Rivalry: 6 ways to stay active in Austin beyond game day

Photo Credit: Izabella Hernandez

Football weekends in Austin bring crowds to the stadium, but the city has plenty to offer besides tailgates and kickoff. From lakeside adventures to trails and parks, these activities give visitors a chance to get moving, see the city and enjoy Austin outside the stadium. The Daily Texan compiled a list of six ways to stay active while in Austin for the game.

Paddleboarding at Kayaking at Texas Rowing Center — 1541 W Cesar Chavez St
Set along Lady Bird Lake, the Texas Rowing Center offers kayaks and paddleboards with skyline views across calm waters. Kayaks start at $15 per hour or $35 per day, and paddleboards cost $25 per hour or $55 per day. Early mornings bring a calm environment and cooler temperatures, while afternoons fill up with people taking in the view of downtown.

Hiking at Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail — 2212 William Barton Dr
Stretching across 12 miles of cliffs and shaded pathways, the Barton Creek Greenbelt connects several of Austin’s scenic outdoor spots. The trail offers both challenging hikes and easy walks with popular access points near Twin Falls and Gus Fruh. On weekends, a $7 parking fee applies and trails can fill up quickly with hikers and cyclists.

Indoor Rock Climbing at Bouldering Project — 979 Springdale Rd
Bouldering Project features climbing walls for all skill levels, from first-time climbers to experienced athletes. Day passes cost $22 for young adults ages 14 to 20, and $25 for adults 21 and over. The gym also includes fitness areas and yoga rooms.

Volleyball at Zilker Park — 2200 Stratford Dr
Zilker Park’s sand volleyball courts sit against a backdrop of open fields and skyline views. The courts are free to use, and informal matches often fill up the evenings. Between games, parkgoers can picnic or walk the trails that line the nearby Barton Springs area.

Mini Golf at Peter Pan — 1207 Barton Springs Rd
Since 1948, Peter Pan Mini Golf has remained a staple on Barton Springs Road, drawing people in with its hand-painted figures and colorful course designs. Entry costs $11 per person, offering a short, easygoing way to play golf.

Biking at The Ann and Roy Butler Bike Trail — Robert T Martinez Jr St
The Ann and Roy Butler Bike Trail loops 10 miles around Lady Bird Lake, offering skyline views and tree-shaded paths. Bike rentals are available nearby at several kiosks along the waterfront, with rates starting at over $15 per hour.

This article was written for The Daily Texan the official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin