Things to do in Austin
Austin is the capital city of the American State of Texas and is the fourth largest city in the state. It is situated on the banks of the Colorado River and over a period of time has emerged as a major commercial and technological center which is home to many hi tech companies. This city holds the honor of being the greenest city in America and since it is very safe, it is also considered as one of the best places to live in the country.
Some of the things that a visitor can do in Austin are listed as follows:
The Zilker Park is a must for tourists as it represents the epitome of natural beauty and in addition offers a large number of activities. While at the park, the visitors can avail the picnic facilities, the canoe rentals, the riverboat rides, ride in the miniature train, attend the open air musical shows and play on the soccer fields and the sand volleyball courts.
The Zilker Botanical Garden located within the premises of the Zilker Park is spread over 22 acres and is an entity in itself. As one enters the garden, one would find many smaller gardens each of which is a theme for a particular specie of the plant kingdom and thus there are gardens named as Cactus and Succulent, Rose, Azalea, Herb and Fragrance, Butterfly and Taniguchi Gardens, which consist of typical Japanese landscapes dotted with waterfalls, wooden bridges and lily ponds.
The Austin Duck Adventures is a package tour in which one can visit most of the important landmarks of the city in a one-of-a-kind amphibious military landing vehicle which can accommodate 45 passengers along with a tour guide on a single trip. The tourist spots which are visited are the State Capitol, the LBJ Library and Museum, the Governor's Mansion and a number of lakes in the city.
The Deep Eddy Pool is the favorite haunt of swimmers and water lovers because it consists of a large natural pool which draws it s supply from an artesian well. The fresh water pool features a deep end for the lap swimmers and a shallow end for the children and the waders and those with disabilities are recommended to call up in advance and request for handicap access.
The Austin Ghost Tours offer the visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the sordid past of the city featuring serial killers, law breakers and murderers. The tours cover the haunted locations and the spooky areas which are believed to be serving as the residences of the past citizens of the city who have no intentions of leaving even after having departed from this world.
The Wild Basin Wilderness Reserve is a 220-acre wildness preserve which was founded by seven women who used this venue to conduct science classes and practical experiments. This park permits only pedestrians who can embark on a trail which extends over two and a half miles and along the way one can sight a number of rare birds like the black capped vierus and the golden cheek warbler.
The Austin Steam Trains is a vintage passenger train whose interior decor is reminiscent of the 1920s' and 1950s' and which takes visitors on a day trip excursion. Sometimes, there are special excursions as well like mystery train for adults, storybook specials for children and trips to the local events and festivals.
The Lone Star Riverboat is a paddle riverboat which is a reflection of the mode of transportation used in the Southern states during the olden days and it takes tourists for a cruise on the Colorado River giving them an opportunity to see the city as it appears from a distance.
The Anne Keslo Salon and Spa is a must for people who wish to undergo hair, skin, nail and body treatments in a relaxing environment and a soothing decor which characterize a modern setting.
