12 Fun And Affordable Things To Do In Austin During Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is an exciting time to explore Austin, Texas. From outdoor activities to art and music, there is something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are 12 fun and affordable things to do in Austin during Memorial Day weekend that will make for an unforgettable holiday. From visiting the natural wonders at Hamilton Pool to trying out the city's best food trucks, you're sure to have a great time in this vibrant city.

Barton Springs Pool

When visiting Barton Springs Pool, it’s important to be mindful of the environment and take care of the natural resources. There are a few tips to keep in mind when visiting the pool. First, leave no trace! Make sure to bring all your trash with you and dispose of it properly. Second, be aware of the wildlife that call the pool home. There are several species of fish, turtles, and other aquatic creatures that reside in the pool, so please be respectful and don’t disturb them.

The pool’s location also makes it the perfect spot for some Memorial Day weekend activities. Take a dip in the pool and enjoy the cool water or take a hike along the nearby trails. Afterward, take a break and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area. If you’re looking to add some culture to your trip, there are plenty of cultural attractions nearby, including the Texas State Capitol, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Memorial Day weekend is also a great time to celebrate the amazing history of Barton Springs Pool. The pool has been around since the late 19th century and was originally a popular spot for swimming and fishing. In the early 20th century, it was a popular spot for picnics with the whole family. Today, the pool is still a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

When visiting Barton Springs Pool, it’s important to remember the importance of conservation and the need to protect our natural resources. As the pool’s website says, “Take only pictures, leave only footprints.” By following these simple guidelines, we can ensure that Barton Springs Pool remains a beautiful, natural spot for generations to come.

For a Memorial Day weekend getaway, Barton Springs Pool is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and its historical significance, this natural spring-fed pool is a great place to escape the summer heat and make some great memories.

McKinney Falls State Park

There is no shortage of activities for visitors to enjoy at McKinney Falls. Hiking trails wind their way through the park, offering breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a dip in the refreshing waters of Onion Creek, or take a leisurely canoe or kayak ride along the surrounding banks. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, and even fishing.

In addition to the outdoor activities, McKinney Falls is also a great place to learn about the history of the area. The park’s interpretive center is open year-round and features a variety of exhibits and displays that highlight the people, places and events that shaped the area’s history. The park also offers guided tours that take visitors on a journey through the park’s past, allowing them to experience the beauty of the falls and learn about the area’s rich cultural history.

For those who are looking for a bit of relaxation, McKinney Falls is the perfect spot. Visitors can take a stroll along the banks of Onion Creek, or just sit back and enjoy the view from the park’s picnic area. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the park’s natural beauty, from the native wildflowers that bloom in the spring, to the lush greenery of the trails.

For those looking for a unique experience, McKinney Falls offers the perfect opportunity. The park’s amphitheater hosts a variety of live music and other performances, making it the perfect spot for a memorable Memorial Day Weekend.

No matter what your plans are for Memorial Day Weekend, McKinney Falls State Park is an ideal destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and wide variety of activities, McKinney Falls is a great place to escape, relax, and enjoy the best that nature has to offer.

Zilker Park

The first stop for visitors to Zilker Park is the Barton Springs Pool. This three-acre, natural spring-fed swimming pool is a great place to cool off and relax on a hot summer day. It is also home to a variety of wildlife and plants, making it a unique and beautiful spot to explore. Visitors can take advantage of the picnic areas around the pool, as well as the playgrounds and grills scattered throughout the park.

Kayaking is another great activity to take part in at Zilker Park. With its proximity to Lady Bird Lake, visitors can enjoy a peaceful kayaking excursion under the Austin skyline. There are numerous kayak rental companies in the area, making it easy for visitors to get out on the water.

The Zilker Hillside Theater is also a popular destination for visitors. This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year, and is especially popular during the Memorial Day weekend. Whether you are looking for a rock concert or a classical performance, this is the place to be.

For those looking to explore the park on foot, Zilker Park has miles of trails that span the entire area. Visitors can take in the scenic views of the park while getting some exercise. There are also several nature and wildlife areas throughout the park, making it a great place to observe native Texas species.

Finally, visitors can explore the Zilker Botanical Garden. This 27-acre garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly garden and a rock garden. It is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Lady Bird Lake

The lake is the perfect spot to spend your Memorial Day Weekend, as it offers plenty of activities to choose from. For those looking to get out on the water, Lady Bird Lake offers kayaking, paddle-boarding, and canoeing. There is also a range of fishing spots located around the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go kayak fishing or try your luck at catching a trophy largemouth bass.

For those looking for a relaxing weekend, Lady Bird Lake is the ideal spot. With its picturesque views, it is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, take a stroll, or just sit back and relax. There are also plenty of spots along the lake to enjoy a refreshing swim.

Memorial Day Weekend at Lady Bird Lake is not complete without a visit to the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge. Every evening at dusk, the bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Watching the bats take flight is an awe-inspiring experience that is not to be missed.

The lake also offers a range of other activities to enjoy during your Memorial Day Weekend. You can take a scenic boat tour, or explore the lake on a stand-up paddleboard. There are also plenty of spots to enjoy a barbeque or a picnic with friends and family.

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting Memorial Day Weekend, Lady Bird Lake has something for everyone. With its range of activities, breathtaking views, and its iconic bat colony, Lady Bird Lake is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. So why not make your Memorial Day Weekend one to remember and visit Lady Bird Lake?

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Bullock Texas State History Museum
Type	Museum in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 5,437
Address	1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
Phone	(512) 936-8746
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

The Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin is an ideal destination for Memorial Day weekend. Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the museum offers a unique experience of Texas' past and present with interactive exhibits, educational programming, and a variety of special events.

The museum's signature exhibit, “The Story of Texas,” is an immersive journey through the history of the Lone Star State. With interactive displays, artifacts, photographs, and videos, visitors can explore the stories of Texas, from its early exploration to modern day. The museum also has an extensive exhibit on the Texas Revolution, with a focus on the contributions of Texans in the fight for independence.

For those interested in the natural history of Texas, the museum offers the “Life of the Land” exhibit, which explores the state's diverse environment and its impact on the cultures of its inhabitants. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and photographs highlighting the state's diverse ecosystems and habitats.

The museum also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, including family friendly activities, art and music programming, and storytellers. This Memorial Day weekend, the museum will host a special event featuring a panel of experts discussing the history of Texas military service, and honoring those who have served in the military.

In addition to the museum's exhibits and special events, visitors can explore the surrounding area with the museum's walking tours. The museum offers guided tours of downtown Austin, including historic sites, monuments, and parks.

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a wonderful destination for Memorial Day weekend. With its unique exhibits, educational programming, and special events, visitors can explore the rich history of Texas and honor those who have served our nation.

HOPE Outdoor Gallery

The Memorial Day Weekend at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery of Austin, Texas is the perfect way to celebrate the start of summer and the beauty of the city. Located in the middle of downtown Austin, the HOPE Outdoor Gallery is an outdoor art space filled with colorful murals and graffiti art. Every Memorial Day Weekend, the gallery comes alive with music, art, and activities for the entire family.

Visitors of the HOPE Outdoor Gallery can spend the entire day taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant art and music scene. During Memorial Day Weekend, the gallery will be hosting a variety of events, including live music, art workshops, and mural painting. There will also be food trucks, vendors, and activities for the kids. This is an opportunity to experience the best of what Austin has to offer and get to know the local art scene.

For those interested in the art, workshops will be available throughout the day to teach visitors about mural painting and graffiti. The workshops will be led by some of Austin’s most talented street artists, so attendees can gain insight into their craft. After the workshop, visitors can take part in the mural painting and graffiti art activities.

For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there will be plenty of seating areas to sit and enjoy the music and atmosphere. The music will range from local bands to international performers. There will also be a variety of vendors selling food and drinks, so visitors can enjoy a meal or snack while listening to the music.

At the end of the day, visitors can take part in the traditional Memorial Day ceremony at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery. This ceremony is held to honor the fallen heroes of the United States Armed Forces and recognize the sacrifices they made for our freedom.

Memorial Day Weekend at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery of Austin is a great way to experience the beauty and culture of the city. With its vibrant art and music scene, the gallery is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun and educational experience or a relaxing day of music, the HOPE Outdoor Gallery is the perfect place to spend your Memorial Day Weekend.

Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum in Austin, Texas is an ideal destination for anyone looking to spend a memorable Memorial Day Weekend. This unique venue offers visitors the perfect combination of art, nature, and history, all nestled in a picturesque setting.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is located just off of South Lamar Boulevard and is easily accessible by car. The museum itself is home to a vast collection of sculptures by the renowned sculptor Charles Umlauf, while the garden boasts a lush green space with trees, benches, and pathways. Visitors can spend their days exploring the sculptures and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

On Memorial Day, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum honors all those who have served in the military with a special ceremony and flag-raising ceremony. During this event, visitors can take part in a special wreath-laying ceremony and listen to stories from veterans and their families.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum also offers a variety of educational and family-friendly activities throughout the year, including guided tours and art classes. During Memorial Day weekend, visitors can participate in a hands-on workshop to learn about the history of the sculpture garden, as well as how to create their own masterpieces.

The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is a great place to spend Memorial Day weekend. Visitors can spend time appreciating the beauty of the sculptures, learning more about the history of the garden, and listening to stories from veterans and their families. There’s something to do for everyone, from art classes to remembrance ceremonies.

"The Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is a special place to honor our fallen heroes and to appreciate the beauty of art," says Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum director Roberta Schwartz. "It’s a place to find peace, to reflect on the past, and to look towards the future with hope."

So come to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum this Memorial Day weekend and honor those who have served our country. Enjoy the beauty of the sculptures, take part in meaningful ceremonies, and take in the calming atmosphere. It’s sure to be a weekend to remember.

Bat Watching at Congress Avenue Bridge

As the sun sets over Congress Avenue Bridge, Austinites and tourists alike gather to watch the majestic nightly flight of the Mexican free-tailed bats. Every Memorial Day weekend, thousands of people come to the bridge to watch the nightly spectacle of hundreds of thousands of bats emerging from beneath the bridge in search of food. The Congress Avenue Bridge is a popular spot for watching bats, as it is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America.

The bats usually start their emergence from the bridge at dusk, usually around 9.30pm. Watching the bats is a magical experience, as you can see hundreds of thousands of bats swirling around in the sky. It is truly a sight to behold, and it is no surprise that the bridge draws such large crowds every year.

If you're looking to get the best experience out of bat watching at the Congress Avenue Bridge, there are few key things to keep in mind. First, arrive at least an hour before dusk to get a good spot. The bridge can get crowded, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot. Second, bring a flashlight, as you will need it to find your way in the dark. Third, bring binoculars or a good camera with a telephoto lens, as these will help you get a better view of the bats.

When you are watching the bats, you can also listen to some of the experienced bat watchers tell stories about the bats, or offer up some interesting facts about them. Did you know that Mexican free-tailed bats can fly at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour? Or that they can eat up to 3,000 insects in a single night? There is so much to learn about these amazing creatures, and it’s always interesting to hear what others have to say.

If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience this Memorial Day weekend, head to the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin and spend an evening watching the incredible flight of the Mexican free-tailed bats. You'll be sure to leave with some incredible memories and a newfound appreciation for these amazing creatures.

Austin Zoo

For those looking to experience something different, the Zoo’s animal encounters are the perfect way to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s residents. From the African Lion Encounters to the Giraffe Feedings and Reptile Encounters, visitors have the opportunity to learn more about some of the zoo’s most beloved animals.

For those that want to learn about the history of the zoo, the “History of the Austin Zoo” tours are perfect. These tours offer behind-the-scenes looks at the zoo’s history, the animals that call the zoo home, and more.

The Zoo’s “Eco-Scavenger Hunt” is a great way to explore the zoo while learning about the environment. This interactive scavenger hunt encourages visitors to explore the zoo, learn more about its habitats, and discover ways to help the environment.

For those that want to spend some time outside, the Zoo’s Nature Play Area is the perfect spot to relax and explore. With a variety of interactive stations, visitors can explore the outdoors and learn more about the environment.

For families looking for something fun to do together, the Zoo’s “Animal Olympics” is a great way to get active and have a blast. The zoo’s staff will lead a variety of games and activities to help bring out the competitive spirit in everyone.

For those that want a unique experience, the Zoo’s “Storytelling” event is perfect. Visitors can listen to stories about some of the zoo’s animals from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds.

The Austin Zoo is the perfect place to spend Memorial Day Weekend. With a variety of activities, experiences, and attractions, visitors of all ages can have a memorable and educational weekend. From animal encounters to eco-scavenger hunts, there is something for everyone at the Austin Zoo.

Mount Bonnell

The most popular way to experience Mount Bonnell is to hike up the steep limestone staircase to the summit. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Austin and the surrounding area. There are also several benches along the way that provide a great spot to rest and take in the scenery.

If you're looking for something more low-key, you can take a leisurely stroll around the lake. There are several walking paths that offer beautiful views of the lake and downtown Austin. It's a great way to spend the day soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

If you're looking for a bit of adventure, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake. There are plenty of areas to explore, and you can even spot some of Austin's iconic wild life, such as the American white pelican.

No matter how you choose to spend your Memorial Day weekend at Mount Bonnell, you're guaranteed to have a great time. With its stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and plenty of activities, it's the perfect spot to spend a day or two.

For those looking for a unique experience, there are a few events that take place at Mount Bonnell throughout the year. The most popular is the Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony, where a flag is raised to honor those who have served in the United States military. The ceremony is usually followed by a picnic, complete with food, music, and fireworks.

In addition to the Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony, there are other events throughout the year, such as the Austin Sunrise Trail Runs, a 5K race that takes place every summer. The race starts at the summit of Mount Bonnell and follows a scenic trail around the lake.

Mayfield Park and Preserve

Characteristic	Description
Name	Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Type	Nature preserve in Austin, Texas
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 2,792
Address	3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Phone	(512) 974-6700
Hours	Monday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Sunday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

The park is a sprawling 19 acres of lush gardens, meandering trails, ponds, and a variety of wildlife. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family entertained, including bird watching, nature walks, and a variety of educational programs. The park also features a historic train depot, which is a popular spot for photo ops and sightseeing.

Memorial Day weekend is a great time to visit Mayfield Park and Preserve. The park is bustling with activity, and visitors can expect to see a variety of different events and activities. There are guided tours of the grounds, live music, and food trucks. The park also hosts a variety of special events, such as the “Bats, Brews, and BBQ” event, which features beer tastings, live music, and a barbecue dinner.

When visiting Mayfield Park on Memorial Day weekend, it’s important to bring your own food and drinks. The park does not have any food or beverage vendors, so visitors should be prepared with snacks and beverages for the day. Additionally, visitors should be aware that the park does not have any restrooms, so it’s important to plan accordingly and use the restroom before arriving.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and plants, so visitors should take care to be respectful of their surroundings. Visitors should also be aware that the park is often crowded during Memorial Day weekend, so it’s important to plan ahead and arrive early to get the best view of the grounds.

Blanton Museum of Art

The Blanton Museum of Art in Austin, Texas is the largest university art museum in the state and offers an array of activities and events throughout the year. Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to visit the Blanton and explore the museum's impressive collection of artworks from around the world.

During Memorial Day weekend, the Blanton offers a variety of activities and events that make it a great destination for the whole family. Visitors can attend special exhibitions and lectures, participate in guided tours, and explore the museum's permanent collection. There are also special activities for children, such as scavenger hunts and art-making workshops.

The Blanton's permanent collection consists of over 19,000 artworks from a variety of cultures and time periods. Visitors can explore the many galleries which feature Latin American, African American, and European art, as well as prints and photographs. The museum also houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Andy Warhol, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Willem de Kooning.

In addition to the permanent collection, the Blanton hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. During Memorial Day weekend, visitors can explore the museum's current exhibitions which feature works of art from around the world. For example, the museum is currently showcasing a collection of art from the Middle East and North Africa.

The Blanton also offers a variety of educational programs, such as lectures and workshops, throughout the year. During Memorial Day weekend, visitors can attend special lectures and workshops on a range of topics, including art history, photography, and printmaking. There are also special programs for children and families, such as storytelling and art-making workshops.

The Blanton Museum of Art is a great destination for Memorial Day weekend. Visitors can explore the museum's impressive permanent collection and special exhibitions, attend lectures and workshops, and enjoy activities for the whole family. Whether you are a art enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend the weekend, the Blanton Museum of Art is the perfect place to visit.

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