Austin, the capital city of Texas, is a vibrant and bustling destination that offers a variety of attractions for visitors. With its rich culture, delicious food, and thriving music scene, Austin is the perfect place to experience the best of Texas. In this article, we will discuss the top places to visit in Austin, along with some of the best things to do in each location.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake, formerly known as Town Lake, is a beautiful reservoir located in the heart of Austin. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the 10-mile trail that surrounds the lake. Lady Bird Lake is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Austin. The Capitol building, which is the largest state capitol in the United States, offers free guided tours to visitors. The tour takes visitors through the building’s history, architecture, and important events that took place in the building. The Capitol also houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park is a 350-acre park located in the heart of Austin. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, swimming, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s botanical garden, which features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. Zilker Park is home to many annual events, such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Kite Festival.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a natural swimming pool located in Zilker Park. The pool is fed by underground springs, which keeps the water at a cool 68-70 degrees year-round. Barton Springs Pool is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, especially during the hot Texas summers. Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding grassy areas, picnic tables, and hiking trails.
South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is a trendy and eclectic neighborhood in Austin. The area is known for its unique shops, restaurants, and music venues. Visitors can shop for vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and Texas souvenirs, or enjoy live music at one of the many venues along the street. SoCo is a great place to experience the quirky and fun side of Austin.
University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest universities in the United States, and it is located in the heart of Austin. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus to see the iconic Tower, the Main Building, and the LBJ Presidential Library. The University of Texas is also home to several museums, including the Blanton Museum of Art and the Texas Memorial Museum.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of Texas. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that tell the story of Texas from its earliest days to the present. Visitors can learn about the state’s rich history, including its role in the Civil War, the oil boom, and the Civil Rights Movement.
The Domain
The Domain is a shopping and entertainment district located in North Austin. The area features a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can also enjoy live music and events at the Domain’s outdoor plaza. The Domain is a great place to shop, dine, and relax in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country is a beautiful region located just outside of Austin. The area is known for its rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and charming small towns. Visitors can explore the area by taking a scenic drive, visiting local wineries and breweries, or hiking in one of the many state parks. Some popular destinations in the Texas Hill Country include Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Marble Falls.
Congress Avenue Bridge
The Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Visitors can watch as the bats emerge from under the bridge at dusk, creating an impressive sight as thousands of bats take flight. The bridge is also a popular spot for taking a scenic walk along Lady Bird Lake and enjoying the city skyline.
Franklin Barbecue
No visit to Austin is complete without trying some of the city’s famous barbecue. Franklin Barbecue is a must-visit destination for foodies, and it has been named the best barbecue in America by numerous publications. Visitors can expect long lines and wait times, but the mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and sausage are well worth it.
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company, or ABGB, is a popular brewery and restaurant in Austin. The brewery offers a variety of craft beers, and visitors can enjoy live music and delicious pizza in the outdoor beer garden. ABGB is a great spot to experience the local craft beer scene and soak up some Austin vibes.
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The Contemporary Austin
The Contemporary Austin is a museum of modern and contemporary art with two locations in Austin. The museum features a variety of exhibitions, including works by local and international artists. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s outdoor sculpture park, which features works by renowned artists such as Tom Friedman and Ai Weiwei.
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The Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Austin. The theater, which opened in 1915, has hosted a variety of performances over the years, including concerts, plays, and films. Visitors can take a tour of the theater to learn about its history and architecture, or attend one of the many performances and events held throughout the year.
The Texas Military Forces Museum
The Texas Military Forces Museum is located on the grounds of Camp Mabry, a military installation in Austin. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Texas military from its early days to the present. Visitors can see military vehicles, weapons, and uniforms, and learn about the role of the Texas military in important events such as World War II and the Gulf War.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Austin is a vibrant and exciting destination with a variety of attractions for visitors. From outdoor recreation to museums, shopping, and dining, there is something for everyone in this Texas city. These top places to visit in Austin provide a great starting point for planning your trip and experiencing the best of what Austin has to offer.