Places on this Skoot
South by South West
500 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX
by Hilton 
The city of Austin is a beautiful place to explore and enjoy the outdoors, whether you are attending a yearly festival or hiking with friends you're find some many things to do. TravelSkoot recommends the best outdoor and recreational activities in Austin.
When spring rolls around, the SXSW festival brings in the masses. The event draws huge crowds with three entities — film, interactive and music — all falling under the same festival blanket. These three categories are all run independent of one another and on different schedules. The music portion is a no-brainer since Austin cultivates an active melodic scene. The interactive and film portions were more recent additions that have attracted a following of entrepreneurial web-techies and film-industry talent.
Sponsored by Hilton
Zilker Park was created when A.J. Zilker deeded the land around Barton Spring to the city of Austin during the Great Depression. Today, the park is often called Austin’s most loved park because of its long history and long list of recreational activities. Some local favorites are the annual Zilker Kite Festival and the Zilker Hillside Theater. The Austin Nature and Science Center and the Zilker Botanical Gardens make great exploration adventures for both kids and adults.
Sponsored by Hilton
Barton Springs Pool, located in Zilker Park, is naturally fed by underground springs, which keeps the temperature a refreshingly chilly 68 degrees. The pool is shaped by concrete and ringed with sidewalks, and you can enjoy your day on the grassy park along the banks. Spread out a towel and sunbathe until you can't take the heat, and then plunge into the pool and let the cool water refresh you.
Sponsored by Hilton
Lady Bird Johnson, the former first lady, with help from actress Helen Hayes, founded the Wildflower Center, whose mission is to preserve the natural flora of the world, starting in their native Texas. The center's grounds are a beautiful display of their achievements, with 16 unique gardens exhibiting 650 native plant species and trailheads to two excellent hiking excursions. Make sure to take the kids to the Little House Courtyard, which encourages outdoor exploration.
Sponsored by Hilton
The Austin Zoo began as a goat ranch in 1990, with a mission to rescue animals in need. At first it was primarily goats, pigs, donkeys and ponies, but the collection of animals kept growing. The zoo is now home to exotic animals such as monkeys, lions, bears, peacocks, parrots and lizards. Many of the animals have been rescued and have heartwarming or heartbreaking stories. The goats are still here, too, and for just $1, you can buy some food and feed them yourself!
Sponsored by Hilton
As the only full-service hotel on the grounds of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the Hilton Austin Airport hotel offers outstanding service at the most convenient location in Austin. This magnificent historic building now features 262 well-appointed guestrooms including 11 spacious suites. A state-of-the art Precor fitness center allows guests to stay in shape during their stay, and for those who want to soak up the sun and fresh air, the Hilton Austin Airport also has an outdoor heated pool and a beautifully landscaped courtyard with a walking trail. From the moment you arrive to the time you check out, the Hilton Austin Airport hotel's staff will go above and beyond to bring you outstanding service and an Austin experience you'll likely never forget.
Sponsored by Hilton
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