Connect with us

Austin, TX

Austin I-35 crash: Truck carrying Amazon haul failed to slow for merge in deadly wreck

Published

on

Austin I-35 crash: Truck carrying Amazon haul failed to slow for merge in deadly wreck


play

Traffic along Interstate 35 near Parmer Lane had slowed to a crawl late Thursday so cars could merge into one lane when a big rig barreled into them, causing a chain reaction that killed five people, federal investigators said Saturday.

The 18-wheeler, operated by a Dallas-area company, “failed to slow down” as it reached where vehicles were consolidating from three lanes into one because of a resurfacing project by the Texas Department of Transportation, according to National Transportation Safety Board officials.

Advertisement

Those killed, including an infant and a child, were inside two cars, NTSB investigators said.

“This is a difficult situation, and my heart and prayers go out to everyone involved,” NTSB Vice Chairman Alvin Brown told reporters Saturday afternoon in Austin.

Brown and investigator-in-charge Kenny Bragg said it is unclear at what speed the truck, driven by Solomun Weldekeal Araya, 37, was traveling when he hit the cars. Analysts will seek to determine how fast he was going using video from the scene and information stored on the truck.

The brief news conference offered the clearest insight into the cause of the crash, which also left the major thoroughfare closed nearly most of the day Friday. As many as 19 cars were hit during the crash, Austin police said in a search warrant affidavit.

Advertisement

NTSB officials did not discuss the criminal charges against Araya, who Austin police arrested on five charges of intoxication manslaughter and two counts of intoxication assault. He remains in the Travis County Jail.

The affidavit said that police think he was under the influence of depressants and showed signs of intoxication, including swaying and watery and bloodshot eyes. Araya tested 0.00 on a breath test, the affidavit said.

On Saturday, Amazon spokeswoman Maureen Lynch Vogel confirmed the driver was hauling a load for the company.

“This is a horrible tragedy, and our thoughts are with all those involved. We’re looking into this further and will cooperate with all investigations,” she said in a statement.

Advertisement

A person who answered the phone at ZBN Transport confirmed that Araya, who lives in Dallas, was his employee and had worked for the company for about four months.

NTSB officials said their investigation will consider broader issues that may have contributed to the crash and will likely issue a preliminary report in 30 days. A final report could take up to two years.

Bragg said the agency’s effort is to “not just what happened and how it happened and to recommend changes to prevent it from happening again.”

Follow the American-Statesman on Facebook and X for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Access all of our best content with this tremendous offer.





Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Austin, TX

Flash Flood Warnings issued in Central Texas, ground search operations suspended

Published

on

Flash Flood Warnings issued in Central Texas, ground search operations suspended


Flash Flood Warnings 

Life-threatening flash flooding is underway in the Texas Hill Country, with multiple counties under emergency warnings.

The Latest:

Advertisement

Flash Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 10:52 AM to 1:00 PM CDT for San Saba County, TX. 

Flash Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 10:28 AM to 12:30 PM CDT for Mason County, TX

Advertisement

Flash Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 10:16 AM to 12:45 PM CDT for Gillespie County, TX, Llano County, TX

Flood Warnings

Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 11:18 AM to 7/15/2025 2:20 PM CDT for Llano County

Advertisement

Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 10:49 AM to 2:00 PM CDT for Lampasas County, TX. 

Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 11:48 AM to 7/17/2025 3:49 AM CDT for San Saba County, TX

Flood Warning from 7/13/2025 9:28 AM to 6:00 PM CDT for Bell County, TX. 

Advertisement

UPDATE (8:50 AM): LCRA has opened one floodgate at Wirtz Dam and will open multiple floodgates at Starcke Dam soon to release storm runoff flowing into Lake LBJ. Conditions are dynamic, and it is possible LCRA may need to open additional floodgates throughout the day.

Road Closures

Advertisement

Travis County

1431 Cow Creek Bridge: Crews are actively removing debris and the damaged bridge structure from the Cow Creek area on RM 1431 in northwest Travis County. This critical work is being done in preparation for full reconstruction. TxDOT is expediting the process with plans to award a construction contract as soon as next week. Once a contractor is secured, construction will begin immediately.

Lampasas

The Lampasas River 190 Bridge in Kempner is closed. There are power/phone lines in the water snagging debris. Please stay clear of the water. 

Advertisement

In Kempner, Lampasas River at 2313 (Source: Kempner VFD)

Due to last night’s excessive rainfall, Lampasas city departments have been working to keep everyone safe. The Lampasas Streets Department has closed numerous low-water crossings and roadways. Due to the severe flooding, many sections of road that aren’t normally closed are currently impassable. Crews will reopen them as soon as conditions allow.

Advertisement

The Fire Department rescued several people and pets from homes and coordinated temporary relocation. 

All electrical outages have been repaired by the Electric Department. The Police Department has been busy coordinating communications for these services, assisting the other departments, and patrolling to spot any dangers.

Please be aware that WM Brook Park is closed today due to high water in Sulphur Creek.

Advertisement

With a continued chance of rain in the forecast, please watch for high water and debris in the roadway if you must drive.

Kerr County

The Rio Vista low water crossing off Highway 39 is closed. Residents and emergency responders may use the Cade Loop bridge crossing at this time. Please stay home and avoid the area, and remain weather-aware for further warnings.

Advertisement

San Saba

Due to the overnight and continuing rains this morning, the San Saba River is now at 16–18 feet (not 30.5 feet) and rising. LCRA is predicting the river to crest at 31.5 feet at midnight. Please be aware and be prepared, particularly those citizens north of the railroad tracks close to the river.

Burnet County

Advertisement

Closures because of flooded crossings in Pct 2 as of 9:25am
RM 963
FM 243
FM 2340
CR 223
CR 207
CR 228
CR 202
CR 203
CR 200

Due to unsafe conditions following last night’s rain, the Burnet Recycle Center is closed today. You will not be able to dispose of flood debris this Sunday, July 13, 2025. We hope it will be back open tomorrow, but please look for updates on this page to see when operations will resume.

Bell County

Advertisement

Bell County Emergency Management has an Emergency Operations Command at the Southwestern Bell County Volunteer Fire Department. There has been substantial rainfall west (upstream) and the Lampasas River is reacting to that rainfall. The Gulf River Authority has said to expect the Lampasas River to rise to 41 feet, which will cause some flood issues along Riverside Trail in Triple 7, and west around Maxdale.

A Code Red alert was sent to those in that affected area. Southwestern Bell VFD has gone door to door all morning, making everyone aware and evacuating those in danger, and two swift water rescue crews are staged and on standby.

TxDOT is en route with barricades for FM2670 and Road and Bridge is en route to stage here for county road issues that may take place.

Advertisement

Assets are staged in areas of Lampasas, Kempner and Adamsville to respond anywhere along the Lampasas river if needed.

Emergency Alerts

8:27 a.m. An Emergency Alert was sent to people in the flash flood warning areas saying this is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under an evacuation order.

Advertisement

7:54 a.m. There is a high probability of the Guadalupe River at Hunt reaching flood stage today. All persons, equipment and vehicles should be removed from the river immediately.

Power Outages

9 a.m. Pedernales Electric reports more than 1,000 customers are without power in Williamson, TX

Advertisement

Ground Search Operations

As of 7:49 a.m., all ground search operations in Kerrville are suspended due to the flood danger. All search crews were told to evacuate the river corridor until further notice. Any volunteer search parties in the Guadalupe River corridor need to heed this warning. The potential for flash flooding is high.

Search-and-rescue teams have been searching for missing victims of the July 4 weekend flooding that killed at least 129 people and left  more than 170 missing. 

Advertisement

As heavy rain fell Sunday, National Weather Service forecasters warned that the Guadalupe River could rise to nearly 15 feet (4.6 meters) by Sunday afternoon, about five feet above flood stage and enough to put the Highway 39 bridge near Hunt underwater. 

“Numerous secondary roads and bridges are flooded and very dangerous,” a weather service warning said.
 

Advertisement

Sunday Forecast

Heavy rain and life-threatening flash flooding hammered the Texas Hill Country early Sunday, prompting a flash flood emergency in southeastern San Saba County and urgent warnings across several central Texas counties.

Austin residents are advised to remain vigilant as the weather system, which has already dumped 6 to 8 inches of rain in some areas, is expected to move toward the Austin metro area and further east throughout the day.

Advertisement

We’re seeing life-threatening flash flooding. Residents in affected areas are urged to seek higher ground immediately if they receive an evacuation notice.

Flash Flood Emergency

A flash flood emergency was issued for southeastern San Saba until 7 a.m. Sunday, specifically targeting the Colorado Bend State Park and surrounding areas. Rowe noted that a river gauge in the area had already jumped approximately 12 feet.

Advertisement

Additional flash flood warnings were in effect for several counties, including San Saba and Mason until 9 a.m., Lampasas until 8 a.m., and both Burnet and Llano until 8:15 a.m.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local emergency officials strongly advised against travel in areas with flash flood warnings. Residents were told to stay away from rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas. Rowe stressed the critical safety message: “Turn around, don’t drown.”

Severe Weather Possible

Advertisement

While the immediate concern remains flooding, the region also faces a marginal risk of severe weather, including hail and gusty winds.

The heavy rain boundary is moving from north to south, pushing southeast. The Hill Country is expected to experience the worst conditions over the next few hours before the system weakens slightly as it moves into the Austin metro.

Widespread rain will last until 7 p.m. Sunday. While conditions are expected to improve around 6 p.m. or 7 p.m. Sunday evening, the potential for more rainfall exists Monday afternoon and evening. 

Advertisement

Some models suggest 2 to 4 inches of additional rainfall in the next 48 hours, with Rowe advising residents not to rule out “several more inches in some spots.”

Officials emphasized the importance of having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including push notifications, weather radios, and local news apps. If roads are flooded, remember that “six inches can knock over an adult,” and “12 inches to carry away most cars.”

Advertisement

The Source: Information in this article is from the FOX 7 Austin’s weather team.

Austin



Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Austin, TX

Indoor Things To Do In Austin – 40+ Fun Ideas For All Ages

Published

on

Indoor Things To Do In Austin – 40+ Fun Ideas For All Ages


Indoor Things To Do in Austin

Jump to Category: Free | Museums | Arcades | Escape Rooms | Theaters and Live Entertainment | Sports & Recreation | Creative & Educational | Breweries & Adult Fun |

Whether you’re escaping triple-digit heat or staying dry during a rainy afternoon, Austin offers plenty of indoor fun for families, couples, and solo adventurers. From museums and arcades to live performances and immersive escape rooms, this list covers 60 of the best indoor things to do in Austin.


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, please note that all information is subject to change. As always, please verify with the organizer before making plans.

Advertisement

Free Indoor Places in Austin to Explore on a Budget

Staying entertained in Austin doesn’t have to cost a dime. These free and low-cost indoor spots are perfect for rainy days, hot afternoons, or spontaneous outings that don’t break the bank.

Austin Central Library

The Austin Central Library is a must-visit for anyone looking for fun indoor things to do in Austin, especially if you have kids with you. Explore six floors of unique architectural design, browse a massive collection of books and media, or attend one of the many engaging public programs and exhibitions.


Harry Ransom Center

The Harry Ransom Center is a fascinating museum on the UT Austin campus. You can escape the heat while exploring priceless literary and cultural artifacts, including one of the few Gutenberg Bibles in the world and the earliest-known photograph.

If you’re a fan of the arts and humanities, this place will be a gold mine of exploration.


Texas Capitol Tours

A free guided tour of the Texas Capitol building is an excellent indoor activity in Austin, providing a captivating look at the state’s political history and beautiful architecture.

Advertisement

It’s also a great way to escape the elements and learn about Texas heritage while exploring the ornate chambers, rotunda, and historical exhibits inside. The tour is especially great if you’re taking someone new to the city around.


Best Indoor Museums in Austin for Art, History, and Family Fun

Austin’s museums are home to world-class art collections, interactive exhibits, and rich Texas history. No matter if you’re a history buff or a fan of animals, you’ll find something to do solo, with kids, or on a date in these indoor cultural spots.

If museums are your vibe, explore even more options in our comprehensive guide to Austin museums.

The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center

The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center is a downtown art space that’s a fantastic choice for what to do in Austin when it’s hot.

You can escape the Texas heat and immerse yourself in thought-provoking, modern art installations and exhibitions that change frequently, providing a fresh and exciting experience with every visit.

Advertisement
  • Where: 700 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
  • How much: $10 for adults | $5 for seniors and students/ educators w/ ID | Free for 18 and under, military w/ ID, and members | Free admission all day on Thursdays

Blanton Museum of Art

The Blanton Museum of Art is a premier destination for Austin indoor entertainment, featuring an impressive collection of European, Latin American, and contemporary American art. It offers a cool, quiet retreat to appreciate world-class masterpieces and fascinating rotating exhibitions.


Bullock Texas State History Museum

Indoor things to do in Austin - Bullock Texas State History MuseumIndoor things to do in Austin - Bullock Texas State History Museum

Image Credit: Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State History Museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits that bring the state’s storied past to life. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the engaging displays, watching a film in the IMAX theater, or experiencing the multi-sensory Texas Spirit Theater.

  • Where: 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
  • How much: $15 for adults | $11 for seniors, military, and students | $9 for youth 9 – 17 | Free for kids 5 and under | Free admission on first Sundays of every month

Museum of Ice Cream

Indoo things to do in Austin | Museum of Ice CreamIndoo things to do in Austin | Museum of Ice Cream

Image credit: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM

The Museum of Ice Cream is a whimsical, interactive experience that makes for a great indoor date idea in Austin, either with a special someone, with friends, or with family.

It’s a playful and colorful escape from the ordinary, where you can take fun photos, jump into a pool of sprinkles, and of course, enjoy some delicious ice cream.


Texas Toy Museum

The Texas Toy Museum is an ideal rainy day activity in Austin for all ages, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane. This charming museum showcases a massive collection of toys from different eras, from vintage video games to action figures, providing a fun and fascinating look at pop culture history.

Advertisement

Neill-Cochran House Museum

The Neill-Cochran House Museum is one of the most unique indoor places to go in Austin, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. This beautifully preserved historic home provides a cool, quiet retreat where you can explore period rooms and learn about the lives of early Texans.


Museum of the Weird

Ready to embrace your strange side? Step into the Museum of the Weird, one of the best indoor attractions in Austin for anyone seeking something truly different. Unlike traditional museums, this is a classic “roadside attraction” filled with oddities, strange artifacts, and creatures of cryptozoology like the famous Minnesota Iceman.

What makes it so unique is its authentic, old-school vibe and the live sideshow performance that comes with your ticket.


Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions offers a unique and captivating experience. Unlike a typical museum, this one is completely interactive, encouraging you to step inside a collection of mind-bending optical illusions.

It’s a perfect spot to take fun, gravity-defying photos and get a behind-the-scenes look at how your brain can be tricked, making for an incredibly engaging and memorable outing for all ages.

Advertisement

Wonderspaces

Indoor things to do in Austin | WonderspacesIndoor things to do in Austin | Wonderspaces

Image credit: Wonderspaces Austin

For a truly out-of-this-world experience that will transport you out of the Texas heat, head to Wonderspaces. This is a constantly changing collection of interactive and immersive art installations from artists around the world.

What makes it unique is that you are invited to step inside the art, whether you’re walking through a kinetic light show or donning a VR headset, making it a playful, thought-provoking, and incredibly photogenic experience.


Top Arcades and Indoor Game Centers in Austin for All Ages

Looking for indoor fun in Austin that’s high-energy and low-hassle? These arcades and entertainment centers are perfect for families with kids, teens needing a break from the heat, or adults looking for nostalgic game-night vibes.

Cidercade Austin

Indoor things to do in Austin | CidercadeIndoor things to do in Austin | Cidercade

Image credit: Cidercade Austin

Cidercade Austin is the perfect answer to the question of where to go in Austin when it rains. Here, you’ll find a massive arcade with hundreds of games.

Advertisement

The best part is that for a single admission price, you can play unlimited retro and modern arcade games, pinball machines, and more, all while enjoying a wide selection of ciders and other beverages.


Pinballz Arcade

Pinballz Arcade is a classic choice for fun indoor things to do in Austin. You’ll find a massive collection of new and vintage arcade games and pinball machines. You can spend hours playing games, from classic favorites to modern hits, and it is a great option for all ages.


High 5

Indoor things to do in Austin | High 5Indoor things to do in Austin | High 5

Image credit: High 5 Austin

High 5 Austin is a premier entertainment center and is one of the best things to do in Austin indoors for all ages. Enjoy one-stop-shop for fun, featuring bowling lanes, a two-story laser tag arena, a massive arcade, and a full-service restaurant.


Main Event Entertainment

Main Event Entertainment is an ideal destination, especially if you’re with a group. This massive entertainment center features state-of-the-art bowling, a multi-level laser tag arena, and a huge arcade, providing a thrilling and action-packed way to spend a day inside.

Advertisement

Dave & Buster’s Austin

Dave & Buster’s combines a full-service restaurant with a massive arcade, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal and then challenge friends to classic and modern arcade games. An afternoon here will never be boring.

  • Where: Multiple locations in Austin
  • How much: Varies

Highland Lanes

For a dose of classic nostalgia, head to Highland Lanes, the perfect spot for rainy day activities in Austin. This is a beloved “Old Austin” relic isa timeless, no-frills bowling alley that has been a community staple for nearly 50 years.

They also have some of the best burgers in the area over at Lebowski’s Grill.


Blazer Tag

Ready to get your adrenaline pumping while beating the heat? Head to Blazer Tag! It’s the largest one in Texas, with a massive three-story layout of ramps, bridges, and towers that makes for a thrilling, strategic game.

This beloved “Old Austin” institution offers an action-packed escape for everyone, from a solo challenge to a large group outing, complete with a classic arcade to keep the fun going.


Escape Rooms in Austin for Rainy Day Fun or Group Challenges

Looking for an adrenaline rush without leaving the building? Austin’s escape rooms offer immersive, themed experiences that challenge your problem-solving skills. These would be perfect for team-building, date night, or indoor birthday adventures.

Advertisement

The Escape Game Austin

The Escape Game Austin is a fantastic choice for an indoor family activity in Austin. You’ll have to divide into teams to work in a variety of themed rooms to solve puzzles and find clues, making it a perfect way to bond and have fun while beating the clock.

This is also an epic idea for a friends day out. Just make sure to make up in the end.


Escape Hour Austin

Escape Hour Austin is a top choice for Austin indoor entertainment, offering highly immersive and technologically advanced escape rooms. Their games feature automated puzzles and a unique hint system that keeps the focus on teamwork and a seamless, high-tech experience.


Project Panic

Gather your group and head to Project Panic, one of the most thrilling destinations for Austin indoor entertainment. This experience is known for its incredibly high-quality set design and a cinematic feel that truly immerses you in a high-stakes scenario.

With intricate puzzles and professional-grade props, you’ll be so engrossed in the storyline that the “panic” becomes a part of the fun as you race against the clock.

Advertisement

Theaters & Live Entertainment in Austin to Enjoy Indoors

Rain or shine, Austin’s vibrant performing arts scene delivers everything from improv comedy and independent films to live jazz and offbeat plays. These indoor venues are perfect for couples, creatives, and anyone who loves local entertainment with a cultural twist.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Ready to escape the heat and settle in for a fantastic film? Look no further than Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.

Here, there will be no distractions from the cinematic masterpiece you’ve queued up to watch with their famous “no talking, no texting” policy. You can even get a full meal and a craft beer delivered right to your seat.

  • Where: Various locations in Austin
  • How much: Varies

The Hideout Theatre

For a night of spontaneous fun, head to The Hideout Theatre, an unmissable destination for indoor activities in Austin. The Hideout specializes in improvisation, with shows created on the spot based on audience suggestions.

It’s a truly interactive experience where every performance is a one-of-a-kind event, guaranteeing a night of fresh and unpredictable laughter.


Paramount Theatre

For a truly glamorous night out, visit the historic Paramount Theatre, one of the best indoor attractions in Austin. This beautifully restored landmark from 1915 is sure to transport you to a bygone era of entertainment.

Advertisement

The Paramount hosts an incredible variety of shows, from stand-up comedy and live concerts to classic films and Broadway productions, all under its stunning, ornate ceiling. So, every week, you’ll have something new to look forward to.


Violet Crown Cinema

Looking for a more intimate and sophisticated movie night? Violet Crown Cinema is a perfect indoor date idea in Austin, offering a luxurious and distinct alternative to mainstream theaters.

Its unique features include reserved, stadium-style seating with plenty of legroom, a full bar and lounge, and a thoughtfully curated selection of independent, foreign, and documentary films.


Elephant Room

For a truly authentic and soulful night out, head to the Elephant Room, a legendary spot for Austin indoor entertainment.

This cozy, intimate jazz club tucked away in a downtown basement is the perfect place to escape the city noise and immerse yourself in the rich sounds of live jazz, with a focus on local talent and a low-key atmosphere that feels like a true Austin secret.

Advertisement

Indoor Sports & Recreation in Austin: Climbing, Skydiving, and More

Beat the heat without slowing down. These indoor sports and adventure spots in Austin offer everything from bouldering and axe throwing to virtual skydiving. Great for active families, date nights, or anyone who needs to move rain or shine.

Austin Bouldering Project

Indoor things to do in Austin - Bouldering ProjectIndoor things to do in Austin - Bouldering Project

Image Credit: Austin Bouldering Project FB Page

Ready for a challenge that’s both fun and physically engaging? Look no further than Austin Bouldering Project, a fantastic option for fun indoor things to do in Austin. This is one of the largest bouldering-only gyms in the world, with walls and routes for every skill level.

It also offers a low-pressure, social atmosphere since there are no ropes or harnesses required, making it an incredibly accessible and welcoming spot to try something new and exciting.

  • Where: Multiple locations in Austin
  • How much: Varies by package

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Ever wanted to fly? iFLY Indoor Skydiving makes it a reality, offering one of the most thrilling indoor family activities in Austin. Here, you’ll experience the exhilarating sensation of freefall in a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel, all with the guidance of a certified instructor.


Axe Escape Austin

Indoor things to do in Austin | Axe Escape - Axe Throwing AustinIndoor things to do in Austin | Axe Escape - Axe Throwing Austin

Image credit: Axe Escape – Axe Throwing Austin

For a high-tech twist on a classic activity, head to Axe Escape Austin, one of the most fun indoor things to do in Austin. This venue stands out for its state-of-the-art interactive projected targets, which allow you to play a variety of games like Tic-Tac-Toe and Zombie Hunter while you throw.

Advertisement

You can also test your precision with a unique selection of throwing tools beyond just axes, including tomahawks and even ninja stars.


Dirdie Birdie

For an experience that’s a perfect blend of fun and sophistication, visit Dirdie Birdie, a high-design masterpiece with 12 wildly creative holes, each an artistic installation in its own right.

What makes it truly unique is how it combines this visually stunning course with a craft cocktail bar and a chef-driven menu, making it an ideal spot for a date or a fun night out that’s as delicious as it is playful.


Creative & Educational Indoor Activities in Austin for All Ages

From art workshops to hands-on science, Austin offers plenty of enriching indoor activities that are both fun and educational. This is the perfect idea for bonding with the kids, friends, or even a date.

Thinkery

For a truly fun and educational day with the kids, head to Thinkery, the perfect destination for Austin indoor family activities. Unlike a traditional museum, Thinkery’s focus is entirely on hands-on, play-based learning in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math).

Advertisement

Here, kids can splash around in the water lab, build amazing creations in the Innovators’ Workshop, and explore ever-changing exhibits that encourage them to learn by doing. It’s a place where both children and adults can get their hands dirty and have a blast discovering something new together.


Cordovan Art School

Cordovan Art SchoolCordovan Art School

Image credit: Cordovan Art School

Cordovan Art School is a fantastic option for indoor places to go in Austin that offers a relaxing and unique experience. Here, the focus on making art accessible for everyone, with a wide range of walk-in workshops and classes for both adults and children.

It’s the perfect place to explore your creative side, learn a new skill like painting or pottery, and leave with your own beautiful creation—no long-term commitment required.


Board & Brush Creative Studio

For a unique and memorable outing that goes beyond dinner and a movie, consider Board & Brush Creative Studio, one of the best indoor date ideas in Austin. This studio offers a fun, instructor-led workshop where you and your partner can create a rustic, farmhouse-style wooden sign to take home.

Advertisement

It’s also completely beginner-friendly, and you’re encouraged to bring your own bottle of wine to sip on while you paint, making for a relaxed and creative evening you’ll both love.

  • Where: Multiple locations in Austin
  • How much: Varies

Ceramic Lodge

Ceramic Lodge in Round Rock is the perfect answer for rainy day activities in Austin. What makes this spot so special is its vast, walk-in friendly studio filled with an incredible selection of pre-made ceramics—from mugs and figurines to home décor—all ready for you to paint.

It’s a wonderfully therapeutic experience where you can simply pick your piece, choose your colors, and get lost in the joy of creating a personalized masterpiece.


Book People

For a relaxing and enriching day, get lost in the shelves of BookPeople. It’s Austin’s largest independent bookstore and a true literary hub. What makes it so unique is its vibrant community atmosphere, with a packed calendar of author events, readings, and a cozy cafe where you can sit and read.


Bars, Breweries & Indoor Fun for Adults in Austin

Enjoy a bunch of adult fun like never before with Austin’s wide variety of indoor activities just for adults. Sip craft brews, throw axes, compete with your friends in escape rooms, and more. Check these out for nights out, low-key afternoons, or simply dodging the weather in style.

The Brewtorium

The BrewtoriumThe Brewtorium

Image credit: The Brewtorium Brewery and Kitchen

Advertisement

For a lively and welcoming spot to spend an afternoon or evening, head to The Brewtorium, a top choice for Austin indoor entertainment. This full-fledged brewpub has a scratch-made kitchen that offers a delicious menu of modern pub fare to complement its award-winning beers.

Its large, open hall and communal-style seating create a vibrant, social atmosphere that’s perfect for groups. It even has axe throwing on-site, making it a one-stop shop for food, drinks, and fun.


The Roosevelt Room

For a truly sophisticated evening , step into The Roosevelt Room. Here, you’ll go on a journey through the history of the cocktail. Its unique, 150-drink menu is a living timeline of mixology, with each drink representing a different historical era.

The atmosphere is also elegant and inviting, and with their highly knowledgeable staff, you’ll not only enjoy an expertly crafted drink but also learn its fascinating story, making for a memorable and educational night out.


Wonder Bar

When the weather turns, head to Wonder Bar, a vibrant, immersive wonderland designed for social media and pure fun. What makes it truly unique is its series of wildly creative, themed rooms and interactive installations, from a glowing disco wall to a vibrant ball pit.

Advertisement

Cape Bottle Room

Cape Bottle RoomCape Bottle Room

Image credit: Cape Bottle Room

For a truly unique and intimate evening, consider Cape Bottle Room, a perfect indoor date idea in Austin. What makes this cozy spot so special is its exclusive focus on South African wines, making it the only place in the city where you can discover a curated selection of these fantastic and often-overlooked vintages.


Looking for fun things around ATX? Check out our weekly updates with the best picks for Things to Do in Austin this Weekend — all curated by a local.

Travel on your mind? Check out Indoor Things to Do in Houston and Indoor Things to Do in San Antonio! 

Lacey MorrisLacey Morris
Latest posts by Lacey Morris (see all)





Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Austin, TX

Austin can’t shake rain chances. Here’s where flood risk persists in parts of Texas

Published

on

Austin can’t shake rain chances. Here’s where flood risk persists in parts of Texas


Austin can’t shake off its rain chances just yet. Although we’ve been able to enjoy at least a couple of rain-free days this week, the National Weather Service forecast calls for a 40% chance of afternoon rain on both Saturday and Sunday, thanks to surge in atmospheric moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.

Daytime temperatures in Austin will steadily increase over the coming days, including afternoon highs of 93 on Saturday and 95 on Sunday. Southerly winds of 5 to 10 mph that have been delivering moisture-rich air from the Gulf means humidity will make those 90-degree temps feel closer to 100.  Recent rains, though, have helped keep daily maximum temps to near or below normal levels for mid-July, but that will change soon.

Central Texas on Saturday will find itself dealing with an upper-atmosphere wave of low pressure that could trigger storms and an increasingly deep flow of Gulf moisture.

Advertisement

This has led the weather service’s Weather Prediction Center, which specializes in flood forecasts, to place the northern half of Texas under a level 2 of 4 risk, or at least a 15% chance, of excessive rainfall. A portion of Texas that includes flood-ravaged Kerr County and Interstate 35 corridor counties like Travis, Williamson and Hays, faces a level 1 of 4 risk, or at least a 5% chance of excessive rainfall. 

Precipitable water values, or the amounts of liquid that could be condensed from water vapor in a given column of air, also are rising along and east of the I-35 corridor, the weather service said.

“This will promote the return for isolated to scattered rain/storm activity, with the greatest coverage likely in the Coastal Plains,” the weather service said in a forecast bulletin Friday.

Saturday night into Sunday, forecasters said, a shortwave trough of low atmospheric pressure out of Colorado will help drive a cold front southward into the Texas Panhandle.

Advertisement

“This boundary… results in increased rain and thunderstorm chances from West Texas to the Red River and northeastward through Oklahoma,” the weather service said. “Our local region looks to be more on the southern end of this weather system with primarily isolated to scattered rain/storm activity across our region through Sunday afternoon.”

Forecast modeling “continues to show the greatest footprint for rainfall and potential for any flooding instances centering from the Midland/San Angelo area northeastward to the Red River and into Oklahoma,” the weather service said, adding that “details, however, will continue to be fine-tuned.”

Rain chances diminish quickly as we enter the work week. Sunshine takes over the weather starting on Monday, as high temperatures in the mid-90s through midweek increase to 97 degrees Wednesday and Thursday.



Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending