Nature-focused trip to Austin, TX

Visiting family and work conferences brings me to Austin often - this is one of my favorite US cities with a wide variety of activities, especially outdoor experiences in nature and, of course, live music everywhere. Check the weather before you go! Temperatures in the 100s forced our last trip to take place mostly in the pool during the day and on the town only after nightfall.

Places to stay

View from the Austin Marriott Downtown

Pick a Marriott for downtown convenient luxury equipped with rooftop pools: The JW Marriott, Austin Marriott Downtown, W Austin, Austin Proper Hotel, and Westin Austin Downtown are all similarly priced, centrally located in downtown, and have full service rooftop pools with hip bar scenes. If you appreciate a good lounge, go with the JW Marriott, which has an excellent breakfast and heavy evening hors d'oeuvres.

Historical charm: Established in 1886, The Driskill is the place to go to experience nearby attractions Lady Bird Lake, Congress Avenue Bridge, the Texas State Capitol Building, and convention center.

Nature resort and spa: Miraval Resort and Spa (formerly Travaasa) offers unparalleled views, nature hiking and other outdoor activities, an exceptional spa, and the option of experiencing the resort as an all-inclusive experience. Adults only.

Bring the kids for the lazy river: The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa has sprawling outdoor activities, but unlike Miraval, welcomes children and families. The lazy river pool is a great option on one of Austin’s hot summer days.

Things to do

Austin may be known for its festivals, live music, and barbecue, but what makes Austin attractive for nature enthusiasts is the proximity to numerous places to enjoy the outdoors. Top picks including hiking alongside Barton’s Creek, visiting and having lunch with a view of Lake Travis, and bat watching beneath the Congress Avenue bridge.

View from Barton Creek

Umlauf Sculpture Garden is the place to go to experience unique art in the shade of a lovely park setting.

See the peacocks at Mayfield Park. They are roaming free here and you can stroll through the gardens with koi ponds and shaded areas.

Where to eat

For barbecue, check out these places: Terry Black’s, La Barbecue, or Stubb’s BBQ.

For Mexican, here are the top choices: ATX Cocina, El Alma, Chapulin Cantina.

We are revisiting Austin and will be back with more food recommendations and photographs soon!