Cooler temperatures make fall one of the best times to explore Austin. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, a Longhorn or Austin FC game, a pumpkin patch, or a unique Austin experience, there’s plenty to add to your Fall 2026 calendar.
Get Outside
As the weather cools down, take advantage of Austin’s parks and trails. Walk or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake, explore Zilker Metropolitan Park, or hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Pack a picnic, bring a friend, and enjoy some of Austin’s best scenery without an admission fee.
For a uniquely Austin experience, watch Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge around sunset. The bats are typically active through the end of October. They typically won’t return until Spring, so be sure to check them out soon! Check current viewing information before you go, as the weather can also impact their flight.
Cheer on the Longhorns
Fall in Austin means Longhorn sports! Head to DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium to experience the excitement of a UT football game or check out volleyball and soccer for other ways to support UT Austin student athletes.
Looking for a free option? Admission to regular-season Texas women’s soccer home games is free. This fall, the Longhorns will host Oklahoma on Oct. 4, LSU on Oct. 15, South Carolina on Oct. 18, and Auburn on Nov. 1 at Mike A. Myers Stadium.
Experience Austin FC
Soccer fans can catch Austin FC at Q2 Stadium throughout the fall. The VERDE & Black will host Nashville SC on Oct. 10, Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Oct. 17, and Real Salt Lake on October 28. The Oct. 10 match is Live Music Capital of the World Night, featuring a pre-match party and live music at Live Oak Park. Check ticket prices and transportation options before you go.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Get into the fall spirit with a trip to a local pumpkin patch or fall festival. Sweet Eats Fruit Farm in Georgetown offers a corn maze, petting zoo, and other seasonal activities through Nov. 8. For something a little different, Indian Springs Ranch Fall Fest features a pumpkin patch alongside exotic animals, including camels, zebras, and buffalo.
You can also check out Pumpkin Nights at Pioneer Farms, where carved pumpkins become illuminated art installations along an evening walking trail. These both require you to purchase tickets for admission.
Find Free Things to Do
You don’t have to spend money to enjoy Fall in Austin. Visit a farmer’s market, explore Austin’s public art, listen to live music, take a walk along the lake, or attend one of the city’s many free community events and festivals.
Try Something New
Fall is also a great time to explore beyond Austin. Take a day trip into the Hill Country, visit a nearby small town, explore a local farm or vineyard, or discover a new destination just a short drive from the city.
Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery or a chance to experience something new, fall is the perfect time to get out of town and explore more of Central Texas.
Make the Most of Fall in Austin
As the weather cools down, take the opportunity to experience all that Austin and the surrounding area have to offer. Whether you’re cheering on the Longhorns, exploring a new trail, enjoying a local festival, or taking a day trip beyond the city, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the season.
Grab a friend, try something new, and make some memories this fall!
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
