Austin is the capital of the US state of Texas and home to a vibrant and lively arts and music scene. With an array of activities, restaurants, and bars, it is a great place to go on a date. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll, a lively night out, or relaxing time with someone special, there’s something for everyone. Here are some great ideas for a first date in Austin.
1. Austin Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
One of the best ways to get to know someone is to spend some time outdoors. Austin has plenty of great green spaces to explore. Lady Bird Lake is a great spot to take a spot a romantic walk—you can admire the beautiful sunset views, take a paddle boat and watch the ducks, or just stroll around the area and chat. For a more adventurous walking experience, you can also check out the Barton Creek Greenbelt, where you can find picnic spots, swimming holes and some of the best hiking trails in the city.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Austin
If you’re not up for a long walk, why not try a coffee date instead? Austin has plenty of cafes and coffee shops to suit all tastes. Popular spots include Max’s Wine Dive, where you can enjoy some of the best coffee and brunch in town; Halcyon Coffee Bar + Lounge, where you can enjoy coffee and cocktails; and Veracruz All Natural, where you can get some delicious tacos and coffee.
3. Austin Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you’re looking for a more cultural outing, Austin has a range of art galleries, museums, and exhibitions to explore. Check out the Blanton Museum of Art, where you can discover a vast collection of works from various historical and modern periods, or the Contemporary Austin for some of the city’s most exciting modern art. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is also a great option for a date, where you can learn about Texas’s history and culture.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Austin
Live music and entertainment is what Austin is famous for. There are plenty of places you can go to enjoy live bands, DJs, and other performances. The Continental Club is a great spot for live jazz and blues, while the Mohawk is a popular venue for indie rock and pop. For something a little more offbeat, check out the Museum of the Weird for some spooky sideshows and oddball exhibits.
5. Austin Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Austin has plenty of great places for drinks or dinner. The Driskill Bar, located in the historic Driskill Hotel, is a great spot for drinks and appetizers. For dinner, check out fantastic restaurants like La Barbecue, Mattie’s, or Second Bar and Kitchen for a cozy evening meal. There’s also the Greenhouse Craft Food, where you can enjoy some delicious farm-to-table fare.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Austin
For something a bit different, why not try one of Austin’s world-famous activities? You can go for a swim in Barton Springs Pool, take a stroll through the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, or check out the annual South by Southwest Festival. You can also visit the Zilker Botanical Garden, take a kayak trip down the Colorado River, or spend an evening watching a game at the Circuit of the Americas Formula 1 racetrack.
