The Top 10 Most Popular Attractions in Austin, Texas
1) Texas State Capitol - The Texas State Capitol is a stunning building that stands tall in downtown Austin. It was completed in 1888 and is made of pink granite. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the Capitol to learn about the history of Texas and see the impressive architecture and artwork inside. Be sure to check out the rotunda, which features portraits of every Texas governor and other notable Texans.
2) Lady Bird Lake - Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a beautiful spot to paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, and there are several rental shops nearby. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail runs along the edge of the lake and is a great place for a walk, run, or bike ride. You can also rent a bike from one of the many bike-share stations in the area.
3) Barton Springs Pool - Located in Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The pool is fed by natural springs and is 1,000 feet long. The water stays at a refreshing 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a great spot to cool off on a hot Texas day. There is a small admission fee to enter the pool.
4) South Congress Avenue - South Congress Avenue, or "SoCo," is a trendy street in Austin that's lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. You can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry to cowboy boots here. Be sure to stop by the iconic "I Love You So Much" mural and snap a photo.
5) Zilker Park - Zilker Park is a massive 351-acre park that offers a variety of activities. The park is home to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, the Austin Nature & Science Center, the Zilker Botanical Garden, and the Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train. You can also play frisbee golf, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or have a picnic in the park.
6) The Texas State History Museum - The Texas State History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Texas. The museum features three floors of interactive exhibits that cover everything from the early days of the state to the modern era. Be sure to check out the IMAX theater, which shows educational films about Texas history.
7) The University of Texas at Austin - The University of Texas at Austin is a beautiful campus that's worth a visit. You can take a self-guided tour to see the famous tower, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Blanton Museum of Art. The campus is also home to several excellent restaurants and coffee shops.
8) The Blanton Museum of Art - The Blanton Museum of Art is located on the UT campus and features an impressive collection of more than 18,000 works of art. The museum's permanent collection includes European paintings, Latin American art, and contemporary art. There are also several rotating exhibits throughout the year.
9) The LBJ Presidential Library - The LBJ Presidential Library is located on the UT campus and is dedicated to the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and archives that cover Johnson's presidency and his impact on American politics.
10) The Bat Bridge - Every evening from March to November, hundreds of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in downtown Austin. It's a spectacular sight to see, and there are several spots along the bridge where you can watch the bats take flight. Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot!
