1. LBJ Presidential Library

Welcome to the LBJ Presidential Library in beautiful Austin, Texas, where history and Texan charm blend together like the perfect margarita. Step inside this iconic library and museum, designed to make you feel like you've stepped back in time to the era of big hair, high-powered politics, and even bigger egos. Whether you're a history buff or just in search of some juicy political gossip, this place has got you covered - complete with an audio tour that's sure to make you feel like you're eavesdropping on Lyndon B. Johnson himself. So grab your cowboy hat, saddle up, and get ready for a Texan-sized dose of presidential history.

www.lbjlibrary.org

2. Austin Bats

Welcome to the batopias of Austin! Prepare to have your evenings illuminated in a way you didn't think was possible - with bats! Here, bats rule the night sky like winged celebrities, performing their nightly show like true divas. Behold the Congress Avenue Bridge, a veritable red carpet for the bat elite. Over a million Mexican free-tailed bats call this bridge their home, and boy, do they know how to make an entrance! So grab your picnic blanket, sit back, and enjoy this natural spectacle as bats swoop, loop, and dive in their airborne acrobatics, all while nonchalantly giving a nod to their adoring fans. But wait, there's more! For the true bat enthusiasts, head over to the city's iconic bat-watching facilities, like the awe-inspiring Bat Observation Center at the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge. Educate yourself on all things bat-related, from their unique social structures to their impressive navigational skills. Just remember, these bats don't just make their mark in the night sky; they're also Austin's original hipsters, so wear your most stylish bat-inspired attire to blend in.

www.austinbattours.com

3. 6th Street

Welcome to 6th Street in Austin, where the music flows like a river and the party never ends! This lively stretch of road can easily be mistaken for a never-ending fiesta, with its abundance of bars, clubs, and restaurants serving up tasty delights and awesome tunes. Prepare to embrace a melting pot of locals, tourists, and a few wild characters who are just trying to find their keys after a night of dancing like nobody's watching.

4. Barton Springs Pool

In the heart of Austin lies a natural oasis known as Barton Springs Pool, where the water is as refreshing as the air of a unicorn's breath. This magical watering hole boasts crystal-clear waters that make you question whether mermaids have secretly replaced your childhood swimming instructors. Prepare to bask in the sunshine while dodging enthusiastic belly-floppers, because at Barton Springs, even the most solemn of penguins can't resist a splash of pure joy.

www.austintexas.gov

5. Hamilton Pool Preserve

Welcome to Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural oasis tucked away in the outskirts of Austin! Imagine a giant taco-shaped swimming hole, formed by a collapsed underground river, sprinkled with a dash of picturesque waterfalls. Nature lovers and swimmers alike flock to this hidden gem to soak up the sun, cool off, and take selfies which will surely convince their friends they spent the afternoon in a tropical paradise, rather than Texas. Prepare yourself for a small adventure, as you embark on a short hike through a winding trail that may or may not have been designed by a mischievous one-legged armadillo with a keen sense of humor. Traverse the uneven terrain, avoiding the occasional rock strategically placed by the local squirrels to test your agility. But fret not, brave traveler, as the reward at the end is nothing short of spectacular – an otherworldly turquoise pool nestled below a dramatic limestone overhang, providing the perfect backdrop for your oh-so-artistic Instagram shots. While cooling off in the crystal-clear waters, remember to keep a watchful eye for the elusive yet friendly resident turtles, who have politely agreed to share their home with you. Just be prepared for a bit of comedic underwater ballet, as the turtles occasionally engage in a synchronized swimming routine that even the most talented Olympic swimmers can only envy. So take a moment to unwind, surrender to the enchanting beauty of Hamilton Pool Preserve, and let nature's little jesters make you laugh until your sunscreen-caked face hurts.

parks.traviscountytx.gov

6. South Congress Avenue

Welcome to South Congress Avenue, an eclectic and vibrant street that combines the weirdness of Austin with a sprinkle of hipsterism. Prepare to be greeted by an assortment of funky shops, vintage boutiques, and food trucks galore, like a bazaar from another dimension. As you wander down this trendy thoroughfare, keep an eye out for the iconic "Greetings From Austin" mural – perfect for Instagram bragging rights.

7. Lady Bird Lake

Welcome to Lady Bird Lake in Austin, the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to walk, jog, and bike while simultaneously enjoying the ever-present fear of being chased by a mischievous squirrel. With its mesmerizing turquoise waters, this urban oasis is perfect for those who love the thrill of watching ducks engage in a never-ending battle for the most stylish head feathers. So grab your running shoes, a squirrel-proof picnic blanket, and get ready to fall head over heels for this peculiarly captivating lake.

8. The Moody Theater

Welcome to the Moody Theater in Austin, where the twang of guitars and the buzz of live music collide in harmony! This dazzling venue, drenched in good vibes and perfectly tamed acoustics, is the perfect spot to satisfy your eardrum's cravings. Soak up the electric energy as the artists on stage fill the air with tunes that will make you feel like you've just discovered the secret to eternal happiness.

acllive.com

9. Graffiti Park at Castle Hill

Welcome to Graffiti Park at Castle Hill, a visual feast for the eyes and a paint-splattered playground for creatives! This quirky gem in Austin offers a kaleidoscope of color splashed across the walls, transforming Castle Hill into a giant canvas of urban art. Stroll through this open-air gallery, where every step introduces you to a new masterpiece or a mysterious message that will have you scratching your head in wonderment.

10. The Thinkery

Welcome to The Thinkery in Austin, where thinking is more than just a hobby - it's a way of life! This quirky, brainiac-friendly spot offers a delightful blend of interactive exhibits, nerdy brain teasers, and enough futuristic gadgets to make even the most serious nerd break into a happy dance. Step inside and let your imagination run wild as you navigate through this ultimate playground for the intellectually curious.

www.thinkeryaustin.org

11. Austin Zoo

Welcome to the Austin Zoo, where the animals are more Texan than a pair of cowboy boots at a rodeo! Nestled in the heart of Austin, this zoo may not be as big as the Texas sky, but it sure knows how to give you a wild, Texas-sized adventure. From longhorns to lemurs, prepare to be showered with facts as interesting as a Tex-Mex enchilada. Step into the Austin Zoo and leave your worries behind, because here the animals can’t help but make you chuckle. Say howdy to the resident capybaras who enjoy their pool parties more than they love the state fair. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, meet the squirrel monkeys who could win a gold medal in gymnastics with their acrobatic skills – it’s like watching a tiny circus in the heart of the Lone Star State! Unique and charming, the Austin Zoo is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. As you stroll around, don't be surprised if you catch a glimpse of a white-tailed deer giving you a sly wink or a wise old owl that may have partied a little too hard during Austin’s famous music festivals. So pack some sunscreen, leave room for a hearty breakfast taco, and get ready for a memorable day at the Austin Zoo – where the animals are as quirky as the city itself! Yeehaw!

12. Congress Avenue Bridge

Welcome to the quirky and lively Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin! Known as the Bat Bridge, this iconic structure is not your typical crossing; it's like a fruity cocktail with a twist. Immerse yourself in an enchanting display of nature as the bridge becomes the hangout spot for thousands of bats, causing a sight that's battier than your wildest dreams. Oh, and if you're a fan of bat puns, buckle up, because this is where Batman gets his wingman material. Don't forget your camera – it's where winged wonders and puzzled tourists collide, leaving you with an unforgettable photo op that'll make all your friends bat-jealous.

13. Bullock Texas State History Museum

Welcome to the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin! Step into this magnificent blast-from-the-past palace and prepare to time-travel through Texas history faster than a Texan on a rodeo bull. With exhibits as big and bold as the state itself, you'll be amazed at how much you can learn about cowboys, oil tycoons, and even the mysterious art of line-dancing. Don't forget to giddy up to the snack bar, where they serve nachos so loaded you'll need a forklift to finish 'em!

www.thestoryoftexas.com

14. Texas State Capitol

Welcome to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, where everything is bigger, including the people's love for barbecue and longhorns! This magnificent building stands tall, proudly claiming the title of the largest state capitol in the entire darn country. With its distinctive reddish-pink granite exterior, it's hard to miss - just like spotting a cowboy wearing a ten-gallon hat in a sea of baseball caps. Once you step inside, prepare to be awe-struck by the grandeur of the rotunda, where you can't help but feel like a tiny ant in a supersized Tex-Mex burrito.

tspb.texas.gov

15. Austin City Limits Live

Welcome to Austin City Limits Live, where the music is so incredible that even the most tone-deaf visitors will find themselves tapping along! Nestled in the heart of Austin, this lively venue will leave you gasping for breath as the electrifying beats shake your (somewhat rhythm-challenged) soul. Whether you're a fan of country twang, rock 'n' roll riffs, or a bit of everything in between, this musical haven guarantees an unforgettable experience that will have you dancing like nobody's watching (except maybe the security guards, so try to keep it somewhat dignified).

acllive.com

16. Rainey Street Historic District

Welcome to Austin's Rainey Street Historic District, where the motto is "Keep calm and party on!" This lively neighborhood offers a unique blend of hipster hangouts, quirky bars, and food trucks that will leave your taste buds as thrilled as a kid in a candy store. Explore the vibrant streets lined with colorful bungalows turned charming watering holes, and be prepared to witness a social scene that's cooler than a penguin's pajamas – Rainey Street is a must-visit for any self-respecting adventurer seeking endless fun and a tad bit of weirdness.

17. Mount Bonnell

Nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, Mount Bonnell is like the distant cousin of mountains; it's not too tall, but hey, at least it tried. Ascending its modest 775-foot summit might not require Sherpas, but it's a great way to burn off last night's queso indulgence. And let me tell you, the panoramic views of the city skyline and the lazy Colorado River are worth every step, or as we locals say, "worth more selfies than you can shake a selfie-stick at!"

18. The Domain

Welcome to The Domain in Austin, where urban sophistication meets retail therapy in a charmingly extravagant way. Prepare to be awestruck by this shopping haven, where the pursuit of the perfect outfit is taken as seriously as finding the right avocado at Whole Foods. Stroll along the designer stores, sipping your artisanal latte, and indulge in the guilty pleasure of people-watching—here, it's not just a pastime, it's an Olympic sport.

www.simon.com

19. The University of Texas at Austin

Welcome to the vibrant city of Austin, where legends are born and dreams are fueled by salsa and barbecue. Nestled amongst the hipsters, techies, and musicians lies The University of Texas at Austin, a campus so large it could easily be mistaken for its own country. Prepare to embark on a wild adventure through Longhorn territory, where football reigns supreme and burnt orange is practically the official uniform. So, dust off your cowboy boots and get ready to chant "Hook 'em Horns" as you dive headfirst into the quirky and charismatic world of UT Austin.

www.utexas.edu

20. Zilker Park

Nestled in the heart of Austin, Zilker Park is the ultimate hangout spot for those seeking a delightful blend of nature and city life. As you step into the park, prepare to have your breath taken away (but not literally because breathing is important). With its sprawling green fields, sparkling waters of Barton Creek, and a festival-like atmosphere, Zilker Park will make you wonder if you've stumbled into a land where picnics and Frisbee battles are the highest forms of art.

www.austintexas.gov