Also known as "The Drum," this fantastic venue is host to some of the best performances in Austin. Although owned and operated by the University of Texas, academia is far from the list of performers. Primarily used for the University of Texas men's and women's basketball games, many of the large touring music shows also utilize this space. Everyone from Bob Dylan to Pavarotti to ZZ Top has graced this stage.

For a fabulous collection of modern art, this is one of the best galleries in the city. You can find everything from original prints of Dr. Seuss to works by Rauschenberg and Warhol, located in the former Children's Museum space in West Towne Common. Don't think you're limited to looking; most of the works are also available for purchase.

This creek winds through Central and South Austin, featuring beautiful hiking and bike trails as well as many choice swimming holes. The natural surroundings have been left to flourish as only the Texas countryside can. One of the more popular areas is at the far north end of the park-the Scottish Woods Trails, a rocky path leading to a gorgeous private swimming hole at the base of a small waterfall. Barton Creek Greenbelt runs west and north from Zilker Park for nearly eight miles. Contact the Austin Parks and Recreation Department for a map of the greenbelt and access areas.

Make this one of the first stops on your tour of Austin. Pick up brochures and maps to help you navigate the city, and learn about some of the more interesting local landmarks, attractions, restaurants, entertainment and lodging that might not be in the standard tour books. If your interests lie in local history, stop by the Heritage Marketing Department, located in the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau. A tour guide is on hand to give you the inside scoop.

This nationally recognized gallery presents a multitude of events in visual art, dance, theater, music, film and literature. Ongoing exhibitions include works by Texas female artists and nationally-renowned artists. The museum has been featured in Art in America and on National Public Radio. It was also the first organization in Texas to receive a grant in visual art from the National Endowment for the Arts.

In 1994, Austin decided to erect a statue honoring the late musician, Stevie Ray Vaughan and denizens overwhelmingly chose Auditorium Shores as the perfect spot. Vaughn's lyrical and guitar work has charmed many ears and hearts in this music-oriented city which faces the Austin skyline. Ten years after his death, a steady progression of locals and visitors leave momentous to this great performer. Stop by and pay your respects to a beloved Austin music legend.

Architect Nicholas J. Clayton of Galveston designed the beautiful main building (1888) in a Gothic Revival style with Texas white limestone. A fire destroyed most of the main building in 1903 and after being rebuilt, it was again severely damaged by a tornado in 1922. The University received its charter in 1925. Since that time, the academic programs have grown to include business administration, theater arts and an innovative undergraduate program for adults. The graduate school includes a Master of Arts in Human Services, Photo communications, International Studies, Communication, Business, Theater and Spanish/Liberal Arts.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Research Center was established by Lady Bird Johnson, this fabulous garden brims with native Texas plants in courtyards, terraces, arbors and meadows. Along with a fantastic children's center, enjoy a visitors gallery, observation tower, café, gift store and nature trails. Take a break to enjoy award-winning architecture and fabulous scenery in this wonderful garden spot. Tours by appointment.

Centrally located in downtown Austin, this museum features works that have a connection to Mexico and Latin America. Exhibits range from art to theater. The permanent collection includes artifacts and photographs relating to Mexican-American culture. Recent exhibits include photographs from the 1910 Mexican Revolution and other works by Mexican artists. Guest artists and performers tackle contemporary issues such as ethnicity, religion and politics. A small gift shop carrying books, artwork and handmade imports is located near the entrance.

General Land Office Building is over 150 years old, is dedicated to balancing economic development with preservation of the state's natural resources. Established in 1836 after Texas gained its independence from Mexico, its duties have evolved from keeping archives and issuing land titles to managing state lands and mineral properties totaling 20.3 million acres. Other responsibilities include the Recycling, Adopt-A-Beach, Coastal, and Oil Spill Prevention and Response Programs. The Archives and Records division houses original Spanish, Mexican and Republic of Texas land grants and related documents.