Austin is the capital of the state of Texas and the seat of Travis County
in the US. The fastest growing city in the country, it is the 11th-most
populous city in the United States and the 4th-most populous city in Texas.
Austin derives ample praise from many top-class publications like the US
News & World Report who had named Austin the number 1 place to live in
the US for 2017 and 2018. Prior to that, Forbes had ranked Austin number 1
on its list of ‘Cities of the Future in 2016. Austin is home to many
attractions like the University of Texas, the Lyndon B. Johnson Library and
Museum, the Bullock Texas State History Museum and the State Capitol.
Things to do in Austin
State Capitol
The State Capitol in Austin hosts the offices of the State Governor and the
Chambers of the Texas Legislature. Completed in 1888, this 308-feet tall
superstructure and its grand sum of parklands and monuments are all a
National Historic Landmark. It is the sixth tallest state capitol and it
easily beats the US Capitol in Washington, DC in its own game. Some major
attractions here are the Texas African American History Memorial, the
Vietnam War monument, and a bronze statue of a soldier.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Spread across 351-acres, the Zilker Park is the most famous park in Austin.
It is also the preferred choice for all nature lovers and picnickers in the
city. Other attractions here are its scenic riverside walking trails, disc
golf course, and volleyball courts. Two other important attractions here
are the Zilker Playscape, which is a large playground for kids between 2 to
5 years of age, and the Zilker Zephyr, which is a toy train. Also, of note
here is a botanical garden.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a scenic lake made after slicing a part of Colorado River
that covers 416 acres and tops the charts as one of the city's most popular
picnic areas. It derives its name after the wife of President Lyndon
Johnson and features many posh hotels and posh residential colonies. The
scenic riverside paths comprise many popular attractions like Zilker
Metropolitan Park, the Town Lake Metropolitan Park's Vic Mathias Shores,
Waller Beach, and Eilers Neighborhood Park. It is advisable to spend a day
kayaking and canoeing at the Texas Rowing Centre here.
Best Time to Visit Austin
Spring season, the months from March to May is the best to book your
flights from Chicago to Austin. Book your flights from CHI to AUS during
summers to enjoy famous cultural events like South by Southwest, Star of
Texas Fair and Festival, Austin Fine Arts Festival and Austin Food + Wine
Festival. It is advised to book Austin flights in advance to avoid paying
more during peak season.