Get to know Austin in an offbeat kind of way with a visit to any of these unique and quirky attractions. You never know what you’re going to get when you wander the streets of this crazy town so take some time to get involved with a side of Austin that will stay fresh in your memory for years to come.
Cathedral of Junk
4.4 ★
Since the very beginning of the Cathedral of Junk’s creation back in the late eighties, the artist’s intention was to make something cool and have fun while doing it. Over the last 30 or so years the Cathedral of Junk has taken to cutting quite the figure, made up of any found objects you might think of. Tools, toys, car parts, you name it and there is a great chance that the Cathedral of Junk has used it as a bit of wall or ceiling. Stop by this attraction set up in a neighborhood on Lareina Dr and take a look around, maybe you’ll run into the artist. Vince does have a day job but is glad to show visitors around when he has the time.
Sparky Park
4.6 ★
When you’re out and about and want to stop for something small, quirky, and full of Austin charm, Sparky Park has grown to be a classic attraction. Known for being “pocket park” sized and making the most of all the space offered with a huge local creative piece is what Sparky Park on Grooms St is all about. There’s technically no hours intended for this park, just be respectful of the other patrons. There is even an option to host small events in the space, so you may run into something fun happening during your walk through. Keep an eye out for the guest left mementos amongst creative pieces that you won’t find in regular studios.
Museum of the Weird
4.2 ★
Nestled into 6th Street in downtown Austin, you can find the Museum of the Weird if you know where to look. This attraction is an affordable and unique experience that you won’t easily find in most of what is deemed “polite” society. Shrunken heads and a nice variety of other “weirdos” are all waiting to be gawked at, classic freakshow style. Plan to take your time at the Museum of the Weird, there’s plenty to stare at. Every day, you can come in from 10 am – 7 pm but the weekdays will give you more freedom to roam slowly. Say hello to the shrunken head for us when you see it!
Toy Joy
4.6 ★
There’s no arguing with the USA Today spotlight piece that names Toy Joy as one of 10 best toy stores in the world. From the moment you step across the threshold, there’s no questioning why this particular shop seems to gain constant mention from famous publications. While you are browsing countless board games, plushies, costumes and more, Toy Joy also features a sweets shop very close by that goes by Yummi Joy. Bring out your inner child with a trip to Toy Joy, there’s not much better than some ice cream and an overload of every toy you could possibly imagine. Take your pick from the 2nd Street or Airport Blvd location and try not to get too lost in all that there is to offer from 10 am – 9 pm (10 pm on the weekends).
Skyspace: The Color Inside
4.7 ★
Stargazing is one of our favorite activities to engage in around Texas. You know, they say that there’s nothing prettier than a Texas sky. At the University of Texas, you can experience the night sky in a brand new way at their observatory. Experience a low key, but incredible view of what a Texas sky can offer with a creative twist.What makes this view special is the addition of various colored lights in all sorts of designs that are meant to catch the light of sunrise and sunset. Weather changes and timing will all play a part in what view you will get to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to contemplate life during the day or sitting in on the light show that can be seen during sunset, Skyspace should be on the bucket list. Get all the best parts of nature without having to lay outside in the dirt at Skyspace: The Color Inside in the William C. Powers Jr Student Activity Center.
The Original Pinballz
4.7 ★
Who else remembers the good old days of spending a month’s worth of saved allowance by changing it for quarters at the nearby arcade? At The Original Pinballz Arcade on Research Blvd, stepping inside feels like you’ve passed through a time portal that leads you back to the eighties, except there’s more than just the old machines waiting for you. From Family Guy back to Freddy Krueger, The Original Pinballz Arcade has a little bit of all that popular culture has presented in the last 50 years with their machines. Though the pinball machines are what draws everyone inside initially, don’t be surprised to find out that many other games also find a home here. During the week, plan a visit from 10 – 12 am or stay a little later on the weekends.
Curia Arcanum’s House of Curiosities
4.9 ★
Specializing in the strange and unusual is what Curia Arcanum’s House of Curiosities has to offer Austin from Thursday – Sunday every week. This little shop of oddities is tucked away into a small corner of Congress Ave and you will want to go find it. If you’re interested in magical tools, antique jewelry, or things in jars, Curia Arcanum will not disappoint. During their open days, come by between 1 – 7 pm (2 – 6 pm on Sundays) and ask about the tarot cards or divination books. Who knows what you might learn with a trip to Curia Arcanum’s House of Curiosities?
LBJ Presidential Library
4.7 ★
Austin is the kind of place that keeps up with modern times while maintaining a healthy respect for the history of America. A great example of a museum that you might not have heard of is the LBJ Presidential Library, a constantly changing setup full of presidential history. Most of what this location has to offer is centered around the life of Lyndon B Johnson, the occasional display may vary. One permanent bit that sticks out most is the animatronic Lyndon B. Johnson. Known for being quite the storyteller in his time, LBJ had a southern drawl that was iconic and will remain forever active in this museum with only the push of a button. Don’t miss out on accurate depictions of The Oval Office in his time and even his presidential limousine from 9 am – 5 pm daily on Red River St.
Stone Windmill
4.6 ★
Located on the Johnson Creek Hike & Bike Trail, the Stone Windmill gives you even more of a reason to take a walk in this area. Not that you really need any extra incentive, the Johnson Creek trails are a prime way to take in some of Austin’s natural beauty even without the windmill. While you are there though, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the adorable windmill that has sat in the area since 1977. Don’t be fooled by photos, this piece of history looks a lot bigger than the photos. Take your time walking the 100 or so yards through the trail until you see the unmistakable stone windmill and enjoy a piece of Austin that has been around for many years.
Switched On
4.6 ★
Musicians and music lovers alike would have a hard time being pulled out of Switched On, a retailer of music based electronics and much more. Audio production is not a new subject for the folks at this store on Duval St. From the newest technology to vintage instruments and even records, Switched On is any musician’s dream whether experienced or just starting out. Browse the shelves of this store and find yourself entranced by all of the possibilities that sit inside. Stop by with your broken equipment and one of their skilled technicians will do their best to solve any problems that might arise. Open every day from 11 am – 6 pm, Switched On is a one stop shop for more than you might think.
The Eureka Room
4.6 ★
Roadside attractions are becoming less of a normal occurrence around the country, but The Eureka Room on Cesar Chavez Street is still standing and just as welcoming as ever. Only the size of an elevator, you won’t need much time set aside for this particular experience. This is not for everyone, if you’re sensitive to light or do not like interacting with strangers then be sure to approach with caution. There’s no real explaining what happens at The Eureka Room, just know that you will have fun and potentially make some new friends along the way. Closed only on Tuesday, the Eureka Room accepts visitors from 1 – 9:30 pm during the week and from 11:30 am – 9:30 pm Friday through Sunday.
Jurassic Car Wash
4.4 ★
What might be the most unique car wash in all of Texas is sitting right on Congress Ave with animatronic dinosaurs. Open 24/7, you won’t ever have to worry about missing out on all the fun you didn’t know could come out of a premium car wash. Sit down to a show full of dinosaurs that is fun and silly, more than worth a visit. Even bring your dog out, they even have a self service dog wash station. Sometimes, riding around in Austin can get your tires a little dirty and Jurassic Car Wash turns the experience of what is normally a menial task into an interesting and quirky stop that is sure to last in the memory of everyone involved.
Texas Toy Museum
4.5 ★
If the Original Pinballz portion of this list was appealing to you, the Texas Toy Museum is bound to be of interest as well. Featuring a variety of games, rotating exhibits, and a toy collection that would likely rival anything you’ve ever witnessed before, this is not just an arcade. For less than 20$ you will have access to the arcade room along with any exhibits that are up. This place is constantly looking for ways to grow and add to the collection so visit more than once if you get the chance. There’s even an option to sell and donate toys from your own collection. Look for this interactive exhibit on Congress Ave any day from at least 12 am – 10 pm.
The Austin Aqua-Dome
4.6 ★
Even if purchasing a fish is not part of your future plans, The Austin Aqua-Dome is still worth a visit to check out the largest selection of saltwater fish and corals that you’re going to find in the immediate area. Along with their vast stock of fish, this shop just looks cool from the outside and the photo op will be apparent from the moment you see them on Fort View Rd. Look for the giant dome and get yourself lost checking out the fish stock Tuesday through Sunday from 11 am – 7 pm. Be sure to ask plenty of questions, this staff is one who knows what they are doing and are happy to tell you all about it.
CONCLUSION
Now you know where to go, the only thing to do now is get there! Austin is full of fun and exotic places to visit, if you know where you’re headed. Come back to The Austin Insider to learn more about what to do, where to eat, and who to see while you’re in this wonderful town. There is always something happening around here and we can’t wait to give you all the most helpful tips to guarantee a successful visit in our favorite place.