Austin

Keep it Weird has become a mantra for Austin, and if you spend much time there, you will understand why. Austin embraces diversity, eclectic thinking, interesting architecture and the oddest food combinations you can imagine…but these weird combinations work!

Situated in Texas Hill Country, day trips will find you visiting Enchanted Rock, hundreds of shops in Fredericksburg, visiting The Alamo in San Antonio, or Pedernales Falls State Park. Hiking trails in and around Austin are abundant, and walks along Lady Bird Lake and Lake Austin are a must. The middle picture is a picture of the Commerce Bridge bats that all fly out at once when it hits dusk. Another must see event–consider a tour a Segway Tour that includes the bat experience.

Lake Travis is a large lake on the north end of Austin, and due to its rocky basin, the water is clear, and the boating is a blast! One morning I decided to take our jet ski out early when the water was smooth as glass and I could glide along at 40 miles an hour. As you can see, the lake snakes around and I took it to its western most edge that day. By the time I got back to the dock the boats were out and the waves rough!

Another must-do activity in Austin is to visit Zilker Park, a 350-acre urban park where you can kayak or paddle board on Lady Bird Lake, or take a dip in natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool.

A couple other must-do's include South Congress Avenue where you will be immersed in Austin's culture at eclectic boutique stores, art galleries and incredible places to eat. Rainey Street is a lively entertainment district with bars, restaurants, and live music.

Hiking opportunities abound in Austin, and probably are the things we miss the most from when we lived in Austin. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of our favorite hiking places due to its diversity in terrain. We would also highly suggest the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, St. Edward's Park, and River Place Nature Trail.

There are so many things to do in Austin that maybe an experience isn't necessary, but if you don't have days to spend, one of these might give you a great taste for what Austin has to offer.

While you are in Austin, also consider a trip down to the Gulf Coast, or historic San Antonio.