The best things to do in Austin

“If you miss that crisp scrape of ice, Riverside Arena has your fix with year-round ice time, Austin Bruins home games, open hockey, and public skate sessions that actually make winter fun. Also home to local high school, youth, and figure skating, it’s basically Austin’s coldest community living room.”

“Power of Food Sculpture- "The Big Fork" is a 25-foot-tall tribute made from nearly 20,000 forks from Hormel Foods team members, gleaming out front of the company’s HQ. It’s oddly moving, a little quirky, and a great five-minute stop when you need a quick jolt of hometown pride.”

From the Austin newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Mower County Fair is the place locals actually bump into each other, with 4-H animal showcases, grandstand entertainment, carnival energy, and the Pride of Mower spirit. Even after the midway packs up, the fairgrounds stay busy with vendor shows, livestock events, and building rentals.”

“Jay C. Hormel Nature Center packs over 500 acres of prairie, forests, and wetlands into nine miles of trails that feel like Austin’s backyard, only quieter. Watch for wildlife, check out astronomy and community events, or rent cross-country skis, snowshoes, kayaks, and canoes when the season begs you outside.”

“Echo Lanes keeps Austin rolling with 34 lanes, fall leagues forming all week, and Rock-It-Bowl when you want lights, music, and a little swagger in your strike. Full-service bar and kitchen keep the crew happy, plus tournaments, group parties, youth and birthday bowling.”

From the Austin newsletter, September 14, 2026