A famous slogan states that everything is bigger in Texas, and if one views its capitol building, the age-old phrase rings true. Standing a stately 309 feet (94 meters) and modeled after the United States Capitol in Washington D.C., the Texas State Capitol owns the distinction of being the nation's tallest capitol building. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers and constructed using lustrous red granite, the capitol took more than seven years to complete. It was finished in the year 1888 at a total cost of more than three million dollars, an extravagant price even by today's standards. The perfectly landscaped grounds reflect the languid pace of life under the central Texan sun, inviting passers-by for a quiet stroll or a lazy day under a tree.
Mayfield Park Cottage and Gardens is open to the public but is a favorite among the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department facilities rental division. The historic 1870s cottage is perfect for a small group or families visiting the town. The cottage holds 65 people, while the grounds hold up to 200. Explore the walking trails in the park to enjoy the landscaped gardens, lily ponds, peacocks, and palms in this picturesque environment. Pack up the family or reserve it for your event and enjoy this sprawling estate in central Austin.
One of the most visited presidential libraries in the nation, Lyndon Baines Johnson Library & Museum is supplied with information regarding one of the most controversial times in United States history. Peeking inside the life of the 36th President, Lyndon Baines Johnson, the LBJ tapes provide listeners the opportunity to learn about former president John F. Kennedy's assassination and the Vietnam War. Along with the famous tapes, visitors can see a to-scale replica of the Oval Office, political memorabilia and more than 39 million pages of historical notes. Plan on a full day at this library and museum, but if you are a real history buff, you will barely scratch the surface of what this fantastic archive has to offer.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Research Center was established by Lady Bird Johnson, First Lady of the United States from 1963-1969. This fabulous garden bearing her name brims with native Texas plants in courtyards, terraces, arbors, and meadows. Along with a fantastic children's center, visitors can explore a visitor's gallery, observation tower, cafe, gift store, and nature trails. Enjoy award-winning architecture and fabulous scenery in this wonderful garden spot. The center also offers programs that offer hands-on experiences including art sessions, yoga workshops, summer camps, gardening, and more.
A 35-foot (10.7 meters) bronze Lone Star sculpture greets visitors at the entrance of this epic museum. This place narrates the story of Texas, sharing its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The three floors of the impressive building present interactive exhibits, special effects shows and more. On the first floor, you will find a permanent exhibit called Encounters on the Land, which highlights the first meetings between Native Americans and European explorers. The second and third floors have exhibits that showcase the evolution of Texas from the time of its inception. The museum boasts a total of 17 media installations and over 700 artifacts, not to mention Austin's only IMAX Theater.
Enjoy a day at this educational, family friendly wildlife preserve. Austin Zoo, which is located on land that originally housed a goat ranch and started out with only a small selection of animals and has since grown into a full-fledged wild animal sanctuary and zoo. Here, you can see Bengal tigers, cheetahs, lemurs, a butterfly garden and more. Take a field trip at the zoo to explore its environs, look at mature trees, go bird-watching, and meet adorable animals. The picnic areas are perfect for a birthday party or company event.
Set facing the serene waters of the Colorado River, Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife is a nature reserve in Austin, Texas that spans over 35 acres (14 hectares) of lush green forest land. The park was established in the year 2000 when the property was donated to a non-profit organization named Hill Country Conservancy by Mrs. Anne Byrd Nalle. Home to a wide range of native wildlife such as deer, rabbit and wild turkey, the park is frequented by thousands of wildlife photographers and nature lovers annually. Due to its location by the river, facilities for water sports activities are also provided.
With the noble intention of preserving natures beauty and splendor, Georgia Lucas assembled together a great preserve area called Bright Leaf. Within the 200 acres of pristine surroundings, one can truly discover and feel the power that nature. Undertaking training for volunteers, the park ensures that people become more sensitive and aware of conserving nature. For further information, log on to their website.
Established in the early 21st Century, Laura Bush Community Library is a public library located close to the neighborhood of Barton Creek Highlands. The library features a beautiful community and chess garden and a public book salesroom. They offer group tours as well as specially designed kids educational tours.
Mayfield Park Cottage and Gardens is open to the public but is a favorite among the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department facilities rental division. The historic 1870s cottage is perfect for a small group or families visiting the town. The cottage holds 65 people, while the grounds hold up to 200. Explore the walking trails in the park to enjoy the landscaped gardens, lily ponds, peacocks, and palms in this picturesque environment. Pack up the family or reserve it for your event and enjoy this sprawling estate in central Austin.
A famous slogan states that everything is bigger in Texas, and if one views its capitol building, the age-old phrase rings true. Standing a stately 309 feet (94 meters) and modeled after the United States Capitol in Washington D.C., the Texas State Capitol owns the distinction of being the nation's tallest capitol building. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers and constructed using lustrous red granite, the capitol took more than seven years to complete. It was finished in the year 1888 at a total cost of more than three million dollars, an extravagant price even by today's standards. The perfectly landscaped grounds reflect the languid pace of life under the central Texan sun, inviting passers-by for a quiet stroll or a lazy day under a tree.
Located to the east of Austin, Green Gate Farms gives visitors a glimpse into the farming lifestyle. A historic farm was restored to its former glory by Erin Flynn and Skip Connett in 2006. Educating people about sustainable agriculture and contributing to the community has been the driving force behind the establishment of the Green Gate Farms. The New Farm Institute is the on-site educational center, that provides workshops and conducts classes on farming. Tours around the Green Gate Farms are also organized. You can also host your celebration here and make it a memorable one.