The capital of Texas state, Austin, borders the Hill Country Region. Home to the renowned the University of Texas flagship campus, Austin is also known for hosting some the best world-famous festivals, its cultural attractions, and some of the most delectable Mexican food eateries and BBQ joints specifically. Undoubtedly, there is plenty of options to choose from when one is looking for best things to do in Austin.
Top Things to Do in Austin, Texas
1. The State Capitol and Visitors Center
Office of the State Governor and The Chambers of the Texas Legislature, The State Capitolis now also a National Historic Landmark. Even taller than the US Capitol, it is the sixth tallest state Capitol.
The visitors are bound to be left fascinated by the number of interesting and thought-provoking exhibits, when they visit this.
2. Zilker Metropolitan Park
Sitting alongside the Lady Bird Lake, this lush green space for recreation is the most popular site in whole of Texas, let alone Austin.
Offering some of the best things to do, from a relaxed lazy afternoon picnic, to water recreation activities, to hosting one of the best music festivals, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Zilker Summer Musical, Blues on the Green etc. the Park is a family favorite of all.
3. Lady Bird Lake
One of the top most recreational areas in the city, Lady Bird Lake is named after the wife of President Lyndon. Running along the shore, the trail is lined with hotel and complexes and more importantly, the path connects some of the famous visiting spots namely, Zilker Metropolitan Park, Lamar Beach, Butler Shores, Waller Beach etc.
4. Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is an ideal place for having a relaxing day out near the water or having a dip to cool off. A perfect balance between elements of nature and recreation, this place is fully enjoyed by the tourists and locals alike. Interestingly, this water body is the only nurturing space for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.
5. Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
Home to the magnificent sculptures by the famous 20th century sculptor Charles Umlauf, the museum also features outdoor sculptures, exhibits on life of Charles and works of other such artist.
6. Mount Bonnell
Giving some spectacular scenes of the downtown of Austin and alluring views of Austin Skyline, Mount Bonnell is popular among the tourists more specifically because of its photographic opportunities.
7. Mexic-Arte Museum
Showcasing traditional and contemporary, art and cultural pieces from Mexico and Latin America, Mexic-Arte Museum represents city’s largest population.
Interestingly, apart from its numerous installations, several galleries and collections of photography, the rotating exhibit here has been attracting hoards of tourists to it.
8. Bullock Texas State History Museum
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is easily recognized for its unique design of style. The museum features interactive exhibits, IMAX theatre which displays a lot of educational films, documentaries and new-releases all throughout the year, and also hosts several events during the year to conduct public presentations.
9. University of Texas
Apart from being a renowned university, the premise of University of Texas is also home to some of the notable tourist attractions; the Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art with its 17000 spectacular art pieces and Harry Ransom Center with its interesting literature work, are some of the names located within the University.
10. Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum
Often the most highly visited sites in Austin, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, has about more than 45 million historical papers and documents, and more specifically from President Lyndon Baines Johnson’s Career.
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