A Local’s Guide on Things to Do in West Austin

With distinct neighborhoods and plenty of natural, local flair, West Austin is the hidden gem of the capital city. Featuring rolling hills and limestone cliffs among an eclectic mix of 20th-century West Austin homes, this district offers homegrown hospitality with an artistic twist. An oasis from its busier, more urban counterparts, downtown and Central Austin, those visiting West Austin can expect stunning views, classic Texas-style cuisine, and an assortment of entertainment options.

While certainly quieter and more laid back than the more urban parts of Austin, this suburb is not lacking in natural beauty or eclectic flair. West Austin boasts some of the dreamiest views in Texas, with Lake Austin and Lake Travis as the breathtaking focal points. With plenty of overlooks, hiking trails, and lakeside patios, you will find it difficult to choose your favorite spot in this district.

Still unsure what you can expect? We have composed a list of things to do in West Austin. Here are eight local-approved activities to experience on the western slopes of the Texas capital.

Make your way to Mozart’s Coffee to jumpstart your day. With a warm brick atmosphere indoors and an idyllic, expansive deck outdoors, there is room for everyone at this fan-favorite coffee shop. The drink menu, which features a blend of brew styles, will satisfy even the most discerning coffee snobs, and the bakery will make your grandma’s signature snickerdoodle feel ordinary.

While the menu includes plenty of crowd-pleasers, what makes Mozart’s Coffee truly stand out is their outdoor experience. Nestled next to Lake Austin, their outdoor deck, which includes the recent addition of a paddleboard deck, offers spectacular views and stunning sunsets after a long, sunny day. Their constant rotation of live entertainment and local events complement the space, adding ambiance and making Mozart’s a truly unforgettable stop for any guest.

Hula Hut’s signature blend of Tex-Mex and Caribbean cuisine is the combination your palate didn’t know it needed. Overlooking Lake Austin with an island-themed patio, the Hula Hut exudes chill, beachy vibes throughout its entire operation. The menu, serving Mexican favorites with a surfer twist, boasts bold flavors and pleasant surprises. And the fishbowls, which have become well-known among the locals, are a must-try if you are looking to relax and embrace island time.

If Hula Hut is West Austin’s contemporary spin on traditional Tex-Mex, then The County Line on the Lake is its homage to its southern roots. Taking pride in its smoked Texas barbeque, its menu features all of the classics—ribs, brisket, sausage, and chicken. Complemented by coleslaw, beans, and potato salad, each meal has all the fixings of a Texas mama’s down-home cooking. While they are known for their menu, the old lake lodge setting and secluded waterfront location certainly provide a scenic bonus for visitors.

Reach new heights with a visit to Mount Bonnell. A favorite among local hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts, this limestone height, which stands 775 feet above sea level, features stunning views of the Downtown skyline and Lake Austin. While reaching the peak of this destination may initially feel daunting, visitors should not feel discouraged. There are only 102 stairs to the top and no hiking is required, making it a friendly activity for people of every fitness level.

Jump into one of residents’ favorite things to do in West Austin, Deep Eddy Pool. This historic artificial swimming pool, built in 1915, is the oldest pool in all of Texas, according to their website. Featuring fresh, well water instead of chlorine, Deep Eddy Pool is a truly refreshing way to escape the intense Texas heat while engaging in a long-loved local tradition.

Discover West Austin’s artistic flair at The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria. Seamlessly blending the awe-inspiring artwork of contemporary artists and its tranquil, natural scenery, the sculpture park at Laguna Gloria offers a unique space for quiet meditation and reflection. Both permanent sculptures and rotating exhibitions are featured, ensuring there is always something new to see among the long-standing favorites. Both art aficionados and casual observers alike will have something to enjoy and each will leave with a greater appreciation of the artists and their contributions.

Unwind from a day of adventure with Oasis Texas Brewing Company, an eclectic brewery dedicated to creating artfully crafted beer with fresh, fun flavors. With a rotating menu, breathtaking views of Lake Travis, and a full lineup of live music every weekend, this brewery provides the perfect space to kick back and relax with friends—both new and old. This is a part of the bigger “The Oasis” which includes the restaurant, gift shop, etc. Fun for the entire family. Tourist spot, but worth visiting.

Looking for a more sophisticated nightcap? Spend your evening at The Grove, a wine bar and kitchen with an extensive wine list and upscale atmosphere. With a six-page-long wine list and a passion for finding the perfect pairing, The Grove is the place to be if you want to expand your palate and try something beyond your go-to. Guests looking to explore the menu can purchase one of their carefully curated flights, while those seeking to keep it simple can purchase a glass of their favorite varietal. While wine is their specialty, The Grove offers lunch and dinner to enjoy while you sip. Prepared from scratch with organic produce, the food here will leave you feeling both satisfied and refreshed.

Offering the best of both worlds with stunning scenery and big city convenience, West Austin is a place where you can connect with nature without sacrificing comfort. And while Downtown is mere minutes away, you may find your desire to visit become less and less as you embrace the scenic views and rolling hill country found in West Austin.

If this sounds like home to you, Cord Shiflet and his team would love to help. Come spend the day with a local real estate expert and discover all that West Austin has to offer you. We will do the work and find you the perfect place to make your next move. Give us a call and connect with our team today.