The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, also known as the LBJ Presidential Library, is the presidential library and museum of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th president of the United States (1963–1969). It is located on the grounds of the University of Texas at Austin, and is one of 13 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. The LBJ Library houses 45 million pages of historical documents, including the papers of President Johnson and those of his close associates and others.
In so many cities across the U.S., tapping into well-preserved wilderness requires a trip outside of town. Not in Austin. That’s largely thanks to multiple green space preserves, but largely due to one: the Barton Creek Greenbelt, which spans 7.25 miles of dense forest, limestone cliffs, shallow swimming holes and hike-and-bike trails. The public property is populated year-round by mountain bikers, hikers, and rock climbers. And in the summer months—pending enough rainfall—it is the uncontestably the most magnificent place to swim within city limits. Whether you hit up the super-popular Campbell’s Hole, the gloriously gushing Sculpture Falls or the relatively secret Lost Creek site, the mind is always put at ease by way of immersion in what sometimes feels like an impossibly secluded oasis adjacent to some of the city’s busiest sections.
With more than 19,000 works in the permanent collection, the Blanton is known for its European paintings, modern and contemporary American and Latin art, and a wide range of prints and drawings. Don't forget to snap a picture of Ellsworth Kelly's "Austin," a stone building with colorful glass windows.
South Congress, or SoCo, is a lively district south of Lady Bird Lake full of great restaurants, boutiques, vintage shops, bars, and lots of live music. Visitors and locals alike love this part of the city. The famous "I Love You So Much" mural is found here at Jo's Coffee, and Monkey See Monkey Do is a treasure trove of vintage toys and gifts.
On 284 acres in the Hill Country, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center boasts beautiful gardens full of Texas native plants, an arboretum, a savanna meadow where you can learn about karst landscapes, and trails. More than 143 species of birds, 15 species of mammals, and 1,800 species of insects have been seen here.
In downtown Austin, this strip of bungalow houses turned bars is a popular destination for drinks, delicious grub, and of course, live music. Lucille Patio Lounge, Half Step, and The Container Bar are all great places for a cocktail or two.