Dripping Springs Distillery has been instrumental in the production of award-winning beverages and spirits, and the distillation of Vodka and Gin happens to be their forte. The distillery offers a tour of its facility every Thursday and Saturday; the tours begin at 3p and 12.30p. Every tour gives you a detailed account of micro-distilled Vodka and Gin. Only copper pots are used in the process of distillation, and water from the nearby Hill Country Artesian Spring is the main ingredient in making these spirits. You can taste the products after the tour and also purchase on-site. They also provide you with fail-proof recipes for cocktails like Dirty Martini, Hill County Mule, Texas Mary, and many more. The Gin produced here is gluten-free.
Austin Duck Adventures is a one-of-a-kind tour takes you through the city and on Lake Austin on an authentic amphibious military landing vehicle that carries around 20 passengers. The tour goes through downtown, to the State Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, the LBJ Library, East Sixth Street's music district, historic Congress Avenue and area lakes. Meanwhile, the tour guide gives the history of the city, along with little-known insights. Each tour last for around two hours. Check the website or call ahead for further information.
Spend a day with the kids that is both fun and educational — head over to the western edge of Zilker Park and take in the fantastic wildlife at the Nature Center. Albino raccoons, barn owls, snakes and other furry creatures roam about the petting zoo. While escaping the urban life, wander down winding trails and past the beautiful pond. Even though this park is in the middle of the city, nature permeates the surroundings, making every adult feel like a kid again. The center also offers interesting programs for visitors of all ages.
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.
Situated along the scenic Pedernales River, Reimers Ranch Park is a remarkable outdoor destination just outside the picturesque Dripping Springs. The beautiful recreational ground offers access to multiple trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking with stunning sceneries. Dripping with pristine ambiance, the park also provides rock-climbers the best opportunity to challenge their skills. Witness dramatic canyons and magical wildlife on these grounds. The park is perfect for a family outing and picnicking by the river beach.
In a town with as much history as Austin, you are destined to find some scary stories and haunted locations. This tour takes you through downtown to experience some of the ghosts of this city's past. Hear stories about famous Austinites who have died, but never seemed to leave town. Learn about serial killers pre-dating Jack the Ripper, murders and mayhem, as well as spooks and haunts of Austin's sordid past. This tour may be a bit too much for small children. But adults will find it a wonderful way to learn about Austin's secret history.