Lady Bird Lake

 Lady Bird Lake, known as Town Lake for many years, is one of Austin's most well known landmarks. Renamed in 2007 to honor Lady Bird Johnson, former First Lady, who dedicated much of her life to environmental preservation.

Lady Bird Lake is formed where the city straddles the Colorado River. Two dams mark the up and down stream ends of the lake. There are so many recreational activities to enjoy at Lady Bird Lake, and because of Austin's fair climate the lake is well utilized in every season.  This Austin gem has hike and bike trails surrounding the shoreline, as well as fishing, and boating activities, including rowing, paddling, kayaking, and canoeing for those who want to take in the beautiful Downtown skyline from the vantage point of the water. 

Where Lady Bird Lake passes under the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, another Austin favorite takes place. From March to September crowds gather to watch the colony of over 1.5 million Mexican free tailed bats emerge in a dark cloud at dusk to forage for food. This is an event not to be missed.

The perfect scenery for popular music events such as Austin City Limits, and the Austin Reggae Festival, too.  Lady Bird Lake is also home to outdoor music venues including Auditorium Shores and Fiesta Gardens which bring the best entertainment in Austin to the lake.

 
Photo attribution/Shane Pope/Flickr (Lady Bird Lake)
Photo attribution/digitaleye81/Flickr (Sunset at Town Lake)
Photo attribution/tomasb/Flickr (Stevie Ray Vaughn at Lady Bird Lake)