Enfield Park
A favorite among longtime Austinites, Enfield Park couldn't be a cozier place to drain the pill. Tucked away just west of MoPac, you can usually find a competitive half-court pickup game here while others are at happy hour.
2000 Enfield, 499-6700
Best Bowling Alley
Showplace Lanes
Are you looking for a place to do something different on a Friday night? Go hit the alleys and let Showplace Lanes redefine your bowling experience. They add a little spunk and juice to each game by throwing in some music and disco flavor. It's open late, is well-maintained, and has an excellent staff to boot. Let the vibe kick in to provide a new sensory version of an old faithful recreational alternative.
9504 N. I-35, 834-7733
Best Local Athlete
Lance Armstrong
Used to be, "yellow streak" was a derogatory term; but the sight of Lance's sunbright shirt whizzing by is nothing but joyfully edifying to Austinites who gather by the hundreds to cheer this hometown boy onward. He's done it again, taken the Tour de France, and no "Ooops!" involved -- because this time all the world's top competitors were racing against him. Have you seen this fiercely dedicated man on a bike, up close and personal, when he really gets going? It's a wonder his surname's not "Legstrong," instead.
The Lance Armstrong Foundation, 1210 Parkway, 236-8820 or 800/496-4402
Best Local Team
Ice Bats
October 14 marks the first game of the fall season, as the Ice Bats face off against the Fort Worth Brahmas. After only four years since they first laced up, the Bats finished second in their division last year, making it all the way to the semifinals, filling on average 6,000 of the 7,000 stadium seats at the Travis Co. Expo Center. While you won't see Ice Bats in cowboy hats (at least while the game is on), you might have a chance to get up close and personal with FANG, the team mascot.
Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker, 927-PUCK
www.icebats.com
Best Public Golf Course
Lions Municipal
Lions continues to dominate the course as Austinites' favorite place to hit the links. It must be that cool, humid Lake Austin breeze that keeps the greens so lush -- that and the meticulous care provided by the Lions' maintenance crew. Be sure to call before you go to find out if there is a tournament going on, unless all you want is the putting green.
2901 Enfield, 477-6963
Best Public Sports Venue
Dell Diamond
Behind a multibillion-dollar corporation's funding, this minor-league ballpark -- home of the mighty Round Rock Express -- is more luxurious than most. With a DiamondVision scoreboard, party suites, Sports Court, and swimming pool, seeing a baseball game is more than just something to pass the time; it's a full-bodied, multimedia recreational experience. There are even fireworks shows every Friday night, and the play on the field isn't too shabby either.
Round Rock Express, 3400 E. Palm Valley, Round Rock, 255-4946
Best Secret Swimming Hole
Hamilton Pool
Other than "Mind Your Own Business" and "Not Telling," Hamiton Pool tops our readers' list of secret swimming holes. It's no secret that Hamilton Pool is a rejuvenating retreat, a small natural grotto formed when a cave fell in thousands of years ago, a lush forest paradise, with overhanging moss-covered cliffs, and clear, cool water. It's a bit of a drive, but it's worth it. Because, after the car ride, the $5 vehicle fee, and the 15-minute hike down the hill, one is met by Eden itself. Just keep an eye out for the snapping turtles and biting catfish.
24300 Hamilton Pool, 13 miles south off Hwy. 71 W., 264-2740
Best Skating Rink
Chaparral Ice
Well, since we hold the "Best of Austin" poll during the first month of the Texas summer, it stands to reason that y'all would vote in an ice rink. Heck, Chaparral stands on its own anyway, year-round. An added plus is that the Northcross Mall location is located next to the food court, so even if you don't have the time or inclination to strap on some blades, you can still sit and enjoy the view.
2525 W. Anderson, 451-5102; 14200 N. I-35, 252-8500
Best Outdoor Gear/ Sporting Goods
REI
Campers, hikers, climbers, paddlers, backpackers, skiers, fitnessers (fitnessers?!) ... REI has been outfitting all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts since 1938. True to its co-op roots, this gear shop still pays an annual dividend to anyone who becomes a member of the cooperative. Their commitment to enviro causes makes them a natural complement to the Austin vibe.
9901 Capital of Texas Hwy. N., Ste. 200, 343-5550
Best Tennis Court
Caswell Tennis Center
Whether it's lessons, league play, or friendly rallies, "love" is always a dirty word at this mecca for Central Austin baseliners. The tennis center provides cold water at courtside for those looking to beat the heat and restrings racquets in the pro shop.
2312 Shoal Creek, 478-6268
Best Day Trip
Enchanted Rock
Holy incredible mound of pink granite! The 50-foot Central Texas dome is the main feature of this fun-filled nature park. You can climb the big rock with just about anyone in your family, from young kids to grandparents. The State Park also provides trail hiking, wildlife, caving, and camping. The park is splendid all year round, but the spring months bring forth a burst of brilliant colors, courtesy of the annual explosion of wildflowers. No matter what time of year you decide to go, you will always leave with a sense of awe and inspiration. Open 8am-10pm daily.
Route 4, Box 170, Fredericksburg, 78624, 915/247-3903 or 800/792-1112
Best Dog Walk
Pease Park
Not your typical singles pickup joint -- this place is reserved for dogs only. The best spot in Austin for canine feet to meet and greet. A big open area with plenty of space for Rover to roam, all under the watchful eye of dog's best friend.
Pease Park, 499-6700
Best Participatory Sport
Disc Golf
Like golf? Like Frisbee? Then you'll love Frisbee golf, or disc golf as it's officially known. Austin Parks and Recreation maintains five different golf sites throughout the city, offering both 9- and 18-hole courses. Like Austin itself, disc golf's casual, laid-back attitude and its emphasis on outdoor fun should merit it being declared the city's official hang-time sport.
499-6700
Best Spectator Sport
UT Football
After consecutive top-five recruiting classes from coach Mack Brown, expectations are sky-high as fans seek what could be the Longhorns' first national championship since 1969. With pre-season top-10 rankings in every poll and an easy schedule to boot, the Horns should be playing shortly after New Year's. This year's biggest games? Other than the regular-season Red River Showdown against archrival Oklahoma, there may be a mid-December rematch with Nebraska for the Big 12 Championship. Hook 'em, boys.
2100 San Jacinto, 471-6036
Bike Ride and Best Day Hike
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Where else can you go to get completely away from urban life without leaving the city? Less citified than Town Lake's hike-and-bike routes, Austin's greenbelt defines nature: no pavement, no restrooms, no lights. Just 7.5 miles of grassy trails, rock formations, and endless beauty. Don't forget your water bottle.
Zilker Park to Lost Creek, 499-6700
