Located on the University of Texas campus, the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum is the physical historical repository of the life and presidency of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson, and his wife, Lady Bird Johnson. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in American history, politics, or the transformative 1960s era.
If walls could talk, those of the Continental Club Austin on South Congress Avenue would surely spin tales not only of the many talented musicians who have graced it’s stage, but as witness of Austin’s musical history over the past 65 years.
From the green paths of Zilker Botanical Garden to the iconic Texas State Capitol to swimming holes in the Hill Country, Austin is packed with places that blend history, art, and nature in unique ways. Whether you're into checking out cool art, stepping back in history, or enjoying the great outdoors, get ready to discover what makes Austin stand out and why you don't want to miss these 27 things to do in Austin!
While nothing makes you appreciate Austin swimming pools like the Texas summer heat, lots of people like to swim year round. The City of Austin keeps five public swimming pools open all through the year. Three of these Austin swimming pools are heated. And one of them sits over an underground hot water spring!
Austin candy store Lammes Candies was founded in 1885 within walking distance of the Texas state Capitol building and is still owned and operated by the Lammes family. The candy factory may be on Airport Boulevard now, but Lammes chocolate candies are still Austin favorites.
Located in the central Austin's Hyde Park neighborhood, the Elisabet Ney Museum tells at least part of the story of artist Elisabet Ney. Known throughout Europe for her sculptures in the mid 1800’s, Ney mysteriously dropped out of sight for a number of years to then reappear in Texas, where she revitalized her career on a national level at age 60. Admission to the limestone castle that served as her Austin studio and home is free.
Zilker Botanical Garden Austin is centrally located and a great way to spend a couple of hours exploring themed gardens, koi ponds and scenic overlooks of downtown Austin. This Austin Botanical Garden is also close to Barton Springs, the Austin Nature Center & Science Center, and Umlauf Sculpture Garden. Once you find parking or get dropped off, all of the Austin attractions in Zilker Metropolitan Park are within reasonable walking distance.
