HOPE is a collection of artists dedicated to making the world a more beautiful place, and they've made great strides in Austin. A previously desolate part of the city now exudes color and personality thanks to both local and international talents who've covered crumbling walls in bright, colorful panoramas.

Graffiti artists and muralists collaborate to create a masterpiece on the concrete walls that were once a blank canvas. According to those who've visited, the portraits are "mesmerizing" and "awe-inspiring." Each piece presents a different inspirational or educational message, and the collaborative piece is growing all the time. It doesn't hurt that HOPE Outdoor Gallery overlooks Austin's skyline, another breathtaking masterpiece in its own right. So if you have an afternoon to spare and you're looking for a photo op, head to this fresh-air gallery in downtown Austin.

HOPE Outdoor Gallery
1101 Baylor Street
Austin, TX 78703
www.hopecampaign.org/hopeprojects/hope-outdoor-gallery
www.yelp.com/biz/hope-outdoor-gallery-austin

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Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate Mom! Are you doing anything special for your mother today?

Wink Restaurant is a fun, fresh and creative eatery in Austin that is consistently voted one of the top restaurants in the city. The kitchen operates on a farm-to-table system, sourcing almost all of its seasonal ingredients from local farms and suppliers in order to create dishes that are distinctly Austin.

The menu at Wink changes just about every day, and it often includes unique combinations such as grilled quail with coconut and lamb sausage and chilled poached flounder with white bean salad. There are also always a few options for vegetarian guests. At the bar, Wink focuses on wines from across Texas and around the world, and you’ll even find additional seating in this more casual area of the restaurant.

The next time you want to celebrate an occasion, have a hearty meal, a decadent dessert, and a perfect wine pairing at this beloved eatery.

Wink
1014 N. Lamar Blvd
Austin, TX 78703
(512) 482-8868
www.winkrestaurant.com
www.yelp.com/biz/wink-austin

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