Austin - For the Fun Minded

Ok...you've done the history thing.  Now it's time to sample some of the other sites that Austin has to offer.  From the capitol, head south on Congress to 6th Street, turn right, and go to the corner of 6th and Lamar. There you'll see Waterloo Records.  You might not think to include a record store on your list of things to do, but missing this would be a big mistake.  Opening its doors in 1982, Waterloo became THE STORE for finding any album or cd by any artist.  Even if you don't have a shopping list, you should go just to people watch.

Head back up to 6th and Congress and just stroll the area.... in the light of day.  Wild About Music is a neat shop with rock & roll memorabilia for sale or just to look at.  Tshirts, paintings, weirds caps/hats (great photo op).  The Driskill Hotel is right across the street, with its historical architecture and furnishings.  Stop in at The Library for a nice beverage or a sandwich from The Texas Picnic Company.  If you're up for some true craziness, come back to 6th at night.  Pete's Piano Bar is relatively tame if you're looking for a safe place.  Try it once just to say you've been there, even if you don't make it a habit.

If you appreciate anything of the botanical sort, Zilker Park and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center are definites.  Zilker Botanical Garden is located on 30 acres close to the center of Austin and is often called The Jewel at the Heart of Austin.  Japanese gardens, koi ponds, and a beautiful rose garden are highlights for sure.  Don't miss out on the Butterfly Trail and Garden and a close encounter of the nature-kind.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a living tribute to Lady Bird Johnson herself, who is responsible for protecting the wildflowers of Texas.  Located on 178 acres, you can sniff and sample all flora native to the Lone Star State.  There's a really awesome aquaduct close to the entrance.  Don't worry... you can't miss it.  One thing, though.  Be sure to check the website for what's blooming before you go.  We just showed up one day in March and saw very little.

As the evening suns makes its way down, make your way to Congress Ave. Bridge and "The Bats".  Surely you've heard of this unbelievable sight!  Underneath this bridge resides the largest colony of bats in North America.  Every year, mid March to November, 1.5 million Mexican Freetail bats exit the underside of the bridge to dine on insects in the Lady Bird Lake area and down the Colorado River.  Our favorite spot for viewing is on the sloping lawn behind the Renaissance Hotel and TGI Friday's.  You can stretch out and watch without too much of a crowd.  Just for kicks, try it from the bridge.  You'll feel the rush of the swarm and get a little creeped out!