This post was contributed by Elisa Regulski, for Pulsr. Pulsr is a local Austin startup whose goal is to answer the age-old question: “What should we do tonight?” With regular blog posts highlighting the most exciting aspects of Austin, Pulsr aims to be your go-to resource for Austin entertainment. Be on the lookout for the official Pulsr app in iOS and Android stores early 2016!
Photo by Holp Photography
By the time you unpack your box of mementos, tearfully wave goodbye to your mother, and skim through your course schedule, you’re probably eager to get your social calendar back in order. But with all of the textbooks, sudden academic fees, and—oops—expensive nights on Rainey, it’s easy to let those student loan demons come haunting. Lucky for you, there are plenty of free events happening within fifteen minutes of the UT and St. Edward’s campuses, so there never has to be a dull moment. Who knows, some might even stretch your mind and help you out with your next term paper.
Blanton Museum of Art
Free Museum Day, September 20
Whether it’s an evening examining the classics at The Blanton Museum of Art or an afternoon strolling the transcendental grounds at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, you can get your fill on September 20th. Stretch your hipster music knowledge at the Texas Music Museum or embrace your childlike wonder while looking at the Texas Memorial Museum’s vast collection of fossils and dinosaur bones. No matter what piques your inner geek, Free Museum Day has your admission ticket covered.
Star Parties
Nothing puts your life into perspective like a clear view of some celestial wonders. Escape from gossip, stress and obnoxious roommates with UT’s astronomy department every Wednesday from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the roof of Robert Lee Moore Hall. These public viewings let astronomy-lovers gape at the galaxy through the lens of their 16-inch telescope.
Views and Brews
Twice a month, KUT Radio hosts a free, thought provoking panel that ventures through some of today’s most complex and delicate topics. Taking place inside the cozy Cactus Café, these discussions cover everything from race in America to the music of John Coltrane. Scholars and special guests lead the conversation and share their special insights for a free evening of mind-expanding information.
Photo by Holp Photography
I Luv Video Free Beer
I Luv Video celebrates the long lost tradition of movie rentals and community parties every Tuesday from 6 pm to 12 am. This free-flowing beer extravaganza is a great place to unwind after the completion of your latest research paper. Alabird Tex-Mex wafts its spicy taco love through the air for the ideal companion to your hoppy, carbonated beverage.
Stand Up Empire
Cure those mid-week doldrums with some uproarious laughter. Empire Control Room lets the most hilarious comics tickle your funny bone during their weekly open mic night every Tuesday at 9:00 pm. No cover. Just humor.
Brave New Books
This little book boutique would make George Orwell proud. Their jam-packed events calendar features everything from mindfulness workshops to film screenings. Only a 10-minute walk from UT’s tranquil Turtle Pond, Brave New Books can teach you whatever you want to know.
Geeks Who Drink at Spider House Ballroom
This isn’t your grandfather’s trivia game. This pop culture game show will rev up your competitive spirit and inspire whistling cheers and celebratory high-fives. Gather your team at 8:00 pm every Wednesday at Spider House and compete for free drinks, gift cards and the ultimate ego boost.
Barton Springs Pool
Free Swim at Barton Springs
Early birds can start their morning with an ice-cold splash in Barton Springs Pool every morning from 5:00 am to 8:00 am without paying the admission price. If waking up like a polar bear isn’t your thing, social swimmers can also skip the fee and wade in the water between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
Coldtowne Improv Classes
Let your left-brain take a break while you flex your creativity muscles during a free improv class at Coldtowne Theater. On the first Monday of every month, this comedy mecca lets newbies test out their improvisation chops with a team of talented teachers. Coldtowne also gives those brave souls a free ticket to a comedy show just for trying something new. If you need a little laughter remedy, this is the place to come to.
Enlightened Yoga in Hosteling International Park
Greet the sun at Hosteling International Park with Enlightened Yoga’s instructor Nathan Millard. Every first and third Friday at 11 am, yogis of all levels can breathe, meditate, and strengthen their practice.
