Diamonds Above

Take a walk on the wild side at the Austin Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with over 350 animals representing Texas native wildlife. As you walk through the zoo, check out all the new things you can learn about all the different mammals, birds, primates, reptiles, amphibians, and domestic animals.

Explore the "jewel in the heart of Austin," also known as the Zilker Botanical Garden. The garden was established in 1995 and sprawls through 31 acres of downtown Austin, offering a sweet escape from city streets and greeting more than 400,000 visitors annually. Themes among the gardens are as varied as nature itself. There's a Japanese garden and koi pond, a rose garden, an herb garden, a butterfly trail and garden, and a cactus garden among the selections to tour. Another unique feature is the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which recreates the habitat of local dinosaurs. Visitors can tour the gardens for free and take home a Texas succulent or majestic orchid among the many offerings.

Go back in time and experience the great history of the Lone Star State at Bullock Texas State History Museum, where you are greeted with a 35-foot Lone Star sculpture. Explore three floors of interactive exhibits with more than 700 fascinating Texana artifacts, including Stephen F. Austin's diary, Neil Armstrong's space suit, and more. From the establishment of the state to its devastating events to its many accomplishments, enjoy the experience that Bullock Museum offers with its ever-changing exhibitions, innovative films, and unique programs and events.