Day 1

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• For a somewhat amazing start to your vacation, one way to explore Austin in a different light is a trip on the Lone Star Riverboat. It is an expertly designed double decked, paddle wheeled riverboat (the town’s only authentic river boat) and you can the chance to see the cities skyline or watch the many waterfowl that are commonly found on the river. It is highly recommended to have at least one trip on the boat but if you can, see it from different times of the day. At sunset, you can enjoy a romantic cruise where you will be treated to the famous Mexican free tail bats emerging. The tour last one and half hours which includes a full commentary from the captain and whilst on board, you can have a selection of drinks from the juice bar and prices for adults are an amazing $9 and just $6 for children. Reservations are highly recommended so if you want to book your place/s then you can contact the company on (512) 327-1388.

After an interesting and inspiring river trip then you must be hungry and one place you must visit is the Green Mesquite on Barton Springs Road. Known as “BBQ Heaven”, you can enjoy a wide range of cuisine which ranges from basic salads to a large choice of meats cooked to your liking. For example, you can enjoy 2 meat bbq plate which comes with a choice of two sides such as pork ribs, smoked sausage, pinto beans and much more for just $7.99 but there is much more to choose from and with prices ranging from $6 to $20 for a main course you are getting a filling lunch for a good price. Reservations are not necessary but if you prefer, the company does deliver so you can contact the restaurant on 512-479-0485 or 512-288-8300.

• If you want to enjoy a major part of history that offers beautiful views of the capitol then you must pay a visit to the University of Texas Tower, the tower was first built in 1937 by architect Paul Cret and it measures in at a massive 307 feet. If you are brave enough to manage getting to the top of the tower then you can enjoy views of the University campus and other parts of Austin in all directions. The observation deck has only just re-opened to the public in thirty years and now a major re-construction has meant that persons with disabilities can enjoy the same view. A tour of the tower can only be undertaken when a reservation has been made so to avoid disappointment of taking in some of wonderful sights and history then you can contact the Texas Union Information Center for prices and to make a booking on 1-877-475-6633.

After a busy first day then you will want to make room for a tasty meal to finish the evening off nicely and one restaurant that has won many awards in terms of its cuisine and professional chefs, the Driskill Restaurant found on Brazos Street in Austin is one of the highly recommended places to visit.

The restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional three course meals and the quality of the menu shines through with the highly popular choices like the first course of White Asparagus and Arugula Salad or for a second course the Baby Octopus Chimichuri served with Granny Smith apples and Chile-Orange Vinaigrette and lastly for a third course why not try the Charred Beef Tenderloin with Black Truffle Potato Puree and Buttered Leaks. There are a few other choices available for each course but the total cost is just $65 per person and you can enjoy a evening meal from 5.30pm to 10pm from Tuesday through to Saturday’s and if you want to make a reservation then you can contact the Driskill Grill on 512-391-7162.



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