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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.

Get ready to join the granddaddy of all local music venues, the Continental Club, where they have enjoyed a coast-to-coast reputation as the premiere club for live music in Austin. This historic live music destination opened its doors as a swanky private supper club, but in the decades since, it's become a mecca for roots, rockabilly, country, swing, rock, and blues music every night of the week. The classic neon sign flashing above the entrance is a landmark on South Congress, and vintage cars and hot rods often line South Congress Avenue in front of the dimly lit club.

Encounter The Scottish Rite Children's Theater, known as Austin's oldest live theater venue, where you can experience high-quality productions that showcase the traditional theater lifestyle, period costumes, and hand-painted backdrops that were used during the late 1800s. The original plays are from well-known children's fairy tales with a modern twist, which is written to be interactive with the children in the audience and include positive life lessons. Throughout each play, children are encouraged to help the hero defeat the villain and participate in the fun.

Escape life for a bit and take your friends and family to Peter Pan Mini Golf, a little slice of heaven where you never have to grow up. Enjoy your time as you putt-putt your way through two 18-hole courses, where you will meet Peter Pan, Captain Hook, T-Rex, and even a shoe, chucks style. Over the years, the park has gained a reputation as a place for families and people of all ages to spend a great day or evening, Austin style.