Green Travel in Austin

Our Local Expert Says:

The lobby bar of this swanky hotel is a popular retreat for musicians and other visiting celebrities during the annual week-long South by Southwest Festival in mid-March.

Description:

Habitat Suites Hotel in Downtown Austin is an "ecotel"-an award winning, ecologically-conscious hotel. No chemical pesticides are used on the premises, toxic aerosol products are done away, with and non-ozone depleting fire extinguishers are utilized. All the suites boast beautifully done up interiors with private baths, king size beds, a fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen and cable television. Unwind and relax in the swimming pool or work up a sweat at Gold's Gym-a walking distance from the hotel. Keeping business travelers in mind, the hotel provides writing desks, fax facilities, modem, Internet and conference rooms. In the evenings, take a walk in the lush and well-maintained hotel gardens to experience nature at its best.

Description:

With award-winning exhibitions focusing on American art and its significance to the region, this museum hosts fabulous works by contemporary artists. Along with the fantastic touring shows, this museum often has professionals speak about the works and their significance. The Austin Museum of Art is also involved with the television series The Territory, which showcases independent film and video broadcasts through the Public Broadcasting System stations. A free docent-led tour is available to the public at 2pm every Saturday during exhibitions; group tours require special arrangements. Groups of ten or more are asked to reserve a time to visit the Museum.

Description:

"The family that builds together, bonds together" might have been the slogan of Eugene Bremond, an early Austin banker who established a mini-real-estate monopoly for his own kin in the downtown area. In the mid-1860s, he started investing in land on what was once Block 80 of the original city plan. In 1874, he moved into a Greek revival home made by master builder Abner Cook. By the time he was through, he had created a family compound, purchasing and enlarging homes for himself, two sisters, a daughter, a son, and a brother-in-law. Some were destroyed, but those that remain on what is now known as the Bremond Block are exquisite examples of elaborate late-19th-century homes.

Description:

As one of the galleries in the Texas Fine Arts Association, the Jones Gallery focuses on nurturing fine art in Central Texas. The gallery brings together artists, curators, art writers, collectors and the general public to appreciate exquisite Texas art. TFAA is dedicated to contributing to the growth of art and art education in Texas; it offers exhibitions of modern artists, seminars and panel discussions. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

With so much space in Zilker Park, it's easy for hundreds of people to enjoy the park at the same time. The concrete picnic tables make for a great (and free) party place with loads of room for roaming children and pets.

Description:

Zilker Park, Austin's largest urban green space, occupies 351 acres along the southern shore of Lady Bird Lake with Barton Springs Road cutting through the middle of the park. Grassy fields play host to soccer matches, volleyball games and picnics. Sand volleyball courts are normally first-come, first-serve, but they can also be reserved for large groups for a fee. The Zilker Playground on the park's southern end, complete with the pint-sized Zilker Zephyr train, entertains the little ones. Within the Zilker Park grounds, visitors will find Barton Springs Pool and the Zilker Botanical Garden, as well as seasonal events including the Austin City Limits Music Festival, the annual Kite Festival and the summer music series, Blues on the Green. Kayaks and canoes can be rented by the hour at two sites, one near Barton Springs pool and the other on the shores of Lady Bird Lake. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum lies along the park's eastern border.

Our Local Expert Says:

The variety of flowers and plants at the Zilker Botanical Garden is astounding. This beautiful location makes for a gorgeous photographic backdrop.

Description:

Located in the heart of Austin, the Zilker Botanical Garden provides a beautiful urban retreat amid 30 acres in Zilker Park. This free and year-round attraction encompasses seven different garden types -- everything ranging from wildflowers, native plants, roses and herbs to butterfly-attracting plants and succulents. Springtime brings an explosion of color; don't miss the tulip garden. The butterfly trail is also a can't-miss area in spring. The City of Austin's Green Garden gives visitors tips about utilizing native plants, selecting drought-tolerant trees, composting and conserving water. The Hartman Prehistoric Garden recreates the environment that once existed on this land, including casts of dinosaur tracks found in 1992. An authentic Japanese garden and teahouse add to the serenity of the Zilker Botanical Garden. Massive koi fish swim through a series of ponds connected by stepping stones. A gift shop offers souvenirs, seeds and educational information. The spring plant sale is an annual tradition for many longtime Austinites.

Our Local Expert Says:

Catching the bats emerging from the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge is an exhilarating experience. For the best view, get there at least 30 minutes before dusk and wait on the southeastern side of the bridge, just over the water.

Description:

Though it may look like your average overpass, Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge houses one of Austin's natural wonders -- the world's largest urban bat colony. Small spaces in the expansion joints on the underside of the bridge are just the right size for little bat condos -- very crowded bat condos. From March through September, approximately 1.5 million bats make this simple structure their summer home. The Mexican free-tailed bats take flight nightly at dusk, consuming nearly 20,000 pounds of insects with each evening meal. As they emerge and head eastward, it looks like a ghostly dark river in the sky. Just 10 blocks south of the Texas State Capitol and a mile north of the popular South Congress Avenue shopping district, this fascinating sight draws thousands of onlookers to both sides of the bridge, as well as just below on the southeast bank of Lady Bird Lake (previously known as Town Lake.) There's a free parking lot near the bridge, but it fills up fast, so get there before sundown.

Our Local Expert Says:

Simply the best place to be on a hot summer day. Cool water, shade trees and guitar-playing hipsters.

Description:

The water in Barton Springs swimming pool hovers around 68 degrees year-round, which means that it feels cool -- even cold -- in the heat of summer. It feels relatively warm in winter, though, and a few rugged souls swim there every morning, regardless of the weather. If you're more into lounging than exercise, there's a part of the massive pool dedicated to floats and floaters. On the hillsides surrounding the pool, you will see a snapshot of Austin culture. There's usually a group of twentysomethings kicking around a hacky-sack ball, a sixtyish man doing yoga, and (kid warning) a woman of indeterminate age without her top. Occasionally, a drum circle forms at the top of the hill. Guitars are almost as common as smart phones. On summer days when the temperature can soar above 100 degrees, this is the only reasonable place to be.

Our Local Expert Says:

This location also doubles as the home of the Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts, many of whose students prepare meals for Casa De Luz on a monthly basis.

Description:

Serving macrobiotic food in a community setting, this restaurant offers natural, organic, vegan meals. One complete, balanced macrobiotic meal is created for lunch and another completely different meal will be offered for dinner. You will not find a menu, as the chef plans meals daily based on the seasons. The cooks work continuously during each meal to keep the fresh food coming, as you may go back for "seconds" as often as you like. The fresh steamed greens with almond sauce are a personal favorite of many patrons. Its environment is spacious and airy with many windows surrounding the dining area. There is even a "silent table" where guests may eat without being disturbed. Check out the weekend brunch where you can explore tofu migas, or spelt pancakes with berries. Meal prices include tax and tip.

Our Local Expert Says:

The lobby bar of this swanky hotel is a popular retreat for musicians and other visiting celebrities during the annual week-long South by Southwest Festival in mid-March.

Description:

Habitat Suites Hotel in Downtown Austin is an "ecotel"-an award winning, ecologically-conscious hotel. No chemical pesticides are used on the premises, toxic aerosol products are done away, with and non-ozone depleting fire extinguishers are utilized. All the suites boast beautifully done up interiors with private baths, king size beds, a fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen and cable television. Unwind and relax in the swimming pool or work up a sweat at Gold's Gym-a walking distance from the hotel. Keeping business travelers in mind, the hotel provides writing desks, fax facilities, modem, Internet and conference rooms. In the evenings, take a walk in the lush and well-maintained hotel gardens to experience nature at its best.

Description:

This fabulous park is one of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department's premier facilities. Whether it is a family reunion or a company picnic, this park has all the amenities for a fabulous party. The unfurnished house is about 2500 square feet; it has a kitchen and two patios, perfect for informal gatherings. Swimming pool, volleyball, horseshoes, and a croquet set are available as well. The outdoor picnic area easily fits 300 people, while the inside holds up to 150. Call for reservations.

Our Local Expert Says:

Stargazers flock to this secluded sanctuary for occasional viewing parties and clear glimpses of the full moon. Check the Preserve's website for the next get-together.

Description:

Founded by seven women, this area was used as an outdoor laboratory for science classes and teacher training. Located on 220 acres of land it offers 2 1/2 miles of trails reserved for pedestrians. No bikes or pets are allowed; neither is picnicking or camping. This is a true wilderness preserve, and many bird watchers come to catch a glimpse of the Black Capped Vierus or Golden Cheek Warbler.

Our Local Expert Says:

Mount Bonnell is one of Austin's most obviously romantic spots, so if you're planning something super special, aim for less popular hours, which tend to be late afternoon and, of course, sunset.

Description:

Known for its beautiful, unobstructed view of the Austin area since the mid-1800s, Mount Bonnell hosts family photos, sunset picnics and romantic marriage proposals on a regular basis. Visitors park at the base of the hill and work their way up nearly 100 stone steps -- a 190-foot elevation gain -- to the wide open outcropping overlooking the southern side of the city and Lake Austin below. It's a fairly easy climb, but elderly relatives might find it challenging. A short gravel trail leads slowly downhill and to the left, offering up quiet spots for personal reflection with a clear view of the massive Pennybacker Bridge. Look left from Mount Bonnell to find the Texas State Capitol and the University of Texas Tower on the University of Texas campus. A number of nearby radio towers detract from the beauty of some of the views. At night, the towers' red lights give the spot an otherworldly feel.

Description:

This service is perfect for the complete historical tour of Austin. Walking tours through the Capitol area and a special "Legends and Lore of Austin and Texas" tour offer a hands-on experience of the city. But by far, the best tour offered is "Ghosts, Murder and Mayhem," where you can learn the mysterious secrets that Austin keeps hidden away in its history. This is a wonderful way to learn about the city for a very reasonable price.

Our Local Expert Says:

Though the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is worthwhile year-round, consider visiting in late March or early April when the blooms are at their peak.

Description:

While many may remember that Lady Bird Johnson was the First Lady who championed the planting of wildflowers along highways, Texans know her as an all-around environmental advocate. Her passion was not only for wildflowers but native plants of all kinds. So it's fitting that the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is both a showplace for beautiful plants and a botanical research center. The public botanical garden introduces visitors to the beauty of wildflowers and other native plants and natural landscapes through experience and education. Stroll through the 16 distinct gardens, the Ann and O.J. Weber Butterfly Garden, the sprawling South Meadow, or relax along the Erma Lowe Hill Country Stream. Knowledgeable docents explain the many roles of indigenous plants, as well as conservation techniques such as controlled burning and invasive species removal. For a more in-depth look at the former First Lady and her husband, visit the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum on the University of Texas at Austin campus.

Description:

Austin is the quintessential town that embraces the hallmarks of local business and a healthy lifestyle. Eating habits are a crucial component of a healthy existence and the dining culture here is a big part of why Austin is Austin. For these reasons, the founders of Leaf realized in the fall of 2005 that this was the perfect place for the first Leaf to be planted. Leaf serves fellow Austinites the best salads in the world, using the freshest and tastiest product around. Leaf prepares their dressings from original recipes, and run their environmentally conscious business with a huge smile. The impeccable staff will strive to serve you with common courtesies, speed, and of course, a little Austin flair.

Our Local Expert Says:

The lobby bar of this swanky hotel is a popular retreat for musicians and other visiting celebrities during the annual week-long South by Southwest Festival in mid-March.

Description:

Habitat Suites Hotel in Downtown Austin is an "ecotel"-an award winning, ecologically-conscious hotel. No chemical pesticides are used on the premises, toxic aerosol products are done away, with and non-ozone depleting fire extinguishers are utilized. All the suites boast beautifully done up interiors with private baths, king size beds, a fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen and cable television. Unwind and relax in the swimming pool or work up a sweat at Gold's Gym-a walking distance from the hotel. Keeping business travelers in mind, the hotel provides writing desks, fax facilities, modem, Internet and conference rooms. In the evenings, take a walk in the lush and well-maintained hotel gardens to experience nature at its best.

Description:

For those interested in dinosaurs and rocks, this is a great museum. This museum focuses on collections of Texas and the New World, including an extensive Texas Natural History collection and core collections from the 1936 Texas Centennial celebrations. There is a huge variety of artifacts supporting historical and anthropological research, including collections amassed by faculty, staff and students. New artifacts are continuously added, so repeat visits are highly recommended. Admission is free.

Description:

The City of Austin has developed one of the finest trail systems in the nation. Currently, over 50 miles of well-surfaced scenic paths follow natural greenbelts into all areas of the city, making an excellent trail accesible to all.

Description:

This fully functional organic farm has won many awards for its urban farming techniques. Purchase fantastic fresh vegetables on Wednesday and Saturday mornings (9am-2pm). Or, let your kids experience real farm life right in the heart of the city-animals and tractors are some of the biggest attractions for the little ones on market day. While shopping for produce, take a peek at the historic farmhouse, noted as one of the oldest existing buildings in Austin (built in 1838).

Description:

The Austin Steam Train Association has created a little slice of history. Take a railroad ride on a turn-of-the-century locomotive pulling restored city streetcars. Passengers can choose an air-conditioned Pullman Car (more expensive, but worth it in the heat of a Texas summer!) or one of the open-air cars for a more authentic experience. The River City Flyer takes passengers around the city of Austin for about two hours, with a guided tour of Austin's most historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The train boards at Plaza Saltillo.

Description:

Take a tour down the Colorado River (known as Town Lake in the Austin city limits) on a paddlewheel boat. This Southern style of transportation is a perfect way to take in the city's skyline. Trips are 90 minutes long and do not require reservations. Call ahead to determine the seasonal schedule. During the summer moonlight cruises are offered, as well as close-up cruises of the bats underneath Congress bridge.

Our Local Expert Says:

Develop your own green thumb with help from Eastside's own skillful gardeners during their monthly organic gardening workshops.

Description:

Many of the salad ingredients are grown in a garden behind the Eastside Cafe -- you can't get much fresher than that. The crisp taste and texture will have you considering your own backyard salad garden. The Thai Chicken Salad with Asian Vinaigrette is a substantial -- and delicious -- entree. Romaine and green leaf lettuce are tossed with cherry tomatoes, carrots, red cabbage, and marinated grilled chicken and topped with toasted peanuts and dressing. Seasonal home-grown vegetables also show up in the Garden Vegetable Enchiladas. As an appetizer or a light meal, the Baked Brie with Apple Chutney is a standout -- sweet and cheesy with a hint of savory oomph. Extensive vegan and gluten-free menus are also available.

Our Local Expert Says:

The lobby bar of this swanky hotel is a popular retreat for musicians and other visiting celebrities during the annual week-long South by Southwest Festival in mid-March.

Description:

Habitat Suites Hotel in Downtown Austin is an "ecotel"-an award winning, ecologically-conscious hotel. No chemical pesticides are used on the premises, toxic aerosol products are done away, with and non-ozone depleting fire extinguishers are utilized. All the suites boast beautifully done up interiors with private baths, king size beds, a fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen and cable television. Unwind and relax in the swimming pool or work up a sweat at Gold's Gym-a walking distance from the hotel. Keeping business travelers in mind, the hotel provides writing desks, fax facilities, modem, Internet and conference rooms. In the evenings, take a walk in the lush and well-maintained hotel gardens to experience nature at its best.

Description:

The refuge has two endangered songbirds (Golden-cheeked Warbler & Black-capped Vireo) that nest on the refuge. These two species are the main focus of management activities on the refuge. The Golden-cheeked Warbler is more numerous than the Black-capped Vireo because habitat required by the Warbler is more abundant than habitat required by the Vireo. The refuge has very little public use and is not open to the general public(except for hunting). The use of prescribed fire to enhance vegetation for the Warbler and Vireo will be the main focus of management activities. The Refuge is located in the Hill Country of Central Texas. The dominant vegetation on the refuge is Ashe Juniper interspersed with several oak species. Most of the Refuge is in the Colorado River watershed west/northwest of the city Austin.

You will find the refuge to be an excellent place for observing and studying wildlife and plants. There are a series of public hiking trails at the nearby Doeskin Ranch unit of the Refuge. That area is open year around (except during a few weekends in the fall for public hunts) and the trails are open sunrise to sunset. One of the trails there, the Plateau Trail, offers a vigorous...

Description:

Longhorn Cavern State Park, south of Burnet in Burnet County, is 645.62 acres classified as a scenic park in the rugged Hill Country.

The park offers guided tours that last approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes (a 1 1/4-mile round trip). For your safety and comfort, low-heeled shoes with rubber soles are recommended. Open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Description:

Located within the beautiful 5328.3 acre Colorado Bend State Park are 11.7 miles of hiking trails and 8 miles of mountain bike trails. These exciting trails will allow users to experience the flora and fauna of the park. Birders can enjoy viewing some of 155 species of birds found in the park, including specialties such as golden-cheeked warblers, black-capped vireos, and bald eagles. Gorman Falls is located on the western bank of the Colorado River, approximately 10 miles above Lake Buchanan and includes a portion of Gorman Creek which feeds Gorman Falls. Gorman Falls is an impressive, 60-foot-high waterfall. The falls' travertine formations and associated lush vegetation are very scenic. Small travertine dams have formed quiet pools of clear water which support a variety of aquatic communities.

Our Local Expert Says:

Though it's a short drive to the outskirts of town, Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of Austin's postcard destinations. It's a breathtaking natural wonder and a great spot for a cool swim.

Description:

Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve appeals to nature lovers in search of swimming, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities. The main attraction is a natural swimming hole formed out of a collapsed grotto. The pool is about 1/4 mile from the parking area, so keep that in mind when you're deciding what to bring. A limestone outcropping, formerly part of the roof of a cave, shades one side of the pool. Depending on recent rainfall, water either drips or flows down the outcropping, creating a refreshing shower for swimmers underneath. Delicate ferns cling to the outcropping, lending the site a tropical flair. Hamilton Pool Preserve is also home to the golden-cheeked warbler, a rare and endangered bird that lives among the area's mixed ashe-juniper and oak woodlands. The hike to the pool is short, but it does include a series of uneven rock steps. Good hiking shoes are recommended. Visitors with physical disabilities should call ahead to arrange assistance. Parking is limited, and the pool is very popular, so try to arrive early. Drinking water and other concessions are not available. Take Highway 71 west through the town of Bee Cave and turn left onto... read more

Description:

Dynamic' is one adjective that can be used to describe Wink. The decor talks largely of cool tones, subtle lighting and Japanese rice paper hanging from the windows. The menu at Wink changes on a day-to-day basis as the restaurant ships in a lot of their ingredients daily to maintain the taste and quality of their dishes. The sauces too are made with fresh puree. The wine list of around 70 selections undergoes changes every two weeks so that only the best vintages are stocked.