There’s always something new to learn.
When people think of Texas, cowboy boots and oil rigs might come to mind—but Austin is its own wild card. This is a city that thrives on contrast: tech innovation alongside street art, country twang mingling with indie rock, brisket served next to vegan tacos. Austin isn’t trying to be weird—it just is, and proudly so. What started as a quirky college town has grown into one of the country’s most dynamic cultural and entrepreneurial hubs.
Whether you’re paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake or losing track of time on South Congress, Austin gives you permission to show up as your truest self.
Let’s see what we discover.
Things you didn’t know about Austin.
5. Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America.
Each summer evening, around 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, drawing crowds to watch the surreal spectacle.
4. It’s a UNESCO City of Media Arts.
Recognized for its innovative spirit and creative tech scene, Austin holds a rare global designation alongside cities like Lyon and Sapporo.
3. The Texas State Capitol is taller than the U.S. Capitol.
Built from sunset-red granite, the Austin landmark stands 14 feet higher than its D.C. counterpart—and Texans are quite proud of it.
2. Whole Foods was born here.
The very first Whole Foods Market opened in downtown Austin in 1980. It was so loved, locals formed a human chain to save it from flooding damage in its first year.
1. Austin nearly became part of Germany.
In the 1840s, thousands of German immigrants settled here, and at one point there was even talk of creating a German-speaking republic in Texas—with Austin as its heart.
Bottom line.
Austin doesn’t just keep things weird—
It keeps them real, passionate, and a little rebellious.
A city that reinvents without losing its soul.
And dares you to do the same.
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