A full day in Austin – springs, a lake and a tiny door
Posted by MomOnMars on June 15, 2012
Earlier this month, we drove down to Austin to drop Twirl off at band camp. We took the opportunity to spend some time exploring the nooks and crannies I remembered from my college days….starting with the sparkling waters of Barton Springs.
After hanging out by the pool, we headed to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, where we attempted to complete the Texas Nature Challenge, but were way more fascinated by this tiny little door – not more than three feet tall – reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland, sans the small magic potion vial that says “Drink Me.”
Afterwards, we showed up to redeem our reservations for the bat river cruise on Town Lake. It was way more cool than hanging out on the bridge all night – albeit a tad bit more expensive. The ride: definitely worth it. The bats: not so much.
Love exploring Austiin!
I’m sorry the bats weren’t at their best for you! Just a tip for your readers — the bat show can be absolutely spectacular — but early June isn’t the time of year to see them at their peak. Late July through August is the best time (the pups are starting to forage with their mommas!), and if you’re planning a trip, you can call the Bat Conservation Hotline at 512-327-9721 to see what time they’re emerging and what the flights are like.
Dawn recently posted..Crucial Summer Question #1
I had heard we perhaps hadn’t picked the very best time of year for the bats. But I’m thinking the colony near San Antonio is much larger, and maybe more impressive? I think my biggest mistake was making a big deal to the kids about how cool the bats were going to be…only to sit and wait for over an hour in the dark to see…well…not much of anything. It would have been neater if I had just kept my mouth shut!