Our effervescent and loquacious guide (entertaining to say the least) shared history and culture of the city she grew up in and still calls home.
Her most fervent exclamation of the day was "duck, duck, duck" as we passed under low hanging tree branches. Most of them missed us.
A growth spurt in the last decade has seen the population blossom to nearly one million residents. Along with that growth (as in much of Texas in general) has been a huge expansion of business and infrastructure. The Austin skyline boasts many new skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, as well as endless construction projects.
The beautiful Texas State Capital building (which we saw from every angle, of course) still looked regal amongst it's newer, shinier neighbors.
An older, vintage side of Austin, full of local character and charm, was on display as we wandered down side streets and alley ways.
The Driskill Hotel in the heart of old Austin.
Watch out for unusual guests!
Tired of walking and shopping? Hop on the Pedel Pub for a relaxing bit of fun and exercise.