The Best 7 Things to do Solo in Austin

Hi friends! I’m back from a quick weekend trip to Austin, Texas. I ended up meeting a gf who was out there for work, and we extended through the weekend. What a quirky little city!

We did a lot of these, but I took a lot of notes on what I would have done if I had taken this trip solo. This list is full of fun activities that’ll give you time to yourself AND help you meet friends! 💕

Bar hopping in Austin, Tx — Bar hopping through Austin

Gourdoughs Donut Trailer Austin — Gourdoughs Donut Trailer in South Austin

Table of Contents

The Best 7 Things to do Solo in Austin

Austin is a super walkable city. I was stunned, especially coming from hill-city Seattle! They have bike lanes on almost every street.

One // Rent a Scooter or a Bike!

They are everywhere! On almost every block downtown and in the popular tourist areas of this city. Austin is so flat, you’ll feel comfortable rolling from place to place. I was floored because the only other city I’ve seen with that many bikes is Amsterdam. I’m rather proud of the US for having such a cyclist friendly metropolis.

I’ve taken many bike tours on my solo travels, and Austin is the perfect place to book one. This tour includes a helmet and an electric bike for those not looking to huff and puff while keeping up with your tour guide. If food is more up your alley, check out this ebike food tour instead. You’re bound to meet other fellow travellers and also get a killer BBQ along the way.

Two // Check 1.5 Million Bats Fly from Congress Bridge

Every night at sunset, thousands of bats fly out from under the Congress Bridge, and it’s an insane experience. Many people line the streets and the bridge to catch a glimpse of them flying. If you love kayaking and are open to meeting new people and sharing this amazing experience with others, check out this sunset kayaking tour! Perfect for solo travelers.

Fun fact: Austin is lovingly known as the bat city, and they’re all over their memorabilia.

Three // Go Live Music Hopping

There is music EVERYWHERE and at all times of day in Austin! I loved walking through every venue/bar and hearing different bands on stage. It’s easy to swing in, grab a drink, and carry on. 🎸

Four // Rent a Kayak or a Paddle Board on the River

Austin has such great weather. December’s lowest was 59* and, honestly, grab a sweater and still go. You won’t regret the exercise or the laziness of the River.

I found a few water experiences *after* I got back from this trip. The next time I find myself in Austin, I will be booking these asap.

You can rent a kayak from Live Love Paddle or a paddleboard, and they offer free 24-hour cancellations, so if you get caught up, you’re covered. You get views of Austin’s skyline, free parking, and you can paddle to Barton Springs Pool. If paddling isn’t for you, there’s also a 2-hour sunset boat cruise for sightseeing and relaxation.

Bananarchy Food Truck Austin Tx — *Bananarchy Food Truck*!
Because there’s always money in the Banana Stand

Joann's Fine Foods Austin TX — *Joann’s Fine Foods*!
One of Austin’s famous classic diners and bar.

Five // Create your own Food Truck Tour!

After live music, Austin is also known for its innovative and unique food trucks. They have everything imaginable. From fried chicken in your tacos to a beloved Banana stand!

Super recommend going to South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery (1311 S 1st St.) for some of my favorite trucks!

If you love food and love tours, check out See Sight Tours’ Small Group BBQ and City Walking Tour. It’s a 2-hour tour that stops at a few places, including Coopers BBQ Food Stop & Terry Black’s BBQ Food Stop (which is supposed to have Austin’s Best Brisket).

Six // Explore & Shop through South Congress

Aka SoCo. This area is so cute and funky. They have a real mix of easy-going 70s vibes, whitewashed over the 1950s. I love this area. It’s very popular with Instagrammers, and I can see why. The colors and unique murals make amazing backgrounds for photos.

Seven // Check out the First Ever Whole Foods

Seems random but this Whole Foods is huge! Not only that, but it’s so big that they’re able to have an ice skating rink on top of it during the winter season. The food bar feels like a mile long, and it’s also in a great location.

Am I missing anything from this list?? I honestly loved just walking through Austin. It’s super colorful and full of very friendly people.

It’s also a really well-known girls’ trip destination for all ages. So, if you’re looking for a girly getaway, this is it!

Happy Travels, friend! ✈️