It was in the heart of the Lost Pines Forest that Spencer proposed to Hanna. This 13-mile belt of loblolly pines is unique because it is more than 100 miles separated from, yet closely related to, the vast expanse of pine trees of the "Piney Woods" region that covers parts of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma.
Another one of Spencer and Hanna's first dates, The Capitol of Texas houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature and Governor. The Capitol grounds are comprised of about 22 acres in the heart of Downtown Austin, featuring 22 monuments, historic buildings, trees, and beautifully landscaped lawns.
Downtown Round Rock is a charming city nestled 20 miles north of downtown Austin. Stroll its historic Main Street and check out the shops and restaurants, play a round of golf on a first-rate course, or shop the outlets and local boutiques.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin is the state botanical garden and arboretum of Texas with 284 acres of scenic gardens and trails. The center features more than 900 species of native Texas plants in both garden and natural settings. Make sure to buy tickets ahead of time ($18 on weekends).
McKinney State Park is just 13 miles from the state capitol. Here you can explore winding trails through the Hill Country woods, the remains of an early Texas homestead and a very old rock shelter. You can hike, bike, geocache, go bouldering, picnic, and swim in Onion Creek.
Sculpture Falls is a hidden gem that is part of the 7.9 mile long Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin. It's considered an urban oasis and is part of the Edwards Aquifer making the water temperatures in the summer about 70 degrees, and is a perfect way to cool off in the Texas heat!