Austin is a city teeming with art, culture, and well…weirdness. It’s why we love it. Quirks and all. From gardens to towering cathedrals of junk, Austin truly has it all. That being said here are some of the best places in the Austin area that absolutely everyone should visit.
Things to Do
10 Places Around Austin Everyone Should Visit
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1. The Cathedral of Junk
Photo: freefuninaustin.com
The Cathedral of Junk brings new meaning to the phrase,”one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” This eccentric bungalow is a haven of unique knick-knacks and wonderful pieces of scrap metal. A visually stunning example of recycling at it’s finest.
2. The Driskill Hotel
Photo: driskillhotel.com
The Driskill Hotel was built in 1886 and is a jewel in the crown of downtown Austin. Spend a week, spend a weekend, or simply enjoy a cocktail at the bar. Either way, it is a fantastic place to explore.
3. Krause Springs
Photo: krausesprings.net
Located in Spicewood, Texas, this spectacular camping location is a mecca of stunning scenic views. It is an absolute gem.
4. The Natural Gardener
Photo: naturalgardeneraustin.com
A breathtaking panorama of beauty complete with a butterfly garden bursting with flowers and winding trails that lead through fantastic foliage no matter what the season may be.
5. The HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Photo: hopecampaign.org
This collaborative art project is a community paint park that is constantly evolving. This educational project was started in March 2011 with the help of contemporary artist Shepard Fairey. The primary goal of the HOG is, “to provide muralists, street artists, arts education classes and community groups the opportunity to display large scale art pieces driven by inspirational, positive & educational messaging” (hopecampaign.org).
6. Mayfield Park
Photo: Facebook/Mayfield Park
Among the hiking trails shaded by trees and numerous ponds replete with lily pads roams a family of peacocks. Now, who doesn’t love peacocks?
7. The Inner Space Caverns
Photo: Facebook/Inner Space Cavern
Undiscovered for thousands of years then finally discovered by the Texas Highway Department in 1963 during the construction of Interstate 35. What a discovery it was. These majestic caverns are a sight to behold. A variety of tours are available – just don’t forget your walking shoes.
8. Zilker Botanical Garden
Photo: Facebook/Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Botanical Gardens boasts, “26 acres of diverse topography depicting different habitats and displaying an array of native, hybrid and exotic plants” (zilkergarden.org). It’s an ideal spot to find that all too elusive inner peace.
9. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden
Photo: Facebook/UmlaufSculpture
Not far from Zilker Botanical Gardens lies the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. This enchanted space celebrates the life and work of sculptor, Charles Umlauf. Today it shows his work and the work of other contemporary sculptors in a natural setting. Meanwhile, the on-site museum provides educational experiences that promote the understanding and appreciation of sculpture.
10. Sweet Berry Farm
Photo: Facebook/Sweet Berry Farm
Sweet Berry Farm is a haven for family fun. A “pick your own strawberry farm” in the spring and a pumpkin patch in the fall, there is never a bad time to visit.
