A 6 Hour Drive to Austin to Experience a 4th of July Bucket List :: Fireworks on Lake Travis
I have never experienced fireworks like the Fourth of July I had in Austin where I rented a kayak and my girlfriend’s paddle boards to go out before sunset, to find the perfect location on Lake Travis. There are so many places to rent if you do not have your own. The water was filled with a crowd that consisted of rafts, kayaks, paddle boards and other inflatables. As the sun went down on the water, we enjoyed the beautiful sunset as the crowd decorated themselves with glow in the dark bracelets and necklaces and other light up gear. The Austin skyline turned on the beautiful lights of the city and the firework display lit up the sky as they reflected back onto the lake. It felt like freedom, and we were all at a place to feel this fully. Laid back on the water, our feet half submerged, we soaked it all in. Once the fireworks stopped, we made our way through the lake using flashlights where we encountered a sinking inflatable paddle board being towed to Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” from the Titanic soundtrack. I am not sure I would recommend an inflatable.
The Congress Avenue Bridge Bats
Another Bucket List item I completed this Fourth of July weekend was finally getting to see the bats from the world’s largest urban bat colony. This is Austin’s most popular tourist attraction. These bats, hundreds to thousands, take flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge 30-60 minutes before sunset almost painting the sky black like an M. C. Escher painting in motion. The bats head out to forge for food, and you can likely see this sight from around mid-March to early November. It is quite a sight to see for children and adults alike.
Scooters to explore the city
There are plenty of options to rent a scooter or a bike. This is a fun way to explore downtown Austin’s many restaurants and beautiful art murals. We had the best time scooting around the city. But if you happen to do this, I recommend packing a small first aid kit and never ride without enclosed toe shoes. I may or may not know this from firsthand experience.
So Many Beautiful Natural Springs and Rivers
Pack your swimsuits and explore all the nearby Natural Springs for a swim. This is one of my favorite activities on a hot Austin summer day. A favorite of mine is Barton Springs, a 200-yard swimming paradise located in Zilker Park. Natural Springs are very cold at first, but once you get in them you warm up quick and it is so therapeutic for the body.
Kayaking on the Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake are other favorites. You can take in the breathtaking views of the city or just go for a relaxing ride while you birdwatch and sunbathe. Whether you bring your kids, your dog, or even a water loving cat (yes, I saw this on my last visit), there is something for everyone.
If you want a new Fourth of July experience with a drive that’s only 6 hours away from Baton Rouge, pack your swimsuits, sunscreen and head up north to Austin
Where the sun is hot, but there is plenty of water activities to cool you off and lots of new things to experience. And while you are there you may want to scoot on by to “JuiceLand” to grab you a fresh natural juice or Smoothie to cool off.
