Austin Official Visitors Guide 2008-2009 - (Page 8) Alive with history Whether at the State Capitol or the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, Texas’ storied past forms the cornerstone of any Austin visit. A stroll around the Capitol area reveals the historic architecture of the Capitol Visitor Center, the elegant Governor’s Mansion and the grand facade of the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library building. The Austin History Center and the Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center house priceless cultural artifacts and fascinating historical exhibits. See page 74 for more historic sites. CreAtive Culture Open-minded Austin is a hot spot for creativity and welcomes artists and entrepreneurs from all walks of life. Music is the big attraction in the local arts scene, but artists working in every genre find Austin the ideal location for their unique expressions and lifestyles. The Blanton Museum of Art showcases the country’s largest university-owned art collection, while the Austin Symphony offers sounds of the world’s greatest composers year-round. Whether you’re into dance, music, sculpture, live theater or film, the city has an attraction perfect for you. See page 78 for more performing arts information. NAturAlly ACtive Austin gives visitors tons of options to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The city is graced with more than 200 parks and an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. Lady Bird Lake in the center of town is perfect for jogging and canoeing and Central Texas is known for rolling hills, meandering waterways and small-town charm. Don’t miss the area’s prime swimming holes, water sports and nationally acclaimed golf courses. See page 77 for more outdoor attractions. Top to bottom: Amazing historic architecture highlights the Capitol grounds; public art is enjoyed around the city; Austin is home to more than 16,000 acres of parks, preserves and greenbelts.
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