Best Man-Made Shade
Alamo Park Covered Basketball Court
Neither rain nor sleet nor black of night shall screw up your appointed round of one-on-one -- if you set your date for Alamo Park, that is. This summer, Austin PARD installed a mod-looking open-air structure that effectively put a roof on the sucker without impeding incoming breezes -- an essential element to that hour-long match of H-O-R-S-E. Since the roof came with lighting, what used to illuminate the court now lights up the whole darned park for shiny, happy nighttime play.
Alamo Rec. Center, 2100 Alamo; PARD, 474-2806
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Imitation of Cousin Itt by a Team Mascot
Austin Maroons
Tribble or Troll? Koosh(tm) Ball or hairball? What's the deal with Austin High School's team mascot? It's a big ball of something. Fun Fur? Shag Rug? Fluff? Bellybutton fuzz? The nasty stuff that comes out of your dryer's lint catcher? What's up with that? Oh, Mr. Maroo (that's the cuddly ball of something's name), no matter what you are, we love you!
1715 W. Cesar Chavez, 414-2505
Best Summertime Workout
Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. of Aquatics
Not much of a jock or a joiner? Check out Austin PARD's summer water aerobics classes. Although available at many city pools, Northwest pool is our personal favorite. Expect a low-impact workout with no discernible sweat. We love splashing and flexing in a happy neighborhood pool, shaded by waving oak trees. Our fearless leader, Brandi Allen, guides us through our paces ruthlessly and with great good humor. Within a brief 40 minutes, we receive the benefits of a 90-minute workout with no strain on our couch potato-bones and joints. Sessions last a mere two weeks and are available all summer long, should you find yourself actually enjoying exercising.
901 W. Riverside, 480-3030
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Place to Take a Fall
Austin Rock Gym
ARG has nine inches of carpet foam, and enough Alice-in-Wonderland-sized mattresses to feel like a moonwalk at your 10th birthday party. Naturally, the idea is to climb up the 30-foot textured rock walls and the 15-foot "godzilla" boulder, but if you drop, you won't pop.
4401 Freidrich, 416-9299
http://austinrockgym.com/
Best Place to Test Your Knobs
Emma Long Motocross Park
Like the slew of sorry SUVs on the road, most urbanite-owned mountain bikes will never know the pleasure of the dirt for which they were created. If you want to tackle some of Central Texas' most challenging mountain bike trails, head out to Emma Long Motocross Park (FM 2222 west of Loop 360, left at City Park Road, 3.8 miles and left at Oak Shore Road). It's not for the faint of heart, as steep limestone dropoffs and grueling rocky climbs are the norm on this relentless eight+ mile loop, but the payoff in fun and exercise is well worth the work.
1706 City Park Rd., 346-1831
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Bike Commuter Route
Barton Creek Greenbelt to Town Lake Hike & Bike to Shoal Creek Hike & Bike
The amount of green space running through the center of the city can, if connected properly through a little research and a little more sweat, get you most anywhere in central Austin without sucking fumes or absorbing road rage from impatient car commuters. The Barton Creek Greenbelt connects West Lake Hills to MoPac and 360 and feeds into the Town Lake Hike & Bike, which provides a great east-west corridor on both sides of the river, hooking up with the Johnson Creek Greenbelt near Clarksville and the Shoal Creek Hike & Bike that runs north practically to 45th Street -- all with a scant few cars in sight.
Austin PARD, 499-6700
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Lake Travis Park to Go to With a Swimsuit
Bob Wentz at Windy Point Park on Lake Travis
For a clothes-on, great spot to watch the sunset and take a dip, head to Windy Point on Lake Travis. It's cheap to get in, a great place to watch windsurfers, scuba divers, and bikinis, and you can play volleyball on one of the two sand courts. If you get there early enough, you may be able to snag a foliage-hidden picnic table for you, your pals, and your cooler. Don't let the ranger catch you with glass-bottled beverages, though. If you've got a sailboat, you'll be glad to know that Windy Point has a no-motorboat access ramp to the lake.
From the intersection of RR 620 and FM 2222, take RR 620 south 1.3 miles to Comanche Trail. Turn right on Comanche Trail and go about 3 miles. http://www.co.travis.tx.us/tnr/parks/
Best Place to Shake Freeform Booty
Body Choir
This is one of those well-kept secrets that may make those in the know unhappy it's being shared. It's considered a "sacred space" for body movement: no talking, shoes, smoking, or alcohol. Eclectic music is played with five sequential rhythms: flowing, staccato, chaotic, melodic, and meditative. With no obligation to be social, participants dance alone or with others. Rules are few. Everyone sweats. People laugh and cry, and if you care to stay afterward, folks circle around and talk about what they experienced as they "let go."
Austin Yoga School, 1122-C S. Lamar
Best Place for Summer Fireworks
Carlos N' Charlie's on Lake Travis
To watch fireworks on a nearly black lake is a singular experience. The fireworks put on a day or two before the Fourth of July by the restaurant Carlos N' Charlie's last a dizzying 40 minutes. Each firework shows its fiery face and fizzles, only to be followed by another. The last minute or so is a display of rapid-fire sound and color, until suddenly the lake is plunged into blackness. The silence that follows is broken only by clapping and then the start of motor boats as they wind their way home.
5981 Hiline, 266-1683
http://www.cncaustin.com/
Best Shallow End
Deep Eddy Pool
Deep Eddy is a shallow giant, perfect for a summer afternoon of splashing and jumping through the seeming miles of cold, blue water. On a Saturday afternoon, there are swarms of tiny, naked bottoms swishing around the edges of the pool, while older kids shout "Marco" in the waist-deep center. For really big kids, there is a very deep end for lap swimming. And with the lawn loaded with beach towels and sunbathers, it's perfect for reading and people watching.
401 Deep Eddy, 472-8546
Best Full Service Garden Center
It's About Thyme Nursery
For years, Diane Winslow has had the ultimate nursery for herbs and antique roses. But with the addition of her husband Chris (who ran the greenhouses at Marbridge Farms for 20-plus years) to the place, it has grown by leaps and bounds. He's added a heavy emphasis on native landscaping plants, and does irrigation and landscaping as well. Cruise the plants and converse with the parrots, but be sure to stop and smell the roses.
11726 Manchaca, 280-1192
Best Timing
Jackson Generals "Home" Series at Disch-Falk Stadium
The Astros' AA affiliate Jackson (Mississippi) Generals came to Austin in May for a five-game series against the San Antonio Missions that was designed to whet the local appetite for minor league ball. (The Generals become the Round Rock Express next year.) Even though their previous season-high winning streak was two, the Generals swept all five games. Dead last in AA Texas League attendance, the Generals played like they can't wait to move here for good.
255-2255
http://www.roundrockexpress.com
Best Place to Smell the Roses
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Lyndon called her Bird and deferred to her intelligence and grace in a manner that left no doubt as to the impressive stature of her being. When we walk, jog, and bike the paths along our beloved Town Lake, it is, in part, thanks to her vision and patronage. Devoted to nature, her formidable skills also led to the creation of this national center for the study and propagation of wildflowers. Over 400 species native to Central Texas flourish here. Our country is more beautiful because of this remarkable woman. Just think ... all this from a courtship which began over coffee at the Driskill.
4801 La Crosse, 292-4100
http://www.wildflower.org/
Place to Look for Alligators
Lou Neff Point
Even if you don't spot a real alligator, you can enjoy this idyllic crossroads where Barton Springs joins Town Lake; you can watch kids at play, dogs that romp, joggers at work, turtles at rest, kayaks that better not flip, and the reverie of your own mind, imaginary alligators and all. There's archaeological evidence that prehistorics also sat here looking toward the future Austin skyline. Melt into the past, ponder the future, and be happy, here, now.
Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd.,499-6700
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Dog Viewing
Lower Springs on Barton Creek
There have been many names assigned to this section of the creek: Doggy Springs, Free Zone, and Pauper's Springs to name just a few. All sum up quite nicely the allure of this very chilly spot just below the big pool. On any given summer day one can sit creekside and watch the antics of water-crazed pooches catching the currents or chasing sticks or just floating lazily in the cool clear waters. And if watching isn't enough, then by all means get in there and join them! Maybe someone will throw you a Frisbee.
2201 Barton Springs Rd., 476-9044
Best New Park/Nature Spot
McKinney Roughs
Located out on Hwy. 71 about 15 miles east of the new airport, the LCRA-run McKinney Roughs offers another Central Texas ecosystem for your examination and recreational pleasure. The park staff is big on education, so don't be afraid to ask questions before you hit the well-marked trail system, which winds through gorgeous acres of rolling piney woods along the Wilbarger Bend of the Colorado River. What they're not big on, though, is dogs, as our four-legged friends are being permitted on a "trial basis" only, which means keep them on leashes and away from equestrians.
1884 Hwy. 71 W., 303-5073
http://www.lcra.org/lands/roughs/
Best New Stadium
Mike A. Meyers Stadium & Soccer Field
When King Football needed more seats in Royal-Memorial, the answer was to rip out the track. But fortunately, the UT track & field program didn't suffer. The university kept its commitment to having the best of everything and built one of the greatest track arenas in the nation, with seating for 20,000 and improved views of the field events. And now, the infield is accomodating the soccer team quite nicely.
UT Campus, Manor & Red River, 471-4602
Best Place to Take a Climb
Pseudo Rock
Pseudo Rock is anything but fake. They offer rental equipment, ropes, and 10,000 square feet of wall-to-wall climbing space, varying in difficulty for the most experienced or inexperienced climber. A half-day trip to and from Enchanted Rock can be replaced with a short trek into town. Both sites are equally fun and challenging. Pseudo Rock's one-day pass is $8, rental gear is $5.
200 Trinity, 474-4376
Best Place to Pick Sunflowers
Robert Mueller Airport
For the first summer in forever, old Bob has been freed from the constant onslaught of Austin travelers and now has a chance to become himself again. The grounds of the Robert Mueller airport are currently being allowed to revegetate as part of the redevelopment project, so Bob is currently letting his hair down and going for the shaggy, rugged look for a change. With such an opportunity to become wild and free, the little plants that had been carefully clipped and pruned all these years are quivering at their roots with excitement. A veritable floral coup is taking place, as sunflowers and crabgrass take on the task of covering up the "Welcome to Robert Mueller Municipal Airport" sign out front. While the revolution of the foliage won't last forever, the transformation that is taking place at Robert Mueller Airport is a celebration of new beginnings.
3600 Manor
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/mueller/default.htm.
Best Sunrise View
Sandy Creek Boat Ramp
When we just need that something extra special to feed our weary souls and appreciate a new day, we get on down to this LCRA campsite located just past Volente Beach on FM 2769 in the early dawn and hike down to the boat pier for the best sunrise over the lake. Better than any shrink session, almost as good as a deep tissue massage, it's natural and it's free.
9500 Lime Creek Rd., 473-9437
http://www.lcra.org/lands/travispk.html
Best International Jersies
Soccer World
Okay, the whole sporty-casual thing has gotten out of hand. Face it: officially licensed major league duds are major duds when it comes to fashion. Do you want to be seen in the same trendy Aikman outfit as 2,000 eight-year-olds around town? Do you really think you have the body for that Spurs tanktop? There are one or two sports that haven't been done to death. Soccer is our favorite, and quite frankly, it has a lot to do with the shirts. Those shiny collared numbers are downright chic and look good on just about any physique. The most global array of official national soccer team jersies is at Soccer World. Not that we want to start a fashion craze, cause a run on jersies, or lure a bunch of wannabes to the specialty sports shop, but these outfits are the real thing -- high quality, official and replica national jersies from just about every team on the planet -- home and away, goalie, and even hard-to-find "third" jersies, of which they have a source. So if you want to show your support to South Africa, Argentina, the U.S. Women's team, or just look really, really, really cool, check out Soccer World's three locations.
5446 Hwy290 W., 899-1135; 221 S. Lamar, 320-8447; 13376 Research, 257-8560
Springtime Yard Extravaganza
The Flowering Lot on Wilshire Boulevard
The yards in Wilshire Woods, just off Airport, are always lovely, shaded, and expansive -- an Emerald City in the heart of town. But those yards are made drab by comparison to the corner lot of 1307 Wilshire. Like the difference between Kansas and Oz, the breathtaking masses of brilliant spring flowers and the incredible display of shocking pink azaleas provide a Technicolor feast for passersby. In springtime, there's no place like the home on Wilshire.
1307 Wilshire
Best Place to Doze Off
The Little Lakeside Pier on Bull Creek
Tucked away in the heart of the city is this refuge within a refuge. Located down a short steep cliff off a wandering path that leads to the Town Lake side of Mayfield Park, this tiny pier is shaded by large cedar trees that waft with their scent as the breeze coming across the river stirs through them. There's just enough room for a picnic basket and a blanket. Lay out and watch the ripples on the water as the cicadas drone on ... and on ... and on.
3801 Old Bull Creek Road next to the Austin Museum of Art at Laguna Gloria, PARD, 499-6700
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/
Best Local Athlete
TIE: Suziann Reid; Demetria Sance
Tough choice, so we'll call it a tie. These two Lady Longhorn classmates finished their college careers this year as the most dominant athletes in their respective sports in school history: Reid in track & field and Sance in volleyball. Reid ended her career with five national championships in the 400 meters and six wins as a member of the 4x400 relay, and she was a major contributor to the Longhorns' four team titles in the last two years. Sance was equally powerful, leading the Longhorns to a No. 8 national ranking. The four-time All-American retired from college competition as the school recordholder in kills, attacks, and digs. When she blasted the ball with her howitzer-like arm, opposing players could only watch the ball whiz by and listen to the announcer say: "Kiiiiiillllll foooooooor Deeeeee!" Expect to see both of these marvels in the 2000 Olympics.
UT Dept. of Athletics, 471-3434
Prettiest Place to Post a Letter
U.S. Mailbox in Pemberton Heights
Whether to make bill paying less odious or to fashion a fitting sendoff for love letters, this mailbox in Pemberton Heights has a gifted caretaker who has made it the place to post. Canopied by pink crape myrtle, flanked by lovely flowers, and graced with a beckoning stone path, it is said (by us) that any romantic missives mailed there will be hand-carried by Cupid. Try it!
Corner of Preston & Harris
Best Whoosh!
Volente Beach Waterslides
Barefoot in the warm sand, we chased sandpipers as the foam from baby breakers tickled our toes. Ahhh, summers spent on the coast. Most Austinites transplanted here from a seaside strata agree that one of the few things missing in our near-perfect burg is a beach. Volente Beach goes a long way to re-create a seashore experience right on Lake Travis. And this summer they added two 40-foot waterslides to the mix. It's endorsement enough to know that these water rides were constructed by the folks at Schlitterbahn. Wow. Now our burg is even nearer-perfect! We'll know the world's gone topsy-turvy when we hear people refer to their trips out to Volente as "Going down the shore."
16107 Wharf Cove (FM 2769), 258-5109
http://www.volentebeach.com/
Best Day Trip to Just Stand in a Field Full of Flowers
Wildseed Farms
When the peach crop in Fredericksburg failed this year, it seemed as if those summer afternoon drives into the country would be fruitless. What was the purpose of a road trip through the hills of Texas without a place to stop and pick peaches? Luckily, however, Wildseed Farms saved the summer. With more than 200 acres in prime wildflower country, Wildseed Farms offers walking trails for immersing yourself in flora and fields for picking your own bouquets, making the place a very fulfilling alternative to our much beloved orchards. There are few things in life that feel as grand as standing in a field full of soft pink daisies while watching the clouds roll in across the Texas plains. The only problem is, you can't eat the flowers on the drive back home.
425 Wildflower Hills, Frederickburg, 800/848-0078
http://www.wildseedfarms.com/
Best MoPac Exit
Windsor
In rush-hour traffic, with Ricky Martin howling from the radio and our shaded eyes able to see nothing but dead cars ahead, it is always a relief to spot the exit-only sign for Windsor. Among all those cranky straight arrows shooing us off the freeway, a wide circle symbolizes the deep sloping turn ahead. Soon it will swing us smoothly beneath MoPac, sending us from the mire of stalled traffic into quiet neighborhood streets. And Ricky Martin? He too shall pass.
Mopac & Windsor
Best Romantic Row
Zilker Canoe Rental
City-run, our town's canoe center is a short walk down from the Springs in Zilker Park. For $7.75 an hour, or $28.50 for the day, you can paddle a canoe as far as your octopus arms can reach. Go right for the stunning cityscape, or left for the pastoral view. Pack a picnic, catch the sun just right, and sweethearts can't find a more enchanting place to listen to the murmurs of the heart.
Zilker Canoe Rental, 478-3852
