Travel article: Visiting Austin Texas

The hip and adventurous city of Austin is becoming a booming destination. With its contemporary food and drink options and just general things to do, Austin is a great place to spend a weekend and enjoy yourself, especially if you’re looking for a younger crowd. A great city to see on a road trip if you’re looking for one.

The surrounding settlements in the Austin area were first occupied in 1837. After the University of Texas was established, the area became an academic hub and a place for government. Throughout the years, the city has seen its growth in terms of things to do and population. The 2000’s saw a massive population growth and with it came the appeal for new businesses, including bars and restaurants that occupy the area today. Here’s a compilation of things to see in the area that are sure to be a good time.

South Congress

A short drive south of Downtown Austin is the walkable neighborhood of South Congress. SoCo as the locals like to call it. With various food trucks, bars, and good times, SoCo is a great hang. Aside from food and drink there’s a handful of boutique stores with unique selections. Many of them focus on rustic furniture or retro clothing. It’s rumored that Bob Dylan used to frequent the area to pick out different outfits. Be sure to check out some of the local boot and Western stores if you’re trying to adapt to the area. Also the Yeti flagship store is in the area if you’re looking for an outdoors shop and experience.

Mount Bonnell

If you’re looking for a more natural pick, Mount Bonnell is a great choice. Head northwest from Downtown Austin and go for a hike or check out the surrounding Covert Park. There aren’t any camping options but if you have an SUV you can find places that do. When hiking along some of the trails available there are plenty of incredible views to soak in. Some are short at only a half mile and are a perfect addition to any weekend trip.

Cathedral of Junk

Hidden within West Congress is the perfect example of “one man’s junk being another man’s treasure”. In 1989 Vince Hannemann began constructing what is now known as the Cathedral of Junk. It’s still growing to this day and is a great example of Austin being a hip and young city that likes to make things different. The Cathedral of Junk is a “walk around” area funded by donations that can be described as sculptures made with disposed goods. Bicycles, pipes, old street signs, you name it. It’s an interesting take on something that would normally just rot away in a landfill.

LBJ Presidential Library

In more Central Austin lies the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum. For all the history buffs out there this is a great place to explore and learn. The architecture is impressive and resembles something similar to a war monument. It was constructed in 1971 and is one of the few structures in the city with a local law preventing obstruction from surrounding large buildings. It has many distinct features such an animatronics and a 7/8 scale of the Oval Office. A great visit for young and old who like to reflect on our country.

Overall, Austin is a great place to visit for all. Whether you’re into food, or nature, or even old presidents, there’s something for everyone.