: another fantastic Mexican restaurant on East Sixth, with a lovely courtyard for dining. 

What to do in Austin with your pet

There is so much to do in Austin with our four-legged friends. It really is a great place for dogs, and there are plenty of places you can hang out together. Here are a few ideas.

1. Barking Springs: make sure that the dog doesn’t miss out on a dip. Take him or her for a splash in Barking Springs, just east of Barton Springs Pool (check the algae levels first).

2. Zilker Park: this popular park has an off-leash area, where dogs can have a real good runaround.

3. Auditorium Shores: there’s a 4.5 acre scamper area for dogs and three beaches where they can access Ladybird Lake. There’s even a dog drinking fountain. A real local favorite.

4. Yard Bar: this is a bar-slash-dog park, and what’s not to love? There’s a special dog play zone, where your pooch can have a fantastic time while you have a beer and a burger.

If you were wondering what to do in Austin Texas, now you know. It’s a vibrant city, with lots of green spaces and some of the best food around. You’ll be out in the Texan hills in no time, or you can stick to browsing the stores downtown, and if you've got a furry friend by your side, be sure to check out one of the many dog parks Austin has to offer.

What’s to do in Austin, Texas? Well, as we said at the start, lots!

House and pet sitting in Austin, Texas

If Austin sounds like your kind of city, take a look at our Find a House Sit page and see what’s available. There are homes and pets in Austin and Texas that are simply waiting to connect with a sitter like you...