Austin

Hill Country Trail Region
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BEAUTY, HEALTH AND PROSPERITY

In 1839 a site-selection committee, appointed by the Texas Congress, chose a special location for the Republic’s new capital and, in fact, the characteristics influencing the committee’s decision still attract visitors to Austin today – beauty, healthfulness, abundant natural resources, and the potential for prosperity. Established along the banks of the Colorado River, a young Austin flourished quickly, only to lose its footing temporarily when the Republic’s government moved to Houston, then Washington-on-the-Brazos in 1842. But statehood returned the government to Austin, prompting an acceleration of growth and development that has yet to end.

Today, the city celebrates both its heritage and the modern age, preserving and restoring dozens of late 19th century public buildings and private homes, archiving important collections including libraries, literary estates, and fine art, encouraging a culture that has produced professional actors, musicians, and artists, and hosting film and music festivals that bring nationally-acclaimed talent and thousands of visitors to the capital each year. And thanks to managed growth and environmental conservation, Austin’s natural resources receive priority protection. Downtown’s Lady Bird Lake, favorite open water swimming spots Barton Springs and Deep Eddy, and the diverse wildlife inhabiting the city’s surrounding wooded hills all help to preserve the “beauty and healthfulness” recognized by founders over one hundred and fifty years ago.

Six Square, Austin's Black Cultural District, is a state cultural district designated by the Texas Commission on the Arts. Explore all they have to offer on your next visit!

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Hill Country Trail Region

Tejano Walking Trail

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