Best Summer Group Activities in Austin (and How to Get There Together)

Ah, summer in Austin. The sun is shining, the music is playing, and the city is practically daring you to gather your friends, coworkers, or family for a group adventure. Whether you’re chasing cool water, live tunes, or just big, bold Texas vibes, Austin has you covered. Here’s our guide to the best summer activities for groups—and how to get there together, stress-free.

1. Float the San Marcos or Comal Rivers
2. Catch Live Music Under the Stars
3. Swim and Chill at Barton Springs Pool
4. Day Trip to Hill Country Wineries or Breweries
5. Kayak or SUP on Lady Bird Lake
6. Chase the Sunset (and Bats) at Congress Avenue Bridge

Float the San Marcos or Comal Rivers

Few things scream “Texas summer” louder than a river float with your crew. Grab a tube, kick back, and let the water carry you away while the sun warms your skin and the laughter never stops.

• Where to go: San Marcos River (40 min drive), Comal River (1 hr)
• Why it rocks for groups: Everyone can link up tubes and chat, snack, or even play music along the way.
• Pro tip: Book a charter bus to shuttle your crew—no one needs to worry about parking or designated drivers.

Catch Live Music Under the Stars

Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, and summer brings out the best of it—from intimate lawn concerts to big outdoor festivals.

• Where to go: Blues on the Green at Zilker Park (free and fantastic) or Moody Amphitheater for bigger acts under the skyline
• Why it’s perfect for groups: Lay down blankets, share snacks, and dance together as the sun sets.
• How to get there together: Skip the parking nightmare—your group charter can drop everyone off right at the entrance.

Swim and Chill at Barton Springs Pool

Picture this: 68-degree natural spring water, big shady trees, and the perfect vibe for lazy summer afternoons. Barton Springs is a must for locals and visitors alike.

• Group-friendly perks: Bring a picnic, float, or just wade and people-watch.
• Charter bonus: Haul all your coolers, towels, and floaties with zero stress—your bus handles the gear.

Day Trip to Hill Country Wineries or Breweries

Summer heat calls for a tasting tour with a view. The Texas Hill Country is just an hour away and bursting with vineyards, breweries, and cideries.

• Popular spots to consider: Driftwood Estate Winery (wine + Hill Country sunsets) and Jester King Brewery (rustic vibes + pizza + farm animals!)
• Why groups love it: Everyone can sip, relax, and snack while someone else does the driving (ahem, your friendly charter bus driver).

Kayak or SUP on Lady Bird Lake

If you want to stay in the heart of Austin and still feel like you’ve escaped the city, head to Lady Bird Lake for paddle fun.

• Why it works for groups: Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards in bulk, Take group photos with the city skyline as your backdrop, Embrace that playful, splashy energy only a summer day can deliver.
• Getting there together: Pack your crew, your swimsuits, and a big group playlist into a single charter ride—zero hassle.

Chase the Sunset (and Bats) at Congress Avenue Bridge

Every evening in the summer, 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge—an Austin classic.

• Why it’s a group hit: It’s free, fun, and unforgettable You can pair it with dinner, drinks, or a river cruise for the ultimate evening.
• Worldly perspective: People come from all over the globe for this spectacle, and seeing it together makes it magic.

Summer in Austin is a celebration, and there’s a group adventure out there calling your name. Whether it’s a lazy river float, a night under the stars, or a splash in Barton Springs, doing it together makes it unforgettable.

So gather your crew, grab your sunscreen, and let Austin Charter Services take you there—because the journey should be just as fun as the destination.