About Austin Texas
Located in Central Texas on the eastern edge of the American Southwest, Austin is the capital of Texas, the Lone Star State. The city dates back to the 1830s, when the first Anglo-American settlers arrived in the area, then part of Mexico. In 1837, settlers founded the village of Waterloo on the banks of the Colorado River, the first permanent settlement in the area. By 1839, Waterloo would adopt the name Austin and the frontier town would become the capital of the Republic of Texas. The City is named for Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas.”
Travel and Logistics
Serviced by Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Austin is easily accessible by air and is a direct destination for many full-service and discount carriers. Transportation options from the airport include shuttles, taxis, and local and national ride-sharing companies.
Austin is located on I-35 and is less than an hour from San Antonio and three hours from Dallas-Ft. Worth. Houston is also nearby, and on the way you can stop in La Grange!
Things to Do
Years ago, when people talked about Austin they would quickly mention the music. Live music, and music in many other forms, is everywhere in Austin. Musicians play in everything from grocery stores to city council meetings. But that's just the beginning of what they're saying these days. Austin is also home to a wonderful ballet, world-class museums, one-of-a-kind shopping and beautiful outdoor spaces. You can just as easily spend your morning paddling the lake as you can be strolling through a celebrated history museum.
Austin offers an abundance of outdoor activities. A trip to Austin wouldn't be complete without walking or running along Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. While at the lake, you can also kayak, canoe or try your luck at stand-up paddle boarding. Don't miss Austin's beloved Barton Springs Pool - a natural spring-fed watering hole that's 3 acres in size and a constant 68-degrees.
Plan Your Trip
Plan your trip with the Austin visitor's guide: https://www.austintexas.org/
