What's the best time to visit Austin?
The best time to visit Austin is in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-October). These seasons offer pleasant weather with temperatures in the 70s to 80s, ideal for outdoor activities. Expect fewer crowds, vibrant festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits, and stunning wildflowers in spring. Book early for the best deals!
Austin is the capitol of the Lone Star State, full of historical landmarks and museums, packed with great places to eat and grab a drink, and a haven for the weird and wacky.
It’s also the number one tourist destination in the Southwest where more than 30 million choose to come visit each year! Here’s what you can’t miss while you’re paying Austin a well-deserved visit.
But while this storied city is rich in history, culture, food, and things to do, when is the best time to visit Austin? Here’s our take.
The Overall Best Time to Visit Austin
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- March-May, September-October is the best time to visit Austin
- Less hot and humid, pleasant weather, and tons of events
- Sunny days ideal for exploring and walking the city
The best time to visit Austin, TX either March through May or September through October. During these times, you’ll experience the best weather and festivals Austin has to offer. Here’s what makes these 2 seasons so perfect for a visit.
March-May boasts comfortable temperatures between the low 70s and mid-80s, a far cry from the blistering hot and humid summer months. March is when Austin hosts the annual SXSW music festival, so music lovers will want to plan to arrive in time for the festivities.
Wildflowers burst into bloom in April, and trips to Zilker Park’s Barton Springs Pool are perfect this time of year. In May, the University of Texas’ graduation ceremony brings huge crowds to the city and back-to-back events to check out day and night.
September-October is the other ideal time to visit. Temperatures are higher – low 80s to upper 90s – but it’s less humid and there’s just enough rainfall to start cooling things down.
You’ll see brilliant fall foliage colors, slightly smaller crowds, and a full calendar of events (Austin City Limits Music Festival, Here and There Festival, etc.) to keep you busy.
It gets pretty crowded in Austin during the spring and fall seasons as tourists flock to the city while it’s at its most comfortable for walking and spending time outdoors. You’ll want to book early to get the best deals and availability on rooms and flights, but it’s well worth it to go at the best time of year.
Cheapest Time to Visit Austin
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- November-February is the cheapest time to visit
- Cooler weather, little rainfall, upper 50s-low 70s
- Shoulder season with reduced rates on flights & rooms
The cheapest time to visit Austin is November through February, the city’s shoulder season. This period covers late fall through winter when the weather is nice and cool, events slow down a bit (but there’s still lots going on), and rates on flights and hotels take a serious nosedive.
You can score the best deals by visiting Austin in this less-busy shoulder season. This period boasts the lowest rates on hotel rooms in Austin for the year, and you can score a great room downtown or close to it for well under $100/night.
There are enough crowds to make the city feel lively but not so many you’re fighting for parking spaces or waiting hours in line for food and drinks.
Without the huge crowds of spring and early fall, you’ll find that even food and drink prices may be lower in the city at this time of year.
Holiday festivals and decorations make the city an incredible sight around December, but know that prices briefly rise in mid-to-late December as well. Plan to go in November, early December, January, or February for the best rates.
Least Busy Time to Visit Austin
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- July-August see the fewest visitors in Austin
- Hot temperatures and high humidity keep crowds away
- Full line-up of events and festivals indoor and outdoor
The least busy time to visit Austin is during the middle of the summer, in July and August. Temperatures can range from pretty hot to unforgivably muggy at this time of year, but if you can deal with the heatwave, it’s the perfect time for a laid-back visit without the throngs of tourists.
Just plan to spend a lot of time in water (pools, lakes, rivers – whatever floats your boat), indoors, or take lots of shade and water breaks when you plan to be outside.
Come early in July to celebrate Independence Day with the locals at the many fireworks shows and 4th of July events held here. It’s hot, but there’s always water nearby to cool off in and Austin’s parks and pools provide welcome retreats from the burning sun.
Check out the Taco & Margarita Festival, Watermelon Festival, and Greater Austin Comic Con for things to do in July.
August is also part of Austin’s low season because — surprise — it’s still extremely hot and humid, though a little cooler than July, at this time of year here
If you can handle the heat, check out a free summer musical at Zilker Park, join the Austin Pride Parade, attend the Austin Summer Carnival (samba fest), and stick around for the wacky Bat Fest with music, contests, games, and more at the Congress Avenue Bridge.
Worst Time to Visit Austin
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- July-August is the worst time to visit
- Heat and humidity make it hard to enjoy time outdoors
- Prices for flights/hotels won’t drop until November
The worst time to visit Austin is also one of the least busy times to go – July and August. Above, we covered some of the highlights of visiting during this less-crowded period at the peak of summer.
But we need to talk about the stark reality of going at the height of Austin’s hot and humid summer season. Average highs are around 95F in July and August, which may not sound bad, but it’s stifling when combined with the average humidity levels around 88%.
It’s a heavy heat that makes spending extended time outdoors difficult, especially if you’re not acclimated to this type of humid heat.
Sure, there’s lots going on in the city in July and August – 4th of July celebrations, fireworks, music and food festivals, parades, and carnivals – but if you can’t hang with the heat and humidity, these events won’t be very fun.
If you must go at this time of year, plan to spend lots of time in and on the water, plan to visit indoor museums and shops during the daytime, and carry lots of water to drink while you’re out and about.
Austin by Month: Climate & Activities
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Still unsure about the best time to visit Austin? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:
January
Winter temperatures in Austin range from 4-18°C (39-64°F). It’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking in the Hill Country, exploring local art galleries, and enjoying live music in the city’s iconic venues.
February
Similar to January, February maintains cool temperatures between 7-20°C (45-68°F). Visitors can explore the historic State Capitol, attend cultural events like the Austin Rodeo, and indulge in the city’s renowned food scene.
March
As spring begins, temperatures range from 11-24°C (52-75°F). March is perfect for outdoor festivals, exploring the Lady Bird Lake Trail, and enjoying the blooming wildflowers in the surrounding areas.
April
Spring continues with temperatures between 14-27°C (57-80°F). April is ideal for attending the Austin Food + Wine Festival, exploring the city’s parks, and enjoying live music in outdoor venues.
May
May sees temperatures ranging from 18-31°C (64-88°F). It’s a great month for outdoor activities like paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, attending music festivals, and exploring the vibrant neighborhoods.
June
In June, arrives in Austin with temperatures between 22-34°C (72-93°F). June offers opportunities for water activities on the lakes, enjoying outdoor patios, and attending summer events like the Austin Ice Cream Festival.
July
July maintains hot temperatures from 24-36°C (75-97°F). It’s a popular month for swimming in Barton Springs Pool, tubing on the rivers, and attending Independence Day celebrations.
August
In August, temperatures in Austin range from 24-36°C (75-97°F). Despite the heat, it’s a lively time for music events, food festivals, and enjoying the nightlife on Sixth Street.
September
As fall begins, temperatures range from 21-33°C (70-91°F). September offers a pleasant transition, with outdoor activities like hiking in the Barton Creek Greenbelt and exploring local farmers’ markets.
October
Fall temperatures range from 14-28°C (57-82°F). October is perfect for attending Austin City Limits Music Festival, exploring the Zilker Botanical Garden, and enjoying the fall foliage.
November
November sees temperatures between 8-21°C (46-70°F). It’s a great month for outdoor activities, such as cycling on the Veloway or hiking in the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.
December
In December, winter returns with temperatures ranging from 5-17°C (41-63°F). December brings festive holiday events, including the Trail of Lights, and opportunities to explore Austin’s cultural scene indoors.
Things to Consider
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You’ve seen the best time to visit Austin for excellent weather and events, cheap prices, and thin crowds. What else should you know to make the most of your visit to the capitol of the Lone Star State?
Check out these helpful travel tips to make your stay memorable, comfortable, and fun!
- Austin is family-friendly when you stick to the right areas. While Austin is a party haven for some, it’s also a great city for the whole family. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the many parks, swimming holes, interactive museums, candy shops, mini golf, Austin Zoo, and cave exploration in and around the city. Just steer clear of the clothing-optional, adults-only Hippie Hollow Park and Sixth Street – Dirty Sixth, as locals call it – to keep things family-friendly.
- Check out event calendars for your visit. Austin events are a big part of what make the city such a great place to visit, so make sure you know what is going on during your stay! From live music fests to food truck days and city-wide celebrations, there’s always something to do here. The Austin Events calendar lists all local events, big and small, so you can fill your trip itinerary or choose a better time to book your stay.
- Set out early each day. While no one wants to wake up early on vacation, it’s the best way to see and experience Austin while avoiding the largest crowds and heat. If you can set out from your hotel by 7am on a summer day, you’ll be able to enjoy time outdoors without absolutely roasting – and you’ll beat the lines for a smoother, more enjoyable day out!
So, What Is the Best Time to Visit Austin?
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All things considered, the best time to visit Austin is in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-October). This is the most comfortable period, weather and temperature-wise, and there’s so much going on in the city.
It’s warm enough for summer wear but not as hot and humid as the height of summertime. These are the perfect times to get out and walk/explore the city from sunrise to nighttime!
Austin is sticking with its slogan and keeping things weird year-round. No matter when you choose to go, you’ll experience one of Texas’ most interesting cities that is jam-packed with things to do and see.
From historic landmarks and museums to the wacky shops, celebrations, and art installations throughout the city, you’ll be surrounded by equal parts weird and wonderful down in Austin. Happy travels!