Austin is a fantastic city in the heart of Texas known for being just a little different from other Texas towns. Keeping this alternative spirit alive is part of the charm, and local residents wear shirts emblazoned with the slogan “Keep Austin Weird.” Enjoy this fun and funky city and visit the following ten greatest sights in the city:
1. Get in touch with the funky charms of Austin by taking a stroll on South Congress Avenue, the vibrant and cool neighborhood often just referred to as “SoCo.” Pop into one of the trendy shops or popular restaurants for a chance to experience the fun counterculture the city has to offer.
2. For a unique experience, head to the Congress Avenue bridge at dusk any night of the week and prepare to be amazed. As night falls, the largest urban bat colony in the world comes to life and is spectacle!
3. The Texas State Capitol is a must-see on every Austin itinerary. Stroll through the halls of the capital as you please and enjoy the fact that the entire building is open to the public for free. If you’re full of Texas pride, notice that this capitol building is an entire 14 feet taller than even the United States Capitol Building Washington, D.C.
4. To cool off naturally, head underground to the Inner Space Cavern. Thanks to a constant 72 degree temperature, you can explore the cavern and hike through underground formations while perfectly cool.
5. If you would rather stay cool above ground, just head to Barton Springs Pool where the water never rises above 68 degrees. The pool is fed by underground springs that make it incredibly refreshing and unique.
6. If you want to unwind for a day or two and explore the natural beauty surrounding Austin, head to McKinney Falls State Park. Hike, bike, swim, fish, or just relax and camp under the stars if you have a spare night while in Austin.
7. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum is another fun way to explore the alternative side of Austin. The interior of the museum houses over 200 fascinating sculptures by Charles Umlauf, and outside in the gardens there are an additional 60 or so.
8. Walk up and down Sixth Street and explore the funky bars, restaurants and vibrant culture of the city. Be sure to catch it at the peak of it’s atmosphere, on weekend nights when the residents of the city really let loose.
9. If you are a music fan, stop by the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial and pay your respects at the bronze memorial statue on Riverside Drive.
10. Austin is known for being an active city, so do your best to fit in and get moving around the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail, whose 10 mile loop encircles Lady Bird Lake in the heart of Austin.
About the Author
Heather Johnson writes for Hotels-Fairy.com the number one UK hotel comparison website. Learn about the best holiday destinations today!