Two of the most popular national parks near Austin, Texas, span hundreds of years of Texan pride. Marvel at ancient architecture right in the city before venturing out of the metropolitan area to explore the grounds of the home of a beloved U.S. President.
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is an all-encompassing look at the life of our 36th president. In one of the two divisions of the park, you can visit his birthplace and stop by his first school. Fourteen miles away is the notable LBJ Ranch, the home where he spent a significant portion of his presidency. Visitors can explore this “Texas White House” on a self-guided tour any day of the week.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Right in the heart of Austin lies San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. History buffs will love to take a tour of the Mission Concepcion, a battleground from the Texas Revolution. Also located in the park is the Espada Acequia, a 270-year-old irrigation system built by Franciscan friars.