Austin: Things To Do

Barton Springs Pool Located in Zilker Park, the city’s undisputed gem is fed by underground springs. The year-round 68-degree waters are popular with top triathletes and families alike. Downtown; 2101 Barton Springs Rd.; 512-867-3080; www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks
family | budget | park

Congress Avenue bats Austin hosts North America’s largest Mexican free-tailed bat colony. More than a million of them swoop out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge just after sunset from March until November. First St. & Congress Ave.; www.batcon.org
family | culture | wildlife

Lake Austin Spa Resort This lake resort is known as one of the top destination spas for its impeccable service, mouth-watering cuisine and Hill Country views over gorgeous Lake Austin. Lake Austin; 1705 South Quinlan Park Rd.; 512-372-7300; www.lakeaustin.com
spas | smart splurge | expensive

Mexican American Cultural Center After 30 years of planning and acquiring, this 126,000 square-foot tribute to Latino and Native American traditions opened in fall 2007, offering exhibits, performances and classes in the arts. Downtown; 600 River St.; 512-478-6222; www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks
family | new | budget | history

Texas State Capitol Of course it’s taller than the U.S. Capitol building – this is Texas, after all. Overlooking Congress Avenue, this stunning example of 19th -century architecture has a “Sunset Red” pink granite exterior and incredible rotunda detailing. Downtown; 1100 Congress Ave.; 512-305-8400; www.tspb.state.tx.us
family | tour | history

The Blanton Museum of Art New in 2006, the Blanton houses 17,000 works of art, including modern, Latin American, Renaissance and Baroque pieces, 20th-Century American artworks, and 15th-century prints. University of Texas; 200 East MLK at Congress Ave.; 512-471-5482; www.blantonmuseum.org
culture | tour | art

Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake Austinites love this 351-acre park centered around Lady Bird Lake for its walking trails, sports fields, city views, spring kite festival, fall music festival and December Christmas tree. Downtown; 2100 Barton Springs Rd.; www.ci.austin.tx.us/zilker
family | festival | park | recreation