By Robert Macias
Austin Expert, about.com
Situated on 26 acres of gently rolling terrain, Zilker Botanical Garden is one of the main attractions at Zilker Park near Barton Springs in central Austin. For only $3, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along well-marked paths dotted with everything from roses to giant bamboo. Many of the trails are shaded, so the temperature is fairly pleasant here even in the middle of summer.
Hartman Prehistoric Garden
Always a hit with kids, the Hartman Prehistoric Garden features a life-size replica of an Ornithomimus dinosaur.
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Tracks left behind by actual dinosaurs were
discovered in 1992. Casts of the tracks are on display in the garden.
With a variety of ferns, palms and conifers, the garden includes plants
that may have been present in the Austin area during the Cretaceous period. Smaller sculptures are located throughout the garden to encourage little ones to explore and find them.
Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden
Stressed-out adults
appreciate the tranquil vibe in the Japanese garden. Rocky paths wind
past quaint ponds full of koi, small waterfalls and over ornate bridges.
An authentic Japanese teahouse
anchors one end of the garden, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
Several varieties of Japanese maple and bamboo are scattered throughout
the space. While parts of the trail have dense greenery, other segments
open up to reveal views of the downtown skyline.
Doug Blachly Butterfly Trail and Garden
In spring and fall, the butterfly garden is abuzz with activity. The garden features native plants
that attract both resident and migrating butterflies. For those looking
to bring a pop of lively color to their own gardens, this area can
provide a wealth of ideas.
Mabel Davis Rose Garden
A must-see in spring and early summer, the rose garden is home to standard bush-type roses as well as climbing varieties.
Children’s Garden
The
children’s garden includes another dinosaur, a lizard-like creature
with pointy plants placed on its back to mimic the creature’s spiky
spine.
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Beautiful and aromatic plants such as rosemary, iris and butterfly bush provide stimulation for the kids’ eyes and noses.
Zilker Garden Festival
Held every year in early spring, the Zilker Garden Festival celebrates all things botanical with a flower show, plant sale, kids’ activities and instructional gardening presentations.
Year-Round Events
Throughout
the year, Zilker Botanical Garden hosts informal classes, guest
speakers and garden tours. Topics covered include how to photograph
ants, where to find silk moth caterpillars, how to grow edible plants in
your backyard and learning how to press flowers.
Tips
Don’t
forget the bug spray. Particularly after a heavy rain, mosquitoes
multiply quickly in Austin. Well-behaved dogs are allowed, but they must
be on leash at all times. And make sure your pup stays out of the
ponds.
