Of all the great things to do in Austin, Texas, the town is best known for being the capitol city of one of the largest states in the union and for hosting the largest musical festival in the country, South by Southwest. It goes without saying that the burgeoning live music scene here is the modern day equivalent to what the Seattle grunge scene was during the early 90s. That aside, this city is both diverse and magnificent, and has much to offer the visitor.
Things to Do in Austin
Texas State Capitol: One of the prettiest and most marvelous capital buildings in the United States is the brain child and architectural baby of designer architect Elijah E. Myers, originally finished being built in the late 1800s. This near exact replica of the White House is just as grand and is something that shouldn't be missed when in Texas.
Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum: This is, without a doubt, the most popular of all presidential libraries. LBJ was the 36th sitting president, made famous for his secret taping of Oval Office affairs, tapes which can be seen in this building, and the Watergate Scandal. The library also houses nearly forty million documents and a replica of the Oval Office itself.
Zilker Botanical Garden: This must-see botanical garden runs adjacent to Barton Springs Road and features multiple different gardens that span over twenty acres. It is considered to be one of the finest botanical gardens in the country, and is absolutely a must-see when you travel to Austin.
East 6th Street: Ever wondered about things to do in Austin at night? East 6th Street is the answer. During the weekends they close off the streets to cars and only foot traffic is allowed. Tons of bars, restaurants and night clubs litter the streets, complete with live performers, vendors, food carts and live music. This is a must-see for all who venture to this amazing state; one of the staples of the night life.
Mount Bonnell: If you are looking for the most amazing views in the city, head to this very popular and one of the favorite things to do in Austin. Make sure that you climb the 99 steps up the side of the mountain, as legend has it that you will fall in love if you do.
Zilker Park: Don't forget to stop by this awesome and very large park when you are in Texas. Featuring several lakes, plenty of activities centers and lots of native wildlife, bring the blanket and spread it out on the grass and enjoy a real Texan picnic. Notable attractions are paddle boat and canoe rentals, as well as riverboat rides on the Town Lake.
Barton Springs Pool: A great, natural and freshwater lake that you can go swimming in, ideal for families and kids. This is a natural springs pool that maintains an average annual temperature of around seventy degrees Fahrenheit. So no matter what time of year you are in Texas, this place is a great stop for water lovers.
Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue: When you travel to Austin, make sure that you stop by Auditorium Shores so you can catch a glimpse and shoot a photo of this awesome statue. The statue was originally erected in 1994 to pay homage to the late Stevie Ray Vaughan - an amazing blues rocker that died tragically in a plane crash - perhaps one of the most legendary musicians to ever claim this city as his hometown.
Bats Underneath Congress Bridge: If you have a fancy for exotic wildlife then make sure that you don't miss seeing these bats. You can find them underneath the Congress Bridge at sunset - which overlooks a residential spread of waterside homes. Watch as literally millions of bats leave their nesting grounds under the bridge to feed at night, where they will consume nearly thirty thousand pounds of insects on a nightly basis.
Austin Segway Tour: Maybe one of the most unique and Green ways that you can tour some of the most famous sights in Austin. These guided Segway tours utilize two-wheeled electric vehicles as you trek around the downtown on a two hour guided tour that covers several square miles of the downtown area.
While there are many notable things to do in Austin, these top ten are truly must-see destinations that can really enhance your trip in this state and make for some fond memories when you return back home.
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