Adventure in Austin, Texas!

6th Street

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits on Austin’s Iconic 6th Street

Welcome to the pulsating heart of Austin, Texas – 6th Street. Renowned for its eclectic blend of live music, vibrant nightlife, and historic sites, 6th Street offers an adventure-packed experience that’s quintessentially Austin. Here’s how to make the most of your dynamic tour.

Morning: Fuel Up and Explore

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Easy Tiger, located at 709 E 6th St. Delight in artisan pastries and strong coffee to energize your exploration. Afterward, stroll down to Waterloo Park, just a 10-minute walk away. Here you can engage in a morning jog or a leisurely walk around the newly revitalized park, which hosts various live events in a state-of-the-art amphitheater.

Midday: Cultural Immersion

Head towards the Driskill Hotel, a legendary site built in 1886, showcasing stunning Romanesque architecture. Dive into a guided tour to uncover ghost stories and tales of historic happenings. Don’t miss the 1886 Café & Bakery inside for a quick bite in an atmosphere brimming with old-world charm.

Afternoon: Adventure on Wheels

Rent a bike from MetroCycle Pedicabs at the corner of Red River and 4th Street, and pedal your way along the bustling streets. The mobility and speed will allow you to absorb the eclectic mix of street art, vintage shops, and unique bars that line this famous street.

Evening: Sunset and Sounds

As the sun sets, settle in at a rooftop bar like The Blind Pig Pub, offering panoramic views of 6th Street. Enjoy live music, which is the soul of Austin, with genres ranging from rock to country and jazz.

Night: Dive into the Nightlife

Conclude your adventure by diving into the vibrant nightlife. Clubs like Maggie Mae’s and Barbarella offer lively dance floors and diverse music, ensuring your 6th Street exploration ends on a high note.

Every corner of 6th Street pulses with adventure, cultural depth, and the legendary Texan spirit. Enjoy your journey through Austin"s most famous street!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Driskill Hotel (The Driskill)

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover"s Guide to The Driskill

Welcome to The Driskill, the grand dame of Austin"s hotels, where luxury meets history in the heart of Texas. Built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, this Romanesque-style masterpiece is not only a place to stay but a portal to the past and an anchor for thrilling experiences around Austin.

Morning: Haunted History Tour

Start your day with a jolt by exploring the allegedly haunted halls of The Driskill itself. Gather in the opulent lobby at 9 AM for a guided tour that delves into the hotel"s ghost stories and storied past. Learn about the spirits of past guests who never checked out, including the mysterious "Suicide Brides" on the fifth floor.

Midday: Urban Exploration

Post-tour, grab a quick lunch at the 1886 Café & Bakery inside the hotel, then step outside to explore. Rent a bike from one of the many B-cycle stations nearby and pedal north to the Texas State Capitol. Tours are free, and its grounds are perfect for a midday stroll. It"s a 10-minute ride via Congress Avenue, lined with shops and sites.

Afternoon: Lady Bird Lake Adventure

Next, head to Lady Bird Lake for some water-based fun. Just a 15-minute bike ride from The Driskill, this reservoir offers stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Paddle under the Congress Avenue Bridge for a unique view of the largest urban bat colony in North America, which emerges at dusk.

Evening: Return to The Driskill

Cap off your day with dinner at The Driskill Grill, where you can enjoy some of Texas’s finest cuts and savor flavors that match the adventure of the day. As the sun sets, the hotel"s baroque furnishings and storied walls provide a perfect backdrop to reflect on a day well-spent exploring Austin’s heart and soul.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lady Bird Lake

Why Visit?

Lady Bird Lake Adventure Itinerary

Morning

Start your adventure at Lady Bird Lake, a shimmering oasis nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat, ideally before 9 AM. Head to the Rowing Dock (2418 Stratford Dr), easily accessible by car or a short ride from downtown via CapMetro bus 30. Here, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the serene waters. As you paddle, keep an eye out for the lush greenery and the diverse bird species that call this area home.

Midday

After a couple of hours on the water, dock your kayak and dry off for a stroll along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. This 10-mile loop encircles the lake, offering spectacular views and a perfect path for both casual walkers and avid joggers. Access the trail directly from multiple points around the lake; a popular starting point is near the Rowing Dock. Don’t miss the Boardwalk segment for a picturesque view of the Austin skyline.

Lunch

By midday, you’ll be ready for a bite. Pack a picnic to enjoy under the shade of a pecan tree, or head to nearby Alta’s Cafe (74 Trinity St), accessible via a scenic walk along the trail towards the eastern shore of the lake. Alta’s offers refreshing salads, sandwiches, and a great selection of local beers.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, dive into the cultural side of the lake by visiting the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue, a tribute to the legendary musician, located on the south shore. Reach it by continuing on the trail, a leisurely 30-minute walk from Alta’s Cafe. Indulge in some relaxed bird-watching or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the lake’s surroundings.

Evening

Conclude your day with a sunset paddle. The lake"s glassy surface in the evening makes for a stunning end to an active day. Rent a paddleboard or kayak if you returned yours earlier, or simply enjoy the hues of the sunset from one of the boardwalk’s viewing areas.

Interesting Fact: Lady Bird Lake was named in honour of Lady Bird Johnson, the former First Lady who was an ardent supporter of beautification projects and the conservation of natural landscapes across America.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Barton Springs

Why Visit?

Welcome to the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas, where the jewel of your adventure awaits at Barton Springs, a natural limestone pool fed by underground springs. Renowned for its invigorating 68°F (20°C) year-round water temperature, this iconic spot promises not just a refreshing dip but also a plunge into the local culture and history.

Morning Dip and Exploration

Start your adventure early to relish the serene morning atmosphere of Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Easily accessible by public transit, bike, or car, with ample parking available, the pool opens at 5 AM. Swim laps or simply float and enjoy the natural setting, which is believed to have been a sacred gathering place for Native American tribes.

Trail Time

Post-swimming, dry off and head for a hike along the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Access the trailhead near the pool entrance; here, you can choose from multiple trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Greenbelt is a haven for outdoor lovers, featuring limestone cliffs, dense foliage, and occasional waterfalls. It"s a popular spot for rock climbing and mountain biking as well.

Picnic Lunch

By midday, return to Zilker Park and enjoy a picnic with local treats from nearby Barton Springs Road. Grab a bite from one of the food trucks or pack your own lunch to enjoy under the shade of towering oak trees.

Cultural Wrap-up

In the afternoon, immerate yourself in Austin"s culture by visiting the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, located a short walk from the pool. Explore the numerous bronze and stone pieces by American sculptor Charles Umlauf that blend seamlessly with the Texas landscape.

Evening Soak

End your day back at Barton Springs Pool for a leisurely swim as the sun sets. The evening hours often bring a more relaxed crowd, perfect for savoring the last strokes in this natural oasis.

Barton Springs is not just a pool but a gateway to Austin’s soul — refreshing, adventurous, and endlessly inviting. Come and discover this natural wonder, woven deeply into the fabric of Austin life.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

LBJ Presidential Library

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits: Journey Through History at the LBJ Presidential Library

Begin your excursion into the heart of American history with a visit to the LBJ Presidential Library, located in Austin, Texas. Nestled on the campus of the University of Texas, this monumental library is not only a treasure trove of political history but also a beacon of educational innovation and cultural richness.

Getting There

Austin is well-connected by air with the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. From the airport, take a taxi or an Uber for a quick 20-minute ride to the university area. If you prefer public transit, the Capital Metro bus service has routes that connect the airport to downtown, where you can switch to a bus heading towards the University of Texas. For those driving, the library is situated at 2313 Red River St and offers ample parking.

Your Adventure Itinerary

Start your morning with an energizing walk through the University of Texas campus, soaking in the vibrant student life and scenic architecture. Arrive at the LBJ Library when doors open to beat the crowds.

Inside the LBJ Library

Delve into the extensive exhibits detailing the life and times of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Engage with interactive displays like the replica of the Oval Office, and don’t miss the poignant Civil Rights exhibit, which highlights the significant legislation passed during LBJ"s administration. An intriguing fact for adventure lovers: LBJ was known for his high-speed car rides across his ranch, which visitors can learn about through personal anecdotes featured in the library.

Post-Visit Exploration

Cap off your visit with a stroll to nearby Eastwoods Park, perfect for reflecting on your historical journey or enjoying a peaceful picnic.

Whether you"re a history buff or an adventure seeker, the LBJ Presidential Library offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal era of American politics, set against the backdrop of one of Texas"s most dynamic cities.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.