Local’s Guide: 10 things to do in Austin this Fall

I know, I know, it could be argued that Austin doesn’t even have a Fall Season, BUT it DOES cool off the littlest bit and because of that, the residents stay in a state of delulu and bring out their seaters and boots. Keep living in that delusion and enjoy these 10 things you can do during this Fall season:

1. Visit a pumpkin patch

While Austin itself may not boast actual pumpkin patches growing from the ground, fear not! There's an abundance of places where you can either buy pumpkins or strike a pose with them (because who doesn't love a selfie with a vegetable, am I right?). You'll find them all over town - under big tents along the roadside, nestled within church grounds, and even in the cozy corners of your favorite coffee shops. Speaking of which, Cosmic Coffee and Beer is my favorite place for pumpkin displays (or maybe I'm just a bit partial because nothing beats sipping a hot coffee while snapping pumpkin pics hehe).

You can also check out Tarrytown Methodist Church on Exposition Blvd, St. Johns Lutheran Church on Allandale Road, and Christ Lutheran Church on Monroe St.

For those wanting to venture a bit farther from the heart of Austin in search of even bigger and better real pumpkin patches, there are a handful of great options. You can head out to Mama Mary’s Farm, explore the charming Indian Springs Ranch, or join in the festive fun at the Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival. So, whether you're an urban pumpkin enthusiast or eager to embrace a more rural pumpkin-picking adventure, Austin and its surroundings have you covered! 🎃

2. Have a cozy sunset picnic at Auditorium Shores

With the temperature dial turning down (even just a tiny bit), it's time to enjoy Austin's outdoor splendor without feeling like you're melting. SO head to my all time favorite Austin green area, Auditorium Shores right before the sunsets and treat yourself to a treat with views. It’s the best place to see downtown Austin and the views are even better as the sun goes down and the lights come on.

Either bring your own snacks to enjoy, or if you want something pre-made, I recommend picking up a charcuterie board to go from Spread & Co! They are absolutely beautiful and delicious!

Parking can be a little tricky when it’s busy, but there are a bit of spots at 676 W Riverside Parking and along side Riverside Drive.

3. Go paddling and actually enjoy it

I know paddle boarding is typically a summertime activity in Austin, I highly recommend getting out there during the cooler Fall days. You get a different experience as there are less people on the water and it becomes a more peaceful paddle through the still water. You can watch as the leaves surrounding the lake start to change color and you can actually enjoy the weather.

There are a handful of spots you can rent your board if you do not own one and most cost $20 for an hour:

• Texas Rowing Center

• Zilker Park Boat Rentals

• Rowing Dock

• Austin Rowing Club

• Live Love Paddle

• Epic SUP

4. Pick flowers at Sweet Berry Farm

Sweet Berry Farm is a staple when it comes to Fall time activities. It’s just over an hour outside of Austin in Marble Falls and has a variety of fun Fall things to do! While yes, they have pumpkins, a corn maze, hayrides, etc, my all time favorite is pick-your-own flowers! The flowers are the most fresh at the beginning of the season, but you can still get a great bundle like the one above later in the month.

Make sure to check your flowers for little buggies! I brought home a huge caterpillar and I didn’t realize until I saw it crawling down the vase the next day.

5. Rent a boat

Another typical summer activity I am suggesting you do during the Fall. There are all kinds of boats you can rent in Austin. From Tour boats to little vintage ones, you can pick and choose depending on what you are wanting.

Retro Boat Rentals or Capital Cruises are my preferred “self drive” options. Capital Cruises also does the bigger boats too if you are looking to throw a little boat party.

I cannot stress enough how much nicer it is to do these water activities in the Fall. And if it gets a little chilly?? Great! You can bring a blanket and have an excuse to snuggle!

6. Outdoor movie night

This one is pretty self explanatory - but find someone who has a yard, get out a projector, set up some blankets and pillows, and have yourself a movie night! I did this for my 30th birthday (October baby!! heheh) and it was so wonderful. We had Fall snacks and drinks and it was the perfect opportunity to be surrounded by loved ones without having a crazy night.

7. Spend the day volunteering

Imagine how much better Austin would be if everyone in it spent one day a year volunteering…there are currently 2,228,000 people in the Austin metro area. Imagine the impact. Just saying.

SO I am here to encourage you to volunteer your time this Fall at one of the many nonprofit orgs in the city. If you are looking for a sign to make a difference in this world, here it is.

Here is a massive list to choose from depending on your personal interests or cares.

And these are the ones I have volunteered at and have thoroughly enjoyed:

Big Brothers Big Sisters | connects children with mentors 

Boys & Girls Club | youth development agency devoted to providing hope and opportunity to all kids, especially those who need it most, between the ages of 6 and 18

Meals on Wheels | seeks to nourish and enrich the lives of the homebound and other people in need through programs that promote dignity and independent living

Austin Animal Center | open-intake facility where lost and surrendered animals from all of Travis County in need of shelter are accepted

Keep Austin Beautiful | organizes clean-ups, promotes sustainability and zero waste

Central Texas Food Bank | nourishes hungry people and leads the community in the fight against hunger

8. Attend an Oktoberfest

I’m not going to recreate the wheel on this one but instead point you to the ultimate lists of Oktoberfests! Because let’s be real, this is a staple activity.

Though low-key, I went last year and didn’t drink — still had fun, but, people go to drink LOL

Oktoberfest in Austin: Where to Celebrate With Beer and Brats
Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Austin

9. Wine at a castle out in the hill country

Just about 45 miles outside of Austin is a Wine Castle with great views, great wine, and a fun Castle Dungeon experience that happens every October.

290 Wine Castle is a great place to spend a sunny Fall afternoon and you can make a day out of it by spending some time in Johnson City doing activities like The Science Mill, Pecan Street Brewing, and 290 Locale Pizzeria!

10. Watch some sports

In Texas, Fall and Football go hand in hand. You can either snag a ticket to a UT game or head to one of the many sports bars around town to watch NFL! Austin loves its college football and the games are high energy and so fun.

Here are some of my favorite places to go:

Bouldin Acres: 2 locations now! Plus pickle ball courts, indoor and outdoor seating, and food!

Lavaca Street Bar: 3 locations. Lots of TVs, lots of great food.

Black Sheep Lodge: a classic. Outdoor beer garden, great burgers.

Star Bar: west 6 spot to grab a drink and watch the game.

The Tavern: neighborhood favorite with a great happy hour.