While some students jet off to sunny beaches, others will be staying in Austin this spring break. While taking a tropical vacation may be fun, Austin is still a great place to be. If you need some inspiration on how to spend your week, no fear! The Daily Texan has compiled a list of the best things to make sure your Austin #staycation is one to remember.
Lasso up a good time at the Austin rodeo
When: March 10–24
Where: 9100 Decker Lake Road
What’s more Texan than the rodeo? Take part in this Texas tradition even if watching cattle isn’t your thing. Austin’s rodeo is packed with rides and live music from various artists. Take pictures atop a real longhorn for a picture that screams, “Texas!” Just like any other Texas event, BBQ will be there. Tickets range from $8 to $24, making it an inexpensive and fun choice!
Take advantage of as many free SXSW events you can
When: March 9–18
Where: Various locations
Austin is one of the best places to be for spring break because of its SXSW season! But even if a badge isn’t an option, there are plenty of free events to check out! Urban Outfitters and Waterloo are hosting free concerts over spring break. Take an Uber downtown to check out the free Southbites food truck park or the outdoor concerts on Lady Bird Lake!
Sherwood Forest Faire
When: March 10–11; March 16–18, 10 a.m. to dusk
Where: 1883 Old Highway 20, McDade, TX
Take a trip back in time to a medieval village that’s fit for kings and queens. Just a 30-minute drive from campus lies a forest that is home to an entire kingdom with castles, knights and jousting. Part of the adventure will be the drive there. Enjoy a marketplace of vendors, food — turkey legs, too — shows, archery competitions and so much more! Tickets cost $12 to $22 and there’s a buy one-get-one-free special for students March 16–18.
Organize a breakfast taco crawl
The subject of tacos, especially in reference to which restaurant will reign supreme, has long been a sensitive issue within Austin. Do some investigating of your own by finding your favorite place. Grab some friends that are in Austin too and stop by Tacodeli, Veracruz, Mi Madre’s, Taqueria Mi Trailita and Tamale House East. The list goes on but a quick Google search will bring up as many local eateries as your stomach can hold. It’s a good excuse to explore Austin, and who knows, maybe you can solve this debate once and for all!
See some art in the dark
When: March 15, 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Blanton Museum of Art
Some things are better at night, and the Blanton Museum of Art took the initiative to keep the night owls happy. Blanton’s Third Thursday event allows museum-goers to walk around the galleries when it’s dark out. As always, admission is free for students! Take some “me” time to wander around or bring your friends to this free gathering! Experience emerging Austin artists or take a free tour, pizza will also be $5 after 5 p.m.
Say goodbye to Graffiti Park
When: March 14 at 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Say “Peace out” to Graffiti Park by celebrating its legacy in its current location. This event will feature over 40 live street artists spray painting on the iconic walls. Grab a pair of headphones and dance at the silent disco! Going downtown is also a great way to get a free glimpse into all the SXSW happenings.
