Two Day Trips From Austin, Texas

August 7, 2013 by greystar

Austin is full of enough culture to keep you quite busy, but if you're interested in venturing outside of the city, there are a few places worth visiting just a short distance away. Take a break from the hustle and bustle with one of these great day trips. Have a little fun, and explore all that Texas has to offer.

Splish-and-Splash
Cool off with a visit to Schlitterbahn Water Park. Kids and adults can enjoy the numerous rides like water slides and raft rides. There is even a pool with a swim up bar for grown-ups. From April to September take a fun filled day trip to this amusement park located in New Braunfels.

Enjoy Great BBQ
Treat your stomach to something delicious, and visit the barbeque capital of Texas in nearby Lockhart. Stop by each of the four famous BBQ joints for a taste test, and see which is your favorite. Digest your food as you stroll through the nearby park, or play golf on the 9-hole course. Come during wildflower season to enjoy your food with beautiful scenery.

I, KENPEI [GFDL (www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html), CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) or CC-BY-SA-2.5-2.0-1.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: Austin Attractions, Things to Do in Austin, Travel

Lone Star Farmers Market: Local, Farm Fresh and Affordable

July 9, 2013 by greystar

Lone Star Farmers Market is the place to be every Sunday out at the Lowe’s parking lot at the Galleria. The parking lot transforms into an exciting cornucopia of local small farms, food vendors, and plenty of entertainment to keep you wishing every day was Sunday. You can try everything from lamb tamales to olive oil gelato, all of which is delectable. Make sure and bring the kids so they can come meet the local vendors and farmers, and then of course get their faces painted and maybe even stick around for the petting zoo. This farmers market does it all, and you never feel rushed or like it’s too crowded. The vendors are there ready to show you what they do, teach you about the virtues of their products and answer any questions you may have. It’s hard to think of a better way to support your neighbors and get quality affordable goods at the same time.

Lone Star Farmers Market
12611 Shops Parkway
Bee Cave, Texas 78738
(512) 924-7503
https://www.facebook.com/LoneStarFarmersMarket

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Farmers Markets, Lone Star Farmers Market, Things to Do in Austin

AMOA Arthouse

June 4, 2013 by greystar

AMOA Arthouse is an expansive environment where visitors can explore a range of modern and contemporary art. The minimalist building and subject matter adds a touch of big city flavor to Austin’s burgeoning modern art scene. Upcoming exhibits include the work of Nick Cave, who creatively fashions assemblage sculptures called ‘Soundsuits’ out of hooked rugs, toys, twigs, hair, twigs, sequins and beads. Lectures, movies and music series are also hosted at the museum. Become a member and you can stop by their rooftop patio on Wednesdays for a glass of wine or beer – BYOB – and a fantastic view of downtown Austin. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is a suggested donation of $5.

AMOA Arthouse
Jones Center
700 Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 453-5312
http://www.yelp.com/biz/arthouse-austin

Art, Modern Art, Art Gallery

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: AMOA Arthouse, Art Galleries, Austin Attractions, Things to Do in Austin

The Backyard: An Austin Tradition

May 10, 2013 by greystar

One of the area’s most historic music venues is The Backyard. First opening its doors in 1993, the venue has hosted some of the biggest names in contemporary music, including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, David Bowie and more. The natural open-air amphitheater is an amazing place to see a concert, building a sense of community among showgoers that continues even after you go home. The Backyard hosts a number of Austin’s best food trucks during shows and features seven separate bars for you to get your drink on at. Another awesome thing about the Backyard is their commitment to environmentally sound practices, reducing waste, recycling and using green energy whenever possible. If you’re going with a group, make sure to carpool – cars with more than 3 people park for free.

The Backyard at Bee Cave
13801 Bee Cave Parkway
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 651-5033
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-backyard-at-bee-cave-bee-cave

By Knipsermann (33 Umin) [CC-BY-2.0-de], via Wikimedia Commons This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Germany License.

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Music Venues, The Backyard, Things to Do in Austin

Hill Country Galleria: Charming Retail

April 29, 2013 by greystar

Bee Cave locals are lucky to have the Hill County Galleria as their local mall. The perfectly manicured facilities are filled with local shops, food and entertainment. Anchored by Barnes & Noble, Dillard’s, Whole Foods and Dick’s Sporting Goods, there’s something for everyone here. Regular cinemagoers suggest that the mall hosts one the best movie theaters in the area. The space also hosts free summer concerts in the pavilion with plenty of parking behind the shops. For those wanting to walk off their lunch, you can stroll through the entire shopping area outside with the light winds coming up over the hill to keep it from getting too hot. For a day of retail therapy or a family outing for some shopping and food, Hill Country Galleria has it all.

Hill Country Galleria
12700 Hill Country Boulevard
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-0001
http://www.yelp.com/biz/hill-country-galleria-bee-cave

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Hill Country Galleria, Malls, Shopping, Things to Do in Austin

Mandola’s Italian Market: The Perfect Mix

March 20, 2013 by greystar

Touted as the perfect combination of an Italian restaurant, deli, market, and bakery, Mandola’s Italian Market is sure to have something you will fall in love with. How many places in Austin can you walk into and buy a fresh Italian cookie, a cup of gelato, or sit down and enjoy an authentic Italian pasta dish? Their regulars call the tortellini moda mia with Pancetta love at first bite, and don’t forget to have them slice you up some prosciutto. Mandola’s in Bee Cave has it all and more. Locals love this spot for any event including family dinners (where they offer pint-sized seating and menus), or just a snack and cup of coffee. Don’t forget about Sundays where freshly poured mimosas are only $2 until 5pm. If you want to share this delectable Italian food with your friends, they also offer full service catering and delivery if you are in a rush but need your Mandola’s fix.

Mandola's Italian Market
12815 Shops Pkwy
Ste 400
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 600-8500
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mandolas-italian-market-bee-cave

Filed Under: Restaurants Tagged With: Grocery Stores, Mandola’s Italian Market, Shopping, Things to Do in Austin

The Best Spot for Recreation in Austin: Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail

January 29, 2013 by greystar

Get a dose of fresh air as you take in the amazing sites of Austin from the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail. Whether you walk, run, or bike, there are 193 miles of well paved, accessible trails running through many different areas of the city. Run along paths with scenic views of Austin, ride along energizing creeks and colorful patches of bright flowers. Ride in freedom from traffic, runners, and walkers on The Veloway, a 3.17 mile paved trail that is made just for bikes and rollerblades. Outdoor recreation is available on the Town Lake trail year-round, and trail maps and additional details are available here.

By Henri Bergius from Finland (Walking) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Austin Attractions, Parks, Things to Do in Austin, Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail

Visit the Mexic-Arte Museum For a Dose of Art and Culture

January 9, 2013 by greystar

For a heaping dose of Mexican culture, visit the Mexic-Arte Museum, the official Mexican and Mexican-American Fine Art Museum of Texas. With works ranging from pottery to portraits by Mexican, Latino, and Latin-American artists, the museum serves as a cultural education oasis for children and adults alike. See the work of famous Mexican artiss like Jose Chaves Morado and Roberto Montenegro, and make sure to catch the museum’s annual summer show, which showcases the work of Young Latino Artists. The museum also holds art classes, guided tours, and gallery talks throughout the year to enrich the community, and admission is only $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and only $1 for children 12 and under.

Mexic-Arte Museum
419 Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 480-9373

By Tomas Castelazo (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Austin Attractions, Mexic-Arte Museum, Museums, Things to Do in Austin

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Floral Paradise

December 24, 2012 by greystar

The late Lady Bird Johnson, wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency, recognized the losses posed to our ecosystem and our sense of beauty should important plant species disappear. That’s why in 1982, Johnson founded the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. The Wildflower Center's since become not just an educational center and preserve for wildflowers, but one of the preeminent wildflower research institutions in the country. Visitors can tour the acres of flowers and learn about their unique places in the ecosystem. They can attend some of the center’s special events like shows put on by local Texas artists and even do some holiday shopping at the winter bazaar. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center also puts on a yearly Halloween show, perfectly situated on its rustic grounds!

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
4801 La Crosse Avenue
Austin, TX 78739
(512) 232-0100

By Dcrjsr (Own work) [GFDL or CC-BY-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Austin Attractions, Botanical Gardens, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Things to Do in Austin

Trail of Lights is back!

December 6, 2012 by greystar

The City of Austin has decided to bring back the Trail of lights, no matter how old you are this is always a fun time and is great with friends, family, and loved ones alike. Here are the dates for the trail of lights:
Theme Nights

Saturday, December 15th, 6:30 pm
Trail of Lights 5k Race Presented by Humana

The Trail of Lights 5k Presented by Humana will take participants past the Zilker Tree, through the Austin Nature and Science Center, and into the Trail of Lights the night before it opens to the public. Register with your family and friends today and celebrate the return of the Trail of Lights to the Austin community! Register Here

Sunday December 16th
GRAND OPENING Night

“Light It Up!” Special Opening Ceremony Activities at the Trial Head starting at 6:00 pm, doors open at 6:30pm
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Monday December 17th
Military Appreciation Night
Come out to support our service men and women tonight.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Tuesday December 18th
Uniquely Austin Night
Who knows what you’ll see on the Trail tonight? One thing is certain, it’s sure to be unique!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Wednesday December 19th
Heritage Night
Celebrating the many different heritages found in our diverse city.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Thursday December 20th
School Spirit Night
Wear your school colors and show your school spirit at the Trail tonight!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Friday December 21st
Caroling Night
presented by Samsung Austin Semiconductor

Come join us as we attempt to break the world record for the most carolers singing together!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Saturday December 22nd
Santa/Elf Night
Show your holiday spirit! Don your favorite set of elf ears, Santa Hat, or reindeer antlers for a stroll down the Trail.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Sunday December 23rd
GRAND FINALE Night
Last chance to see the lights- pack up the family and come on down for one last look!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Text ATXLIGHT to 20222 to donate $10 to the Trail of Lights Giving Fund

Giving Fund
Make a donation to the Trail of Lights Giving Fund to support the 23 Trail of Lights nonprofit partners. Each $25 donation receives the Trail of Lights official wristband, giving wearers free shuttle rides and 10% off merchandise at the Trail of Lights.

Filed Under: Things To Do Tagged With: Things to Do in Austin, Trail of Lights, Trail of Lights is back