Austin’s unofficial motto, ‘Keep Austin Weird,’ isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a lifestyle. This city thrives on the quirky, celebrates the strange, and loves a little weirdness in its daily routine. Whether you’re a recent transplant or just visiting, there are plenty of uniquely Austin experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here are 10 weird, wonderful things you can only do in the Texas capital.
10 Weird Things You Can Only Do in Austin
Play Chicken Sh*t Bingo at Little Longhorn Saloon
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. A chicken walks around a numbered grid, and wherever it ‘goes’ determines the winner. Sundays at this honky-tonk bar are legendary.
Visit the Cathedral of Junk
Hidden in a South Austin backyard, this towering structure of reclaimed metal, bikes, TVs, and toys is one man’s lifelong passion project—and open to the public by appointment.
Swim in a Natural Spring with Endangered Salamanders
Barton Springs Pool isn’t just for people—it’s also home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander. That’s some weird eco-chic.
Watch a Movie at Alamo Drafthouse—With Rules
No talking. No texting. Ever. The strictest movie theater in the country is also the most fun, with themed movie parties and food served to your seat.
Eat Donuts with Fried Chicken at Gourdough’s
Because who needs a regular bun when you can slap fried chicken between two giant donuts? Gourdough’s is peak Austin indulgence.
See a Museum of the Weird
Located right off Sixth Street, this museum is filled with shrunken heads, mummies, and curiosities galore. Part Ripley’s, part haunted house.
Hang with Cats at a Cat Café
Blue Cat Café (or the latest local feline hangout) lets you sip coffee while petting adoptable rescue cats. Whiskers and Wi-Fi? Weirdly relaxing.
Attend Eeyore’s Birthday Party
A drum circle, costumes, and a tribute to Winnie the Pooh’s saddest donkey? It’s one of the longest-running and strangest events in Austin.
Tour the Smiley Face Water Tower in Pflugerville
Not technically Austin, but close enough—and weird enough. This grinning water tower has become a roadside icon.
Take a Naked Bike Ride
It happens once a year, and yes, it’s exactly what you think. The World Naked Bike Ride is a protest, a celebration, and a bizarre bucket list item.
Weird Is Welcome Here
In Austin, weird isn’t just tolerated—it’s celebrated. These offbeat experiences help make the city vibrant, fun, and unapologetically itself. If you’re relocating here, lean into the odd, the unexpected, and the wildly original. It’s part of what makes Austin, Austin.
Want to blend in with the locals? Explore more things to do in Austin or enjoy the outdoors with our top family activities.
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