How to Beat the Heat in Austin
Words by James Wong
Photo by Annie Ray
We won’t beat around the cacti. Texas is brutally hot every summer. We’re talking too-frequent three-digit days and splashes of humidity thrown in for good measure (though thankfully, not as bad as in Houston). Whilst select Austinites escape to vacation homes north between July and September, the majority of Bat City must stick it through. They, along with visitors taking advantage of the summer holiday season, still manage to get by, but with a few handy tricks up their sleeves.
First, it’s all about hydrating. Austin’s rooftop bars and AC-blasted venues have just the medicine to fuel you on. Then it’s about timing. The rule is: very early or very late. That’s why the summer biggies, such as Pride and Blues on the Green, bring the party after sundown. Finally, pack plenty of swimwear, because that’ll be your ATX attire. There are pools, lakes, and springs galore to show them off. Ready to stock a cooler? Here are all the tried and tested ways to stay cool, beat the heat, and have the best, long hot summer in Austin.
The Best Ways to Cool Off During Summer in Austin, Texas
Image by Nathan Fluellen
DIVE INTO BARTON SPRINGS, NATURE’S COOL ESCAPE
Barton Springs is the surefire summer splash because no matter how hot it gets, you’re always guaranteed a cool-down. The Zilker Park pool is fed from underground spring waters that maintain a constant temperature of 68 to 70 degrees, all year round. Likewise, the nearby Deep Eddy Pool offers a similar experience with lap lanes. Simply disrobe on the banks, jump in, and even in the sweltering afternoon, expect to be refreshed.
Insider tip: Every local is devoted to one of three Austin-born taco chains: Torchy’s, Tacodeli, or Veracruz All Natural (conveniently available from The LINE Austin). Pick your fave, load them up with some beers in a YETI, and hit the springs for a dip-to-taco marathon.
SEE THE BATS FAN OUT FROM CONGRESS AVENUE BRIDGE
One of Austin’s most spectacular natural events occurs in the summer: the migration of the Mexican free-tailed bats. Between late March and early fall, millions roost under Congress Avenue Bridge, emerging when it’s cooler at dusk to feed. The result is a cascade of wings over Lady Bird Lake…and since they’re feeding on mosquitoes, you don’t need to lather on repellent! The best place to view the action is from the banks of the river, right in front of The LINE Austin, as well as on the water itself if you rent a kayak or paddleboard from Texas Rowing Center.
Insider tip: Turn up the occasion and time your visit to coincide with Bat Fest. 2025’s event takes place on September 6, celebrating the beloved bats alongside live music, family-friendly games, and costume contests.
Photo by Visit Austin
Photo by Museum of Ice Cream
TASTE TEMPERATURES DOWN AT LICK HONEST ICE CREAMS
Cow products are consumed rather heavily in Texas, but at Lick Honest Ice Creams care is taken to ensure it’s as cruelty-free as possible. Sourced from ‘happy cows’, local couple Anthony and Chad buy from family-owned and operated dairies in Texas and Wisconsin, and it’s a creamy difference you can really taste. The artisanal ice creams also use 100% natural ingredients and are lovingly churned and packed by hand. Our pint is the Texas Sheet Cake.
Insider tip: You can devote an entire day to the icy stuff up at The Domain shopping center. Austin’s outpost of The Museum of Ice Cream offers unlimited tastings, selfie rooms, and a giant sprinkle pool.
KICK BACK WITH SOTOL SPIRITS AT THE LINE AUSTIN’S POOL
There are plenty of hotel waters dotted all over town, but few match the charm of The LINE Austin’s infinity pool (we’re not biased at all, btw!). Overlooking Lady Bird Lake and the famed Congress Avenue Bridge, you have sights for days, and there’s absolutely no need to disturb the groove. Tacos from Veracruz All-Natural and delicious frozen Sotol cocktails from Cantero can be bought right up to your lounger. Two words: Desert Coco.
Insider tip: For those who want to get active by the pool, sign up for Saturday yoga sessions (free to hotel guests) in collaboration with Swift Fit for the most scenic flow of your life.
Photo by Visit Austin
PARTY AT SUNDOWN’S TOP FESTIVALS
While ACL and SXSW get all the glory during Austin’s cooler months, the party certainly doesn’t stop in the height of summer. Two of the year’s biggest festivals take place between June and August, right after the hot sunsets, and best of all, you don’t need to purchase a pricey badge. Blues on the Green has been a local tradition for decades, held in Zilker Park across multiple June/July weekends with free live music from a diverse spectrum of Austin-based artists. Meanwhile, Pride is where to party with your tops off (!). The huge parade and events take place every August, screaming loud and proud no matter what goes on in office.
Insider tip: If you miss the weekend of Pride no fear, the AC’d bars and clubs of Fourth Street are here, queer and everyone is welcome. (Y’all means all down here!). Favorites include Rain on 4th, Oilcan Harry’s and the Coconut Club.
WORK OUT ON THE ANN AND ROY BUTLER TRAIL
For early birds, take advantage of the relatively cool mornings with a ring around the Ann and Roy Butler Trail, either on foot or by bike (free rental available to The LINE Austin hotel guests). Even on 100-degree days, it’s around the mid-80s at 9 am, so physical activity is possible before you retreat indoors and tuck into queso treats. The 10-mile loop meanders along the edge of Lady Bird Lake, passing by a diverse landscape of hills, skyscrapers and cultural attractions.
Insider tip: Drop a pin to pit stop at Lou Neff Point along the trail. The overlook has an iron gazebo with seating and excellent views of the downtown skyline. On some weekdays, kayakers gather for impromptu parties on the water out front.
Photo by The Trail Foundation
Photo by Visit Austin
ENJOY STREET EATS, OFF THE STREET
Food trucks are major in Austin, but the thought of sitting outside melting away with your brisket may not appeal. Thank goodness for indoor multi-dining. Fareground, situated right opposite The LINE Austin, is downtown’s beloved food hall with some of the city’s best street eats. There’s JABS burgers and fries, Four Brothers’s Venezuelan comfort food, and because you can never have too much Tex-Mex in Austin, Taco Pegasto. An inside and an outside bar (for when the sun sets) round off the gastronomic experience.
Insider tip: Look out for live music sets every Thursday through Saturday, as well as complimentary yoga classes on the lawn on Sunday mornings.
Book your stay at the LINE Austin to make the most of the Cantero bar, ground-floor infinity pool, and proximity to ATX’s indoor and outdoor summer greats.
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