Here’s just a selection of some of Austin’s offerings to create the wedding of you and your spouse-to-be’s dreams.

Jewelers

Because you have to start with the ring…

Bell & Bird

Bell & Bird specializes in vintage, one-of-a-kind jewelry from the 18th and 19th centuries, but they also have an in-house design studio where you can shop their vintage-inspired rings and jewelry, from engagement rings to wedding bands to wedding day gifts.

Eliza Page

Full disclosure: This is where my fiance got my engagement ring, and I could not be more in love with it. He had a family stone he wanted to use, and they helped him create a design he knew I would love. Eliza Page also offers full custom services or ready-made engagement rings and wedding bands.

Five Star Jewelry

Five Star Jewelry has been in Austin for more than 26 years, offering custom services and ready-made engagement rings and wedding bands. They also have several options with unique stones should you want something other than a diamond.

Korman Fine Jewelry 

This local jeweler has been a go-to in Austin since 1973. The staff here is incredibly knowledgeable and can show you a curated assortment of engagement rings and what their website says is the best selection of large stones in Central Texas. They have a global network of diamond suppliers and a great Austin story.

Venues

Springdale Station 

Once a train station, Springdale Station is a unique venue that is a beautiful setting for an urban wedding. There is a ton of indoor and outdoor space—so it’s great for planning for unpredictable weather, and there is ample parking, too. The modern fixtures of the historic space make it a super versatile backdrop.

The Grand Lady

This historic mansion venue was originally built in 1881 as a wedding gift to William Wallace Walton and his wife from her father. Now, The Grand Lady welcomes other couples to start their lives together with space to get ready, multiple options for the ceremony and reception, and the ability to host large or small weddings.

The Retreat at Balcones Springs

This truly is a retreat 45 minutes north of Austin, featuring nine venue options, on-site accommodations, and activities for you and your guests, such as hiking, swimming in the lake, and more, should your wedding be a weekend-long getaway spent reliving your summer camp days. On-site accommodations include cozy cabins, adorable bungalows, and a “honeymoon suite” for the newlyweds.

800 Congress

Right in the heart of downtown Austin, 800 Congress is a raw space that you can customize to fit your vision for the day. The outdoor terrace is perfect for cocktail hour, and the industrial but polished space is great for couples who want a more urban wedding. Plus, it has views of the Capitol and the Paramount Theatre and is close to several downtown hotels.

Chapel Dulcinea

Is an intimate wedding more your style? Chapel Dulcinea has made a name for itself for its gorgeous microweddings and elopements. The chapel can host 12 guests seated or up to 35 standing. Plus, it’s free to get married there Monday–Thursday during certain windows, or at low cost during evenings and weekends.

Food and Drink

Contigo Catering 

Contigo Catering has been around since 2014, when it was initially part of a partnership with the Contigo family ranch in Fredericksburg and Contigo restaurant. Now they are a separate business and a great way to give your guests a real taste of Austin. They offer everything from fried chicken with caviar to raw bars and fire tables! They can also coordinate food trucks for your wedding to complement their spread.

MML Hospitality 

MML is the famous hospitality group behind some of Austin’s most beloved restaurants—Jeffrey’s, Perla’s, Swedish Hill, Pool Burger, and June’s, just to name a few. And naturally, they have a catering operation that delivers the same high caliber of service and food. Their full-service catering brings the details people love from each of their locations to events of any size all over Texas.

Word of Mouth

Word of Mouth, acquired by MML in 2023, has been a culinary fixture in Austin for over 30 years. They have an array of services, including buffet dinners, seated dinners, and everything in between. After meeting with one of their event planners, they help determine the best options for your event, factoring in the venue, menu, rental choices, and duration. They are a tried and true choice for larger events.

Beauty

Oasis Face Bar

For the bride and groom, Oasis Face Bar offers a tailored package that includes luxurious touches like champagne for the bride, creating a relaxing, indulgent experience. Bridal parties can also celebrate with a unique twist on traditional bachelorette parties, enjoying facials together while sipping champagne and bonding before the big day. With a variety of custom treatments and packages designed for weddings, Oasis Face Bar helps you achieve glowing, flawless skin and a memorable experience for you and your loved ones.

Rentals and Decor

Loot Rentals

Loot Rentals is an event rental company that is every design-loving couple’s dream. They bring a specially curated collection of furniture and décor that blends vintage and new in a modern way. From lounges and bars to dining tables and chairs, let Loot form the backdrop to your most treasured memory.

Bee Lavish

Does your ceremony or reception space need an extra something? Bee Lavish has several arch options available, as well as backdrops, seating such as couches, rugs, tables, and more for rent to give your wedding a style that’s your own.

Bridal Boutiques

Blue Bridal Boutique

Blue Bridal in South Austin started after a bride saw a need for a boutique where every bride could find a dress in her price range. Now, they offer made-to-order gowns ranging from $1,500 to $7,000. Brides can make an appointment and bring up to five guests.

Unbridaled

Featuring designers from across the world, Unbridaled looks for unique dresses across a variety of styles. Since opening their Austin location in 2005, they’ve expanded into Houston and New Orleans with dresses starting at $1,000 and going up to $10,000. Brides can bring up to three guests to their appointment.

a&bé bridal shop

The Austin location of a&bé wants wedding dress shopping to be fun, creating a space where brides can relax and celebrate. Brides can also see what the shop has in stock on the shop’s Pinterest page, with price ranges for each designer. Appointments require a $25 hold, and brides can bring up to four guests. Gowns range from $1,200 to $3,000+.

Blush Bridal 

Blush Bridal Lounge has a great shop on North Lamar with a wide selection of bridal gowns and accessories by the biggest designers and local and indie artisans. Appointments are required and run 1.5 hours long. You can have a total of five guests, including the bride—so choose your party wisely.

Photographers and Videographers

That’s Amoré Films

That’s Amoré Films can give your wedding a cinematic touch. Owner Anthony DiFonzo has been producing wedding films for more than nine years, creating films and highlight reels that are unique and elegant. Having a destination wedding? That’s Amoré Films will film elopements and weddings worldwide.

Nikk Nguyen Photo

Nikk Nguyen and the photographers at Southern Love Studio deliver timeless, photojournalistic-style photography for your big day. Nguyen has over 200 reviews for his wedding photography and is passionate about capturing candid moments.

Amanda Jackson Photography

Amanda strives to capture the magic and invites authenticity while documenting the essence of your special day. With comfortable vibes and lots of laughter, she specializes in moments. She captures not only posed and candid moments of your day but also the way you felt.

Aurelia Baca Photography

Aurelia Baca is a climate and weather scientist turned wedding and elopement photographer who works in Austin and Denver. Her work has been published in the New York Times, Junebug Weddings, HuffPost, Greenwedding Shoes, Brides of Austin, and more. She specializes in luxury, candid photography with a fine art touch.

Entertainment

The Nightowls

If you want to guarantee your guests have a fantastic time and stay on the dance floor, hire The Nightowls, a popular Austin band known for their dynamic covers and uplifting live performances. They’ve been performing at weddings and other events for over a decade and are total pros.

Look No Further Entertainment 

This company handles everything to create the vibe of your wedding—from a DJ, audio equipment for the ceremony and toasts at the reception, dance lighting, and concert grade equipment to even a photo booth.

Quick Draw Photo Booth

It’s hard to describe the experience that Quick Draw Photo Booth adds to a wedding but, trust us, it’s hilariously entertaining, and your guests will love you for it. They’ll jump into a tent and pose for photos and drawings while also singing karaoke, while a guy with a headset microphone does stand-up comedy—all at the same time. The drawings and photos are great favors, too.

Special Touches

EloteAmo 

Looking for a unique, interactive food experience at your wedding? EloteAmo brings a made-to-order elote bar to your big day, perfect for a cocktail hour or a late-night snack. Their eloteros serve up cups of fresh Mexican street corn, with each guest choosing their perfect combination of toppings and sauces from a selection curated by the bride and groom (and yes, Hot Cheetos are an option!). Whether guests keep it classic with cotija and lime or go all in with bold flavors, every cup is built just the way they like it. Great weddings have great food, and EloteAmo is here to make sure yours is no exception!

Vinyl Record Guest Book From After The Tone

Let your guests leave you a “voicemail” on a vintage-style phone that After the Tone then turns into a vinyl record. Couples get to pick their style of phone, which is then shipped directly to you before the wedding. Just ship it back afterward, and you’ll have a personal vinyl of all your voicemails in just a few weeks.

Champagne Trailer From Silvercloud Trailer Events

Silvercloud’s 12-foot trailer serves perfectly chilled champagne, rosé, and other wine varietals from four beverage taps on the side. Plus, it’s a great photo opportunity for guests.

If you’d like to be included in our wedding guide, please reach out to dorothy@365thingsaustin.com.

The post A Guide To Planning A Wedding In Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Here’s what to know for this year’s kite festival.

What is the ABC Kite Fest?

One of Austin’s oldest traditions, the ABC Kite Fest started as a simple kite contest in 1929 by The Exchange Club of Austin for kids who wanted to show off their kite-making and flying skills. The free event is still going strong 95 years later, with the traditional contests, food, an off-leash playground for dogs, and a children’s concert called MossFest. It’s also for a good cause: Proceeds from ABC Kite Fest go to the Moss Pieratt Foundation.

This year’s festival is on April 5th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Zilker Park.

How do I enter the ABC Kite Fest?

It’s simple: Just show up at 10 a.m. on April 5th when registration begins for the eight different contests. All contests are open for kids and adults, with the exception of the 50-yard dash competition for kids ages 7–12. The contest starts at 1 p.m. and prizes are awarded for first, second, and third places.

What kind of kite can I bring?

All types of kites are allowed to compete. Kites can be bought or handmade and must not contain a drone or motor. Contest categories include smallest kite, largest kite, and most unusual kite if you’re gunning for a specific type.

How should I get there?

Barton Springs Road will be closed from 7 a.m.–7 p.m. during the Kite Festival, so plan accordingly. Parking is available in the lots surrounding Zilker Park and can be reserved ahead of time on the Kite Festival’s website.

Bike parking is also available, and attendees can ride a CapMetro bus to the festival for free on April 5th. Just sign up for a free digital day pass, and remember kids 18 and under ride free every day.

When: Saturday, April 5th
Time: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location: 2100 Barton Springs Rd.

The post What to Know About the 2025 ABC Kite Festival appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Here are seven of Austin’s smaller music venues worth visiting for a show.

Cactus Cafe

The tiny club in the University of Texas Union has hosted some big names on its small stage—The Chicks, Robert Earl Keen, Patty Griffin, Lyle Lovett, Townes Van Zandt, and on and on. The Cactus Cafe opened in 1979 and has become a legendary intimate venue to catch an acoustic set. 

2247 Guadalupe St. 

Hole In the Wall

Just steps from Cactus Cafe on the Drag sits Hole In the Wall, which has endured decades of change on the strip. Founded in 1974, it’s one of Austin’s oldest music venues and has hosted many a celebrity that has passed through town and helped local acts such as Spoon, Gary Clark Jr., and Shakey Graves get their start.

2538 Guadalupe St. 

The Continental Club

The Continental Club has earned legend status since it first opened its doors in 1955 as a supper club. The small club on South Congress has hosted music heavyweights like Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robert Plant, and more. You’ll find live music there every night.

1315 South Congress Ave.

Donn’s Depot

An old train depot and caboose make up this dance hall/piano bar well-loved by locals who love to two-step. Plus, you can still catch Donn Adelman himself playing at Donn’s, which he opened in 1972.

1600 W. Fifth St.

Elephant Room

Austin jazz enthusiasts flock to this downtown underground club to hear music every night, where early shows start at 6 p.m., and headliners go on at 9 p.m. Expect to pay a cover Thursday–Saturday.

315 Congress Ave.

The White Horse

The East Austin honky tonk from former owners of Hole In the Wall has music every night, often featuring the same artists each week on a rotating schedule, and other country artists will make stops. Come here to two-step (or watch the experts) on White Horse’s lively floor.

500 Comal St.

Saxon Pub

Saxon Pub’s intimate space has become a favorite for locals and performers alike, especially for its free happy hour shows. It’s hosted more than 30,000 shows since it opened in 1990, and according to Kris Kristofferson, playing there was like playing in his own living room.

1320 South Lamar Blvd.

The post 7 Great Small Music Venues In Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

But it also doesn’t mean you have to stay home (unless you want to, of course). Austin still has things to do for the days when being outside sounds terrible.

Here are some ideas for a cold or rainy day in Austin.

See a classic movie at Alamo Drafthouse, Violet Crown, or the Paramount Theatre.

The Violet Crown movie theater and the Alamo Drafthouse locations across the city often dust off old titles to show for new viewers or longtime fans. In the summer, venture to the Paramount Theatre for its Summer Classic Film Series, where you can munch on popcorn in its gorgeous space.

Spend an afternoon at the arcade.

Go to a museum.

Austin might not have the MoMA or the Louvre, but we do have the Blanton, the Contemporary, and smaller galleries scattered across the city. Take in some Texas history at the Bob Bullock Museum, or enjoy the oddities at the Museum of the Weird. Take colorful photos for the grid and eat plenty of ice cream at the Museum of Ice Cream, or explore a new perspective at the Museum of Illusions. Trying to entertain the kids? Visit the Thinkery, where they can learn about art and science through hands-on activities.

Visit the library.

Find a good book to cozy up with at your nearest library branch. Or, if you haven’t made it to the gorgeous Austin Central Library, a rainy day is the perfect opportunity. It’s one of Austin’s most beautiful public spaces, with a gallery showcasing local artists, a rooftop garden, and a cafe where you can get a hot cup of coffee and a pastry or lunch.

Go bowling at Highland Lanes.

Strive for a strike at the old-school bowling alley on Burnet. You can take advantage of Sunday specials, including Sunday morning “Claim a Lane”—unlimited bowling from 9:30 a.m. to noon for $21 per lane, including shoe rental, with up to eight people per lane. Save room for lunch or dinner when you go—Highland Lanes legitimately has one of the best burgers in Austin at Lebowski’s Grill.

Find a good bowl of soup.

There’s nothing better than hot soup on a gray day. Find a new favorite pho spot nearby (I’m a big fan of Pho Please), try the Tex-ified ramen at BBQ Ramen Tatsu-ya, get a warm grilled cheese and soup combo at The Soup Peddler, or indulge in the French onion soup at June’s All Day.

Try an Escape Room.

Make friends at a bar.

Take your moody main character energy on a rainy day to a cozy bar for a cocktail or glass of wine. Here Nor There is great if you’re feeling fancy (and if you want to learn from its knowledgeable bartenders), explore the world of South African wine at Cape Bottle Room, or visit an Austin classic like Sam’s Town Point, which draws Austinites from all walks of life.

Visit one of Austin’s indie bookstores.

We all (rightfully) love Book People, but have you also visited Reverie Books, Black Pearl Books, Resistencia Books, or Vintage Books and Wine?

Challenge your friends to Blazer Tag.

Relive the thrills of your youth at Blazer Tag, the largest laser tag arena in the state with 10,000 square feet and three stories of gameplay area with ramps, bridges, and towers. Plus, there’s an arcade and beer and wine for purchase.

Go axe throwing.

Step into a world where adrenaline meets precision at Axe Escape Austin. Experience the thrill of tossing tomahawk axes, ninja stars, throwing cards, and even batarangs. Their diverse range of throwing tools adds a unique twist to your adventure, making every visit a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re a seasoned thrower or a first-timer, our expert coaches are here to guide you through the art of precision throwing. Elevate your fun factor, challenge your skills, and discover the excitement that comes with mastering an array of throwing tools.

Hit the green with indoor golf.

Golf doesn’t have to be an outdoor activity. Play a round of mini golf from the comfort of the indoors at Dirdie Birdie, Top Golf, Golfinity, or Spare Birdie in Cedar Park.

Photo by Ave Calvar Martinez.

The post Things To Do On A Cold Or Rainy Day In Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Even better: Shopping at an Austin farmers market helps support our local farmers, ranchers, makers, and more. Local food always tastes better. It’s just a fact.

Here are six farmers’ markets in Austin you can visit each week.

Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller

The Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller boasts an impressive list of more than 120 vendors from growers to artisanal makers. Agricultural producers come from within 150 miles of the market, meaning the produce is fresh and doesn’t have to travel far before it gets to your table.

When: Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: 2006 Philomena St.

Sustainable Food Center Farmers’ Market Downtown

Republic Square is bustling every Saturday with over 40 vendors, small local businesses, community programs, and activities for the whole family. Both of the Sustainable Food Center’s farmers markets accept SNAP Lonestar cards and WIC EBT cards, and Double Up Food Bucks are available, which double the amount of Lone Star (SNAP), WIC, and FMNP benefits individuals and families can spend on fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets and mobile markets in Austin.

When: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St.

Bee Cave Farmers Market

From the organizers of Cedar Park Market Days, the Bee Cave Farmers Market has all the makings of a good farmers market—fresh local produce, prepared foods, and other artisanal goods—as well as live music every Sunday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

When: Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: 12700 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave

Sustainable Food Center Farmers’ Market Sunset Valley

While this farmers’ market has been in Austin for a while, the Sustainable Food Center took over in 2010. With more than 35 local vendors, it’s become a reliable destination for in-season fruit and vegetables, pasture-raised meat, eggs, pastries, and handcrafted artisan goods.

When: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: Toney Burger Center, 3200 Jones Rd.

Barton Creek Farmers Market

The Barton Creek Farmers Market first got its start in the Whole Foods parking lot back in 1987, making it one of the city’s oldest markets. Located at the back of Barton Creek Mall, this farmers’ market has seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat, and prepared foods.

When: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy

Lone Star Farmers Market

In September of 2024, Lone Star Farmers Market moved from Bee Cave to Belterra Village. This market has fresh flowers, produce, farm raised wagyu, and so much more.

When: Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: 167 Hargraves Dr

Boggy Creek Farm

This organic, no-till urban farm hosts its own farmers market, and it’s open during the week. Check their website each week to see what’s available, from produce to pasta to meat to coffee. Be sure to bring your own bags—the market has eliminated plastic produce bags.

When: Wednesdays through Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where: 3414 Lyons Rd.

The post Austin Farmers’ Markets appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Whether you’re playing tour guide for your parents or that old friend from high school, here are just a few of our recommendations for where to take visitors in Austin.

Barton Springs

If it’s hot (and it probably is), a dip in Barton Springs is the way to go, where the water is 68 degrees even during the most sweltering of summer days. Plus, you can take a stroll through Zilker Park before or after.

The Bullock Museum

Learn about the Lone Star State at the official history museum of Texas, where permanent and temporary exhibits tell the story of the state. There’s also an IMAX screen where you can see a movie. As a bonus: Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.

The Blanton Museum of Art

UT’s art museum just got a big facelift, and it’s well worth the visit. See rotating exhibits, Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, as well as the museum’s large collection of Mexican and Latin American art. It’s also steps away from the Bullock Museum.

South Congress

Yes, it has become a tourist hotspot, but anyone who is visiting has probably heard of it and probably wants to go. Grab a slice of pizza at More Home Slice, take a photo at the iconic “I love you so much” mural, and shop at the local stores that line the street.

Alternatively: South First also has a collection of funky galleries, restaurants and shops and is much less packed than South Congress. Photo credit: Texas Monthly

A Concert or Anywhere With Live Music

Austin is, of course, known for its live music, and it would be a loss not to take an out-of-towner to see some. For a very comfortable experience, catch a concert at ACL Live on Wille Nelson Boulevard. Or you can head to one of Austin’s more laidback establishments, like the White Horse for two-stepping, Hole in the Wall near UT’s campus, or the legendary Continental Club on South Congress. Photo credit: @garymillershoots

AFS Cinema

Take the movie buffs to the nonprofit art house theater from Austin Film Society, which founded by famed director Richard Linklater. AFS Cinema specializes in indie films of all types, as well as special events. See a movie you likely won’t see playing anywhere else.

Somewhere With Tacos and Margaritas

The preferred diet of Austinites, tacos and margaritas are easy to find throughout the city. Güero’s Taco Bar has been a mainstay on South Congress for years, the first Chuy’s is still serving on Barton Springs, Radio Coffee & Beer has a full cocktail menu, and the excellent Veracruz All Natural truck parked on-site. El Alma has a perfect rooftop patio for an ice-cold marg … The list goes on and on.

Somewhere With Barbecue

Texas means barbecue, and Austin is no different. Especially if your visitors are coming from out of state, a taste of some tender-enough-to-fall-apart brisket is required. Some of our favorites: Terry Black’s, Franklin (if you can brave the wait), Lambert’s, Distant Relatives, and InterStellar BBQ.

The post Where to Take Visitors in Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Played with paddles and a plastic ball on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net, pickleball has grown in popularity over recent years. It’s easy to see why: The rules are simple, it doesn’t require pro-level skills, and it’s a great way to meet up with friends. Plus, there are several bars and restaurants with courts in Austin.

Austin is also home to Pickleball Playmakers, an organization that will help you plan your next corporate or private pickleball event. They also offer one-on-one and group pickleball lessons for all skill levels.

Ready to hit the court? Here’s where you can play pickleball in Austin.

Austin Parks and Recreation Department Pickleball Courts

The city has over 15 sites of public pickleball courts across the city, which are free to use for anyone with paddles, and no reservation is needed. Some even have indoor courts for those unbearably hot days, such as the South Austin Recreation Center, Hancock Recreation Center, and the Northwest Recreation Center. Just find your closest location, and be sure to check the hours before you go.

Multiple locations

Austin Pickle Ranch 

Austin Pickle Ranch is a true adult playground and hosts one of the largest set of indoor courts with 16 courts under one roof! Housing state-of-the-art courts, designed with performance in mind using CushionX technology. They offer open play, leagues, clinics, and more.

11000 Middle Fiskville Road, Building B, Austin, TX 78753

Austin Tennis Center

Austin Tennis Center is the largest public pickleball center and has eight lighted pickleball courts with permanent nets, so you don’t have to quit just because the sun went down. If you really want to hone your skills, join the pickleball league or take a lesson with Coach Calvin Keeney. Call 512-928-8119 or use the online court scheduler to reserve a court.

7800 Johnny Morris Rd.

Bouldin Acres

Bouldin Acres patrons can rent one of the restaurant’s two pickleball courts in half-hour increments for $10 to $20. Need some equipment? Court rental comes with two balls, and you can rent paddles for $2.50 each. Courts must be reserved online and in advance, and bookings open one week in advance.

2027 South Lamar Blvd.

Dreamland Dripping Springs

Dreamland, located in Dripping Springs, is a private event space with mini golf, a splash pad, sculptures scattered throughout, disc golf, and 16 dedicated pickleball courts open to the public. Open walk-in play is available Thursday through Sunday mornings for a nominal fee, or reserve a court for your group during those same days. No need to scrounge up a paddle if you don’t have one—Dreamland has rentals available for $3 each.

2770 Hwy 290, Dripping Springs

The Fieldhouse at the Crossover

The Fieldhouse at the Crossover in Cedar Park has plenty of activities—live music, volleyball, cornhole, and two pickleball courts available to rent by the hour. And on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to close, the Fieldhouse’s courts become 21 and up. Keep in mind pickleball paddles and balls are not included with your reservation.

1717 Scottsdale Drive, Cedar Park

Little Zilker Neighborhood Park

The public park, Little Zilker Neighborhood Park, has two first-come, first-served outdoor courts that are shared with the tennis courts, but you will need to bring your own net. Stop here for an afternoon of pickleball and utilize the nearby tables for a picnic.

2016 Bluebonnet Ln.

The Pitch

Located next to Parmer Field, the Pitch has two courts available for free reservations and one court open to the public. Two balls are provided, and paddles are available for rent for $2.50 per pair. The Pitch also has four restaurants and two bars to choose from after you work up an appetite.

13000 Harris Ridge Blvd.

Shalom Austin 

You don’t have to be a member to take a pickleball class at Shalom Austin’s Hurt Family Tennis Center. They have four lit outdoor pickleball courts and classes and clinics for all levels. Non-members will pay a separate fee when they register.

7300 Hart Ln.

Ski Shores Cafe

MML Hospitality recently revamped the Lake Austin classic and installed special pickleball courts so you can play and sip a cocktail. You can likely expect pickleball events in the future—over Thanksgiving weekend in 2022, Ski Shores hosted their First Annual Ski Shores Doubles Classic, a three-day pickleball tournament.

2905 Pearce Rd.

East Side Paddle Club

Other Racquet Social Club

2717 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722

Waterloo Pickleball 

410 Pressler St, Austin, TX 78703

PicklePub ATX

10630 Menchaca Rd Bldg B, Austin TX 78748

Williamson County Regional Park

3005 County Road 175, Leander, TX 78641

The Picklr

Two locations opening Fall 2024

West Austin: 8201 N FM 620, Austin, TX 78726
Round Rock: S I-35 Frontage Rd, Round Rock, TX 78664

The post Where To Play Pickleball In Austin appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Want to head out to the Greenbelt soon? Here’s what you should know.

What is the Greenbelt?

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a 7.5-mile stretch of land through South Austin used for hiking, swimming, birdwatching, rock climbing, cycling, and more. It begins near the famed Barton Springs Pool at Zilker Park and ends at 1712 Camp Craft Road.

Where can I enter?

The Greenbelt has seven access points. Popular ones include the trail’s head at Zilker Park (2212 William Barton Drive), the main access point off of the Capital of Texas Highway (3755-B Capital of Texas Highway), and the Twin Falls access point (3918 South Mopac Expressway).

What should I bring?

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially during Austin’s warm days. Snacks are also a good idea, but don’t forget to take all trash and recyclables—leave no trace! Alcohol is not allowed, so leave the beer at home. A towel and extra socks may also be a good idea if you plan to swim.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on the trail but must stay on a leash for the safety of other hikers and cyclists. Don’t forget extra water for your furry friend. Also, check on Austin’s harmful algae blooms that may crop up in the Greenbelt’s water, which can be extremely toxic for dogs if ingested.

Where can I park?

Parking lots are near the Zilker, 360, and Homedale access points. But beware, spots can fill up quickly on good weather days. Austin is also bringing back its free weekend shuttle from the One Texas Center parking garage to Zilker Park starting May 27.

Where can I swim?

Perhaps the most crucial question for hiking during Austin’s warmer months. The Greenbelt includes two swimming areas: Campbell’s Hole and Gus Fruh.

Campbell’s Hole includes rock formations, sandbars, and a pebble beach, and lies near the Homedale and Spyglass access points. It’s also less popular than some other Austin swimming holes.

Gus Fruh is another less-traveled favorite of locals, and the swimming hole can get very deep after some good rain. However, the Gus Fruh access point (2632 Barton Hills Drive) is in a residential area, meaning street parking is necessary.

Hikers will also take a dip in Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. Just know that water levels will always depend on rainfall; you’ll have a better shot at a good swim in late spring and early summer.

The post A Guide To Hiking Austin’s Greenbelt appeared first on 365 Things Austin.

Here are seven of the oldest bars in the city to get a taste of history with your beer or cocktail.

Donn’s Depot

Opened: 1978

The piano bar/dance hall near downtown is situated in an old train depot, and you can see the history in the building (and the bar’s carpet). But it’s a favorite among locals, especially for its nightly music and during Christmastime when the bar goes all out.

1600 W 5th St.

Deep Eddy Cabaret

Opened: 1951

As the name implies, Deep Eddy Cabaret is just a few yards from Deep Eddy Pool—a watering hole near another watering hole. Stop in for a brew or two after a swim.

2315 Lake Austin Blvd.

Scoot Inn

Opened: 1871

The Scoot Inn was established in 1871 as a “drive-in” pub for the pioneers passing through the area. It’s still a beer joint, as well as one of Austin’s great music venues.

1308 E 4th St.

Scholz Garten

Opened: 1866

Founded in 1866 by August Scholz, Scholz Garten is reportedly the oldest continuously operating bar in the state, with an impressive selection of beer. It’s also conveniently situated near the UT campus and the Moody Center, making for a great pre-concert or pre-game spot.

1607 San Jacinto Blvd.

The Tavern

Opened: 1916 as The Enfield Grocery Store, 1933 as the Tavern

It’s old enough that the sign outside advertises that the bar on 12 Street and Lamar is air-conditioned—the Tavern was one of the first places in Austin to get the necessary luxury. It’s also reportedly haunted by a ghost named Emily.

922 W 12th St.

The Continental Club

Opened: 1955

The Continental Club first opened its doors as a supper club and has since become a legendary live music venue where artists such as Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robert Plant, and more have graced the stage.

1315 South Congress Ave.

Draught House Pub & Brewery

Opened: 1969

Founded by former Tavern manager Wayne Overton and his wife Gay, the Draught House quickly became the go-to place for draught beer. It’s now lauded for its craft beer selection, including Draught House brews and several guest taps.

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But besides the tradition, tubing is often a relaxing and budget-friendly way to spend a hot summer day. You can bring your own drinks, snacks, and cooler; tubing companies will more often than not shuttle you to and from the drop-in area; and there isn’t any need to stand in long lines to get on a 90-second waterslide.

Here are the three main rivers near Austin fit for tubing.

San Marcos River

When the temps start hitting the triple-digits, hundreds of people flock to the spring-fed San Marcos River that stays a cool 72 degrees all year long. It’s also the closest tubing location to Austin.  

Local tubing companies:

• Austin Tubing Trips, which offers pick-up and drop-off in Downtown Austin, tubes, and cooler set-ups
• Texas State Tubes
• San Marcos Lions Club Tube Rental
• Great Gonzo’s Tubes & Shuttles

Comal River

The Comal River in New Braunfels is just a short drive from Austin and has hosted generations of tubing Texans. Tubers on the spring-fed river float past Wurstfest grounds, pass through downtown New Braunfels, and float by Schlitterbahn Waterpark until joining the Guadalupe River. The Comal River is also famous for its “tube chute,” a giant concrete waterslide downriver from Prince Solms Park. 

Local tubing companies: 

• Comal Tubes
• Texas Tubes
• Rockin’ R at Comal
• 444 Tubing Company
• Corner Tubes

Guadalupe River 

Off of Canyon Lake is the Guadalupe River, which flows 230 miles through multiple cities in the Hill Country all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. You can enter the Guadalupe in multiple locations, including Canyon Lake, New Braunfels, Guadalupe State Park in Spring Branch, and Boerne. It’s also the longer of the two floats available in New Braunfels should you want more time in the water. 

Local tubing companies:

• Rockin’ R Gruene
• Tube Haus
• Jerry’s Rentals
• Little Ponderosa River Outfitters

Tubing Rules and Tips: 

• No disposable containers, glass, or foam containers. Keep the river clean. The city of New Braunfels also has a full “can ban” in place, so leave the beer at home. 
• No jumping from bridges, dams, or trees.
• Coolers should (and often must) have a clasp on the lid, and some rivers will have a size limit. 
• Lifejackets are always recommended for weaker swimmers. 
• Wear water shoes or other lace-up shoes. You’ll regret those flip-flops when you’re entering and exiting the river. 
• Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Nothing ruins a day of tubing like a raging sunburn. Hats are also a good idea, especially if you have a part in your hair. 
• Alcohol is permitted (as long as it’s in a non-disposable container), so batching a cocktail or spritz is a great idea. But don’t forget water. It’s hot, and you need to hydrate. 

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