Austin sits in a mild climate with a long growing season. Wikipedia lists an average of 288 days between freezes, which gives local farmers plenty of time to grow. That means fresh produce is available nearly all year. The city has many farmers markets, and each has its own feel. This guide covers the best options for fresh fruits and vegetables. Market hours and locations can change with the season, so confirm before you go.
SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown
The Sustainable Food Center runs this Saturday market at Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe Street. It started in 2003 and has about 75 vendors. The market focuses on local farms and ranches, and it also offers live music and cafe seating. It runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. year round, rain or shine. Arrive early for the best selection of greens and berries. Learn More about the city and its food culture.
SFC Farmers’ Market at Sunset Valley
This south Austin market meets on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Toney Burger Center, 3200 Jones Road. The Sustainable Food Center has run it since 2010. It has about 35 vendors, live music, and free parking, so it works well for families. Pick up coffee, vegetables, and eggs in one trip.
Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller
The Mueller market meets on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It has more than 100 vendors, and about 40 percent are agricultural producers within 150 miles. The setting has shade and open space, and many families make it a weekly stop. Local readers have voted it a favorite for years. Park on nearby streets or in a garage.
Barton Creek Farmers Market
The Barton Creek Farmers Market is often called Austin’s first farmers market. It meets on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Barton Creek Square parking lot. It has a long list of produce, grass-fed meats, and prepared foods. The view of the downtown skyline is a bonus. Parking is free in the mall lot.
Boggy Creek Farm
Boggy Creek Farm sits at 3414 Lyons Road. It runs a farm stand from Wednesday to Saturday, usually from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., though hours can change in summer. The farm has a historic farmhouse and a henhouse. Buying here lets you meet the people who grew your food. Check the schedule before you drive over.
Texas Farmers’ Market at Lakeline
North of the city in Cedar Park, this market meets on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lakeline Mall. It has more than 90 vendors, including a good share of farm producers. It runs rain or shine and offers live music.
Other Markets Worth a Visit
The Domain Farmers Market runs on Sundays in the afternoon. Lone Star Farmers Market meets at the Shops at the Galleria in Bee Cave on weekends. Downtown Buda and the Pflugerville Pfarmers Market serve nearby communities. Check each market’s schedule, since days and times shift.
What to Buy by Season
Central Texas has a long list of crops. Here is a rough guide:
- Spring: strawberries, greens, onions, carrots, and herbs
- Summer: tomatoes, peaches, melons, okra, peppers, and squash
- Fall: sweet potatoes, pecans, winter squash, and apples from nearby regions
- Winter: kale, collards, turnips, beets, and citrus from the Gulf region
Ask farmers what is at its peak. They often have tips for storing and cooking each item.
How to Shop a Farmers Market
- Arrive early for the best picks, or late for lower prices.
- Bring reusable bags and a small cooler in summer.
- Carry cash and small bills, though many vendors take cards.
- Walk the whole market once before you buy.
- Ask where and how the food was grown.
- Taste samples, and buy what you love.
Beyond Produce
Many markets sell eggs, honey, bread, cheese, tamales, and coffee. Some have cooking demos and kids’ activities. You can also find plants and herbs for your yard.
Support Local Farmers
Buying from farmers keeps money in the community and cuts the trip from farm to table. Many sellers grow without heavy chemicals, though practices vary, so ask. A regular stop each week builds a relationship with growers.
A Sample Market Weekend
Start Saturday at the downtown market for greens and live music. Eat lunch nearby. On Sunday, head to Mueller for a larger market, and pick up bread and fruit for the week.
Looking for more to do after the market? Try these hidden gems in Austin, TX that tourists miss, from Mayfield Park to Laguna Gloria.
Good food starts with fresh ingredients. Pick a market near you, and try something new each visit.
