Sever Storey

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.

Grab your friends and family and head to Austin Roller Rink, a family-fun place that caters to all ages, where you can enjoy skating, arcade games, a snack bar, adult nights, and private party rooms. Feel right at home as you spend quality time with your kids doing something you once enjoyed. Whether you've been skating for years or just a few minutes, you'll still have a great time on the rink.

Paddle your way around some of Austin's most popular attractions with the folks at Live Love Paddle, who coordinate Kayak Tours year round. Choose from Guadalupe River tours, Congress Bridge Bat tours and more water recreation fun.