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.
Patrons will enjoy a huge variety of activities at Zilker Park. You can check out the hike and bike trails, picnic facilities, Zilker Botanical Garden, canoe rentals, soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, riverboat rides on Town Lake, concerts, festivals and even a miniature train. The wide-open stretches of grass in this park are just minutes from the downtown area. There is plenty of room and various diversions for the kids, so you can get a suntan, take long walks by the river or just curl up with a book down by the river.
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.
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.
As part of the Pedernales River and Hamilton Creek, this old-fashioned swimming hole is perfect for the nature lover in you. A shaded walk through the canyon opens to the limestone outcroppings that create a 50-foot waterfall landing in the pool. A picnic on the banks of the pool, a dip in the cool water, or a quick hike through the canyon will wash away city-accumulated stress. The trail to the pool is fairly short but does include a series of rock steps. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
Sitting on 17 acres of Olive farm in the picturesque town of Dripping Springs, Texas Hill Country Olive Co. is known to produce top-quality extra virgin Olive oil. It is open for visitors to tour the grounds of Olive trees and visit the mill to witness the extraction. Learn how to taste in one of their guided tours and enjoy a lovely meal at their restaurant. In addition to producing the best olive oil, try their traditional Balsamic vinegar and crushed flavored olive oils. Take home the best produce from their gift shop.
This greenbelt winds through Central and South Austin along the picturesque Barton Creek, featuring beautiful hiking and bike trails as well as many choice swimming holes. The surroundings have been left to flourish in their natural manner, featuring great limestone cliffs, shallow lagoons, and dense forests. One of the more popular areas is at the far north end of the park, called the Scottish Woods Trails. It is a rocky path leading to a gorgeous private swimming hole at the base of a small waterfall. Barton Creek Greenbelt runs west and north from Zilker Park for nearly eight miles (12.8 kilometers).
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.
Patrons will enjoy a huge variety of activities at Zilker Park. You can check out the hike and bike trails, picnic facilities, Zilker Botanical Garden, canoe rentals, soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, riverboat rides on Town Lake, concerts, festivals and even a miniature train. The wide-open stretches of grass in this park are just minutes from the downtown area. There is plenty of room and various diversions for the kids, so you can get a suntan, take long walks by the river or just curl up with a book down by the river.
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.
If you are a beer buff or if innovative brews interest you, Zilker Brewing Company and Taproom is a place that you must visit. This craft brewery uses the American Belgo style of brewing. This means that they take inspiration from American and English styles of brewing while making use of a particular strain of Belgian yeast. This creates a concoction that is unique and intriguing. You can check out the brewery and then sit in the taproom to enjoy large pours of their different beers. Get your own food to go with the brews or order in from the neighboring restaurants.