The 10 Best Spots in Austin That ‘Keep Austin Weird’

If you only go to one place that screams ‘Keep Austin Weird’, then it has to be the Museum of the Weird, for very obvious reasons. Here you’ll find a cavern of oddities, and that’s really the only theme that connects them—it’s otherwise completely random. We’re talking two-headed baby cows, mummies, horror movie props, waxworks, and skeletons, and you won’t know what is real and what’s a replica. Regardless, it’s a bizarre experience, which can be remembered with a souvenir from the Lucky Lizard gift shop out front.

You’re in the Bible Belt, so do like an Austinite and have a sinfully good time. Higher Ground is a recent(ish) addition to Congress Avenue’s nightlife scene and the best way to go to church for cocktail worshippers. The space is decorated with religious artifacts, and the DJ booth is fashioned from a vintage organ.  You’ll dance in the glow of stained glass windows and thumping beats with two floors of revelers, all in the belief that the best way to warn off spirits is to drink them.

Local musician and artist, Amy Cook, originally spray painted ”I Love You So Much” for her ex-girlfriend in 2010, and now it’s the most recognized piece of artwork in all of Austin. Lovers of all orientations, families, and friends all step up to cuddle in front of it and celebrate their connections. Bring a cherished one (or not, up to you) and join them on South Congress: you’ll find the red message scribbled on a mint green background at the side of Jo’s Coffee.

The ritual of watching 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge to feed is to Austin how cherry blossom trees are celebrated in Japan. It’s an outdoor party. Perch along the banks, either right in front of The LINE Hotel or opposite, and at sunset you’ll see the swarms come out from under the bridge to chase insects along the river. And because they’ll eat up all those pesky mosquitos, this is the best place to pull up a cooler and be jubilant in whatever way you see fit (no joke: we’ve once witnessed a man have a pet ferret party!). The spectacle takes place every March to October.

The city may be full of tech kids, but that doesn’t mean big kids are staring at their screens all weekend long. Rather, they’re blowing off steam in nature. Peter Pan Mini Golf is an Austin institution that’s been family-operated since 1948 and remains a fun way to let loose for all ages. This retro-style golf course has 18 holes and plonked on each are some pretty wacky sculptures, from T-Rex to the Easter Bunny. They only get trippier the more you drink, and drink you shall: the venue is BYOB.

Texas isn’t exactly known for inclusivity, which is why the word ”weird” was thrown around by the state in describing Austin, a city that actually welcomed and encouraged anyone to be themselves. The Little Gay Shop champions this ethos in modern times, offering a chance for shoppers to support the works of local and international LGBTQIA+ artists. Peruse original and limited edition pieces, swot up on queer literature via the book club, or grab a tote with a message, every little bit helps. Plus, the colors of the rainbow will brighten any hot and humid day.

The Cathedral of Junk needs little explanation. Artist Vince Hannemann began collecting and assembling whatever he could get his hands on back in 1988, amassing some 60 tons of junk. The pile spans furniture parts, signs, mannequins, toys, toilets, and well…you get the picture. To view his treasures in all their glory, simply call 512-299-7413 and get a window of time from which to visit. Donations are welcome, and street parking is available.

A nude beach…in Texas? In West Austin, you can let it all hang free at Hippie Hollow, the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in the entire state. Visitors must be 18 or over, and “lewd behavior” is strictly prohibited, so no funny business, new lovers. Come over and swim, hit the hiking trails, or picnic, all without worrying about those dreaded tan lines. Note that the shoreline can be steep and rocky, so footwear, at least, is advised.

When the heat is on year-round it’s hard to feel festive in Austin, but thankfully the folks at Lala’s Little Nugget have just the sanctuary when you’re in the mood for a couple of winter Wham! and Mariah Carey hits. This is where “the North Pole meets Central Texas” in a strip mall tavern that’s plastered with holiday decor, including an old-school jukebox. Sip on the ”Lion’s Tail” (bourbon, lime, all spice) beside the Christmas tree, and make the yuletide gay no matter what month you land at AUS.