Quick Links
Attracting over 30 million travelers every year, Austin is a big city and offers an incredible array of exciting things to see and do. Being the capital of Texas, many would think navigating the city is stressful. Thanks to the swift transportation system, moving from and to the airport – and getting around the city is fun and simple.
There are several rental car companies and other transportation options for tourists to choose from. Austin’s public transportation system operates 24/7 to improve efficiency and reduce traffic, but since not all vacationers are aware of these options, let’s break down the best ways to get around Texas’s State Capital.
Public Transportation In Austin, Texas
Capital Metro runs the public transportation system in the city and is among the best metros in the United States. This is the most cost-effective and convenient option for getting around Austin.
The system covers more than 82 routes and over 1600 bus stops and has an app to make services swift for users.
Through the CapMetro app, travelers can buy passes and plan well for their daily trips.
- The cost of a day pass: $2.50 for local bus services, including the MetroRapid, and $7 for commuter services. Seniors, the disabled, and veterans are charged reduced fares.
Austin’s Rail Network – The MetroRail
This network connects the locals and vacationers commuting between the northern suburbs and downtown and covers a 32-mile line.
The rail network serves nine different stations, and riders have free Wi-Fi access. Whether heading to explore some attractions, for business downtown or moving between any of the nine stops, MetroRail is one of the most comfortable and reliable transportation means in Austin.
The MetroRail operates six days a week, with services ending, depending on the day of the week.
- Cost of fares: $3.50 for a ride, $7 for a day pass. Seniors, disabled, and veterans pay $1.75 for a single ride and $3.50 for a day pass.
CapMetro Bus Service
CapMetro bus service serves more than 14 high-frequency lines that pick up a group of passengers after every 15 minutes or less, and visitors can use this system to get around just anywhere in Austin.
The routes include the local ones that connect visitors between the city’s neighborhoods as well as flyer lines, linking them to the airport. Travelers will find some routes operating until 3:00 am throughout the week.
Rent A Bicycle In Austin
A bicycle is a good option to get around Texas’ Capital, especially for vacationers looking to enjoy the city’s breathtaking scenery as they meet people and perhaps make new connections.
Renting a bike allows one to move between meetings, attend live concerts, and go kayaking, as they explore the attractions on the way.
Austin boasts more than 75 stations from which vacationers can rent bicycles, and there are several options to consider, including 24-hour access. With numerous bike lanes throughout Austin, getting around on a bicycle is easy and simple.
It is important to follow all the traffic rules and wear a helmet for protection. Experienced vacationers recommend biking as the most impressive way of getting around the city, thanks to the many bike trails.
This option also works best for visitors staying downtown who don't have a car and are not on a budget to rent one.
But travelers staying outside downtown may have to rent a car to get around unless there are very experienced in cycling!
See Texas By Renting A Car
With all the available transportation options in Austin, perhaps renting a car wouldn't be necessary, unless one is looking to explore other areas outside the city limits.
Apart from navigating through rush hours, parking is always a bigger issue for vacationers getting around Austin in a car.
When driving downtown, the Capitol Parking Garage is the best option. It is always free for the first two hours and $1 after every thirty minutes after that.
- Cost of parking downtown at Capitol Visitors Parking Garage: $2-$3 per hour, with a daily maximum ranging between $10 and $18.
Other garages downtown offer parking services at a flat fee ranging between $7 and $10.
Taxis And Ride Shares/Uber & Lyft
Travelers can get around Austin on an Uber or a Lyft. Allowing visitors to share apps, Uber/Lyft, and Taxis are some of the best transportation options for getting around Texas’ capital, especially for vacationers looking for a little privacy.
Another advantage of these options is, that one can always have a driver pull over, as they admire the city's spectacular scenery.
- Cost Uber/Lyft from the airport: Around $22
- Cost Taxi: $2.50 base fare, $1.50 per kilometer, and $29.49 per hour
Getting Around Austin On Foot
It is almost impossible to go anywhere within Austin and fail to find people doing some yoga, playing fetch with their dogs, or running along the pathways.
Also referred to as a pedestrian-friendly city, getting around Austin on foot is completely doable, thanks to the numerous sidewalks and crosswalks on the streets.
Also, vacationers will find many tours offering walking tours. Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a 10-mile route, is the most popular trail in the city, and it guarantees incredible views of the scenery along Lady Bird Lake.
With so many transportation options to choose from, getting around Austin should be simple for travelers, including those visiting the city for the first time.