Each evening from spring through early fall, crowds gather at Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge to watch more than a million bats fly out at dusk. It’s free, oddly peaceful and surprisingly popular. The best views are from the bridge itself, the hike-and-bike trail or a nearby kayak or river cruise.

Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park is a spring-fed swimming spot with consistently cool water, even in the middle of summer. Locals and visitors spread out on the grassy hill or take a dip in the clear, chilly pool. It’s open year-round and rarely feels as crowded as it should.

The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail circles Lady Bird Lake with ten miles of flat, scenic paths popular for running, walking and biking. The route passes downtown views, shaded stretches and quiet waterfront spots. It’s well-maintained, easy to access and a favorite for both locals and out-of-towners.

Allen’s Boots on South Congress has been selling cowboy boots since 1977, with rows of leather stretching wall to wall. The selection covers every color, style and price point, from classic to statement-making. It’s a must-stop for anyone looking to leave Austin with something more original than a T-shirt.

The Texas Capitol offers free themed tours that cover everything from the building’s architecture to its legislative history. Guides keep things informative without overdoing it, and the rotunda alone is worth a look. The grounds are walkable, and the whole visit usually takes less than an hour unless you linger.

Craft Omakase serves a 22-course seasonal tasting menu in an intimate Rosedale setting, led by chefs Charlie Wang and Nguyen Nguyen. The focus is on dry-aged fish, warm rice and precise technique. With a Michelin star and major local acclaim, it’s one of Austin’s most sought-after dining experiences right now.

Fabrik invites diners into a cozy and elegant East Austin micro‑restaurant offering a 100 percent plant‑based tasting menu in five‑ or seven‑course formats. Chef‑owner Je Wallerstein emphasizes local seasonal produce and sustainable techniques with Japanese Nordic and Italian flavor notes. Reservations are a must for this sought‑after experience.

Lutie’s occupies a verdant corner of the Commodore Perry Estate offering refined, ingredient‑forward Texas heritage cooking crafted by chefs Bradley Nicholson and Susana Querejazu. The seasonal menu celebrates regional farms with dishes like house‑fermented estate bread and Mt. Lassen trout. The elegant garden setting makes every meal feel intentional.

Mexta offers elevated Mexican cuisine in a stylish East Austin space led by chefs Mikel Alonso Garcia and Jonatan Gómez Luna Torres. The seasonal menu includes refined versions of regional dishes, paired with inventive cocktails. With Michelin recognition and a modern vibe, it’s a standout for special occasions or date nights.

Bar Toti is a lively East Austin bistro shaped by the bar cultures of Spain, France and Mexico featuring cocktails and small plates made with produce from the adjacent Este Garden. The handcrafted interiors and shaded patio make it ideal for evenings with friends.

Austin City Limits Festival brings big-name headliners and rising acts to Zilker Park from October 3–5 and 10–12. With multiple stages, local food vendors and a laid-back crowd, it’s one of the city’s biggest events. The lineup spans genres, and the views of downtown don’t hurt either.

Fantastic Fest in Austin is a genre film festival focused on horror, sci-fi, fantasy and international thrillers. Held at the Alamo Drafthouse in mid-to-late-September, it screens premieres, hosts filmmaker Q\&As and leans into the eccentric side of cinema. It’s a favorite among film lovers looking for something bold, strange or undiscovered.

The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas from October 17 to 19 brings high-speed racing, major music acts and a global crowd to Austin. Fans come for the track action, but off-track events, food and performances turn the weekend into a full-scale festival with something for everyone.

Disneyland blends classic rides, newer attractions and plenty of snacks into a theme park experience that still feels personal. Meet familiar characters, walk through movie sets brought to life and keep an eye out for the next popcorn stand. It’s nostalgic without getting stuck in the past and still worth the hype.

The Anaheim Packing District is a restored citrus packing house turned food hall, home to dozens of local vendors. You’ll find everything from birria tacos to Japanese fried chicken, plus craft cocktails and live music on select nights. It’s casual, walkable and ideal for groups who can’t agree on dinner.

Muzeo Museum & Cultural Center hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight art, history and culture in a smart, accessible way. Past shows have covered everything from Japanese folklore to Anaheim’s skate scene. The space is compact but thoughtfully curated, making it easy to visit before lunch or as part of a day out.

Knott’s Berry Farm combines classic rides, stage shows and plenty of boysenberry-flavored snacks. It’s home to old-school wooden coasters, a ghost town and family-friendly attractions that still hold up. The park stays true to its roots while offering enough variety to fill a full day without feeling overly produced or rushed.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament serves a four-course meal alongside jousting, sword fights and falconry. The show leans into theatrical drama with knights, royalty and plenty of cheering. It’s loud, energetic and surprisingly organized. Kids love it, adults get into it and the roasted chicken tends to disappear fast.

Puesto in Anaheim serves upscale Mexican street food in a colorful, modern space near the Honda Center. Known for its crispy cheese tacos and inventive cocktails, it’s a popular spot for group dinners, date nights and pre-event meals. The housemade tortillas and guacamole are worth ordering every time.

Strong Water in Anaheim is a nautical-themed cocktail bar known for its rum-forward drinks, creative small plates and immersive design. The menu leans tropical without being gimmicky, and reservations are a good idea. It’s a smart pick for date night, group hangs or anyone who appreciates a well-balanced drink and atmosphere.

Anaheim Packing House is a restored citrus packing facility turned food hall, featuring a wide range of local vendors under one roof. From dumplings to grilled cheese to craft cocktails, it’s a casual, lively place to eat, drink and wander. Live music and communal seating make it easy to linger.

Top of the V is a rooftop restaurant at the Viv Hotel, serving Spanish-inspired dishes with sweeping views of Anaheim. The menu features tapas, seafood and seasonal cocktails in a polished setting. It’s ideal for sunset dinners, special occasions or a quieter meal after a day of theme park crowds

Jonas Brothers are rocking Honda Center in late September. In early October fans can catch The World of Hans Zimmer and Latin star Luis R Conriquez live. November brings Christian Nodal, Palomazo Norteño, Disney on Ice and an array of Ducks home games. It’s a solid reason to check venue schedules and book early.

During fall and winter, Disneyland transforms with Halloween decorations, festive ride overlays and a full holiday makeover by November. Expect costumed characters, themed parades and seasonal treats throughout both parks. After the fireworks, Anaheim offers late-night eats, local breweries and shopping options that make it easy to keep the night going.

From September 18 to November 1, Knott’s Scary Farm takes over the park with haunted mazes, scare zones and late-night thrills from September through Halloween. It’s a longtime favorite for horror fans and anyone who likes a good jump scare. Before or after, explore Anaheim’s food halls, local bars and late-night spots that stay open past the fog.

The Anaheim Fall Festival and Halloween Parade bring locals together for vintage floats, community booths, crafts and live entertainment. The parade has been running since 1924 and still draws big crowds. On October 25, make a day of it by visiting nearby museums, grabbing a bite at the Packing District or checking out local shops.

Anaheim Ducks home games at Honda Center (October through April) offer fast-paced hockey, loyal fans and plenty of snacks between periods. The energy picks up when rival teams come to town, and themed nights add to the fun. Arrive early for merch and stay after for drinks or dinner at nearby spots around Katella Avenue.

Ramada Anaheim Convention Center offers comfortable rooms, free WiFi and a location close to Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. Guests can enjoy a pool, hot tub and complimentary breakfast. It’s a practical choice for families, business travelers or anyone looking to stay near the action without overcomplicating the trip.

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Garden Grove/Anaheim South offers spacious rooms, free WiFi, a fitness center and an outdoor pool. Just a short drive from Disneyland and Little Saigon, it’s a convenient home base for theme park days, shopping trips or exploring some of the best Vietnamese food in the region.

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach offers comfortable rooms, free WiFi, an outdoor pool and easy access to the coast. It’s a short drive to Newport Beach, Balboa Island and local restaurants. Whether you’re here for the ocean, shopping or a laid-back getaway, the location keeps things simple and close.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, with scenic drives, hiking trails and wildlife sightings year-round. Visitors come for waterfalls, mountain views and seasonal foliage. It’s free to enter and easy to explore from nearby towns like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Cherokee.

Dollywood blends classic theme park rides with live music, regional food and Appalachian culture. Owned by Dolly Parton, the park features roller coasters, craft demonstrations and seasonal festivals throughout the year. It’s family-friendly without being dull and a standout reason to visit Pigeon Forge beyond the usual roadside attractions.

WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge is an interactive indoor attraction with hands-on exhibits across science, space, art and more. Kids can lie on a bed of nails, play virtual sports or try the glow-in-the-dark ropes course. It’s educational without being boring and a solid option for rainy or extra-hot days.

Forbidden Caverns offers guided tours through an underground cave system filled with stalactites, natural chimneys and crystal-clear streams. Located near Sevierville, it’s a cool and informative escape with lighting effects and stories about the area's geological and cultural history. The walk is easy enough for most and lasts under an hour.

Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge lets visitors roll downhill inside giant inflatable balls filled with water. Known as zorbing, the experience is fast, slippery and unlike anything else in town. It’s open year-round with different track options and no prior skills required, just a swimsuit and a willingness to slide.

Smokies Cuban Cafe in Pigeon Forge serves authentic Cuban dishes in a casual, family-run setting. Favorites include ropa vieja, empanadas and Cuban sandwiches with sides like yuca and sweet plantains. The portions are generous, the prices are fair and the café is a local favorite for a quick, flavorful meal.

Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin is a Pigeon Forge staple known for hearty breakfasts in a rustic, cabin-style setting. The menu covers all the bases, from stacks of buttermilk pancakes to country ham and biscuit plates. It’s casual, kid-friendly and usually comes with a short wait that moves faster than expected.

The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge serves classic Southern comfort food in a historic riverside setting next to a working gristmill. Popular dishes include chicken and dumplings, corn fritters and homemade pies. Portions are large, the atmosphere is homey and the attached shops make it easy to turn lunch into an outing.

J.T. Hannah’s Kitchen in Pigeon Forge offers a broad menu of American comfort food in a casual, vintage warehouse setting. Burgers, ribs, steaks and hearty sides are the main draw, along with generous portions and reasonable prices. It’s an easy choice for families or groups looking for something everyone will eat.

Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que in Pigeon Forge serves hickory-smoked meats, from pulled pork and brisket to ribs and smoked chicken. The sides are classic and the portions are solid. It’s a laid-back spot popular with both locals and tourists looking for straightforward barbecue without the wait times of trendier places.

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival fills the park with live music, seasonal snacks and thousands of lit-up pumpkins from September 12 to October 27. There’s plenty to do even if you’re not a coaster person. Stick around Pigeon Forge for mountain views, family-run restaurants and souvenir shops that never met a black bear pun they didn’t like.

Oktoberfest on Ober Mountain (September 20 to November 1) pairs bratwurst and beer with views from the aerial tramway and live German tunes. Before or after, explore nearby Pigeon Forge for mini golf, comfort food, Dollywood’s fall season and enough pancake houses to test your loyalty. It’s all within easy reach, and just a little uphill.

Pigeon Forge Winterfest kicks off with millions of lights, holiday displays and seasonal events throughout town. From November 6 to February 15, walk the Parkway, catch a festive show or hop between pancake houses and gift shops. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas adds to the glow, making the season feel bigger, brighter and more cinnamon-scented than usual.

Ramada Pigeon Forge North offers comfortable rooms, a free breakfast and a location close to Dollywood and the Parkway. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, indoor pool and mountain views. It’s an easy home base for exploring the area, whether you're hiking, sightseeing, tracking down the best fudge or going to Dollywood's Harvest Festival.

Ramada by Wyndham in Austin offers a comfortable stay without the usual hotel fuss. Rooms are clean, the pool is a nice bonus and the location puts you within reach of downtown without the noise. It’s an easy pick for travelers who want Austin access with a little breathing room.