If you're coming to Austin for just a few days, there are a few must-see stops and mostly free things to do in Austin Texas that should be part of your itinerary. Every Texan should see the State Capitol and State History Museum — and non-Texans will find it enjoyable it as well. Plus there some great historical, educational, architecturally significant, and just plain 'gotta see' downtown attractions as well. Plus, most of these are free things to do in downtown Austin.
1) Texas State Capitol Complex
Every Texan should try to visit the State Capitol at least once in their lifetime which puts it at the top of our mostly free things to do list. And if you haven't visited since the restoration of the 1980s, visit again. Taller than the US Capitol, the Texas State Capitol and Capitol Grounds are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and a favorite spot for the locals as well. Inside and out, it's simply impressive, beautiful, and one of our state treasures. Free.
2) Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Saying that it's as big as Texas is no exaggeration. This mammoth museum is large enough to hold the original Goddess of Liberty from the top of the State Capitol (replaced during renovation), a 1/3 scale model of the Lunar module, a full-size windmill, and a circa 1940 AT-6 "Texan" airplane. But don't miss the smaller exhibits including historic documents, artifacts, photos, diaramas, and talking displays and videos. It's not free, but well worth the admission.
3) University of Texas Campus / UT Tower
UT is almost its own city. You don't have to be planning to attend to enjoy its sculptures, fountains, the Tower, and the many museums including the Ransom Center, home of an original Gutenberg Bible among other treasures, the Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art, and the Texas Memorial Museum. The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum is also on the UT campus. Free (to visit).
4) Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum
The nation’s largest, most-visited Presidential library is filled with memorabilia and important papers from LBJ's term in office and those turbulent times that included the Vietnam War. There are exhibits for young and young-at-heart throughout the museum. Free.
5) 6th Street
Perhaps the city's best known street outside of Texas, a few blocks south of the Capitol you'll find the E. 6th Street and Red River Entertainment District. Even if the restaurants, bars, and live music don't appeal to you, a stroll down 6th Street can be visually stimulating experience. From the beautiful architecture and historic facades to the eccentric appearance of some 6th Street regulars, a visit to 6th Street is sure to intrigue. Free (to stroll).
6) Congress Avenue Bats
Depending on the time of year, a visit to the Congress Avenue bridge provides an awesome sight. Each evening, especially in the late summer and early fall, up to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge like a black cloud from the crevices of the bridge that they call home for around 8 months of the year. Free.
7) Town Lake
In the shadow of downtown is one of Austin's treasures - Town Lake. This spot along the Colorado River is a popular site for walking, biking, picnics, concerts, bat-watching, and peddle boats, canoes, riverboat rides, and much more. When you need to unwind from a day of sightseeing or business meetings, take a break on Town Lake. Mostly free although some activities have fees (boats, some concerts on the lake, for example).
8) Governor's Mansion
Home to every Texas Governor since Governor Pease in 1856, the Governor's Mansion is a lovely Greek Revival style building just southwest of the Capitol. You just might catch a glimpse of the Governor when you stop by (I have). Free. Advance tour reservations required or just stroll by for a look.
9) Driskill Hotel
A popular location for fairy tale weddings, the Driskill Hotel at 6th and Brazos is also a luxurious place to relax in the splendor of a bygone era. In 1934, Lyndon Baines Johnson and his future wife, Lady Bird, had their first date in the Driskill Hotel dining room. Even if you're staying in a motel on the highway, a walk past and through the Driskill is an eye-pleasing stop while visiting 6th Street. Free (to look).
10) The 'Dillo
These cute historic reproductions of trolley cars will take you to, from, and through downtown Austin, the Capitol Complex, University of Texas campus, and other parts of downtown. The 'Dillo is a great way to get to the downtown Austin things to do and see in this list — in air conditioned comfort. And best of all, the 'Dillos are free, the 'Dillos are free!
Best Free Show - The Congress Street Bats - Every night at dusk, about a gazillion Mexican free-tailed bats come swarming out from under the bridge and go flapping off into the sunset in search of their nightly feast of 10,000 to 30,000 pounds of mo-skeeters and other insects. Don't miss the bat-hat vendors!