Now that it’s officially Fall, get outside, enjoy the cooler weather, and experience downtown with this list of recommendations for socially-distanced activities for all ages!
1. Plan a Socially distanced visit to Republic Square
Visit and learn about the Auction Oaks, the very spot where Austin became a city
Have a picnic and enjoy some take-out from the new Salt & Time Cafe, located on the north side of the square
Shop at the SFC Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings
This year marked the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, serving as the inspiration behind the two new landmarks in downtown Austin. Created as part of the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation’s Writing on the Walls Series celebrating art, diversity, and public spaces in our community.
3. Take a ride and see the sites on an Austin BCycle bike
This is a fun socially distanced tour that allows you to see downtown Austin, and the bikes and stations are cleaned and disinfected with increased frequency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic
4. Check out a book curbside from the Central Library
Austin Public Library currently offers curbside pick-up. Pick out a good book to read while you enjoy some fresh air
5. Reserve a spot at a rooftop pool at a downtown hotel
Downtown Austin pools are the perfect place to spend a staycation! Relax at The W Austin, the Westin, or Hotel Zaza for a great view of Republic Square (current capacity limits and social distancing policies will apply)
6. Pick up lunch from St. David’s Episcopal Church
St. David’s Cafe Divine offers chef-quality food and tips are donated to the Central Texas Food Bank
St. David’s Cafe Divine reopens with expanded menu, curbside service (Austin 360)
7. Walk or run along Lady Bird Lake
Stretch your legs and enjoy the best of nature downtown on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
8. View the bats at the Congress Avenue bridge
The best time of year to catch the iconic Congress Avenue bats is from late spring to early fall
Visit Austin’s Bat Watching 101
9. Take in a movie at the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-in at the Downtown Rooftop Theatre
The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation and Blue Starlite have partnered to bring an outdoor drive-in movie theater to the rooftop of the State parking garage located at Third and San Antonio Streets, overlooking Republic Square! See the Lineup of Movies + Get Tickets
Media Coverage
Ways to enjoy Downtown Austin and still remain socially-distanced (Fox 7 Austin)