Austin is not only the capital city of Texas, it has become known as the "Live music capital of the world" and has a rich art, culture and educational scene that provides families on vacation or staycation a remarkable number of attractions to visit.
Here are seven places families on vacation in Austin can visit together:
1.
The Texas Capitol: "An extraordinary edifice by any measure, the 1888 Texas Capitol is the largest in gross square footage of all state capitols and is second in total size only to the National Capitol in Washington, D.C." A visitor's center on the Capitol complex provides historical information and exhibits as well as a gift shop and travel resources. Families on vacation or staycation should make sure to take advantage of the daily Capitol tours, as its architectural grandeur and legislative importance are impressive.
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2.
Barton Springs Pool: This iconic Austin experience is located within Zilker Park's 358 acres. The three-acre, 900-foot long pool gets its water from an underground spring and the temperature remains a consistent 68-70 degrees. With beautiful grassy knolls for sunbathing, a snack bar and lifeguards on duty, Barton Springs provides a fun and relaxing respite for families on vacation. Those wanting to try a Texas classic snack can order the "Frito Pie" which is chili, cheese and optional onions poured into a single serving corn chip bag.
3.
6th Street: Austin's music scene is vibrant and multicultural and adults in the family will want to experience the seven-block cornucopia of live music streaming from nightclubs and bars. "From film folk to politicians, to music men and women, Sixth Street rubs elbows well." Of particular fame on 6th street is the comedy club Esthers Follies that presents, "Musical comedy skits, magic, and Austin's favorite political satirical revue, with the bustling backdrop of Sixth Street on view through the stagefront window!"
4.
Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: Although this experience is brief, it is certainly unique! Every summer night people gather to watch Austin's 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the bridge. It is an amazing sight as in masse the bats head out for their nightly feeding frenzy of up to 20,000 pounds of insects. The bats are "gentle and incredibly sophisticated animals" and as long as they do not try to handle them, visitors have nothing to fear.
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5.
Paramount Theatre: Originally called the Majestic Theatre and intended as a Vaudeville Variety house, the Paramount opened in 1915 and never looked back. Today the venue is an Austin cultural icon and currently presents "comedy, drama, music, dance, spoken word, children’s programming and films."
6.
Lake Travis: This 63.75 miles long lake covers 18,929 acres and the area offers families on vacation or staycation everything from boating, fishing, hiking and camping to miniature golf, a water park and zipline adventures.
7.
The Oasis: Located on a cliff 450 feet above Lake Travis, this is the largest outdoor restaurant in Austin. The venue features live music, excellent food and stunning sunset views. After a long fun-filled day on the lake, families on vacation or staycation will appreciate the chance to sit back, enjoy the view and partake in some classic Texas fare such as Grilled Shrimp Diablo, Fajitas, Chipotle Baby Back Ribs or Shiner Bock Pulled Pork.
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