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4th July events in Austin: Independence day 2022 fireworks, parades, concerts & other celebrations!

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4th july events in Austin - Fireworks with Austin Skyline in the Background

4th July events in Austin | Official Fireworks by the City of Austin

Nothing says freedom like fireworks and festivals! If you are wondering where to watch 4th of July fireworks in Austin, wonder no more! Austin and the surrounding areas have tons of July 4th events to choose from.

We’ve made every effort to ensure that this list is accurate and up-to-date, however, some venues/events/activities make changes without notifying us. We recommend contacting them before visiting to be 100% sure.

4th of July Fireworks in Austin

H-E-B Austin Symphony July 4th Concert & Fireworks

4th july events in Austin - Fireworks

H-E-B Austin Symphony July 4th Concert & Fireworks is back! Spend this Independence Day with your family and friends, decked out in red, white and blue. Head down to Vic Mathias Shores (formerly Auditorium Shores) this July 4th for an amazing event complete with a fireworks display over the city skyline backed by symphonic patriotic classics. This event is planned, produced, and performed entirely by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, with the help of its generous sponsors. The festivities begin at 8 p.m. with Master of Ceremonies welcoming dignitaries and special guest. Concert begins at 8:30 p.m., followed by “mile-high” fireworks.
Where: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: July 4, 2022 |  8:00 pm
Cost: Free

Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival

Hill Country Galleria 4th of July

Image Credits: 512 Austin TX

Get ready to celebrate independence at Hill Country Galleria! Join on Monday, July 4th for the annual Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival. Enjoy shopping with over 60+ art vendors on the streets of Hill Country Galleria, plus get here early to also shop the resident boutiques and merchants who call Hill Country Galleria home.

There’s a full line-up of live music taking place in the Central Plaza. Bring a blanket or chair to enjoy the show from the grassy lawn:

  • TWO TONS OF STEEL
  • SOUTHERN ANGELS
  • ROCK BOTTOM STRING BAND
  • ROBIN MORDECAI
  • THE SADDLE SORES

Bring the kids and enjoy fair rides, water games, and complimentary face painting.  Stick around until dark to enjoy a stellar firework show! Enjoy food at any of the Hill Country Galleria’s 20+ eateries and festival treat vendors.
Where: 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: July 4, 2022 |  4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Cost: Free

Red White and Buda

4th of July at Buda TX

Image Credits: budaamphitheater.com

Buda is celebrating BIG with big bands and even bigger fireworks! Join us for our favorite tradition with a Bike Parade down Main Street and an evening with Sh inyribs and Jack Ingram on the Amphitheater Stage all before the big fireworks finale! All free and no reservations required!
Where: 204 San Antonio St. Buda, TX 78610
When: July 4, 2022 |  9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Cost: Free

City of Kyle’s Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Show

City of Kyle's 4th of July

Image Credits: cityofkyle.com

Join the City of Kyle in celebrating the Fourth of July with the Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Show on Monday, July 4. The fireworks show will last approximately 20 minutes. The city has also arranged a special treat in partnership with radio station KAZI 88.7 FM to stream music as you watch the show.
Where: Hays CISD Performing Arts Center, 979 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle, TX 78640
When: July 4, 2022 | 9:30 pm
Cost: Free

July 4 Celebration at San Gabriel Park

The 39th annual Sertoma Club Family July 4 Celebration and fireworks display will be held at San Gabriel Park Monday, July 4. The event is sponsored by the Georgetown Sertoma Club with assistance from the City of Georgetown.

Activities begin at 11 a.m. at San Gabriel Park and will include live entertainment from noon to 10:30 p.m., featuring T. Cole and the Austin Party Band before and after the fireworks show. The festival also includes arts and crafts vendors, food vendors including a beer and wine vendor, a petting zoo, classic and antique cars, games, and rides for children and adults. Admission to the event is free; however, there are fees for some activities. Please do not bring dogs to the fireworks show.
Where: San Gabriel Park, 445 E Morrow St, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: July 4, 2022 | 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Cost: Free

Leander’s Liberty Fest 2022

Leander's 4th of July

Image Credits: leandertx.gov

Celebrate Fourth of July with Liberty Fest at Lakewood Park! Leander’s largest annual event includes live music, food, children’s activities, and a spectacular fireworks display. Admission is free for all ages.
Where: Lakewood Park, 2040 Artesian Spgs Xing, Leander, TX 78641
When: July 4, 2022 | 3:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Cost: Free

Pflugerville’s July 4th Pfireworks

Fireworks will launch on July 4 at approx. 9 p.m. from the field next to the waterpark located at the intersection of SH 130 and Pflugerville Parkway. The central location will allow for viewing across Pflugerville. Enjoy the show!
Where: Waterpark located at the intersection of SH 130 and Pflugerville Parkway
When: July 4, 2022 | 9:00 pm
Cost: Free

4th July Events in Austin – Parades

Sertoma July 4th Parade and Frontier Days

Sertoma 4th of July

Image Credits: Sertoma YT

The 2022 Annual Sertoma Independence Day Parade is bigger and better than ever and will once again feature giant helium and cold air inflatables, community groups and patriotic spirit. This parade will take place on the 1.5 mile route along Mays Street between Mays Crossing and Highway 79. The parade will start at 8:30am to beat the heat so arrive early to find the best seat to watch and celebrate!
Where: 1.5 mile route along Mays Street between Mays Crossing and Highway 79
When: July 4, 2022 | 8:30 am – 11:30 pm
Cost: Free

Belton’s Fourth of July Celebration

Get ready for the Belton 4th of July Celebration! Since the 1850s folks from all over Texas have come to celebrate the 4th of July in Belton. This week-long celebration draws over 50,000 and features one of USA Today’s Top Ten Parades in the country!
Where: various locations
When: July 1-3, 2022

Wells Branch FourthFest Parade

The Wells Branch MUD Parks and Recreation Department is excited to once again celebrate the Fourth of July with one of our most beloved community traditions. The FourthFest parade will kick off at 10:00 am from Katherine Fleischer Park. Guests are encouraged to line the streets and show off your patriotic pride in this long-time tradition!
Where: Katherine Fleischer Park, 2106 Klattenhoff Dr, Austin, TX 78728
When: July 4, 2022 | 10:00 am – onwards
Cost: Free

4th July Events in Austin – Concerts

Liberty Hill’s Independence Day Spectacular

Liberty Hill’s 4th of July

Image Credits: experiencelhtx.com

Neighbors and friends will gather at Liberty Hill Junior High on July 3rd to celebrate freedom in the most patriotic way. Residents engage in friendly competition for the coveted blue ribbon in challenges like the Homemade Apple Pie contest, Watermelon Seed Spitting contest and the Hot Dog Eating contest. Children play in the Radical Run Obstacle Course, ride the trackless train and jump on the Velcro wall.

The activities pause mid-evening for the Beach Ball Drop. Thousands of hands raise in the air as children try to catch one of the hundreds of beach balls that fall from the sky, just before the headliner band kicks off.

The evening’s festivities conclude with a spectacular  fireworks show.
Where: Liberty Hill Middle School, 13125 TX-29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642
When: July 3, 2022 | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Cost: All activities and contests are free. Food and beverages available for purchase. Paid Parking | $5 or $20

Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic and Fireworks

Willie Nelson's 4th of July

Image Credits: audacy.com

The tradition continues! Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic and Fireworks is returning this summer after going virtual in 2021. America’s beloved icon Willie Nelson, who created this annual event in 1972, is bringing a star-studded lineup to the new Q2 Stadium in Austin, TX, home of Austin FC of MLS, on Monday, July 4. The event will feature Willie Nelson & Family, Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit, Tyler Childers, Brothers Osborne, Midland, Charley Crockett, Allison Russell, Particle Kid, Steve Earle & the Dukes, and Asleep at the Wheel.
Where: 10414 Mc Kalla Pl, Austin, TX 78758
When: July 4, 2022 |  11:00 am – onwards
Cost: $49 – $160 (price varies)

4th of July events in Austin – Other Independence Day celebration

2022 Bastrop Patriotic Festival

Bastrop 4th of July

Image Credits: visitbastrop.com

Bastrop will turn red, white and blue with a fun-filled schedule of activities for all ages, July 2nd, 2022, during the Bastrop Patriotic Festival at Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop, TX. The fun kicks off at 8AM with the1K Fun Run, RUN, White and Blue 5K, and many other fun contests during the day – plus a patriotic surprise or two!
Where: Fisherman’s Park, 1200 Willow Street, Bastrop, TX 78602
When: July 2, 2022 |  8:00 am – 9:30 pm
Cost: Free

Cedar Park’s 4th of July Celebration

Come to Milburn Park to celebrate Independence Day! There will be live music, carnival rides & inflatables, food trucks & vendors, washer tournament, fireworks, and a movie in the park immediately following the firework show.
Where: Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: July 4, 2022 | 5:00 pm – 11:30 pm

City of Hutto’s 4th of July Celebration

This FREE, family-friendly celebration of our nation will feature live music, local vendors and food trucks, kids’ activities, a fireworks show, and more! Weather permitting.
The City is requesting that attendees RSVP to the event via Facebook, however it is not required. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at Brushy Creek Amphitheater but attendees are encouraged to take advantage of free shuttles available at Hutto High School.
Live music kicks off with Micah Marcos before the Steph Cash Band rocks the stage. David Beck’s Tejano Weekend will bring their unique Tejano sound to the stage before Bri Bagwell caps off the evening. Following the live music, attendees can enjoy the City’s largest fireworks show of the year.
Where: Brushy Creek Amphitheater, 1001 Co Rd 137, Hutto, TX 78634
When: July 4, 2022 | 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Cost: Free

Come one, come all – the Austin Young Republicans invite you to another spectacular July 4th party! Why? Because we love America, that’s why! And what better way to show our patriotism than by throwing a rager of a party?

There’ll be BBQ, beer, and all your favorite patriotic tunes. Maybe even one pack of veggie burgers for that one guy. So whether you’re a Republican, Conservative, and not an America hating Liberal – come on down and celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave with us! Red, White and Blue clothes not required but encouraged.
Where: 12013 Fitzhugh Road, Austin, TX 78736
When: July 02, 2022 12:00 pm – July 03, 2022 3:50 am
Cost: $15

Stay up to date on all fun things going on in Austin with our weekly updates to Things to do in Austin this Week, Things to do in Austin this Weekend, & Things to do in Austin with Kids this Weekend

And to have these updates delivered directly to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking on the …next to the search lens icon

And if you are traveling for the 4th, check out July 4th Fireworks in San Antonio, July 4th Fireworks in Houston, July 4th Fireworks in Dallas and July 4th Fireworks in Boston! 

Austin Juneteenth Events 2022 – Poetry, Food Fest, Jazz and more!

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Juneteenth Weekend Festival

Austin Juneteenth Events | Image Credit: George Washington Carver Museum FB Page

Juneteenth is the celebration of the anniversary of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers landed in Galveston to officially tell slaves in Texas that they were free. Juneteenth will soon be an official federal holiday, so there’s more reason than ever to celebrate.  We’ve put together a list of fun Juneteenth events in Houston for you to choose from.

 

Austin Juneteenth Events 2022 – Friday, June 17, 2022

1. Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration Annual Recognition Dinner and Dance

Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration

Image Credit: Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration FB Page

Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration Annual Recognition Dinner and Dance. Celebrating the contributions of African-Americans in Bastrop. Come enjoy the evening with us as we honor former and current leaders, life-time supporters, history and African-American culture in Bastrop.
When: Friday, June 17 at 6 pm
Where: 1408 Chestnut St, Bastrop, TX 78602
How Much: not stated

Austin Juneteenth Events 2022 – Saturday, June 18

2. Juneteenth Celebration at Buda Amphitheater & City Park

A Community event happening in the City Park Pavilion. Bring 2 non-perishable items to help fill the Hays County Food Bank Food Truck. Family-Friendly Fun | Music | Food Trucks | Vendors
When: 10:00 am 2:00 pm
Where: 204 San Antonio Street, Buda, TX, 78610
How Much: not stated

3. Juneteenth Festival Round Rock

The Voice Inc. (non-profit organization) and the City of Round Rock Parks and Recreation Department are joining forces again for the 14th annual FREE Round Rock Round Rock Juneteenth Festival at the Lakeview Pavilion and festival area in Old Settlers Park. The event is FREE for the entire family. Parking is just $5 cash and all proceeds help to produce the event annually.
When: 4:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Where: 301 West Bagdad, Suite 250
How Much: Free

4. Poetry in Motion Celebrates Juneteenth

CALLING ALL POETS, MUSICIANS, AND STORYTELLERS! (ages 15 to adult) Join us for the latest installment of Poetry in Motion, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., Saturday, June 18, Round Rock Public Library, Meeting Room A. Come share your work at our community and family-friendly event!
When: 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Where: 216 E. Main St. Round Rock, TX78664
How Much: not stated

5. Soul Food Truck Fest

Soul Food Truck Fest

Image Credit: Soul Food Truck Fest FB Page

The Friends & Family Olympics is designed to create a fun and friendly competitive environment while also encouraging healthy movement. These creative activities will be an opportunity for families to work on skills like teamwork and good sportsmanship. #LetTheGamesBegin
The Meal Prep Cooking Demos is a fan favorite! Talented local chefs will demonstrate healthy cooking techniques and share some delicious recipes.
When: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Where: 900 Chicon St Austin, TX 78702
How Much: not stated

Austin Juneteenth Events 2022 – Sunday, June 19

6. Stay Black & Live: Juneteenth Weekend Festival

Juneteenth Weekend Festival

Image Credit: George Washington Carver Museum FB Page

Stay Black & Live (SB&L) is a weekend-long celebration hosted by CarverMuseumATX and Six Square that takes place on June 18th and 19th. This marks the third iteration of Stay Black & Live Juneteenth celebration that launched in 2020. The weekend is full of free family-oriented activities, music, games, and more .
When: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Where: 1165 Angelina St. Austin, TX 78702
How Much: not stated

7. A Pflugerville Juneteenth – Pfamily Reunion 2022

Come join us for Pflugerville 2nd annual Juneteenth! This year’s theme is Pfamily Reunion.
When: 12 pm – 7 pm
Where: 800 S Heatherwilde Blvd Pflugerville, TX 78660
How Much: not stated

8. Juneteenth Jubilee Celebrating Black Excellence

We are throwing a Juneteenth event at Cheer Up Charlie’s on Saturday 18th and Sunday, June 19th. We have a number of artists that will be performing various styles of music representing different aspects of Black Culture. As a collective, we want to share our culture through music and food. Here are the artists booked.
When: Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19
Where: 900 Red River St Austin, TX 78701
How Much: not stated

9. Juneteenth Celebration-Jazz on the Green

Juneteenth, a combination of June and Nineteenth, is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery is observed on June 1. Informally Juneteenth was celebrated annually since 1865. In 1980, Juneteenth became an official state holiday in Texas. Juneteenth is a day to celebrate freedom and cultural diversity. Please join us as we celebrate on the lawn of the Homestead at the KF Park. This is a free family event. Bring your lawn chairs and neighbors to mingle the evening away.
When: Sunday, June 19, 6 pm to 8 pm
Where: 2106 Klattenhoff Drive Austin, TX 78728
How Much: not stated

Any other Juneteenth 2022 events in Austin that we missed? Comment below and let us know.

Juneteenth – Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Juneteenth important?

Juneteenth is the celebration of the anniversary of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers landed in Galveston to officially tell slaves in Texas that they were free.

When is Juneteenth 2022?

Juneteenth 2022 will be celebrated on Sunday, June 19.

Is Juneteenth a holiday?

According to Wikipedia, on June 15, 2021, the Senate unanimously passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday; it subsequently passed through the House of Representatives by a 415–14 vote on June 16. President Joe Biden signed the bill on June 17, 2021, making Juneteenth the eleventh American federal holiday and the first to obtain legal observance as a federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was designated in 1983.

On U.S. federal holidays, non-essential federal government offices are closed and federal government employees are paid for the holiday. There are a total of 11 federal holidays.

How is Juneteenth celebrated?

According to Wikipedia, Juneteenth celebrations include public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, singing traditional songs such as “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, and the reading of works by noted African-American writers, such as Ralph Ellison and Maya Angelou. Some Juneteenth celebrations also include rodeos, street fairs, cookouts, family reunions, park parties, historical reenactments, and Miss Juneteenth contests.

Stay up to date on all fun things going on in Austin with our weekly updates to Things to do in Austin this Week, Things to do in Austin this Weekend, & Things to do in Austin with Kids this Weekend

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Blue Star Museums in Austin – Active duty military personnel have free admission to 9 museums in the Austin area!

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Blue Star Museums in Austin - Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin

Blue Star Museums in Austin – Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin

The Austin area has a number of outstanding museums whether you are looking for art, history, interactive museums, or anything else! But visiting museums with your family can get expensive.

Blue Star Museums program provides free museum admission to active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve members.  It is the result of a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, working in partnership with the Department of Defense and museums across the country!

The 2022 Blue Star Museums program began on May 21, 2022, on Armed Forces Day, and will culminate on September 5, 2022, on Labor Day. Below is a list of 9 wonderful Blue Star Museums in the Austin area that military personnel can take advantage of!

Blue Star Museums in Austin Area For 2022

Blanton Museum of Art

Exhibit at The Blanton Museum of Art in AustinThe University of Texas at Austin’s Jack S. Blanton Museum of Art (often known as the Blanton or the BMA) is one of the country’s major university art museums. Temporary exhibits, permanent collection galleries, storage, administrative offices, classes, a print study room, an auditorium, store, and café occupy 189,340 square feet.

Hours of Operation: Wed – Sat: 10 am – 5 pm | Sun: 1 pm – 5 pm | Mon & Tues: Closed
Located at: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712, United States

Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Since 1928, the Austin Parks & Recreation Department has been the custodian of the city’s public lands. As a result, they safeguard parks and the urban forest. Trails are preserved, and they provide a range of sports, recreation, educational enrichment, artistic programs, cultural experiences, and natural and aquatic activities.

Timings: Mon – Fri: 8 am – 5  pm
Location: 200 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State History Museum has welcomed over 9 million people from all around the world to learn about what makes Texas unique. They engage the largest possible audience to interpret the constantly changing Story of Texas via relevant educational experiences, which they opened in 2001 as the official history museum of the State of Texas.

When: Tues – Sun: 10 am – 5 pm | Mon & Tues: Closed
Where: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Deal Alert: Save Big on Austin area Museums and other Attractions with POGO Pass

Image 1: Pogo Pass to 35 Things to Do in Austin, San Antonio and Waco

The Standard South Central Texas Pogo Pass (San Antonio/Austin/Waco) provides admissions to 35 different entertainment venues in the San Antonio, Austin and Waco area.

Perfect for families, the Pogo Pass gives both adult and child pass-holders 50+ visits to some of the best things to do that San Antonio, Austin and Waco have to offer. The Pogo Pass nearly pays for itself with a visit to one or two venues alone!!!

Pass Features the following Attractions in Austin

  • One visit to Wonder World Park
  • One visit to Typhoon Texas Waterpark
  • One Visit to the Thinkery Museum
  • Two Texas Stars hockey games
  • Two Austin Spurs basketball games
  • One visit per month to Austin’s Park
  • One visit to the Austin Aquarium
  • Two visits to Quest ATX Wakeboard Park
  • One visit to Pioneer Farms
  • One visit to Monster Mini Golf
  • One Visit per Quarter to D-Bat
  • One Visit to Mt. Playmore
  • Two visits to Rock Sports Arena
  • Two visits to Pump It Up
  • One visit to Neill-Cochran House Museum

Check out the POGO pass and SAVE Big on Austin Area Museums and other Attractions! 

Blue Star Museums in Austin Area For 2022 – Continued

Landmarks Public Art Program

Public art has the power to evoke strong emotions, pique interest, and ignite the imagination in unexpected ways. The public art collection at The University of Texas at Austin is one of the most recognizable elements of the main campus, molding impressions and providing a unique backdrop for unforgettable encounters.

Hours of Operation: Tues – Sat: 10 am – 5 pm | Sun & Mon: Closed
Located at: The University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, United States

LBJ Presidential Library

Blue Start Museums in Austin - Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in AustinThe LBJ Presidential Library, also known as the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, is the presidential library and museum of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th president of the United States. The LBJ Library has 45 million pages of historical records, including President Lyndon B. Johnson’s papers as well as those of his close allies and others.

When: Sun – Sat: 9 am – 5 pm
Where: 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705, United States

Mexic-Arte Museum

Artists Sylvia Orozco, Sam Coronado, and Pio Pulido created Mexic-Arte Museum in the Arts Warehouse in downtown Austin in 1984. The amazing history of the Mexic-Arte Museum has positioned it as one of the region’s most important art institutions. The museum’s facilities, scope, and resources will all be considerably expanded during the next few years.

Timings: Mon – Thurs: 10 am – 6 pm | Fri & Sat: 10 am – 5 pm | Sun:
Location: 419 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Neill-Cochran House Museum

Blue Star Museum Programs - Neill-Cochran House Museum

Image Credit: Neill-Cochran House Museum Facebook Page

They manage one of the city’s oldest historic mansions (1856), which includes Austin’s sole preserved slave quarters, just a few minutes’ walk from the UT-Austin campus. The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in Texas owns the Neill-Cochran House Museum.

Hours of Operation: Wed-Sat: 11 am – 4 pm | Mon & Tues: Closed
Located at: 2310 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705, United States

The Williamson Museum

The Williamson Museum is a non-profit organization founded in 1997 to collect, conserve, and exhibit things related to Williamson County’s rich culture and legacy. Through creative exhibitions, tours, and outreach, they provide free and entertaining hands-on educational activities to the public, including the annual Pioneer Day at Old Settlers Park.

When: Wed-Sat: 12 pm – 5 pm | Sat: 10 am – 5 pm | Sun – Tues: Closed
Where: 716 S Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626, United States

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Blue Star Museum Programs - Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum

Image Credit: Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum Facebook Page

Temple’s historic Santa Fe Depot is home to the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum. The permanent displays focus on railroad operations and travel, with a focus on the Santa Fe Railway. A variety of shifting temporary exhibits, as well as teaching activities and special events, are all held at the museum.

Timings: Tues – Sat: 10 am – 4 pm | Sun & Mon: Closed
Location: 315 W Avenue B, Temple, TX 76501, United States

So which Austin museum do you plan to visit at as part of the Blue Star Museums program? Let us know in the comments section below.

 

Stay up to date on the events, activities, and entertainment in the Austin area through our weekly updates to Things to do in Austin this Week, Things to do in Austin this Weekend, and Things to do in Austin with Kids this Weekend!

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Ghost towns in Texas: 10 abandoned places for a fun road trip from Austin

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Ghost towns in Texas | Lobo Texas

Ghost towns in Texas | Image Credit – Lobo, Texas FB page

A visit to any one of these haunting ghost towns in Texas will provide you with an unforgettable adventure unlike any other! Get away from the crowds and explore new regions of the state that you might not have been aware of. When you travel to these Texas ghost towns, you will not only get a glimpse of some amazing architecture but also of the state’s extensive history, which is simply asking to be studied.

It’s always intriguing to find out what happened to these deserted towns in Texas, who used to live there, and what events occurred that converted the place into one of the well-known ghost cities in Texas. In Texas, there are a number of popular ghost cities.

Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared in HoustonOnTheCheap.com. Content has been modified for Austinot readers. 

Ghost Towns in Texas – 10 Abandoned Places

Throughout the course of the history of the state, these towns were subjected to the growth and unpredictability of a variety of businesses, including the oil industry, mining, agriculture, and others. As a result, lots of deserted and eerie Texas ghost towns were left behind.

Regardless, these ghost towns on the map of Texas have become a destination for travelers of all kinds, including Texans themselves. Some of these communities have even been maintained so that tourists can continue to learn about their fascinating histories. When planning your next vacation from Austin, be sure to consult both this list and this map of Texas ghost towns.

Some of these can be covered in a day and are right here in Central Texas, others may need a weekend, and some others are way across the other side of Texas and therefore will require a loooong drive!

Ghost Towns in Texas – Under 6 hours drive from Austin

1. Sherwood

Location: Texas 76941

Drive time from Austin: ~ 4 hours

sherwood tx

Known as one of the more picturesque ghost towns in the state, Sherwood used to be the county seat in Irion County. It had a post office, courthouse, and other amenities. However, when the railroads were built, they bypassed the town of Sherwood to a new railroad town called Mertzon, and later a new state highway was also established through Mertzon. As a result, Sherwood lost its county seat to Mertzon and eventually, the town became a tiny rural community. However, the beautiful courthouse that features a false clock with its hands set to the hour of Abraham Lincoln’s death still stands.

2. Indianola

Location: Texas 77979

Drive time from Austin: ~ 3 hours

indianola tx

This port city on Matagorda Bay was founded in 1844 and was originally seen as a possible future competitor to Galveston and New Orleans. The population reached more than 5,000 people in the 1870s, but the town was brutalized by hurricanes in 1875 and 1886. The town was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1963. Although the old city is gone, there’s still a lot to see, including a granite monument dedicated to the French explorer La Salle.

3. The Grove

Location: 453 The Grove Ln, Gatesville, TX 76528

Drive time from Austin: ~1.5 hours

the grove tx

The Grove was founded in the 1850s and named after a grove of beautiful oak trees growing in the area. It’s located about 16 miles southeast of Gatesville and not far from Temple, Texas. Soon after its founding, it had two general stores, a cotton gin, and a church. The church still exists today. The Grove had a population of about 400 people at its peak, but today it’s a ghost town and is listed by The Smithsonian Institute as a historic Texas town.

Today, there are plenty of great photo opportunities around this little ghost town in Texas.

4. Catarina

Location: Texas 78836

Drive time from Austin: ~ 3 hours

ghost towns in Texas

The town of Catarina was founded as a railroad junction. According to legend, it was named after a woman who was killed in the area, when a standoff occurred during the 1700s. The town had a post office, schools, and a thriving population. Unfortunately, the town’s economic decline is due to a shortage of water and a generally bad economy. There are still residents in the area, but there are just less than a hundred, making it one of Texas’ semi-ghost towns.

5. Bluffton

Location: Bluffton, Texas 78607

Drive time from Austin: ~ 1 hour and 15 minutes

bluffton texas ghost town

The Buchanan Dam is a massive and majestic construction built in Hill Country. It effectively sifts the waters of the Colorado River, and when most communities perished because of a lack of water, Bluffton had plenty. However, the abundance led to the town drowning due to rising seas and flooding. When the water levels start to dry up after a few years, the remaining vestiges of the settlement were unearthed. What once was a lively town has now become a place known for driving four-wheelers or going birdwatching.

Have you been to any of these or other ghost towns in Texas? Share your experiences by commenting below.

Ghost Towns in Texas – Over 6 hours of drive from Austin

6. Terlingua

Location: Texas 79852

Drive time from Austin: ~7.5 hours

terlingua tx

credit: Big Bend National Park

Not far from Big Bend, Terlingua might be the state’s most famous ghost town. It was first home to Native Americans, and then to Spanish and Americans. The town boomed in the early 1900s as a mining town and used to have schools, a hotel, mail delivery, and everything else you’d expect from a small town. However, mineral prices plummeted after World War II and the end of the area’s financial prosperity led to the town’s demise.

Today, Terlingua is a ghost town tourists visit on a trip to the nearby Big Bend National Park.

7. Lobo

Location: Texas 79855

Drive time from Austin: ~7 hours

lobo tx

Lobo is a much more modern ghost town than others on this list as it wasn’t abandoned until the late 1960s and the years after. It’s located in Culberson County, Texas in the Trans-Pecos area of West Texas. The area was known for cotton farming and as the only reliable source of water for many miles, and it was a thriving desert town for decades. But as the cost of agriculture became too expensive, the town slipped into a sharp decline. Efforts to save and revive Lobo were abandoned in 1991, and today,

Today, Lobo is private property and “not intended for settlement.”

8. Glenrio

Location: Texas 79045

Drive time from Austin: ~9 hours

ghost towns in texas

Glenrio was once a thriving town located along the popular Route 66 near the Texas and New Mexico border. It was established in the early 1900s and grew over the years until Interstate 40 was built during the 1950s. A town that once had thousands of travelers come through withered away, and by the mid-80s, only 2 residents remained. An abandoned gas station and a few other buildings still stand today.

9. Toyah

Location: 79785

Drive time from Austin: ~6.5 hours

Small town Toyah, Texas boasted a population of 90 people after the 2010 census. Toyah finds its inception as a trading post for large local ranchers, however, before long Toyah had a post office. After that, Toyah became a major cattle shipping destination and even had a population of 771 in 1910. Unfortunately, the Great Depression knocked out the majority of Toyah’s thriving population and the town has yet to recover. This Texas Ghost town is a living history of what that difficult time in American history did to many.

10. Barstow

Location: Texas 79719

Drive time from Austin: ~6 hours

Ghost towns in Texas

Barstow, founded in the 1800s got its name from George E. Barstow. He was a pioneer in the irrigation sector. He was recognized for his agricultural prowess with grapes and was even honored during the 1904 World Fair. The town enjoyed a brief period of fame before becoming one of the ghost towns in Texas. This happened when a dam in a nearby area collapsed, flooding everything in its path. Several government buildings, homes, schools, and a few private enterprises were left standing.

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Austin Museums – List of 10 Best Attractions including Art, Science, Interactive, Children’s Museums & more!

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Austin Museums - Bullock Texas State History Museum

Austin Museums | Image Credit: Bullock Texas State History Museum Facebook Page

Austin museums are among the city’s most popular attractions. The many museums in Austin, Texas are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Furthermore, there is always a museum for everyone — whether you enjoy contemporary or traditional arts, science or history, or maybe you want to simply experience something interactive and unique, Austin, TX museums have it all!

With so many great museums to choose from in ATX, it is often difficult to decide which museums to go visit. Our comprehensive guide can help you narrow down your choices. We have included details about the museum exhibits, museum hours, tickets, discounts, and more!

Check out this list of the 10 Best Museums in Austin!

Deal Alert: Save Big on Austin area Museums and other Attractions with POGO Pass

Image 1: Pogo Pass to 35 Things to Do in Austin, San Antonio and Waco

The Standard South Central Texas Pogo Pass (San Antonio/Austin/Waco) provides admissions to 35 different entertainment venues in the San Antonio, Austin and Waco area.

Perfect for families, the Pogo Pass gives both adult and child pass-holders 50+ visits to some of the best things to do that San Antonio, Austin and Waco have to offer. The Pogo Pass nearly pays for itself with a visit to one or two venues alone!!!

Pass Features the following Attractions in Austin

  • One visit to Wonder World Park
  • One visit to Typhoon Texas Waterpark
  • One Visit to the Thinkery Museum
  • Two Texas Stars hockey games
  • Two Austin Spurs basketball games
  • One visit per month to Austin’s Park
  • One visit to the Austin Aquarium
  • Two visits to Quest ATX Wakeboard Park
  • One visit to Pioneer Farms
  • One visit to Monster Mini Golf
  • One Visit per Quarter to D-Bat
  • One Visit to Mt. Playmore
  • Two visits to Rock Sports Arena
  • Two visits to Pump It Up
  • One visit to Neill-Cochran House Museum

Check out the POGO pass and SAVE Big on Austin Area Museums and other Attractions! 

Austin Museums – Local, International, Traditional & Contemporary Art Museums

Blanton Museum of Art

Austin Museums - The Blanton Museum of Art

Image Credit: The Blanton Museum of Art Facebook Page

If you are looking for the best art museums in Austin Texas, then the Blanton Museum should be included in your must-see museums in Austin TX. European paintings, prints, drawings, modern and contemporary American and Latin American art, and Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin are among Blanton’s permanent collections of almost 21,000 pieces.

Timings: Wednesday – Thursday: 10 am – 5 pm | Sunday: 1 pm – 5 pm | Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Located At: The University of Texas at Austin, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin, TX 78712
How Much: Adult: $12 | Seniors: $10 | Youth: $5 | Military, Teachers, and Children 12 and under: Free

 

Mexic-Arte Museum

Mexic-Arte Museum

Image Credit: Mexic-Arte Museum Website

Artists Sylvia Orozco, Sam Coronado, and Pio Pulido founded Mexic-Arte Museum in the Arts Warehouse in downtown Austin in 1984 to share Mexican art and culture with Texas. For visitors of all ages, the museum is dedicated to enhancing the community via educational activities, exhibitions, and the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture.

Timings: Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm | Friday – Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm | Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Located At: 419 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
How Much: Adult: $7 | Students, Military & Seniors: $4 | Children 12 and under: $1

 

Elisabet Ney Museum

Elisabet Ney Museum

Image Credit: Elisabet Ney Museum Facebook Page

There are plenty of free museums Austin offers its locals and tourists, and this is one of the favorite free museums in the city. The Elisabet Ney Museum is the former house and studio of Elisabet Ney, a controversial German artist who arrived in Austin in 1882. Through exhibitions and programs for the whole family, the museum proudly honors her art, history, and legacy.

Timings: Monday – Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday – Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Located At: 304 East 44th Street, Austin, 78751
How Much: Free

 

Museum of the Weird

Austin Museums - Museum of the Weird

Image Credit: Museum of the Weird Facebook Page

Nothing beats the weird museums in Austin better than the Museum of the Weird! It houses an unusual collection of oddities and is a must-see attraction! The Creature, Phantom of the Opera, Dracula, Frankenstein, and even a life-size King Kong are among the wax sculptures on display. Strange animals, monsters, mummies, mermaids, and more await you! But fear not, because everything is created and displayed in a family-friendly environment.

Timings: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Located At: 412 East 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $12

Science Museums in Austin

Austin Nature & Science Center

Dino Pit at Austin Nature & Science Center

Dino Pit | Image Credit: Austin Nature & Science Center Facebook Page

Since 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center has served visitors, instructors, and children of all ages with hands-on nature displays, education programs, and recreation activities that improve knowledge and appreciation of the natural world.

Timings: Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm | Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Located At: 2389 Stratford Drive, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Free

Austin Museums – History, Educational

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Image Credit: Bullock Texas State History Museum Facebook Page

The Bullock Museum is truly one of the best museums in Austin. It showcases exhibitions, films, symposiums, community events, field trips, and entertaining, family-centered programming that convey the richness of hundreds of objects, the museum’s culture, and pioneering ideas to visitors of all ages. The museum oversees the presentation of Texas artifacts from all over the world, forming partnerships with other museums and private lenders to help Austin residents and visitors in learning more about the city’s rich history.

Timings: Wednesday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm | Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Located At: 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
How Much: Adult: $13 | Students, Military & Seniors: $11 | Youth (4-17): $9

 

LBJ Presidential Library

Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum

Image Credit: Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum Facebook Page

The Library of Congress, which is located on a 30-acre site on the University of Texas campus in Austin, Texas, houses 45 million pages of historical documents, 650,000 photos, and 5,000 hours of recordings from President Lyndon B. Johnson’s political career, including approximately 643 hours of his recorded telephone conversations. The museum’s core collection is made up of personal items owned, used, purchased, or worn by President and First Lady Johnson, all of which were contributed by President Johnson under the Presidential Libraries Act (1955).

Timings: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm
Located At: 2313 Red River St., Austin, TX 78705
How Much: Adult: $13 | Seniors: $9 | Students & Youth (13-18): $4 | Children 12 and under: Free

Austin Museums – Interactive, Children’s Museums

Museum of Ice Cream

Museum of Ice Cream Austin

Museum of Ice Cream Austin Photos from Facebook Page

There is no other museum in the world where you can learn about ice cream while riding an animal cookie, surrounded by thousands of bananas, or swimming in a pool filled with millions of sprinkles. Prepare to be whisked away to a world where all of your wildest ice cream fantasies come true, only here at the Austin ice cream museum.

Timings: Monday & Thursday: 11:30 am – 6:30 pm | Tuesday – Wednesday: Closed | Friday: 11:30 am – 8 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm | Sunday: 10 am – 6:30 pm
Located At: 11506 Century Oaks Terrace, #128, Austin, TX 78758
How Much: General Weekday Admission: $29 | General Weekend Admission: $32 | Kids 2 and below: Free

 

The Contemporary Austin

The contemporary Austin

Image Credit: The Contemporary Austin Facebook Page

Through exhibitions, commissions, education, and its collection, The Contemporary Austin highlights the essence of contemporary art. It is housed in two locations: the historic Jones Center on Congress Avenue in downtown Austin and Laguna Gloria, a fourteen-acre art-in-nature complex that includes the Driscoll Villa, the Betty, and Edward Marcus Sculpture Park, the Art School at Laguna Gloria, and the Moody Pavilions.

Timings: Jones Center — Wednesday: 12 pm – 9 pm; Thursday – Sunday: 12 pm – 6 pm | Laguna Gloria — Wednesday: 9 am – 3 pm; Thursday: 9 am – 9 pm; Friday – Sunday: 9 am – 3 pm
Located At: Jones Center, 700 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701 | Laguna Gloria, 3809 West 35th Street, Austin, Texas 78703
How Much: Adult: $10 | Students & Seniors: $10 | Military & Kids under 18: Free

 

Thinkery

Austin Museums - Thinkery

Image Credit: Thinkery Facebook Page

Thinkery is one of the great kid museums in Austin. It is a place where Austin’s kids and their families may engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning through play. Thinkery has 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor activities for kids and families to learn while having fun. Thinkery stimulates physical, emotional, and cognitive growth for young learners and fosters joyful curiosity for all ages through a range of hands-on, interactive exhibits and events. The interactive experiences in the museum are suitable and truly interesting for people of all ages.

Timings: Monday: Closed | Tuesday – Thursday: 9 am – 3 pm | Friday: 9 am – 5 pm | Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm | Sunday: 10 am – 3 pm
Located At: Thinkery at the Meredith Learning Lab, 1830 Simond Ave., Austin, TX 78723
How Much: General: $16 | Children aged 0-23 months: Free. Thinkery is a one of the attractions covered by the POGO Pass

Any other Austin Museums that we forgot to include in here? Let us know!

 

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Annual Black Fret Black Ball Returns to the Moody Theater in Austin

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Black Ball Group Shot
Black Fret Black Ball 2018 was a celebration of music, giving, and community. (credit: Bill Tucker)

If you follows this site with any regularity, you know we love Black Fret. A music organization with a heart towards sponsoring and supporting the local music community, Black Fret is a shining example of what people can do when they get together for a united cause. When their annual year-end extravaganza was cancelled in 2020, we were crestfallen. Today, we’re happy to report, it’s back! Whether you’re a long time member or someone who wants to give back to local musicians, the Black Ball is a great opportunity support and enjoy live Austin music.

Black Fret Black Ball Back at the Moody

Jonathan Terrell performs at Black Ball 2019 (credit: Bill Tucker)

Started by Matt Ott and Colin Kendrick in 2013, Black Fret’s primary mission is supporting the Austin music community through member supported grants. Black Fret members pay yearly dues and in exchange gain access to unique listening sessions throughout the year. All of the artists at these shows are 100% local and are fairly paid for the gig.

With that money, Black Fret provides grants to a set number of artists as voted by the members. Every year this number’s increased, along with the grant values. Not only do winning artists receive their funds (to be used and allocated for music related endeavors), they receive counseling and mentorship from industry pros.

This year, in spite of the pandemic and the financial turmoil caused by it, Black Fret will be awarding over $200,000 in grants to twenty artists. And they’ll all be present and performing during the Black Ball. In what’s been aptly labeled as “a real life mix tape”, each artist will perform two to three songs between the awards. Take it from someone’s who’s been to a few Black Ball’s – it’s an amazing showcase of our vibrant and diverse music community.

And the Winners Are…

Zach Person performing at the Long Center during a Black Fret event in May 2021. (credit: Bill Tucker)

This year’s list of grant awardees could be one of the best in recent memory. If you’ve never heard of these artists, check out my Black Ball 2021 Spotify playlist to get a feel for all of them:

  • American Dreamer
  • BLK Odyssy
  • Clarence James
  • Darkbird
  • Deezie Brown
  • Eimaral Sol
  • Guy Forsyth & Jeska
  • Harry Edohoukwa
  • Jake Lloyd
  • James Robinson
  • Jon Muq
  • Jonathan Terrell
  • Lisa Morales
  • Motenko
  • Nane
  • Pat Byrne
  • PR Newman
  • Primo the Alien
  • The Reverent Few
  • Zach Person

I’m Sold! How Do I Attend Black Fret Black Ball 2021?

Daniel Sahad of Nane performs during a 2021 Black Fret showcase. (credit: Bill Tucker)

The Black Ball is a private event for Black Fret members, guests, sponsors, and former recipients. But that doesn’t mean you’re out in the cold! The best way is becoming a member. Doing so is easy. With three tiers of access (single, duo, and party), you can get in on the fun for not only the Black Ball, but a year’s worth of exclusive music experiences. I’ve been attending Black Fret events for well over 6 years and some of my most cherished show memories come from those performances.

And if you want to attend without committing to a membership, single event tickets are available for $100 at blackfret.org/donate. Just add “Black Fret Ball 2021 Donation” to the comments and you’re in!

Whether you sign up for a membership or attend the event as a first timer, you’re doing an immeasurable service to the Austin music community. The past year’s been hard on our local talent. Anything we can do to support them not only through our listenership but financially proves Austin is still the Live Music Capital of the World.

And, in the end, the Black Ball is an absolute blast. I’ve always described it as an Austin music homecoming where past and current winners meet up under a cool December sky and celebrate this great community. More a hang than a show, the Black Ball is one of my musical highlights of the year. I highly encourage you to make it yours as well.

For music-related and other fun events in the Austinot area, bookmark our weekly updated Things to do this Week & Things to do this Weekend guides

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5th Annual Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest (Formerly titled Mermaid SPLASH SMTX) Returns to San Marcos

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The Mermaid Fest of San Marcos, an annual festival celebrating the city’s designation (Mermaid Capital Of Texas – San Marcos), art, culture and heritage is returning this year!!!

Mermaid Fest San Marcos is back for its 2021 edition with a host of events in store for all its residents. The festival is a celebration of the city’s most important resource, the San Marcos River. There will be multiple events as a part of the festival including the two feature events: Mermaid Promenade and Downtown Street Faire.

The Mermaid Society of Texas hosts this annual family friendly event in celebration of a vibrant and creative eco-driven community united by the empowering symbol of the Mermaid.

What is the Mermaid Fest San Marcos?

The parades at the San Marcos festival are a must attend. Image via Facebook@Mermaid Society SMTX

The annual festival will see a vibrant display of culture in its parade which will feature floats, marches, music and of course, a ton of mermaids.

Among the events is the Downtown Street Faire you can encounter over 100 artisan vendors placed on the Hays County Courthouse grounds. This is the spot to enjoy local cuisine, supporting downtown eateries and pubs and swaying to live music.

Mermaids on Stairs

There are a host of other mermaid-themed activities in store for family and friends as well. After a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival has returned with its usual excitement but a few of the events have been dropped keeping in mind social distancing norms.

Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest 2021 – Event Details Including COVID Guidelines

When: Saturday, 25 September 2021 | 10:00 a.m. – Noon – Parade, Noon – 8:00 p.m. Downtown Street Faire

Where: Downtown San Marcos, Texas

How much: FREE to the Public

COVID-19 Guidelines: In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, certain events have been eliminated from the festival. Free mermaid-themed disposable masks and hand sanitizing stations available throughout the parade route. There will also be an on-site pop-up vaccination site available for public during the festival.

For More Information: www.mermaidsocietysmtx.com 

Event Contact: July Moreno 512-825-2819

Event Sponsors:  

HEB Title Sponsor of the Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest

San Marcos Lions Club – Presenting Sponsor of The Mermaid Promenade

La Cima San Marcos – Presenting Sponsor of The Downtown Street Faire

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7 Best RV Parks in Texas – Top RV Resorts & Campgrounds

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Here’s your new Texas Travel Bucket List! We’ve put together the best places to see and stay- via RV, car, or trailer! Texans are ready to camp, fish, and stay waterside but there’s no reason it has to be expensive. Texas RV Parks are cheap, with plenty of amenities, and a whole bunch of nature! We’re here to help you decide where to go.

Don’t have your own RV? RVshare is a great service that lets you rent an RV directly from owners so you can enjoy camping in comfort with your whole family without the expense of owning an RV.

Editor’s Note: We are committed to bringing you the most up-to-date information about each location but details are subject to change. Please contact each park for a list of complete terms before making reservations.

7 Best RV Parks in Texas

The Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park

Vineyards of Fredericksburg
Original image courtesy of Vineyards of Fredericksburg Facebook Page

Fredericksburg should be on your Bucket List even if you aren’t RVing. This serene spot in the Texas Hill Country is waiting to show you its wonderful local wineries, floats on the Guadalupe, and all of their great amenities! They have a pool and spa, a pavilion and fire pits, playgrounds and wifi, shower and laundry facilities, a dog park, and even cabins and cottages for rental! Their spacious lots are only $45 – $60 daily with a discount for certain First Responders and other organization members.

Address: 2647 N, US-87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Time from Austin: ~2 hours

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park
Image courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife

We know this is still the Hill Country but Pedernales Falls is one of the best places in stay in all of Texas! Pedernales Falls State Park is open, by reservation only, and has Instagram-worthy swim and splash spots you and your entire family will love. They have camping, hiking, biking, plenty of picnic facilities, tubing, swimming, and wading. Their campsites are primitive; you can have a fire and get electricity {30 amp} and water. They also have restrooms and showers but no pool or laundry facilities. The river more than makes up for all of that and rates are just $10 – $20 per night!

Address: 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636

Time from San Antonio: ~ 1 hour

Galveston Island RV Resort

Galveston Island KOA resort
Image courtesy of Galveston Island KOA Facebook Page

Close to  surfside, this Texas RV park may be the most bougie of them all! Enjoy pool access, a short walk to the beach, cottages for rent, and full hookups for a great price! The cottages are a pretty penny, but they’re also pretty! Summer rates can be as high as $75 but it’s a great price for some of the best amenities on the list: a lazy river, hot tub, walk-in pool, free parking and wifi, gaming, catch-and-release crabbing and fishing, and spacious sites.

Address: 23700 Termini-San Luis Pass Rd, Galveston, TX 77554

Time from Austin: ~ 4 hours and 30 minutes

Garner State Park

If the other sites on this list aren’t your favorite, Garner State Park definitely will be. Enjoy a crystal lake, gorgeous scenery, paddle boating, swimming, floating,  shelters, cabins, and campsites with full hookups. They also have picnic areas, fire rings with a grill for just $35 a night. The Frio River is shallow enough for dogs and children and there are plenty of historical areas nearby to visit.

Check out a detailed review of Things to do at Garner State Park

Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838

Time from Austin: ~ 3 hours

Sandollar Resort Motel & RV Park

Sandollar Resort Motel & RV Park
Image courtesy of Sandollar Facebook page

For a crystal-clear beach experience, head out to Rockport, Texas! This cute and comfortable RV Park has a motel with two pools, bbq pits, plenty of shady oaks, bay and beachside access, a marina and pier, plus onsite games and a bar and grill! The RV site rates are $40 – $44 per day for two guests per site; additional guests are $1 per day, per person. Be sure to make reservations in advance and budget for electricity rates plus deposits.

Address: 4021 TX-35, Rockport, TX 78382

Time from Austin: ~ 3 hours and 15 minutes

Fort Clark Springs

Swimming pool at Fort Clark Springs
Image courtesy of Fort Clark Springs Facebook page

An underground cave is the kind of thing every person should see at least once in their lifetime. Kickapoo Cavern State Park has plenty to see and do but we recommend you stay at Fort Clark Springs. They have a pool, free wifi, 50 amp hookups, restrooms and shower facilities, plus pets are allowed. Rates are $25.50 per day with tent camping nearby.

Address: Brackettville, TX 78832

Time from Austin: ~ 3 hours & 30 minutes

Palo Duro Rim RV Campground

Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park – Image courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife

This primitive camping site makes the list for two amazing reasons- because the landscape is something out of a movie, and because the temps are unexpectedly cool. You won’t find much in the way of water out here near the border but because you’re “on the rim” the temps stay cool and breezy year-round. Enjoy easy access, full hookups, strong cell signal, outdoor activities including a zipline, showers, and more. Sites are around $30 a night.

Address: 5707 4th Ave, Canyon, TX 79015

Time from Austin: ~ 7 hours & 30 minutes

Looking for getaways from Austin? Check out these 6 great camping locations! 

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10 Best places to take pictures in Austin

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South Congress in Austin
Image courtesy: The Honest Shruth

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. But yours could be worth more than that – if you know the best places to take pictures in Austin. Luckily, this list has some of the top photoshoot locations for you to plan a session or grab a quick pic. Get your captions ready because these places to take pictures are worth double posting!

Where to take pictures in Austin?

Zilker Park

Zilker Park
Image courtesy of City of Austin Govt. Facebook page

If you’re a hippy a heart or just like to keep it natural, check out Zilker Park. It’s over 350 acres of greenery in the heart of Downtown. Here you can snap a shot sitting on the hill with the whole city behind you. Or you can wait until sunset and get a beautiful hue in your photo.

Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78746

Austin Motel

Austin Motel on South Congress
Image courtesy: Austin Motel

It’s iconic. This swanky motel is surrounded by restaurants and shops. It makes for the perfect Austin backdrop. But what this motel is most known for is its sign, which often changes with fun sayings.

Where: 1220 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Lady Bird Boardwalk

Boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake boardwalk just below South Shore District

Sometimes a photo by the water is all your feed needs. This boardwalk trails right off Lady Bird Lake and Zilker Park. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a casual picture. But try to get to this location early because it’s a favorite for locals and tourists.

Where: 2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746

Tav Ceti Mural

mural in austin
Image courtesy: Do 512

Austin is known for its talented artists and weird culture. Many of its buildings have murals. Tau Ceti is the tallest mural and is located downtown. It’s truly one of the best places to take pictures in Austin, especially when the sunlight refracts from the gradient.

Where: E 2nd St &, Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

ATX Sculpture

Image courtesy: Slow Fuse

Another iconic piece located in Downtown Austin is the ATX sculpture in front of Whole Foods. This rainbow-striped piece will let everyone know you’re in Austin. 

Where: 5th St and Lamar, Austin, TX 78703

South Congress

Torchy's Tacos Flagship South Congress
Torchy’s Tacos flagship location on South Congress (Credit: John Cabuena)

South Congress is one of the vibrant neighborhoods. This district is known for the restaurants, shops, and just overall good atmosphere. On this strip, you can find several places to take pictures, go see for yourself.

Where: South Congress, Austin, TX 78704

The Capitol Building

Capitol Building
Image courtesy: Texas Capitol Building

You can tour it. Or just marvel at the architecture by standing outside of it and taking a photo. The grounds around The Capitol are beautiful. If your feed is dedicated to informing people, this would be a great chance to display some Texas history!

Where: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701

Stubb’s

Stubb's BBQ in Austin, Texas

This Bar-B-Q joint and music venue is a great place to take pictures. Some of the best acts of music have been played here. If you’re into music, then show off that you’ve set foot on the ground of Stubb’s.

Where: 801 Red River St, Austin, TX 7870

The Domain

Domain pictures in austin
Image courtesy: The Domain Northside

This modern shopping center has tons of areas for a photo op. From decorated walls of plants or corridors with murals, you won’t even know where to start!

Where: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758

Sixth Street

Dirty Sixth Street Austin
Dirty Sixth Street (Credit: Ian Aberle via Flickr CC)

Known for its nightlife, Sixth Street is full of fun photoshoots. It’s colorful and lively. With tons of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, let everyone know you’re having a good time.

Where: W 6th St., Austin, TX 78703

While the city is big, some of the best places to take pictures in Austin are pretty close. So, if a few of these has caught your eye then try to coordinate the locations out. In case you don’t, know that on almost every corner there’s usually always a place to take a photo.

Need something to fuel your photoshoot? Check out these Austin BBQ places!

Black Fret Keeps Live Music Alive With a New Festival

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Nakia SXSW 2018 Black Fret
Nakia enlivened an amazing Black Fret showcase during SXSW 2018. (credit: Bill Tucker)

For more than eight years, Black Fret supported the Austin music community with an unstoppable sense of purpose and accomplishment. When COVID brought live music to a near standstill, many of us wondered who would step up and take a stand. Black Fret came to the table and their brand new music festival, “Keep Live Music Alive,” is the comeback party we’ve been asking for since March of 2020. And with news of the 2021 class of grant nominees around the corner, there has never been a better time to become a member and support the music.

Doing The Right Thing Since 2013

Matt and Colin Black Ball 2018
Colin Kendrick (L) and Matt Ott (R) pose before the 2018 Black Ball (credit: Bill Tucker)

Founded by Colin Kendrick and Matt Ott in 2013, Black Fret aims to support the local music scene through member support. Members pay a flat fee that goes toward yearly grants. In return, members get access to unique, intimate listening room style performances. Every year, members nominate twenty artists to receive either a minor ($5,000) or major ($20,000) grant. The year culminates in the Black Ball, a sensational awards show and concert blowout at the Moody Theater. I’ve been to multiple Black Balls over the years, and trust me. They are experiences!

And while COVID kicked the Austin live music scene in the gut, Black Fret fought back with the Happy Hour Concert series. The program paid out over $250,000 to over 150 musicians for playing shows for companies and businesses over Zoom. It’s that sort of innovation that helped Black Fret stay helpful and relevant during the pandemic.

How’s this for numbers? To date, Black Fret has awarded $2,000,000 to local musicians and $1,500,000 to Austin-area venues and music businesses. Every artist playing a Black Fret showcase gets paid as does every venue. And for the first time, this year’s season dues is $750. While that may seem steep, it’s a hefty discount from years past. And consider the amount of live shows you get exclusive access to, along with knowing you’re supporting the art that keeps Austin the “Live Music Capital of the World. It’s a donation worth considering if you have the means to do so.

The Keep Live Music Alive Festival

Buffalo Hunt during the Black Fret SXSW 2021 showcase.

Now that COVID restrictions are relaxing enough for Austin to dip its collective toe back into live music, Black Fret is launching its first membership drive of the season in the form of a festival. The “Keep Live Music Alive” festival will take place from May 14-16th at the Long Center Terrace. While the event is listed as members only, single-day tickets are available for non-members. But that’s not the point. With an incredible lineup to offer, becoming a member is the best way to experience this three-day extravaganza.

The jam packed schedule reads like a who’s who of new Austin music. While ATX staples like Ley Line and Darkbird make me smile, I’m dying to check out Zach Person. I’ve heard nothing but good things about this local up-and-comer. The full schedule is as follows:

Day 1Time
Eimarl Sol4:00
Darkbird4:45
Mike Melinoe5:30
Miggy Milla6:15
Zach Person7:00
Buffalo Hunt7:45
Nane8:30
Day 2
Night Blooms3:00
Motenko4:00
Ley Line4:45
Clarence James5:30
Lisa Morales6:15
Harry Edohoukwa7:00
American Dreamer7:45
Sam Houston & Blk Odyssy8:30
Jake Lloyd9:00
Day 3
Special Tribute to Bob Dylan11:00 AM
Jon Muq2:00
Casey McPherson3:00
Dom Fisher3:45
Pat Byrne4:30
J Soulja5:15
Matt the Electrician6:00
The Reverent Few6:45
Deezie Brown7:30

Looking Forward to the Season Ahead

Austin band Motenko performing during Black Fret’s SXSW 2021 showcase.

And the festival is a jumping-off point. On June 11th via a private event at the Moody Theatre, Black Fret will announce this year’s class of artists. After months of live shows, the season will culminate in this year’s Black Ball on December 4th. As a fan of this wonderful organization, it’s great to see it up and running as intended: promoting and stewarding Austin live music. And if Black Fret’s re-emergence is the goal, the Keep Live Music Alive festival is its proof of concept.

“Black Fret is all about supporting our local music as the art that it is and we thank the Long Center for hosting our first ‘Keep Live Music Alive’ festival,” said Matt Ott, Co-founder of Black Fret. “COVID knocked our music community on our collective ass and it is time for us all to come together to support our artists, venues, and vendors that create our amazing music ecosystem in Austin. Joining Black Fret is a great way to accomplish that.”

When the music community was sucker-punched by COVID over a year ago, it hit everyone hard. From artists to venues and everyone in between, it was a time of uncertainty and anxiety. Despite it all, Black Fret continued to do what it does best—provide a lifeline to Austin’s cherished and storied music scene when it needed it most. And with this weekend’s celebration, the Austin music community hopes to turn the page on the year that was, and look forward to a great season of sounds ahead.

To become a member and attend the festival, visit https://www.blackfret.org/klma/ for everything you need to do so.

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Ever been to a Black Fret event? Tell us about your experience!

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