Check out the Texas state capitol! Made of pink granite and taller than even the nation's capitol, the Texas state capitol has lots of fun things to see and learn about. Take a free guided tour, or just go wander around the building yourself!

Within Zilker Park's 358 acres lies one of the crown jewels of Austin: Barton Springs Pool. The pool itself measures three acres in size, and is fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 68-70 degrees, ideal for year-round swimming.

Buy tickets in person

AT A KIOSK

You can purchase tickets at the kiosks outside both entrances to the pool. The kiosks accept credit and debit cards.

AT THE CASHIER WINDOW

Cash may be used at the cashier window at either pool entrance.

Ticket prices:

Infant (<1 year)

Free

Child (1-11)

Resident $2 / Non-resident $4

Junior (12-17)

Resident $3 / Non-resident $5

Adult (18-62)

Resident $5 / Non-resident $9

Senior (62 and older)

Resident $2 / Non-resident $5

Veteran (honorably discharged)

Free

3 picnic sites and 1 shelter (reservation sites) (location map & photos)

Zilker Playscape

Disc Golf Course

5 volleyball courts (reservable) (location map & photos)

Zilker Club House (reservation site) (open ONLY for rentals)

Austin Nature and Science Center offers a wide variety of programs for children and adults.

Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed pool with a year-round average temperature of 68 degrees.

McBeth Recreation Center

Zilker Botanical Gardens includes the Taniguchi Oriental Garden and the Austin Area Garden Center.

Zilker Caretaker's Cottage - home of the Park Rangers

Zilker Hillside Theatre hosts concerts ranging from jazz to country. Additionally, the theatre is the home of the Zilker Summer Musical and Shakespeare in the Park.

Access to Lady Bird is at select designated areas. Read about Lady Bird Lake access and laws/rules.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt is a place of pilgrimage and grace dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God under the title Mother Thrice Admirable. It is the spiritual home and center of life for the Schoenstatt Movement.

By its very nature, the Shrine is a place that fosters encounter with God in prayer, in catechesis, and in the sacraments. In the Shrine we let ourselves be loved by Mary who as a mother shows us the mercy and compassion of a loving God. It is an invitation to experience the grace of inner transformation that allows us to have a profound encounter with Christ. In this way we are ready to be sent forth as missionary disciples to give witness of the joy of the Gospel.

Visit the Shrine

The Shrine is open daily from 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Sunday Masses

Join us for Sunday Mass in English at 11:00 am and

Mass in Spanish every second and fourth Sunday of the month at 1:00 pm

(Low-gluten hosts are available at all Sunday masses, and they announce how to receive them before communion time.)

Daily Masses

Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 am

A "MUST-SEE"

AUSTIN EXPERIENCE

For over 40 years, Esther’s Follies in Austin Texas has been entertaining sold-out audiences with political satire, comedy sketches, Vegas- style magic and hilarious musical numbers. Esther’s has been hailed as “Austin’s answer to Saturday Night Live”, with sharp insightful comedy performed by talented actors, entertainers, and musicians.

The Broken Spoke is Texas' most definitive dance hall. We've been voted "Best Dancehall in Texas" by Texas Highway! It's not one of those fly-by-night, trendy newcomers, you see springing up in some strip center or feed store on every corner. You can't build a legend overnight. Owners James and Annetta White have been operating the Austin tradition since 1964 and its reputation for great live country music and good Texas cooking is World Famous! We have hosted Presidents, State Governors, the Queen's entourage and super stars from all genres of entertainment. They all visit the Broken Spoke in Austin, because its the Real Deal! No phony-bologny here! This is the Real Texas!

HOURS

Tues. 4pm-12am

Wed. & Thurs. 4pm-12am

Fri & Sat. 4pm-1:30am

Restaurant/Kitchen open:

Tues. - Thurs. 4pm-10pm

Fri. - Sat. 4pm-11pm

Dancehall Doors Open:

Tues - Sat. 7:15pm

Dance Lessons 8pm-9pm

Wednesday - Saturday

The Honkiest Tonkiest Beer Joint In Town

Join us for an Ice-Cold Beer, Homemade Margarita's & Bloody Mary's and dancing to great live music six nights a week.

Built in 1886 as the showplace of a cattle baron, The Driskill remains a landmark of legendary Texas hospitality. Located on Sixth Street in the heart of downtown Austin, the iconic, historic hotel is convenient to all that the city has to offer, including the Texas State Capitol, convention center, opera, symphony, fine dining, shopping, and Austin's 6th Street music scene. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World,®" Austin is home to nearly 200 music venues, many within walking distance of The Driskill.

The saying goes: “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” No description is more befitting of The Driskill. Looming large in the Lone Star State’s rich history, the hotel’s dedication to service, memorable experiences, rich culinary delights and welcoming warmth are equally Texas-sized. Stroll through the opulent lobby with its marble floors and stained-glass dome, corridors filled with museum-quality artwork, and grand mezzanine for a glimpse into the hotel’s storied past. Rest well in the serene comfort of one of the 189 newly revitalized guestrooms and suites. Meet, mix and mingle in the rustic, Texas bar with daily live music, or reserve one of the remarkable, out-of-the-ordinary event spaces. Indulge in a variety of flavors sourced in Austin and around the Lone Star State. A visit to The Driskill is simply unforgettable – we’d be honored to welcome you for a truly memorable stay.

(Tip from Julia- You can just walk in and wander around. My favorite thing to do is grab a drink at the upscale cowboy-themed bar, then wander the second floor! Watch out for ghosts- it's one of the most haunted spots in Austin!)

Welcome to The Oasis on Lake Travis

The Sunset Capital of Texas

The Oasis started off as just an idea. Beau Theriot, the owner of The Oasis, has always been a visionary, but never imagined what his idea would blossom into. Thirty-eight years later, The Oasis has become a well-known jewel nestled in the Austin Hill Country. We are best known as The Sunset Capital of Texas because most days, hundreds of guests from all over the world come to see the breathtaking views and (quite possibly) one of the most spectacular sunsets they will ever lay eyes on.

Every restaurant has a story. This is ours.

"Serving the best barbecue

in the known universe."

-Texas Monthly

Tip: BBQ joints around here will sell out, and Franklin's is no exception! Be sure to get there early... its worth the wait in line.

We work with local artists, farmers, ranchers, winemakers, distillers, brewers and coffee roasters, and highlight the artisans of Texas and Austin whenever possible. We’re fortunate to live in a town and a state that produces quality products—from the art on the wall to the food on the plate to the spirits in your glass. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, you’re encouraged to kick back and stay awhile. Everyone on our hard-working team has abundant culinary knowledge and always serves up the best experience around to make your meal memorable. We don’t need to be the best restaurant but we’ll never stop trying to be your favorite.

Matt Martinez started his career in 1923 at the age of six selling tamales from a wooden pushcart by the Texas Capitol.

Matt & Janie opened El Rancho in 1952 on East 1st Street in downtown Austin with no employees and seating for 40. Matt worked the front of the house and Janie made everything from scratch in the kitchen.

Today the South Lamar restaurant seats more than 500 and everything is still made from scratch.

Via 313 Pizza proudly serves genuine Detroit Style Square Pizza out of several brick-and-mortar locations and two customized pizza trailers. We make all of the traditional Detroit style pizza topping combinations as well as feature gluten and dairy free options. Via 313 was dubbed "one of the very best pizzas" by Food and Wine Magazine, named "Independent Pizzeria of the Year" by Pizza Today™ and recognized as one of the "Top 10 Pizzas in America" by Food Network.

Note from Julia: Have a gluten allergy? This place is AMAZING! They take cross contamination seriously and offer plenty of gluten free (and dairy free!) options.

The San Antonio River Walk

THE #1 ATTRACTION IN TEXAS.

San Antonio is a city steeped in more than 300 years of traditions and heritage. As you explore the one-of-a-kind events, restaurants, rich history and art, you will see that the San Antonio River Walk is special and the perfect place to be to relax, renew and recharge in early 2024.

From festive river parades, world-class entertainment and diverse cuisines to art and artisan markets, cultural experiences, outdoor recreation and plenty of activities for kids, the San Antonio River Walk is the place where traditions begin and continue through generations.

The River Walk is a public park and is free to visit. Boat rides, attractions, and other activities will have various costs associated with them.

You can hike, backpack, camp, rock climb, picnic, bird, study nature, geocache and stargaze. (You cannot swim here or ride bikes on the trails.) Entrance is $8 per person 13 years and older. We have a very high volume of visitors on weekends and holidays. We limit visitation to protect the natural and cultural resources, to preserve the natural experience for you, and for your safety. The park closes to visitors without reservations when we reach capacity. Guarantee your entry into the park by reserving a day pass up to 30 days before your visit.

If you know, you know. And if you don't, you have to go see for yourself. Everybody's somebody in Luckenbach.

Okay I'll give you a couple more details- live music, Texas history, teeny tiny town, amazing story, charming, and FUN!

If you're a wine lover, you should check out any of the wineries in the famous Hill Country Wine Loop that is highway 290 headed into Fredericksburg. One winery is called the Rhinory, and you can pay ($125 a person) to meet their rhino and sip their wine as you learn about their conservation efforts!

I haven't done this myself, but I HAVE gone to Fiesta Winery. It's super cute, there's a shop there, and a couple other tasting rooms right next to it that you can walk to. You can taste 6 wines for $20, and you get to keep the glass!

If you have an extra day or two, I highly recommend checking them out and staying a night in Fredericksburg. My favorite restaurant was Pasta Bella for lunch or dinner, and Texas Sunrise for breakfast! And definitely check out Orobianco creamery. It is hands down the best ice cream/gelato I've ever had (and there's a Thai restaurant and a chocolate shop on either side!).

-Julia

Located in Gruene Historic District

Gruene Hall (pronounced Green), built in 1878, is Texas’ oldest continually operating and most famous dance hall. By design, not much has physically changed since the Hall was first built. The 6,000 square foot dance hall with a high pitched tin roof still has the original layout with side flaps for open air dancing, a bar in the front, a small lighted stage in the back and a huge outdoor garden.

Through the years, the big winners have always been Gruene Hall’s patrons. A person watching a show never knows if the artist they see at the Hall today will be a star tomorrow, but they can know that the music they hear will always be top notch.

MORE TO DO IN GRUENE:

Music

With stages in multiple locations, free music daily, plus ticketed shows and special events, Gruene is where every music-lover makes memories.

Food

Something to satisfy every taste bud, you’ll find craveable favorites from a two-handed sandwich or burger, to sizzling fajitas and fall-off-the-bone ribs all within walking distance.

River

On the banks of the Guadalupe River, Gruene is part of the area affectionately known as the Hill Country Coast.

Shopping

Packed to the brim with locally-owned shops, a leisurely stroll through the eclectic collection of retailers will round out your day in the historic district.

South Austin Beer Garden is a rustic-themed Texas beer garden, featuring 60 draft beers, cocktails, and other unique flavorings. We have a 3000 sqft deck, featuring outdoor games and seating, plus another outdoor area featuring fire pits and live music. Come have a pint or two.

This locally-owned Mobile Moon coffee trailer is known for unique Oak Roasted Coffee and signature sweet cream Moon Milk. Mobile Moon is located in a parking lot of the South Austin Church on Menchaca Road in Austin, Texas. A kid-friendly favorite for locals and students, Mobile Moon trailer offers online ordering, pet-friendly outdoor seating, and free wi-fi.

Howdy!

Our parking sucks but we're tryin' - take a rideshare and we'll take 10% off your tab!

Bring your dog, your mom, and your dog’s mom. We got 3 acres to spread out!

Kids welcome until 6pm, Monday-Friday

4 Food Trucks

Axe Throwing from Celtic Axe

Craft Beer & Cocktails on Tap

Live Music Every Night

(Coffee shop/cafe- coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and cocktails)

Welcome to The Hive, where we keep Austin buzzin’! Come get buzzed with us and experience a family hot spot like no other. Discover our delicious menu and order now for delivery or takeout. We’re open Monday from 7am to 5pm and Tuesday to Sunday from 7am to 10pm.

ARTIPASTA is delicious handmade pasta and traditional Italian food, with menus and recipes developed by owners born and raised in Italy. At Artipasta we pay close attention to the smallest details, even in something you might not expect from a simple food like pasta.

The quality and care we put into each ingredient at every stage, the care we put into cooking and serving, transform what could have been an ordinary dish into an extraordinary culinary experience.

TEXAS KEEPER CIDER was started in 2013 by three long-time friends all born and raised in Austin, Texas. FULL-STRENGTH CIDER FROM 100% FRESH PRESSED APPLES

Our Cidery and Taproom are located on 19 acres of old hill country ranch land, just south of Austin Proper. Our Taproom is open Thursday-Sunday, when we offer our own releases, plus an array of ciders, wines, and meads, and a variety of seasonal, locally-focused picnic options. Check out the Calendar for the music lineup and other special events.

Hours are:

Thursday 2-8pm; Fridays 2-9pm;

Saturdays 12-9pm; Sundays 12-8pm

Kiddos are welcome at the taproom but please keep an eye on them, as we are still a l’il bit country.

Friendly, leashed dogs are allowed.

Build your own picnic with our local and seasonally focused menu. Then wash it down with one of our ciders made on site, or try one of our many guest ciders, wines and meads.

Welcome to the Botanic Garden of Texas! Get ready to explore 284 acres of scenic gardens and trails.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s 284 acres are a mix of cultivated gardens, an arboretum, managed natural areas and wildlands that straddle the Edwards Plateau and Texas Blackland Prairies ecoregions. Our landscapes and buildings reflect our purpose to conserve native plants, create sustainable landscapes and conserve resources.

Daily Entry

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Gardens open until 5 p.m.

FREE for Members

$15 Adults

$10 Seniors (65+)

$13 Military (with ID)

$8 Youth (Ages 5 – 17)

FREE Children 4 years and under

FREE UT Austin faculty, staff and students (with ID)

$3 Museums for All

We only accept credit cards.

Hungry? Have a bite at the Wildflower Cafe, located in the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Open every day (Monday-Sunday) 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Menu here: https://www.wildflowercafeatx.com/s/order#16