Treasures

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.

Enjoy your evening at Austin’s original swanky joint, the Speakeasy, featuring three levels of unique entertainment. The Music Lounge, with its roaring 20s vibe, is ready for you to listen to local Austin musicians live on a nightly basis. The Bowling Mezzanine offers a unique lounge setting with antique couches, a personalized bar, and two vintage bowling lanes overlooking the main music stage. The Ballroom has a 700-person capacity for events and a concert room for private parties. The Kabaret Room has a prohibition-era vibe with a pool table, stage, bar, and 1920s-inspired lounge furniture.

Experience the wonder of downtown Austin on foot with Walking Tours of Austin, where the guides are expert storytellers who are personable, approachable, and, well, just plain fun. Step back in time and join the exceptional Murder Walk, where true crime uncovers exact crime locations, details, and the fascinating theories surrounding the year that changed Austin forever. Are you drawn to macabre? Choose the hauntingly good Ghost Walk Tour and enjoy tales of murder, mystery, unrequited love, and ghosts. Ready for your Morning Walk Tour? Picture a mid-morning stroll through streets, alleyways, and iconic historical landmarks as you sip on a good cup of coffee,  as your guide gives the inside scoop on the best places to eat, drink, listen to live music, and explore the city.