Can’t Get on the Lake? Things to Do in Austin This Labor Day Weekend

Planning to spend Labor Day weekend in Austin? You’re definitely not the only one.

The long weekend is one of the last big celebrations of summer, and spending it on Lake Travis or Lake Austin is hard to beat. But Austin boat rentals can book quickly for holiday weekends, and sometimes a lake day just isn’t in the cards.

The good news? There are plenty of other things to do in Austin for Labor Day weekend.

Whether you’re visiting Austin for the long weekend or planning a staycation, here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the city when you can’t get out on the lake.

1. Cool Off at Barton Springs Pool

If you can’t jump into Lake Travis, Barton Springs Pool is a pretty great Plan B.

Located inside Zilker Park, this spring-fed Austin favorite offers a refreshing place to swim and cool down from the late-summer Texas heat.

Because Labor Day weekend can be busy throughout Austin, check current hours, admission information and holiday schedules before heading over.

2. Spend the Day Exploring Zilker Park

There’s a reason Zilker Park is one of the most recognizable outdoor destinations in Austin.

Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and spend a few hours outside. Its location also makes it easy to combine with other popular Austin Labor Day weekend activities, including Barton Springs and exploring the nearby trails.

If your original plan was a day outdoors on Lake Austin or Lake Travis, Zilker is an easy alternative that still lets you enjoy some sunshine.

3. Walk or Bike the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Want to see Austin from a different perspective?

Head downtown and explore the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. The trail offers some of the best views of the Austin skyline and is a great option for walking, jogging or biking.

Go early in the morning to beat some of the Labor Day heat, then reward yourself with brunch or lunch afterward.

4. Go Swimming at Deep Eddy Pool

Another classic Austin swimming spot, Deep Eddy Pool is a great way to cool off without needing a boat.

It’s especially convenient if you’re staying near downtown Austin and want a laid-back activity that doesn’t require an entire day.

Just remember that holiday weekends can affect operating hours and capacity, so check the latest information before you go.

5. Explore South Congress

If spending all day outside in the August/September Texas heat doesn’t sound appealing, head to South Congress.

Walk along SoCo, browse local shops, grab a coffee, find some tacos and stop for a photo with one of the neighborhood’s famous murals.

It’s an easy way to experience a little bit of everything that makes Austin feel like Austin.

6. Catch Some Live Music

You can’t make a list of things to do in Austin without mentioning live music.

Austin has venues ranging from intimate neighborhood spots to larger stages, and a long weekend is the perfect excuse to catch a show.

Check the Labor Day weekend concert calendar before your trip to see who’s playing around town.

7. Head to an Austin Brewery

If you’re planning an adults-only afternoon, Austin has plenty of breweries, taprooms and outdoor beer gardens where you can spend a laid-back afternoon with friends.

Many local spots also host food trucks, live music and special weekend events.

If you’re visiting from out of town, exploring a few Austin breweries can be a fun way to experience neighborhoods you might otherwise miss.

And, as always, make sure your group has a safe ride home.

8. Explore Austin’s Food Truck Scene

Sometimes the best Labor Day plan is simply eating your way through Austin.

From breakfast tacos and barbecue to burgers, pizza and desserts, food trucks are part of the Austin experience.

Pick a food truck park or create your own mini food tour and let everyone in your group choose something different.

9. Watch the Sunset

You don’t need to be on a boat to catch a great Texas sunset.

Find a patio, scenic overlook or outdoor restaurant and slow things down for the evening. After a busy holiday weekend, sometimes a cold drink and a sunset are exactly what you need.

Of course, we’re a little biased — we still think sunsets look better from Lake Travis.

10. Check Float On for Last-Minute Boat Rental Availability

Before completely giving up on your lake plans, check with us!

Labor Day weekend is popular, but plans change. Depending on cancellations and availability, you may still be able to snag a Lake Travis boat rental or Lake Austin boat rental.

Float On offers boat rentals on both lakes, giving you two options for getting out on the water.

If Lake Travis is your destination, our pontoon rentals are perfect for cruising, swimming and spending a few hours enjoying the lake. Depending on your rental, you can choose to drive yourself or add an experienced captain.

On Lake Austin, you can enjoy some of Austin’s most recognizable waterfront scenery and experience the city from a completely different perspective.

Spending Labor Day Weekend in Austin

One of the best things about Austin is that there’s always another plan.

If you can’t make it onto the lake this Labor Day, spend the weekend swimming, exploring trails, eating your way through the city, listening to live music or discovering somewhere new.

But if a lake day is at the top of your list, don’t wait until the holiday weekend to start looking.

Labor Day boat rentals in Austin can book early, so reserve your Float On rental ahead of time and make the lake your first plan, not your backup plan.