Austin
was only a tiny community on the verdant banks of the (Texas)
Colorado River when Mirabeau B. Lamar, president of the Republic,
suggested in 1839 that it would make a better capital than
swampy and disease-ridden Houston. Early building had to be
done under armed guard, as angry Comanche watched from the
surrounding hills, but despite its perilous location, the
city thrived.
These days it wears its status as capital of Texas very lightly;
sightseeing rates as a low priority against simply hanging
out. Since the 1960s, this laid-back and progressive city
has been a haven for artists, musicians and writers. Many
visitors come specifically for the music. Local musicians
are renowned for their innovative reworkings of Texas's country,
folk and R&B heritage, often severing their rural roots
to use Austin's enthusiastic environment as a springboard
to national recognition. Janis Joplin had her start here in
the early 1960s, and at the end of that decade, Austin was
second only to San Francisco in its adherence to the "turn
on, tune in, drop out" philosophy, with locals coining
the term "headneck" to describe themselves. Musicians
hungry for fame still tumble out of buses from all over Texas
to seek their fortunes in the literally hundreds of live venues.
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Mount
Bonnell
One of Austin's oldest tourist attractions, Mount Bonnell
is also one of the highest points in the city—there
is an incredible view of Lake Austin and the downtown skyline
right by the picnic tables. Legend has it that the 99 steps
to the top hold enchanting qualities: if a couple climbs
the mount once, they fall in love; twice, and they become
engaged; three times, and they are destined to be married.
Barton Springs Pool
As one of Austin's finest attractions, Barton Springs Pool
is the perfect outing for those hot Texas days—or
even the cool ones. Maintaining a comfortable 68 degrees
Farenheit year 'round, you will enjoy a 100-percent natural
swimming experience with no chlorine. The grassy hillsides
and moss-covered rocks are perfect for sunbathing. Diving
boards, concession stands and restroom facilities are also
available. When the kids get tired of the water, enjoy the
playscape to complete the afternoon. Lifeguards are on duty.
You are encouraged to call ahead; the pool occasionally
closes.
East Sixth Street
One
of the first streets surveyed in Austin, Sixth was originally
known as Pecan Street. During the day, shops, restaurants
and historic buildings are the main attraction, but by night,
the street becomes festive with live music, shows and special
events. On Friday and Saturday nights, the blocks are closed
to automobile traffic for an all-out street party. Stop
by for a beer or a show, or just enjoy watching the eclectic
nightlife of Austin. After the bars close at 2am, this can
be a dangerous place to hang out alone.
South Congress Avenue
Cross
the river from downtown and enter the wonderful South Congress
Avenue District. Browse through its many shops and check
out eateries that tantilize the tastebuds and the pocketbooks.
Check out Uncommon Objects, a wonderful import and knick
knack shop, or The Armadillo Market, which carries everything
Texas. For the famished shopper, there are more than enough
options: Tex-Mex at Guerro's, Fran's Hamburgers, or the
eclectic Magnolia Cafe are all favorites with the locals.
Enjoy a cup of coffee or light lunch at Texas French Bread
after you browse the retro resale shops along the avenue.
Governor's Mansion of Texas
This
is one of the oldest governor's mansions in the country
that is still being used on a continuous basis. Builder
Abner Cook created a simple square home with four rooms
downstairs and four rooms upstairs. A conservatory was added
in 1914 along with a new kitchen area. The home showcases
original artwork and furniture from yesteryear, as well
as modern pieces added during the 1980s restoration. Guests
are invited to enjoy viewing the first floor and lush grounds
surrounding the home.
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