Austin has been blessed abundantly when considered from a general perspective. But there’s one thing that stands out above the rest: its attractions. From acres of green, lush space to a diverse and vibrant culture, there are activities galore in the capital city, catering to people of all ages and of different personalities. Whether it’s a hot sunny afternoon or a chilly gloomy day, you can find many attractions to fit the weather or your mood.
Here's a list of the top things to do in Austin.
The State Capitol
For the history and political lovers, this Austin attraction located at the heart of the city is right up your alley. The pink landmark stands tall in Central Austin and represents the legislative power of the state of Texas. It holds the chamber of the Hall of Representatives as well as the offices of the Governor of Texas. For a comprehensive dig at Texas History and a visit to the Capitol Building, sign up for one of the tours and get a unique view of the 360,000 square feet building.
Did you know that the Texas State Capitol Building stands approximately 15 feet taller than the US Capitol Building in Washington D.C.?
Zilker Metropolitan Park
When blessed with clear blue skies, Zilker Metropolitan Park is the place to be. Adjacent to the river, the Park has a number of attractions for all. For the athletic type, there are a number of athletic fields to exercise in while for the more introverted visitor, there are a number of fossil digs and art museums for you to explore.
For a complete excursion at Zilker Metropolitan Park, you might need a number of days. After a day strolling around in the heat, take a dip at the Barton Springs Pool, a popular joint for all ages. And depending on your visit to the park, you might be lucky to find yourself at the center of one of the city’s most awaited events: the Austin City Limits Musical Festival.
SoCo District
Situated some five miles south of Downtown Austin, South Congress District (also known as SoCo) is the hub of the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. With the main center of action being South Congress Avenue, you will find shops and boutiques displaying specialized wares that are bound to catch the eye.
When you find the time to take a breather from the retro clothing, indulge in the assortment of bakeries, eateries, and restaurants in the area. Thanks to the generally good weather, most restaurants have patios for patrons to enjoy the culture and bustle of the city as they cool their heels.
And let’s not get started on the music. The SoCo District has its fair share of iconic venues such as The Continental Club where you can enjoy some good old fashioned country music.
LBJ Presidential Library
After dancing and partying till the a.m., you might want some peace and quiet too. We have just the joint for you. Dedicated to the 36th president of the United States, the LBJ Library is a storehouse of customized artifacts. You will find presidential papers in President Johnson’s own handwriting, photographs of the civil rights era, and other information detailing the president’s personal and political career.
And these are just the tip of the iceberg. Come down to Austin and cross these activities from your bucket list.