Winter Activities to Do in Austin

Winter Activities to Do in Austin

The winter season is often the best time to visit cities on your bucket list, given that fewer people travel, and prices are generally lower during this time of the year. Austin, Texas, offers loads of winter activities for the family and typically experiences temperate weather throughout the season, making it an ideal winter destination.

A stay at Austin East KOA Holiday makes for the perfect base camp when exploring the wonders of the Lone Star State. Enjoy the culture, food and music this city is known for and relax at our campground.

Fun Things to Do in the Winter in Austin, TX

Austin winters are mild, so there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Some days and nights can be chilly, though. For the coziest experience, here are the top things to do when it's cold in Austin.

Dine Outdoors on a Heated Patio

Outdoor dining is all the rage in Austin. Popular local eateries keep things comfy with heated patios when winter comes along. Enjoy the views of the surrounding historic buildings and classic American comfort food at Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill downtown or relax undercover at Grizzeldas and sample some of the best Mexican food in the city.

Visit the Local Ice Rink

Austin has several ice skating rinks, but the Whole Foods Market rooftop rink is one of the most loved. Housed on the roof of the Whole Foods Market store in downtown Austin, this covered rink is usually open during the festive season. Another beloved local ice rink in Austin's Northcross Mall Plaza is the 29,000-square-foot Chaparral Ice Rink, home to the Austin Figure Skating Club and Austin Metro Hockey Association.

Explore the Cultural Landscape

Whether you are into art, history or science, the University of Texas at Austin boasts an impressive campus hosting several intriguing museums. Art and theater lovers will enjoy the Blanton Museum of Art, Harry Ransom Center, Visual Arts Center and the Landmarks walking tour on campus. For history lovers, the Bullock Texas State History Museum showcases Texas history, and the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum displays documents, photos and memorabilia related to the former president.

If dinosaurs, fossils, meteorites, wildlife and geology are more your speed, the multiple interactive exhibitions at the Texas Memorial Museum are sure to please the whole family.

Take in a Movie at the Drive-In

With two locations in Austin, Blue Starline Urban Drive-In is the place to be for an old-school movie double-feature drive-in experience. Catch cult and family classics and indie films from the comfort of your car and grab popcorn and the usual trimmings from the drive-in's vintage-feel concession stand. About 25 minutes south of your Austin East KOA Holiday campsite is Doc's Drive-In Theatre, showcasing a wide variety of movies, complete with a concession stand and diner with an extensive menu. 

Support Local Bands

Austin is a city steeped in music history, brimming with talent across all music types, but it is particularly synonymous with artists in the broader country, blues and rock genres. In early January, the city's Red River Cultural District hosts its annual Free Week, where over 100 bands and artists perform at venues across the district. It's a must-see for music lovers and enthusiasts.

If you're away from the city for Free Week, take in a live performance by some of the region's top musicians at any of the many clubs and venues throughout Austin and popular restaurants like Hotel Vegas and Armadillo Den.

See the Holiday Light Displays

If you are visiting in December, you're in for a treat with some of the country's best drive-thru holiday light displays, which you can view from the warmth of your car. The Austin Trail of Lights has delighted visitors for over 50 years with a 1.25-mile path where you can drive under, through and past mesmerizing and colorful lighting displays. You can also check out Peppermint Parkway which showcases a 1-mile stretch of lights, performances, displays and more. 

Both drive-thru festive light experiences offer stops along the way with different fun activities, rides and food stalls, making it a great Austin nighttime winter activity for the whole family.

Shop at a Christmas Market

Handmade gifts, baked goods and holiday treats are just some of the things you can look forward to at an Austin Christmas market, making it one of the best holiday activities in Austin, TX. There are plenty of Christmas markets to choose from, including the German-Texan Christmas Market, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar and the Blue Genie Art Bazaar.

Relax at Austin East KOA Holiday 

After a fulfilled Austin winter's day or night out, head back to your cozy Austin East KOA Holiday campsite just outside the city to rest and recharge. Build a fire, put your feet up and relax. You can also enjoy our many amenities such as our recreation room with big TVs, cards, board games and a Wii gaming console. Choose from our various ways to stay at Austin East KOA Holiday when you visit Austin this winter, including Tent Sites, RV Sites with a KOA Patio® or Deluxe Cabins.

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