By michael vivar
Austin, Texas has been one of the fastest growing cities in the United States for over two decades.
The city has affectionately adopted the unofficial motto, "Keep Austin Weird." They've done this by keeping living costs relatively low and providing a vibrant culture, holding events like Austin City Limits and SXSW.
They've also attracted new residents with a world-class university system along with corporate hubs for industry giants including Oracle, Whole Foods and Alamo Draft House.
With a wealth of amenities on offer in Austin proper, some newcomers and long-term residents may be unfamiliar with the surrounding area. Here are the five best day trips from Austin.
The small city is proud of its frontier heritage and puts it on display with the Pioneer Museum. History buffs will also love the National Museum of the Pacific War. The region is also the heart of Texas wineries.
This natural pool and creek is a swimming spot for city-dwellers to get back to nature. The surrounding area was almost purpose-built for hiking and seeing the best of Texas Hill Country.
Thrill seekers will scream with delight at the rollercoaster capital of Texas. Rides like the Superman Krypton Coaster and The Goliath attract enthusiasts from around the country.
At four hours away, this is a stretch for a day trip, but worth it for gastronomes. The aesthetic is no frills. Conversely, the James Beard Award winning restaurant serves the best steaks in a state that's renowned for the best steaks.
Vista Brewing and Desert Door Distillery will satiate anyone looking for a unique tipple. The Mercer Street Dance Hall features local music and weekly dance lessons to help visitors two-step like a local.
Austin's public transit system is fantastic and it's a pedestrian/cyclist-friendly city. However, traveling any significant distance outside the urban center will require a car.
"I thought I knew Texas pretty well, but I had no notion of its size until I campaigned it." – Ann Richards, former Texas Governor