7 Ways to Beat Boredom in Austin This Summer
Find yourself in Austin this summer? Feeling like taking advantage of the countless activities the city has to offer, but not sure where to begin? Start here.
Bowling on UT Campus
Featuring glow-in-the-dark bowling, billiards, air hockey, and foosball, The Union Underground is a perfect place to take a group of friends to eat, play, and just have fun.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
Austin Public Library
The newly renovated Austin Public Library is located on 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. It includes a summer reading program for kids of all ages, a teen section, tons of places to lounge and read, and, of course, a seemingly endless assortment of books. Going to APL is a great way to keep minds active during the summer.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
Barton Springs Municipal Pool
An Austin staple, Barton Springs Pool is a great place to cool off during the summer. Featuring deep and shallow ends, as well as a diving board, Barton Springs is also home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.

Photo by Liliana Valenzuela
Peter Pan Mini Golf
Up and running since 1948, this mini golf course has giant sculptures like a Texas totem pole (complete with cowboy boots, the Texas star, and an armadillo), a blue Converse sneaker, and, of course, Peter Pan himself. The course is open late — until midnight or 1:00 am, depending on the day.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
Austin Creative Reuse
Looking for a break from the Texas heat? Take a trip to Austin Creative Reuse. Located on Middle Fiskville Road, ACR is a nonprofit creative supply store that receives their inventory solely through donations. ACR houses endless supplies of crafts — like old records, yarn, iron-on patches, fabric, and tons more — perfect for your next art project.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
Stand Up Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake
Looking for a more adventurous outing? Spend some time on Lady Bird Lake, where stand up paddleboarding — SUP for short — is a must. Paddleboarding not your thing? Rent a canoe or kayak from Rowing Dock, a rental company located right on the lake.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is an Austin staple, and with good reason. With tons of quirky shops and restaurants, SoCo is definitely a great place to spend an afternoon. Make sure to stop at Amy’s Ice Cream and Hey Cupcake for a sweet treat.

Photo by Christine Sanchez
Christine is a sophomore studying writing at St. Edward’s University. She enjoys spending time with her Chihuahua mix, Frida. Follow her on Twitter @christineliza3.
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