Austin is often seen as the highlight to any trip to Texas. From it’s infamous live music events like Austin City Limits and South by Southwest, to the home of the University of Texas Longhorns, the city has everything you could ask for. I’ve only lived here a short two years as I was pursuing my Masters Degree in Education Law and Policy but it’s a goal to live here again some day. It’s truly the window to Central Texas within an hour of the Texas Wine Country, the best barbeque in the state (or the world!), and fun stops like San Antonio. Whether you party it up on Sixth Street, shop til you drop on South Congress, or take it slow at brunch then dinner at The Oasis, there’s really something for everyone.
Things to Do
Austin Zoo
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
Did you know Austin has its own zoo?! It’s not common knowledge, especially when Texas has the popular Ft. Worth Zoo or Houston Zoo. Although this non-profit zoo may be small in size, it has a heart the size of San Diego. It’s more of a home ranch feel, with beautiful animals, but you’ll be walking on paths of crushed granite pebbles, so you’ll want to make sure and wear closed-toe shoes. Take note that they don’t have water fountains, so be sure to pack your own drinks and food, especially during hot weather. It’s fun to see the more infamous zoo animals like tigers and bears, but my personal favorite was the peacocks just wandering around. If you want to get even more up close and personal with some of the human-friendly animals, bring some extra cash to feed the smaller animals there like goats, sheep, llamas, and alpacas!
Arts Guide
Hook ‘Em Horns Tree Carving
11605 Oak Knoll Drive, Austin, TX
Homeowner and University of Texas Longhorn fan, Gabriel Trinidad, chose to take a dead tree in his yard and convert it to the ultimate Austin symbol. The tree carving stands over 7 foot tall and was created by local chainsaw artist Doug Moreland. It’s incredibly easy to navigate to the NW Austin suburbs, very close to the 183 freeway and the Arboretum area. According to Moreland, lights are even being planned so that it will also light up at night after an important UT win, alike the tower on campus. Now, I wouldn’t be surprised if a local Aggie kills a tree to carve a gig ‘em thumbs up.