Austin combines its “Keep Austin Weird” counter-culture roots with its status as a sophisticated state capital and high-tech hub. While famous as the Live Music Capital of the World, the city’s appeal extends into world-class Presidential history, significant art collections, and a deep-seated love for the outdoors. Whether you are looking to swim in spring-fed pools or explore the complex history of the Lone Star State, these guides provide the practical logistics—including ticket prices, parking, and visitor tips—needed to navigate the heart of Texas.
Austin Culture and History
Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum: The story of Texas: Plan your visit to this essential museum that tells the “Story of Texas” through three floors of interactive exhibits and the historic Goddess of Liberty statue.
LBJ Presidential Library: Exploring the legacy of Lyndon B. Johnson: A practical guide to visiting one of Austin’s most significant cultural landmarks, located on the University of Texas campus.
Blanton Museum of Art: Austin’s premier art collection: What to know before visiting one of the largest university art museums in the US, including its famous “Austin” installation by Ellsworth Kelly.
Texas Science and Natural History Museum: Fossils and biodiversity: Logistics for visiting this recently renovated museum, featuring the Texas Pterosaur and the state’s diverse natural heritage.
Outdoor Austin and Nature
Barton Springs Pool: Swimming in Austin’s natural soul: Essential tips for visiting this three-acre underground-spring-fed pool, including entry fees, seasonal hours, and the best times to avoid the crowds.
Mount Bonnell: The best views of Lake Austin: How to find and climb one of Austin’s highest points for panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding hill country.
McKinney Falls State Park: Cascading waterfalls in the city: A guide to exploring the Upper and Lower Falls, including hiking trails and swimming information for this urban state park.
Texas and New Mexico Road Trips
Dallas to Austin Drive: Best stops and routes: Planning the classic I-35 journey, including distance, drive time, and where to pull over for the best barbecue and Czech stops.
Fort Worth to Austin Drive: Travel time and highlights: A practical breakdown of the drive from the Stockyards to the Capitol, featuring recommended detours.
Amarillo to Austin Road Trip: Crossing the Panhandle: A detailed guide to the long drive across Texas, including essential stops and realistic expectations for the journey.
Lubbock to Austin Drive: Routes and journey times: Logistics for travelling from the South Plains to Central Texas.
Austin to Galveston: Coastal road trip stops: Plan your journey from the Hill Country to the Gulf Coast with these three recommended highlights.
Austin to Albuquerque: The ultimate Southwest road trip: Everything you need to know about driving from Central Texas into New Mexico, including the best stops along the way.
