best time to visit austinCompile your fave songs to your playlist as you step into Austin: the live music capital of the world! This Texas city is where you’ll get new and cool ideas. You’ll find friendly southern people, amazing music venues, and the best barbecue joints everywhere you look.
Austin is famous for big festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits. The city has the old Texas traditions where you can enjoy food trucks, music festivals, and beautiful parks and lakes all in one place.
Austin feels different each season. And when you visit matters because each time of year offers different fun things to do. You might want to come for festival season or when the weather is perfect for swimming at Barton Springs Pool.
Maybe you want to try the famous food scene, hear live music on Sixth Street, or relax by Lady Bird Lake. Here’s everything you need to know about when to visit Austin for the best Texas trip ever.
We’ll tell you about each season, the weather each month, cool events, and fun things to do, even if you are just staying for 24 hours! Plus, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay!
About Austin, TX
Austin is the capital city of Texas. It’s the fourth biggest city in the state. People know Austin for the saying “Keep Austin Weird” and its amazing music scene. The city sits in Central Texas next to the Colorado River. Austin has over 400 places to hear live music – more than any other city in the world!
Each part of Austin is different. East Austin is trendy and hip. Westlake Hills is fancy and upscale. Every neighborhood has its own personality.
Austin gets hot in summer and stays mild in winter. Temperatures usually go from 43°F to 97°F during the year. The city gets lots of sunshine. It’s not as humid as other Texas cities. Austin gets most of its rain in spring and fall. Summers are hot and dry.
Austin Travel Seasons at a Glance
Learning when Austin gets busy helps you pick the best time for your trip. Here’s when lots of people visit and when it’s quieter.
Peak Times: March and October
March has the SXSW festival. October has the Austin City Limits Music Festival. These are the busiest months for visitors. Hotels book up months early and cost the most money. The city becomes a music lover’s dream during these times.
Great Times: April to May and September to November
These months have great weather and not too many crowds. Spring has beautiful wildflowers blooming everywhere. Fall has perfect weather for being outside without the super-hot summer heat.
Quieter Times: December to February
Winter has fewer tourists and the best hotel deals. Some outdoor activities might be limited because it’s cooler. This is great for checking out Austin’s museums and cozy music venues.
Why Visit Austin?
Austin has way more than just great barbecue and live music, though those are awesome. This city mixes old Texas ways with new cool stuff. Everyone can find something they like here. You can visit great museums like the Blanton Museum of Art or swim in the natural Barton Springs Pool.
The food here goes way beyond Texas barbecue. You’ll find everything from creative food trucks to the fanciest and best restaurants in Austin. Each neighborhood is different. South First has vintage shops and art galleries. East Austin has trendy bars and restaurants.
Austin loves the outdoors. The city has over 300 miles of trails, lots of parks, and water fun on Lady Bird Lake. You’re always close to nature, even in the city center. Austin is also the gateway to the Texas Hill Country with its pretty landscapes and cute small towns.
The weather is good for outdoor activities all year round. There are festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor concerts happening every season.
Your Month-by-Month Guide to Austin
- Austin in January: Cool winter weather, fewer people, cozy music venue time
- Austin in February: Weather gets milder, still quiet, great for museums
- Austin in March: SXSW festival excitement, spring weather, huge crowds
- Austin in April: Beautiful spring days, wildflower season, perfect temperatures
- Austin in May: Warm, nice days, perfect outdoor weather, fewer tourists
- Austin in June: Summer heat starts, swimming season begins, longer days
- Austin in July: Hottest weather, best swimming weather, summer festivals
- Austin in August: Still really hot, busy season, perfect for water activities
- Austin in September: Weather gets cooler, fewer crowds, great for hiking
- Austin in October: ACL Festival time, perfect fall weather, busy time
- Austin in November: Comfortable weather, holiday prep, beautiful days
- Austin in December: Cool winter weather, holiday events, quiet season
When Is the Best Time to Visit Austin?
The best time to visit Austin is April through May and September through November. During these times, temperatures stay between the 60s and 80s. This makes it perfect for walking around the city and visiting outdoor places. You get nice weather, not too many crowds, and great conditions for everything you want to do.
These shoulder seasons give you lots of good things like fewer crowds, cheaper hotels, and better weather for experiencing everything Austin offers.
Visiting in Spring (March to May)
Spring is when Austin looks its best. The city wakes up from winter with perfect weather and beautiful wildflowers everywhere. It gets up to about 80°F during the day and rarely goes below 50°F at night. It doesn’t rain too much.
This is perfect weather for Austin’s outdoor attractions. You can hike trails around Zilker Park or listen to live music outside. The nice temperatures make spring great for trying food trucks, eating on patios, and going to rooftop bars without the crazy summer heat.
Austin Weather in Spring
- March: 50°F (low) / 75°F (high) | Rain: 2.5 inches
- April: 58°F (low) / 82°F (high) | Rain: 2.8 inches
- May: 67°F (low) / 87°F (high) | Rain: 4.6 inches
Things to Do in Austin During Spring
Spring weather makes everything in Austin more fun. Swimming at Barton Springs Pool feels great. Hiking trails in Austin are perfect without the summer heat. Food truck gatherings and outdoor markets do really well in the nice weather.
The comfortable temperatures make spring perfect for checking out different areas. You can explore Downtown Austin, East Austin’s trendy spots, and shop on South Congress. Spring evenings are great for outdoor music, rooftop dining, and sunset kayaking on Lady Bird Lake.
Austin Events in Spring
- SXSW (March) – Huge music, film, and tech festival that takes over the city
- Austin Food + Wine Festival (April) – Celebration of Austin’s amazing food scene
- Eeyore’s Birthday Party (April) – Weird Austin tradition in Pease Park
- Wildflower Days Festival (April) – Celebrating Texas Hill Country’s famous bluebonnets
Local Eats in Austin During Spring
Spring has perfect weather for trying Austin’s famous food scene outside. Food truck areas and outdoor dining patios are ideal. The comfortable temperatures make it easy to hop between different neighborhoods. You can try everything from breakfast tacos to world-famous barbecue.
Austin Travel Tips During Spring
Spring brings lots of visitors, especially during SXSW. Book hotels and popular attractions early. Pack layers because temperatures can change from morning to afternoon. This is a great time for first-time visitors to experience everything Austin has to offer.
Visiting in Summer (June to August)
Summer brings hot Texas weather. It regularly gets to the mid-90s during the day and stays in the comfortable 70s at night. It barely rains at all in July and August. You get the longest days for sightseeing and the best weather for water activities.
Summer has perfect swimming weather and lots of outdoor music festivals. But it also brings really hot weather and higher hotel prices. You get long days and sunny skies for outdoor adventures.
Austin Weather in Summer
- June: 73°F (low) / 92°F (high) | Rain: 3.5 inches
- July: 76°F (low) / 97°F (high) | Rain: 1.9 inches
- August: 76°F (low) / 98°F (high) | Rain: 2.3 inches
Things to Do in Austin During Summer
Summer activities focus on Austin’s water attractions and air-conditioned places. Barton Springs Pool stays a refreshing 68-70°F all year, making it perfect for hot summer days. Lady Bird Lake has kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours with beautiful city views.
The hot weather is great for swimming. Many outdoor music venues have misting systems to keep crowds cool. Summer’s long days let you pack in water activities, indoor cultural attractions, and evening entertainment after the heat goes down.
Austin Events in Summer
- Austin Summer Music Series (June-August) – Free outdoor concerts in parks
- Bat Fest (August) – Celebrating Austin’s famous Congress Bridge bats
- Hot Sauce Festival (August) – Spicy food celebration in East Austin
- Austin International Drag Festival (July) – Colorful celebration of drag culture
Local Eats in Austin During Summer
Summer dining focuses on refreshing foods perfect for hot weather. Many restaurants have expanded outdoor seating with misters and fans. Food trailers create perfect casual dining experiences. This is the best time for Austin’s famous frozen margaritas and ice-cold beer.
Austin Travel Tips During Summer
Summer requires booking hotels early because lots of people visit. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes and always carry water. Plan indoor activities during the hottest hours (noon to 4 PM). Save outdoor exploring for mornings and evenings.
Visiting in Fall (September to November)
Fall is one of Austin’s best seasons, especially September through November. The weather gets more comfortable with moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and manageable crowds. This season has some of Austin’s most perfect conditions with beautiful weather and reasonable tourist levels.
Fall keeps comfortable temperatures perfect for all outdoor activities. The really hot summer heat starts to go away. The season offers great value with moderate crowds and gorgeous weather for exploring the city.
Austin Weather in Fall
- September: 71°F (low) / 92°F (high) | Rain: 2.8 inches
- October: 61°F (low) / 84°F (high) | Rain: 2.9 inches
- November: 51°F (low) / 75°F (high) | Rain: 2.0 inches
Things to Do in Austin During Fall
Fall has great conditions for all Austin activities. Swimming weather continues into October. Hiking becomes more pleasant as temperatures cool down. Cultural attractions and breweries are perfect for visiting without summer crowds.
The stable weather makes fall perfect for exploring neighborhoods. You can do music venue crawls on Sixth Street or shopping trips on South Congress. Fall evenings are perfect for outdoor dining and catching live music with amazing weather.
Austin Events in Fall
- Austin City Limits Music Festival (October) – Major two-weekend music festival in Zilker Park
- Formula 1 United States Grand Prix (October) – World-class car racing at Circuit of the Americas
- Austin Film Festival (October) – Celebrating independent movies and screenwriting
- Dia de los Muertos (November) – Day of the Dead celebrations throughout the city
Local Eats in Austin During Fall
Fall dining shows off seasonal ingredients and comfortable outdoor dining weather. Restaurant patios have perfect conditions. Farmers’ markets feature autumn produce. The pleasant weather makes it easy to explore Austin’s diverse neighborhoods and their unique food.
Austin Travel Tips During Fall
Fall offers great weather and crowd balance, though October gets busy with ACL Festival. Pack light layers for temperature changes throughout the day. Take advantage of shoulder season pricing and less crowded attractions during non-festival weekends.
Visiting in Winter (December to February)
Winter brings mild conditions with average temperatures from the 40s to the upper 60s. The city gets its wettest season, but still has mostly pleasant weather. This season offers unique experiences like holiday celebrations and cozy indoor music venues.
Winter has comfortable temperatures for locals and visitors. You get crisp, clear days perfect for sightseeing and cultural activities. The season offers great value with smaller crowds and lower hotel rates.
Austin Weather in Winter
- December: 42°F (low) / 65°F (high) | Rain: 2.2 inches
- January: 41°F (low) / 63°F (high) | Rain: 2.0 inches
- February: 46°F (low) / 69°F (high) | Rain: 2.4 inches
Things to Do in Austin During Winter
Winter activities take advantage of mild temperatures and clear air. Museums and indoor attractions become especially appealing. Hiking trails offer comfortable conditions without summer heat. Many outdoor activities are still possible during Austin’s mild winter days.
The comfortable conditions make winter perfect for exploring breweries, music venues, and shopping areas. Winter evenings are cozy for intimate music experiences and comfort food dining.
Austin Events in Winter
- Trail of Lights (December) – Zilker Park holiday light display
- New Year’s Eve Party (December) – Downtown celebration with live music
- Carnaval Brasileiro (February) – Brazilian carnival celebration
- Austin Marathon (February) – Major running event through the city
Local Eats in Austin During Winter
Winter dining features hearty comfort foods and cozy restaurant experiences throughout Austin’s neighborhoods. Many places offer special winter menus. The mild weather still allows for enjoyable patio dining on warmer days.
Austin Travel Tips During Winter
Winter offers great value with smaller crowds and reasonable hotel rates. Pack layers for temperature changes and light rain gear for occasional showers. Take advantage of cultural events and indoor attractions during the cooler season.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Austin (By Interest)
Austin’s diverse attractions and generally good climate make timing important for getting the most out of specific experiences. Here’s when to visit based on what you want to do:
- For Smallest Crowds: January-February, weekdays year-round
- For Perfect Weather: April-May, September-November
- For Water Activities: May-October
- For Festival Experiences: March (SXSW), October (ACL)
- For Outdoor Activities: March-May, September-November
- For Best Value: December-February, November
- For Food Scene: March-May, September-November
For Smallest Crowds: January to February and Weekdays Year-Round
Best Time to Visit Austin for Fewest Crowds
The winter months give the most space at popular attractions. Visiting Tuesday through Thursday during any season helps you avoid weekend crowds at music venues and tourist spots.
For Perfect Weather: April to May and September to November
Best Time to Visit Austin for Ideal Weather
These times offer the best temperatures, moderate rainfall, and great air quality without summer heat or winter’s occasional cool spells.
For Water Activities: May to October
Best Time to Visit Austin for Swimming and Water Sports
Warmest temperatures and minimal rainfall make these months perfect for Barton Springs Pool, Lady Bird Lake activities, and swimming hole adventures in nearby Hill Country.
For Festival Experiences: March and October
Best Time to Visit Austin for Major Events
SXSW in March and Austin City Limits in October are Austin’s biggest cultural events. They bring international attention and incredible music lineups to the city.
For Outdoor Activities: March to May and September to November
Best Time to Visit Austin for Hiking and Outdoor Fun
Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity create perfect conditions for exploring Austin’s parks, trails, and outdoor attractions without extreme heat.
For Best Value: December to February and November
Best Time to Visit Austin for Budget Travel
Off-peak times offer big savings on hotels and attractions while still giving great weather and experiences.
For Food Scene: March to May and September to November
Best Time to Visit Austin for Culinary Experiences
Perfect outdoor dining weather, farmers market season, and comfortable temperatures for food truck hopping and restaurant crawling throughout the city.
Where to Stay in Austin
Find places to stay that perfectly capture Austin’s unique mix of southern hospitality and modern luxury. These places have stunning views and amazing amenities. Here are five incredible Austin vacation homes you can rent with AvantStay:
- Barton – A hilltop retreat just above the peaceful Colorado River.
- Paramount Place – An impressive 11,000 sq. ft. modern home in the heart of Austin.
- Hudson – European-inspired home with stunning Colorado River views.
- Vice – Modern high-rise living with luxury amenities near Sixth Street nightlife.
- Travis – Lakefront sanctuary on Lake Travis with direct water access.
Create Your Austin Itinerary
Ready to plan your Texas adventure? Let our experienced team handle every detail of your Austin experience! Our concierge service can arrange music venue tours, restaurant reservations, and unique local experiences that show you the real Austin.
Simply contact us or download the AvantStay App to book additional experiences, get insider tips from locals, and manage your entire stay through one easy platform.
For more inspiration on island activities, explore our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Austin.
Ready to Plan Your Austin Adventure?
No matter when you choose to visit, Austin’s incredible music scene, amazing food culture, and friendly atmosphere will create unforgettable memories. The city’s perfect combination of Texas tradition and innovative spirit means every visit offers new discoveries and authentic experiences.
We have the ideal Austin sanctuary waiting for you. Book with AvantStay today and discover how incredible Texas adventures can be when you experience Austin’s legendary music, food, and culture.
FAQs
Is Austin expensive to visit?
Austin can be costly during peak festival times (March for SXSW, October for ACL) when hotel prices go way up because of high demand and limited rooms. However, you can find great value during winter months (December-February) when you’ll get lower rates, smaller crowds, and mild weather perfect for exploring the city’s cultural attractions.
How crowded does Austin get?
Peak seasons bring big crowds, especially during major festivals when downtown areas, popular restaurants, and music venues can become very busy. For more relaxed experiences, visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November) or explore Austin’s diverse neighborhoods and lesser-known attractions during weekdays.
When to avoid Austin?
March and October bring the biggest crowds and highest prices because of SXSW and Austin City Limits festivals, though these events also offer incredible cultural experiences. Summer months (June-August) have intense heat that can make outdoor activities challenging during midday hours. However, Austin’s generally pleasant climate and vibrant culture make it an enjoyable destination year-round with proper planning and realistic expectations about weather and crowds.
