Austin Waterfront: Four Stops From Paddling to D&D

4.6 (712)

Mon – Sun, 05:00 – 22:00

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake gives this lineup its outdoor frame: the Colorado River reservoir supports non-motorized recreation, including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and organized rowing regattas. Along shore, the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail uses wide paved and gravel paths for runners, cyclists and dog walkers, with downtown skyline views. Lady Bird Lake is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

4.4 (854)

Tue – Thu, 16:00 – 00:00 (+1); Fri – Sat, 11:00 – 00:00 (+1); Sun, 11:00 – 22:00

4824 E Cesar Chavez St

Central Machine Works puts a microbrewery in a restored East Austin machine shop. The bar pours hazy beers and cocktails with ube coconut or yuzu pandan. Pub grub includes smashburgers and smoked wings. Bench seating fills the cavernous interior. The beer garden has covered outdoor seating with misters. It opens at 4 pm Tuesday through Thursday and 11 am Friday through Sunday. Monday is closed.

4.7 (162)

Wed – Sat, 19:00 – 00:00 (+1)

2701 E Cesar Chavez St

Tiny Minotaur is a private social club on East Cesar Chavez built around medieval-fantasy decor, tabletop RPGs and Renaissance faire culture. Visitors encounter community D&D nights and monthly night markets, while the bar serves craft cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Indoor game sessions can get loud, with outdoor seating available. Day passes start at 6 USD for guests 21 and older with valid identification.

4.8 (933)

Mon, Thu – Fri, 11:00 – 18:30; Sat – Sun, 10:00 – 19:00

1610 East Riverside Drive

Boats and Bats launches guided sunset kayak, paddleboard, glow-paddle, skyline and springs outings from a south shore dock on Lady Bird Lake. Groups take to the water in a fairly self-paced format for downtown skyline views and a chance to watch bats emerge beneath the bridge. Tours last 2.5 hours, require advance online reservations, and welcome ages 3+.