Discover the best of Austin in December—from festive holiday lights and markets to outdoor adventures and cosy indoor activities. Plan your perfect winter getaway!
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Visiting Austin, Texas in December is a fantastic way to experience the city without the summer heat or festival crowds. Some of our best friends relocated here a few years ago so have had the opportunity to visit twice at Christmas. The cooler weather makes it perfect for exploring Barton Springs, hiking, and enjoying Austin’s incredible food scene. December also brings plenty of seasonal charm, from the dazzling Austin Trail of Lights to the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Here are our favourite things to do in Austin, Texas in December to help you plan your holiday trip.
Barton Springs
Even in December, Barton Springs is definitely worth a visit. From what I’d read, the water stays pretty consistent all year round, and sure enough—it was refreshing but absolutely lovely! To our surprise, there were quite a few people swimming and enjoying the beautiful December weather, proving that Austinites really know how to make the most of their outdoors, even in winter.
Trail of Lights
The US really knows how to take Christmas up a notch—or five—and the Austin Trail of Lights is no exception. We visited in the wake of Covid, so we had to drive through rather than walk, but even from the car, it was big, bright, and full of festive cheer. The kids absolutely loved it (and so did we), and the whole experience perfectly captures the holiday spirit in Austin. I’d definitely put it on your “must-do” list if you’re visiting the city during the festive season.
Austin Street Art
Austin’s street art scene is just as vibrant as its food. Everywhere you turn, colourful murals brighten the streets, from the iconic “I love you so much” wall on South Congress to hidden gems tucked down side streets. Wandering around hunting for murals became one of our favourite things to do. I always feel like street art tells the story of a city and Austin’s street art was no exception. December’s cooler weather made strolling between murals even more enjoyable, and it’s a perfect way to see the city’s creative spirit up close. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for fun photo ops, Austin’s street art is impossible to miss.
Eat tacos for breakfast, lunch and dinner
No visit to Austin would be complete without diving into its legendary taco scene. From breakfast tacos loaded with eggs, bacon, and spicy salsa to late-night taco trucks serving up tender brisket or barbacoa, Austin has something to satisfy every craving. We found ourselves sampling everything from traditional Tex-Mex flavours to creative twists that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite on the go or savouring tacos at a bustling local eatery, it’s easy to see why Austin tacos have a reputation all their own. My favourites were found in The Shady Llama and I also had an incredible migas taco (breakfast taco) at the Austin icon Magnolia Cafe washed down with bottomless mimosas. If you go to Magnolia Cafe, you also have to try the Mag Mud. I dream about it. Genuinely.
Pioneer Town
This was such a cool and quirky place to visit. It really had that Wild West atmosphere and almost felt like walking onto a film set. Just a short drive from Austin, Pioneer Town takes you back in time with its wooden boardwalks, old storefronts, dusty streets, and a classic saloon where you can grab a cold drink. It’s a laid-back spot with plenty of character—great for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Texas’s frontier past. Kids will find plenty to keep them entertained too, from climbing structures to a games room with vintage-style arcade machines. And if you’re planning a visit, the cooler December weather makes wandering around far more enjoyable than in the peak heat of summer.
Visit a Brewery
Austin has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best craft beer cities in the country, with a brewery scene that’s as creative and lively as the city itself. From sprawling beer gardens shaded by oak trees to funky taprooms tucked into old warehouses, there’s something for every beer lover here. You’ll find experimental brewers pushing boundaries with bold flavours and inventive ingredients, right alongside classics that focus on crisp lagers, hop-forward IPAs, and smooth stouts. Many spots are family- and dog-friendly, often with live music, food trucks, and plenty of outdoor seating that invite you to linger. For those of us in the UK who love a pub, the brewery scene definitely scratches that itch!
Drink (a) Margarita(s)
No trip to Austin would be complete without sampling the city’s legendary margaritas. Whether you’re after a classic lime margarita or something with a creative twist—think smoky mezcal, fresh fruit, or even spicy jalapeño—Austin’s bars and restaurants definitely deliver, and there is also something cultural (so wholesome…?) about sampling them, so sample them we did. It’s one of those quintessential Austin experiences. One of my favourite classics was from The Hula Hut which also serves some pretty incredible tacos.
Visit the State Capitol Building
Politics in Texas comes to life at the State Capitol Building, so it’s definitely a must-visit—especially if politics is your thing (and it really is mine!). But even if you’re not a politics buff, it’s hard to ignore just how stunning the building is. With its striking pink granite, soaring dome, and grand architecture, many would argue it’s the prettiest building in the city. I really enjoyed our visit there. I find American politics and history fascinating, and it feels like it all comes together in the Capitol Building.
Find a Longhorn
I love cows and so one fun thing we stumbled upon in the Austin area was spotting a Longhorn cow—or two—roaming the countryside. With their impressively long, curved horns and calm, steady gaze, these iconic Texan creatures are impossible to miss. Driving around the outskirts of the city, we couldn’t resist pulling over to snap a few photos. Beyond the city’s vibrant streets and culture, Texas is still very much a place where the wild and the rural feel close at hand. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when a Longhorn might appear.
Visit South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue is one of Austin’s most iconic stretches—a lively mix of boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and music venues that perfectly captures the city’s character. Strolling along the avenue, you’ll find everything from quirky vintage stores to upscale galleries, alongside the iconic city murals for a quick photo stop. Street performers also give the whole area a laid-back but vibrant vibe. One of the highlights is the view north toward downtown: the Texas State Capitol rises at the end of the avenue, framed by the bustle of shops and the hum of traffic. Whether you’re grabbing tacos from a food truck, hunting for unique souvenirs, or just soaking in the atmosphere, South Congress is worth a visit.
Visit Wimberley
Wimberley is a Hill Country gems that feels like a million miles from the city, even though it’s only about 45 minutes from Austin. This small town has a relaxed, artsy vibe, with a charming square full of boutiques, galleries, and cafés that make it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nature is a big part of the appeal here—Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well are two of the area’s most popular spots, although beware of the snakes! Scenic drives around Wimberley reveal rolling hills, wineries, and breathtaking overlooks, especially at places like Old Baldy, where a short climb rewards you with sweeping views of the countryside.
Shop for cowboy boots
Shopping for cowboy boots in Austin is as much an experience as it is a purchase. The city is dotted with iconic boot shops that showcase the art and tradition behind this Texas staple. Along South Congress Avenue, you’ll find legendary spots like Allen’s Boots, where row after row of brightly coloured leather boots line the walls from floor to ceiling and there are some incredible designs. have a browse, try on a pair and snap a photo.
Experience Austin’s festive cocktail scene
For a Brit, Austin in December can feel gloriously over the top—just like pretty much everything else in Texas. Bars seem to transform into glittering grottoes, with walls draped in tinsel, fairy lights blazing, and menus full of festive spiked eggnog, peppermint martinis, hot buttered rum, and Texas-style twists like cranberry margaritas or mezcal concoctions. It’s unapologetically over the top and delightfully ridiculous—but in the best possible way. Those of us used to more restrained celebrations back home may quietly judge the excess… but when in Texas, one learns that more tinsel and tequila is exactly the right answer.
Final thoughts
If you’re coming from the UK, December in Austin can feel a bit disorienting. Back home we’re usually ankle-deep in drizzle, clutching a lukewarm mulled wine, and pretending not to notice the damp creeping into our socks. In Austin, meanwhile, you’ll find yourself wandering light displays in a light jacket, swapping mince pies for breakfast tacos, and wondering if it’s socially acceptable to kayak in December. It all feels wonderfully festive—just with far fewer umbrellas and a lot more barbecue.
Kitchen Family Travels 