Austin, TX--Memorial Day Weekend is upon us. The kids are out of school and maybe you have some time off too. What's a guy or gal, family to do? You've probably forgotten about the local #HiddenGems right under your nose, perhaps even in your backyard.
From picnics to kayaking, to visiting Lady Bird Park, there's plenty you can do around Austin to get outdoors and get moving while enjoying some time with the family.
Vietnam war re-enactments are happening in Austin. Get acquainted, or perhaps reacquaint yourself with the bravery soldiers displayed during the Vietnam War. While there won't be blood or guts, you can get a feel for the real-life events to remember why the day is one many get off of work.
At Camp Mabry, there are re-enactments to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day.
A similar feel can be maintained by watching an airshow of a Vietnam re-enactment.
Round Rock Memorial Day Ceremony
The Parks and Recreation Department for the City of Round Rock is throwing its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Veterans Park at 600 Pecan Ave. The event is hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9078, and begins at 11 a.m.
A Brew for the Fallen
Drink up at Dripping Springs Brewery: 19510 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX, 78620, just outside of Austin. The event is from 11 a.m. through 9 p.m. For every pint sold they will donate $1 to the Blue Star Mothers Organization. Entry is free but it costs $10 per food plate and beer prices vary.
Visit Poolapalooza
Beat the heat by taking a short drive from Austin to Poolapalooza. Music, food, and other activities will be at the Veterans Memorial Pool from noon until 6 pm.
Play at the Park
Zilker Park is an Austin favorite destination. Bring the pooch to the dog park, lace up your boots and hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt, or go for a stroll along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
Go Camping
You've been aching to go. Get the kids and go outdoors. The understated and rugged, McKinney Falls State Park is a good destination. Enjoy a trip to 5,200-acre Pedernales Falls State Park from the 2015 Oscar-nominated film "Boyhood."
Just an hour from Austin, Pace Bend Park and limestone cliffs dot the landscape.
Visit Inks Lake State Park is a 1200-acre escape to enjoy swimming, waterfalls, or hiking. Just over an hour from Austin.
Get out into the Hill Country and get on the river with a cooler and a tube. Float the day away on the natural water sources that are super clean and spring-fed, like San Marcos River with Texas State Tubes.
For $60, you can enjoy the Cosmic Connection. This underground Hill Country campout experience promises a weekend of music, new friends, and starry nights. Purchase tickets here.
Enjoy a Live Show
You've been missing date night. Not much could be better on an extended weekend than some live music and candlelight with your sweetie. Visit Chateau Bellevue for their "From Bach to Beatles” show. Get your tickets here. Price $50 each.
Don't miss Austin's #HiddenGems.