Austin and its people make the 512 one of the greatest gems of the South. No matter the time of year, there’s always something fun going on. Food, concerts, sports, arts and entertainment? YESSS!
Covid-19 had us all locked up with nothing to do, it’s our duty to get out there and make up for lost time!
In the 12 years that I’ve been in Austin now, I’ve done a LOT, but there’s still so much more I have yet to find. Below I have just a few ideas for you to check out that I always enjoy. If you have recommendations for me, let me know.
I can be pretty adventurous with my wheelchair (hello Zilker Park!) so these might not all be perfect for you, but give them a shot anyway. We only live once, right?
Austin City Limits – Every October, 2 weekends full of such a variety of music that no matter what you are into, you will find something. I’ve seen new favorites and childhood classics. It CAN make for a long day with a wheelchair due to the huge lawns and many hills. The Eminem year it rained and we all got stuck in mud. But you know what? It was a BLAST and gave me the great story to tell you now.
Formula One – The first F1 was actually the year I moved to Austin! I did not catch that one, but I have been to several since. The speed that these cars travel at is just out of this world. Truly something you need to see at least once in your lifetime. Seats? I recommend Turn 15, that’s my corner for everything COTA. Maybe you’ll see me there?
Waterloo Park – This is a brand-new Park and amphitheater area that was installed just over the last few years. Designed as a reclamation project. There are lawns and gardens and a whole variety of unique flowers and plants that I never would have thought of. The coolest thing is each plant has a little QR code that you can scan and read all about it on your phone. It’s a great ride for a wheelchair with plenty of sidewalks.
6th Street – Now I’ll be honest, I haven’t been down there since prior to Covid-19 and although it was always crowded (not great for wheelchairs,) there were so many things to do that it was incredibly easy to go bar hopping, which is not so easy in other areas. Don’t just go there to drink though, check out the food as well. Some good pizza, some great music and lots of laughs if you are into people watching.
I’ll add more wheelchair friendly things to do in Austin as I think of them. These should give you a good jumpstart. Austin City Limits and Formula One are just around the corner, so make sure to book a wheelchair accessible van now before someone snipes mine on you.
Upcoming events to keep in mind:
- Texas Stars hockey games
- Trail of Lights
- SXSW (South by Southwest)
- University of Texas football, basketball and more