Austin Attractions

Austin attractions include interesting historic buildings, exciting entertainment districts, a host of excellent museums, one of the best capitol buildings in the country, and so much more. Hailed as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin definitely caters to music lovers, and for fans of the great outdoors, the recreational opportunities are almost endless. Finding a tourist attraction in Austin that fits your taste and preferences won't be hard, and since San Antonio is only about 80 miles away, you might look to combine the two destinations on your Central Texas escape.

Austin Texas entertainment comes in many different forms, and there might not be a better live music city in the entire country. Big time acts pass through the Texas capital all the time, as well as scores of lesser-known acts, and various venues are on hand to host them. There are more than 200 live music venues to choose from in the Austin area, and they include the Long Center for the Performing Arts, the historic Paramount Theater, and a number of clubs and bars.

It is possible to see a live music performance on almost any given night in Austin, with SXSW and Austin City Limits being music-based festivals that essentially turn the city into one big concert stage. When it comes to Austin Texas entertainment, some of the hot spots include the 6th Street Entertainment District, the Warehouse District, the South Congress District (SoCo), and the University of Texas at Austin District.

If you are seeking a tourist attraction in Austin in Downtown, there are many. They include some of the top entertainment districts. Congress Avenue is the main Downtown street, and at its northern end sits the Texas Capitol. This beautiful building is the largest state capitol in the country, and understandably so, many tourists choose to take a tour of it. Not far from the Capitol Building, those who are exploring the Downtown area will find the Bob Bullock Texas History Museum, and it too deserves a look. Excellent museums figure among the Austin attractions, and for those who are enjoying a family vacation, a stop at the Austin Children's Museum is bound to please.

If you find yourself wanting to spend some quality time outside, Zilker Park might be the best tourist attraction in Austin. Found on the south shores of Lady Bird Lake within a stone's throw from the Downtown District, this large park is full of delights. You'll find an excellent botanical garden at Zilker Park, as well as a popular swimming hole, and the miniature train that is a huge hit with the kids.

Heading a little further south, McKinney Falls State Park also caters to those who enjoy spending some quality time outside. Some picturesque waterfalls await visitors at this 744-acre park near town, and popular activities include swimming, fishing, and hiking. When outdoor enthusiasts aren't visiting Zilker Park or McKinney Falls State Park on their Austin vacation, they can enjoy everything that the Highland Lakes have to offer. These seven reservoirs, which include Lake Austin and Lake Travis, are used for all kinds of things, including recreation.

When looking for Austin attractions that suit your fancy, these are just some of the options that are worthy of consideration. Other attractions that can also add some extra substance to your trip include the LBJ Library and Museum, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and the Austin Bat Bridge. The dynamic cave system at Inner Space Caverns also begs a visit, and taking some time out to enjoy the views from Mount Bonnell is seriously recommended.

If you can't find a tourist attraction in Austin that interests you, you aren't looking hard enough, as this city pretty much has it all. There is a reason why so many publications consider this city one of the best places to live in the country. Austin Texas entertainment truly offers something for everyone, and thanks to the great year round weather, there really isn't a bad time to visit.