There are so many things that make the capital of the Lone Star State great: the local music scene, the mom and pop businesses, the friendly “hey, how ya doin?” atmosphere, and the best finger linkin’ bbq. But, there is something else that makes Austin the best place to live: the fall. Austin’s fall temperatures in September average between 70 – 90 degrees. As the fall progresses, temperatures begin to drop with November lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s. This makes perfect weather for dining outside, hitting up an outdoor concert, or taking a hike.
So while Austin is famous for its warm-weather activities, its weather truly shines in the Fall. Here are some favorite fall activities in Austin, Texas.
1. Get into the Longhorn Spirit and Tailgate
Nothing is bigger in Texas than football and the University of Texas football program is one of the most beloved in the country. Going back to 1893 when the program first began, the Longhorns rank in the top five of all-time wins in the history of college football. So don your burnt orange and white and get ready to “Hook-em” as you cheer on the Texas Longhorns on an inviting sports bar patio. Try Draught House where you can count on hours of football while enjoying one of the 50 plus beers on tap. Located just five minutes from campus, Parlor and Yard offers a large patio where you can view the game, while also competing in your own game of cornhole, ping pong, or shuffle board.
2. Enjoy Dinner Al Fresco
Fall is the perfect time to dine outside and Austin has plenty of restaurant patios, ensuring you can benefit from the weather year-round. With happy hour seven days a week, offering specials on food and drinks, the Salty Sow offers a wonderful patio where you can savor your swine, wine and beer. Soak up the last of the summer heat on the beautiful patio of Grizzelda’s while enjoying a taco and margarita. With its bright decor and array of tacos and specialty drinks, this restaurant channels Central Mexico and transports guests to Central American climates. Looking for something a little a bit saucier? Try Justine’s. The best place to get a meal after midnight, this chic eatery is situated in a 1930’s bungalow and pays homage to 1920’s Paris. Nestle into the romantic tented patio where you can sip on cocktails, sample escargot and get in touch with your inner francophile.
3. Visit Oktoberfest
With Texas Hill Country towns such as Fredericksburg and New Braunfels nearby, Oktoberfest in Austin is a great way to enjoy the German heritage that was brought to Texas in the 1840s by roughly 7,000 German immigrants. Today as many as 19% of Texans can claim German heritage. Whether or not you come from German blood, all patrons can enjoy authentic German fare including schnitzels, pretzels, brats and plenty of brews. Oktoberfest runs the entire month of October and encompasses several venues throughout Austin.
4. Catch a Flick
Take advantage of the cooler Austin evenings, and catch a flick at the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In, Austin’s one and only drive-in urban movie theatre. Featuring two movies per night, this theatre focuses on childhood favorites, drive-in classics, indie films, and Gen X/Y hits. Blue Starlite offers the option of drive-in speakers and old fashioned concessions to truly make this a mini drive-in version of a traditional cinema. With three locations around the Austin area you are never far from a classic popcorn and movie night.
5. Indulge in a Pumpkin Treat
Austin takes the seasonal splendor of pumpkins very seriously. We all know the quintessential pumpkin treat is a Pumpkin Spice Latte, but why not skip the chain and try something slightly different? Like one of Stinson’s famous Pumpkin Pie Lattes. This beverage is the perfect way to tap into that cozy fall feeling we all love. For lunch, indulge in a pumpkin empanada at La Mexicana Bakery. Made from completely authentic ingredients, these empanadas are sure to leave you feeling satisfied. On an equally delicious note, grab a Bloodhound Donut made from pumpkin pie spices in all their autumn glory at Little Lucy’s late night food truck.
Life at Lakeside at Tessera
Located in Lago Vista and just a short drive away, enjoying fall in Austin has never been so accessible. Discover your new home and enjoy all Lakeside at Tessera has to offer.