Thinking of planning a romantic getaway in the Lone Star Capital and looking for date ideas in Austin, Texas?
Austin is a great city for couples looking for a romantic weekend away.
From its beautiful outdoor scenery to its unique and trendy restaurants, Austin is a hit with all kinds of couples.
For those looking for a classic date night experience, Austin offers plenty of options.
Couples can enjoy a nice dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants…
….catch a show at the theater, or take a walk around the city’s famous riverfront.
Also Read: How to spend a Weekend in Austin, Texas
Austin is also a great place to enjoy the great outdoors.
The city has dozens of parks perfect for a romantic picnic or hike.
And with Barton Springs and Lady Bird Lake both just minutes away, there are plenty of opportunities for a fun-filled day outdoors.
Finally, Austin offers plenty of unique date night experiences that are perfect for couples looking to explore the city’s vibrant culture.
From visiting local breweries and wineries to checking out some of the city’s amazing live music venues, there are plenty of date ideas in Austin.
Also Read: Best Things to do in Austin, Texas
Best Indoor Date ideas in Austin, Texas
Austin is a great city for dating.
It’s filled with romantic restaurants, a variety of unique activities, and fun date ideas.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect first date or something truly unique and memorable for an anniversary, Austin has plenty to offer.
Here are our favorite indoor date night ideas in Austin, Texas.
Spend an afternoon in South Austin
South Austin is one of the most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods in the city.
From vintage shops and record stores to hip bars and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this lively part of town.
Visitors can start their day by browsing through the wares at one of the neighborhood’s many eclectic shops, such as Monkey See Monkey Do.
For lunch, there are plenty of delicious options, including BBQ joints, Mexican eateries, and food trucks serving up everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
In the afternoon, visitors can explore South Austin’s lively nightlife scene, with bars and clubs offering everything from live music to dancing.
Also Read: 14 Amazing Things to do in Austin at night
Take a guided tour of some of Austin’s best craft breweries
Breweries are a big deal in Austin, and there are plenty of options for couples looking to tour some of the best ones.
The Austin Brewery Tour offers a guided tour of three different breweries, complete with tastings and behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process.
It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, and you’ll get to sample some of the best beers in Austin.
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art
A visit to the Blanton Museum of Art is a must for any art-loving couple visiting Austin.
The museum houses an impressive collection of American and European art, as well as rotating exhibitions of contemporary work.
Afterward, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants located nearby.
See a live music show
Austin is known for its live music scene.
There are dozens of live music venues to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.
If you’re looking for a romantic evening out, there’s nothing better than snuggling up to your date while enjoying some great live music.
Some of our favorite live music venues in Austin include The Parish, Stubb’s BBQ, and The Continental Club.
Have dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants
Austin is also home to some great restaurants.
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, there are plenty of options to choose from.
From upscale restaurants like Uchi and Hestia to more casual spots like Torchy’s Tacos, Austin has something for everyone.
Be sure to try out the craft cocktails while you’re dining out.
End the night with ice cream from Amy’s Ice Creams
No date night in Austin would be complete without a stop at the legendary Amy’s Ice Creams.
This local favorite has been serving up delicious ice cream since 1984, and they now have locations all over the city.
Our favorite is the one on South Congress – it’s close to shopping as well as restaurants.
Try their classic flavors like Mexican vanilla or something more unique like avocado – the banana chocolate almond is our personal favorite!
Find the charming murals all over downtown
One of the best things about Austin is all of the amazing street art.
You’ll find murals all over downtown, and they make for a great photo opportunity.
Some of our favorites include the “I Love You So Much” mural on South Congress and the famous “Greetings from Austin” mural.
Watch the famous Austin bats at sunset
The Austin bats are one of the city’s most famous attractions.
Every night at sunset, you can see them emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge and take flight over Lady Bird Lake.
It’s a truly amazing sight, and it’s something you won’t want to miss.
Take a tour of the Lyndon B Johnson Presidential Library
This is a great option for couples who are interested in history.
The Lyndon B Johnson Presidential Library is one of the most popular attractions in Austin, and it’s a great place to learn about our 36th president.
The library offers free tours, and you can even see the famous “Texas White House” where President Johnson spent many weekends.
There’s also an excellent restaurant on-site, so you can make a day of it.
Take a tour in Austin
For something truly out-of-the-ordinary, try one of Austin’s food tours where you’ll sample some of the best food in the city.
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ghost tour and learn about some of Austin’s spooky history.
Or take a cruise down Lady Bird Lake and enjoy the amazing views of downtown Austin.
For the history buffs, explore the city’s storied history
If you and your date are interested in learning more about Austin’s rich history, take a walk through Congress Avenue Historic District.
Start at the Capitol building and make your way down Congress Avenue, taking time to admire the historic buildings along the way.
Visit the Bullock Museum for a look at some of the state’s most important artifacts.
See a movie at a drive-in theatre
For a truly unique date night, catch a movie at Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In.
This vintage-style drive-in theatre is located in the middle of downtown Austin, and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic night out.
They offer a variety of classic and cult favorite films and watching them outdoors on the big screen with your loved one is an amazing experience.
Visit the iconic Butterfly Bar
The Butterfly Bar is one of Austin’s most iconic bars, and it’s a great spot for a date night.
This retro-style bar has a relaxed atmosphere, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks with your date.
They have an excellent selection of beer and wine, and their craft cocktails are also very good.
Outdoor Romantic Things to do in Austin, Texas
One of the things that makes Austin so special is it’s amazing outdoors.
If you and your partner love spending time outside, then this is the perfect city for you.
There are plenty of beautiful locations to explore, including Zilker Park and the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, one of the best hiking trails in Austin.
And what could be more romantic than a sunset stroll hand in hand? We think it sounds like the perfect date!
Here are our favorite romantic things to do in Austin, Texas for adventurous couples!
Enjoy a romantic view of the city skyline from Lady Bird Lake
One of the best things about Austin is its beautiful skyline, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than from Lady Bird Lake.
This man-made lake is located in the heart of downtown Austin, and it’s a great place to take a walk, go for a run, or just relax and enjoy the view.
The Austin boardwalk is the perfect place for a romantic stroll.
Visit the Hamilton Pool Preserve
The Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of Austin’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
This nature preserve is home to a stunning natural pool that was formed by the collapse of an underground cave.
It’s the perfect place to take a dip on a hot day, and the surrounding area is perfect for a romantic hike.
Just be sure to get there early, as the preserve often reaches capacity by mid-morning.
Take a leisurely stroll through Zilker Botanical Garden
No trip to Austin would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Zilker Park Botanical Garden.
This oasis in the heart of the city is home to more than 30 acres of gardens, including an area devoted exclusively to Texas native plants.
Be sure to check out the butterfly garden before heading over to Zilker Park itself where you can rent bikes or kayaks and explore even more of this beautiful city together.
Enjoy stargazing in Austin
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Austin has you covered there too.
How about a stargazing date? You can head to Mount Bonnell at night and look up at the sunset over the Texas sky.
Or stay up late at night and watch the stars fill up the dark sky.
It’s the perfect opportunity to cuddle up close to your partner and dream about your future together.
Plan a picnic in the park
Pick up some sandwiches from your favorite spot and find a spot in one of Austin’s beautiful parks to share a romantic picnic.
Or you could even pack a basket with some wine and cheese and enjoy a sunset picnic overlooking Lady Bird Lake to watch the bat flight.
Play golf while in Austin
If you and your partner are fans of golf, then you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of great places to play in Austin.
In fact, you can book your own private bay at many of the city’s top golfing locations.
One of our favorites is the Barton Creek Golf Course, which offers stunning views.
Or play mini golf at the Peter Pan Mini Golf location in downtown – one of the most fun date ideas in Austin, Texas.
Take a scenic drive in the Texas Hill Country
If you’re looking to get out of the city for a day, take a drive out to the Texas Hill Country.
This beautiful region is just a short drive from Austin and it’s the perfect place to enjoy some of the state’s natural beauty.
Be sure to stop at one of the many wineries or breweries for a tasting, and take in the stunning karst topography as you drive.
See downtown Austin from the water
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake?
It’s a great way to get some exercise while enjoying quality time with your partner.
You can also rent canoes or kayaks and explore the many coves, inlets, and beaches of the lake.
Just be sure to keep an eye out for the resident ducks and turtles!
Enjoy a day on Lake Austin
If you’re looking for a little more excitement, head out to Lake Austin for a day of fun in the sun.
There are plenty of places to rent jet skis, wakeboards, and other water toys….
so you can enjoy some time together on the water.
Take a hot air balloon ride over Central Texas
For a truly unique date ideas in austin, take a hot air balloon ride over Central Texas.
You’ll get to see the city from a whole new perspective, as well as Lake Travis and nearby areas.
It’s an unforgettable experience that you and your partner will cherish forever.
Austin, Texas is a beautiful and romantic city.
With its live music scene and outdoor activities, Austin is the perfect place for date nights or a weekend getaway with your significant other.
What are your favorite Austin date ideas?
Jules Design Bar in Bee Cave near Austin is super romantic and fun. Music on Friday and Saturday.