Support Us Button Widget

Parks and Recreation

ATX_GoldenCheekedWarbler
Travel and Outdoors
Get outside in ATX for The Great Backyard Bird Count
The annual Great Backyard Bird Count attracts more than one million people nationwide to help record the bird population.
February 04, 2026 03:13 PM
 · 
Laura Figi
A view of the Austin bats flying over the lake
City
What you didn’t know about Austin’s bat colony
Whether you’re new to Austin and want in on the Bat City lore or you’re a longtime local with lots of curiosity, here’s how the winged creatures play a role in our city.
May 12, 2025
 · 
London Gibson
The Austin skyline, as seen from between trees on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
City
Inside the 2024 State of the Environment Report
This snapshot into the state of Austin’s wildlife, plantlife, and air quality shows how initiatives have improved conditions year-over-year.
April 23, 2025
 · 
Laura Figi
To the left, a group of children stand on the Paramount's stage, in matching blue shirts and mid-dance. To the right, crowds of spectators watch them inside the historic theater.
Events
Summer’s calling: Here are 16 great summer camps in the Austin area
Arts, athletics, outdoors + more — we’ve rounded up epic summer camps for kiddos to participate in during sunshine season.
March 21, 2025
 · 
London Gibson
Crystal clear water with rock overhang, and hills in the background at Bull Creek Park.
Play
One, two, tree: 23 parks to visit in Austin
We’re highlighting the 23 best parks that Austin, TX has to offer — complete with swimming holes, pickleball courts, and playgrounds.
March 11, 2025
 · 
STAFF
The Barton Creek Greenbelt trail, overlooking the Hill Country
Play
Hiking guide for Austin
Check out these 15 hiking trails catered to all skill levels in and around Austin for outdoor adventures.
March 5, 2025
 · 
STAFF
A dog looking at a plate of ribs
Play
Calling all pet owners: Austin’s dog-friendly guide
Explore these dog-friendly places in Austin, from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, and stay the night.
February 25, 2025
 · 
STAFF
A close-up of the wooden cabin with a damaged front door and three historical markers on the front.
City
The Henry Green Madison Cabin will be disassembled for restoration
The historic home to the first Black Austin City Council member will receive approximately $495,000 worth of improvements.
February 20, 2025
 · 
Laura Figi
The pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock with rainy clouds overhead and a lake surrounding the rock.
Travel and Outdoors
Land acquisition will double the size of Enchanted Rock
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department purchased a parcel of land adjacent to the park famous for its massive pink granite dome.
January 13, 2025
 · 
Laura Figi
A teddy bear made of colorful Christmas lights sits among lit-up trees on the path of the Trail of Lights.
Culture
You can ride the Zilker Eagle during the Trail of Lights this year
Plus, the music lineup for the annual tradition is here, featuring artists like Chief Cleopatra and Como Las Movies.
December 5, 2024
 · 
Laura Figi
The front of Austin's downtown City Hall
City
What to know about Austin’s 2024-2025 city budget
The City of Austin’s highest budget yet — $5.9 billion — was proposed by new city manager T.C. Broadnax and begins on October 1, 2024.
August 15, 2024
 · 
Laura Figi
Load More
The Buy

Shop The Buy
Latest News
More from ATXtoday
View of Austin, Texas' skyline with people kayaking in the Lady Bird Lake.
Culture
Beat the daylight saving slump with these Austin activities
The clocks will “spring forward” this weekend, allowing Austinites to make the most of their evenings.
March 5, 2026
 · 
Maria Adnado
Minaa B., Alok Vaid-Menon, Ana Kirova, and Kesha sit down for a panel conversation on the stage at SXSW 2025.
Events
Best of the fest: Your ultimate guide to SXSW 2026
It’s the SXS-Best time of year in Austin, and SXSW 2026 is going to look a bit different this time around, so buckle in and let us help you plan.
March 5, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
ATX_DiabloHotchicken
Food
Veracruz All Natural founders opening Nashville hot chicken truck this month
Diablo Hot Chicken will start as a food truck serving the beloved Nashville dish, incorporating Mexican chile into the recipe.
March 4, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
Three coffee drinks sitting on top of a white picnic table.
Live
50+ wonderful coffee shops to try out in Austin
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
March 2, 2026
 · 
STAFF
A packed crowd at Stubb’s outdoor music venue in Austin, with fans raising their hands and phones toward the stage. The arched canopy above the stage is illuminated with red and pink visuals, while bright stage lights highlight the performing band. A second-level balcony overlooking the scene is filled with spectators, and surrounding trees are lit with blue and purple lighting.
Culture
Listen local: Every Austin-based artist performing at SXSW 2026
Over 160 local musicians will show up to represent the Live Music Capital of the World, and we’ve rounded them up in one easy-to-use guide for you.
February 26, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
ATX_AntonesSXSW
Events
Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Austin
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
February 25, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
A vintage-style red neon sign for the Austin Motel stands against a partly cloudy sky. Below the main sign, a marquee board displays the message "LET'S AMPLIFY AUSTIN Y'ALL." A covered entrance with colorful neon lights and a small "VACANCY" sign is visible in the foreground.
City
How to give back during Amplify Austin Day 2026
Amplify Austin Day gives Central Texas residents a seamless way to support the community and nonprofits of their choice during this 24-hour event.
February 24, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
Building with a vibrant, vertical rainbow mural on the corner, surrounded by city structures. A parking sign in the foreground points left. Clear sky.
City
Downtown Austin Alliance debuts free parking pilot program
Austinites patronizing participating businesses can get free or discounted parking in two Downtown garages now through the end of April.
February 23, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
Elegant dining room with plush chairs around square tables, set for a meal. Large windows with golden drapes, and crystal chandeliers hang above.
Culture
Restaurant Roundup: New and coming-soon restaurants in Austin
Dining in ATX is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
February 23, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
A hand holds a vibrant cross-stitch depicting a witch and a haunted house against a blue, starry sky, bordered with green polka dots. Vinyl records form a colorful background.
Culture
Needlepoint is back: Here’s how to try it in Austin
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
February 19, 2026
 · 
Morgan O’Neal