Things to Do in Austin

Many of our wedding guests are coming to Austin from out of town, and many of you might be visiting for the first time. There are so many unique things to see and do around Austin -- here are a few of our recommendations:

1. Eat, drink, and sleep on South Congress: Green Pastures, the site of our wedding and reception, is located just a few blocks from the South Congress area. Situated at the edge of downtown Austin, South Congress is home to many unique restaurants, galleries, stores, and quirky local hangouts. A few of our favorites include Amy's Ice Cream, whose flavors include everything from Fredericksburg Peach to Shiner Bock. Austin Art Glass features hand-blown glass pieces by local artists, while Gallery SoCo showcases work by both local and national artists in a variety of mediums. For great Tex-Mex, visit Guero's Taco Bar, or nearby Chuy's, located on Barton Springs Road near Zilker Park. For great coffee and free Wi-Fi, try Jo's or Texas French Bread. We know a few of you are staying at nearby accomodations like the Austin Motel and the Hyatt Regency. For more information about things to do in the South Congress area, check out this guide from the Austin Chronicle.

2. Tour the State Capitol: Located at Congress Avenue and 11th Street, the Texas State Capitol is modeled after the national Capitol building in Washington, D.C., and is constructed out of granite, giving it its pinkish color. For information about tours, call the tour guide office at 512-463-0063. Visitor parking is available in a garage at San Jacinto Boulevard and 12th Street (east side of the Capitol).

3. Feed the ducks at Zilker Park: This 351 acre park includes several playgrounds, picnic areas, over 50 miles of hike and bike trails, a miniature train ride, Barton Springs (a spring-fed pool with an average water temperature of 68 degrees), canoeing, and, of course, lots of hungry turtles, swans, and ducks. Zilker Park also includes the Zilker Botanical Gardens, while the work of artist Charles Umlauf is beautifully displayed on the nearby grounds of the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum.

4. Get historical: Here in Texas, we've devoted an entire museum to tell "the story of Texas." Learn more at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, which houses three floors of interactive exhibits and Austin's only IMAX theater. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum, located on the edge of the University of Texas campus at 2313 Red River Street, is currently having its centennial celebration (don't miss the talking animatronic LBJ!).

5. Hook 'em!: Visit Justin and Jessica's alma mater! A spectacular view of Austin can be seen from the observation deck of the iconic UT Tower. Want something burnt orange? Visit the University Co-op, located on "the Drag" (otherwise known as Guadalupe Street).

6. Party on 6th Street: Seven blocks of Austin's Sixth Street, from Congress Avenue to Interstate 35, comprise the city's entertainment district. Here you'll find numerous bars, cafes, restaurants, the Driskell Hotel, and lots of incredible live music. Keep an eye out for Leslie -- surprisingly, a formal mayoral candidate.

7. Dance the night away: The Broken Spoke, located on South Lamar Boulevard, is truly part of the authentic Texas experience. They not only offer dance lessons, but "the best in country band music and chicken fried steak." I would suggest that you enjoy both of those separately, rather than at the same time.