DISCOVER BACKYARD WONDERS WITH TEXAS' OWN DAYTRIPPER
TRAVEL
THE ULTIMATE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ROAD TRIP DESTINATION
HOME + DESIGN
EXPLORING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS IN ADUS
FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
MELENDEZ LAW FIRM REVEALS THE RISKS OF DRIVERLESS TECH
What if one conversation could protect your family for the next 50 years?
We help famlies across Austin:
• Avoid the time, cost, and stress of probate
• Protect your home from Medicaid recovery
• Secure inheritances from lawsuits and divorces
• Plan with confidence—whether you own a modest home or a multimillion-dollar estate
We’ve helped over 10,000 Texas families. We’re Austin’s largest estate planning firm. And we’ve designed plans for everyone from local teachers to billionaire families.
“Professional estate planning is worth it—because it’s not just about your assets. It’s about your family.”
- Kyle Robbins, Esq.
Explore More, Y'all
If you're anything like me, you've probably taken a "shortcut" in a small Texas town that led to a dead end, a goat, or — if you're lucky — a perfect slice of pie. That spirit of curiosity is what our July issue is all about: Explore.
We’re hitting the backroads with none other than Chet Garner, the Daytripper himself, who’s been crisscrossing Texas with a camera and an appetite for the quirky for years. Whether it's a roadside kolache or a hidden swimming hole, Chet reminds us there’s always more to discover.
This month, we also take a detour beyond state lines to Hot Springs, Arkansas — a surprisingly close and charming destination that’s perfect for families. Think vintage bathhouses, diamond mines and pancakes as big as your face. And for those of you with college-bound teens, we’ve got a quick guide to exploring the campuses of Texas Tech, Texas A&M and Texas State, complete with tips on where to stay, eat and sneak in a little sightseeing between campus tours.
Back at home, we sip our way through the story behind Teakeasy Tea (spoiler: there’s a speakeasy involved), dive into the real risks of self-driving cars on Texas roads and explore how Austin homeowners are adding ADUs with help from eco-conscious builder Build Native.
So pack your bags — or at least your imagination — and explore with us. The road’s always more fun with good stories.
JULIE ROYCE, MANAGING EDITOR @ATXCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Zack Fogelman | zack.fogelman@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Julie Royce | julie.royce@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
Juan Martinez | juan.martinez@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Felicia Lillard-Humphrey
felicia.lillardhumphrey@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Carrie Rodriguez performs at 'Austin in Common' hosted by the Austin Community Foundation. 2: Supporters of the People's Community Clinic raised over $400K to make a difference for Austin residents. 3: A model shows off designer Belmuse at the 17th year of Austin Fashion Week. 4: The employees of Robbins Estate Law were celebrated at their annual spring soiree. 5: The 2nd Annual Affordable Art Fair was a success. Local, national and international artwork was on display. 6: Vintage car enthusiasts checked out the hot rods at the 22nd Annual Lonestar Roundup in May. 7: The Tender Things kicked off Memorial Day with a set at the Carpenter Hotel Splash Party.
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For nearly 20 years, Build Native has been at the forefront of sustainable homebuilding in Austin, seamlessly blending luxury with eco-friendly design. We specialize in combining green building techniques with renewable systems like solar panels and rainwater collection, ensuring our homes align with your lifestyle and values.
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ZACH Theatre announces 5-year strategic vision
Zach Theater, Texas’s longest-running professional theater, unveils a bold rebrand and 5-year strategic plan shaped by community input. With a colorful new identity, streamlined structure and renewed focus on education, artist development and accessibility, Zach aims to become the place for everyone’s story. Learn more at zachtheater.org/rebrand.
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Custom home builder Build Native takes home two awards
Build Native won two awards at the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin MAX Awards this past May! In the custom builder category, the luxury, green builders won the award for Custom Bathroom and for Custom Kitchen in the 3001- 4000sf category.
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Juniper Babyproofing launches in Austin
Juniper Babyproofing offers full-service babyproofing services in Austin, TX, and the surrounding communities. Many parents are overwhelmed by the prospect of babyproofing their home when their baby becomes mobile. Juniper Babyproofing steps in to help by doing a thorough in-home child safety evaluation and then installing the products that parents select. Some common safety products are gates, furniture anchors, cabinet locks and door locks. Learn more at juniperbabyproofing.com
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Photography by Zach Theatre
Photography by Build Native
FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATION
Austin to Hot Springs makes the perfect road trip
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE ROYCE
The Cathedral at Garvan Woodland Gardens.
It’s summertime, so you know what that means? It’s time to load the family up and hit the road for a classic road trip.
However, any good road warrior knows that a car ride of more than seven hours with kids is pushing their luck. You have to be strategic and figure out some cool sights to see along the way, or there has to be at least one Buc-ee’s en route to your final destination.
That’s why Hot Springs, Arkansas, makes an excellent choice for a kid-friendly vacation. And if you’re lucky, you won’t hear “Are we there yet?” a hundred times along the way.
Earlier this spring, I spent four days exploring all that it has to offer. This charming town nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains provides something for everyone. From kayaking and crystal mining to hiking in a National Park, it’s genuinely a beautiful town with a rich past.
A peacock showing off at Garvan Woodland Gardens.
Hamilton Lake in Hot Springs, AR.
Tulip season in Hot Springs.
THINGS TO DO
GARVAN WOODLAND GARDENS
Nestled on the shores of Lake Hamilton, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical paradise that offers a peaceful retreat for visitors of all ages. With its stunning scenery, the gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including the Rose Garden and the Butterfly Garden. Families can enjoy a stroll along the winding pathways, taking in the vibrant flowers and tranquil ponds. The gardens also offer a children's garden with interactive exhibits, making it an engaging stop for younger visitors.
LAKE HAMILTON
No visit to Hot Springs is complete without spending some time on Lake Hamilton, a 2,000-acre reservoir that offers plenty of outdoor activities. Families can rent kayaks, paddleboards or take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surrounding scenic views. If you're looking for something more relaxing, simply enjoy the lake’s peaceful ambiance along the shoreline or pack a picnic and spend a few hours soaking in the sun.
AVANT MINING
For a hands-on, educational adventure, head over to Avant Mining, where families can try their hand at mineral mining.
The Fordyce Museum on Bathhouse Row.
“Hot Springs’ monthly Gallery Walk features the opening of new art exhibitions showcased in downtown fine art galleries and studios. From contemporary to traditional, the diverse offerings of Gallery Walk arts and cultural scene make Hot Springs the place to be on the first Friday of each month.”
Guests search for quartz crystals and other minerals in a safe and guided environment. It's an interactive way to learn about the area's geology while finding your very own natural treasures.
BATHHOUSE ROW AND THE FORDYCE MUSEUM
Hot Springs’ historic Bathhouse Row is a must-see. This area features beautifully restored bathhouses, once the heart of the town’s spa culture. The Fordyce Museum is a highlight and provides an in-depth look at the history of Hot Springs’ therapeutic baths. With its grand architecture, ornate tilework and educational exhibits, the museum offers an opportunity to step back in time and experience the glamour of the town’s heyday.
A bronze rabbit statue in front of the treehouse inside Garvan Woodland Gardens.
Hot Springs National Park behind Bathhouse Row.
HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK
As the oldest national park in the US, Hot Springs National Park offers a variety of activities for families. Visitors can hike through its lush forests, visit scenic lookouts or explore its rich history. The park is home to several trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot to connect with nature, whether you're up for an adventurous trek or just want to take a peaceful walk through the woods.
WHERE TO STAY
I stayed at The Reserve Bed and Breakfast, which was right across the road from the Oaklawn Race Track. Every morning, guests can watch as the jockeys train their horses for events like the Kentucky Derby. They provide personalized service, luxurious rooms and a quiet retreat close to the town’s attractions.
Two other options that I had the opportunity to explore were:
• The Lookout Point Lakeside Inn: This charming lakeside inn offers stunning views, cozy accommodations and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for families looking to unwind.
• Starlight Haven: If you're looking for a unique and charming place to stay, Starlight Haven offers a peaceful getaway with stunning views and comfortable accommodations. Enjoy an outdoor stay in one of their unique treehouses, cabins, safari-tents or geodesic domes.
A vegan BLT at Kollective Coffee & Tea.
The beautiful grounds of Lookout Point Lakeside Inn.
The Pancake Shop.
WHERE TO EAT
When it comes to dining, Hot Springs has something for every taste. These were my favorite spots.
• The Pancake Shop: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite, known for its pancakes, omelets and other breakfast staples. It's a great spot to fuel up before heading out on your day’s adventures.
• Deluca's Pizzeria : For a fun and delicious family meal, Deluca's offers a variety of mouthwatering pizzas in a cozy atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for pizza lovers of all ages.
• Kollective Coffee & Tea : Take a break and enjoy a hot drink at Kollective Coffee & Tea, a local coffeehouse offering organic brews and a relaxing atmosphere. They also offer gluten-free and vegan menu choices. I enjoyed their vegan BLT made with tempeh.
• Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Restaurant: Situated in a former bathhouse and the only brewery within a national park, this woman-owned establishment offers a delicious dining experience. It serves craft beers brewed on-site and an American fare menu. Whether you're exploring the outdoors, indulging in local cuisine or learning about Hot Springs’ fascinating history, this town has something for everyone. Just don’t forget to stop at the Texarkana border and take a picture with one foot in each state!
Visit www.visithotsprings.org to learn more.
Horse statue in front of The Reserve B&B.
DEEP IN THE HEART
ARTICLE BY ZACK FOGELMAN
DISCOVERING TEXAS HIDDEN GEMS IN OUR OWN BACKYARD
When people think of adventure, they often imagine plane tickets, passports and far-off destinations. However, for Chet Garner, host of The Daytripper, the best journeys start in your own backyard — especially when that backyard is Texas.
“There’s this idea that adventure requires a flight,” Garner said. “But you don’t realize how much magic is sitting right around the corner. Texas has everything — culture, food, scenery and people, all within a day’s drive.”
It’s why The Daytripper has resonated with so many Texans. What began as a passion project to explore the state quickly became a movement to inspire others to do the same. From the piney woods of East Texas to the border towns of the Rio Grande, Garner and his team have crisscrossed the state to uncover hidden gems, legendary BBQ joints, forgotten landmarks and towns that most people might miss if they blink.
And while Texas is huge — “We’re basically our own country,” he shared. Austin sits at the heart of it all.
“Austin is this perfect hub. You can head in any direction and hit something incredible within a couple of hours,” Garner said. “Driftwood, Lockhart, Marble Falls, Georgetown — each place has its own flavor and story.”
But even within the city limits, there’s plenty to discover, especially for newcomers.
“Most people haven’t even done the stuff they know about,” he said. “Go swim at Barton Springs. Climb Mount Bonnell. Listen to live music at Saxon Pub. Eat at Dirty Martin’s. You don’t need a guidebook. You need curiosity.”
Garner sees exploration as more than just sightseeing — it’s education.
Photo courtesy of The Daytripper.
“You can’t replicate the experience of being somewhere, of meeting someone different than you, of tasting food made with love,” he said. “You realize how diverse Texas is when you visit a tiny courthouse square in Lockhart, then drive to Sugar Land for the best Vietnamese food in the state.”
And it’s the people who leave the biggest impression. “You can get a chicken-fried steak at a hundred places. But it’s different when it’s served by a German grandma who’s been running the place for 40 years,” he elaborated. “That’s the kind of texture that makes a place special.”
He also believes exploration has the power to shift perspectives.
“Travel opens your eyes,” Garner emphasized. “You realize the world isn’t as divided as we think. We’re more alike than different, especially when you’re sweating over a plate of brisket together.”
One of his favorite recent discoveries is an RC car racetrack in Hutto — the only one of its kind in the country.
“People travel from all over to race there. If you don’t know it’s there, you’d never find it,” he said. “That’s the kind of stuff I love.”
He encourages Austinites to look with fresh eyes at their own city. “Create your own ‘10 Stops to Become a True Austinite’ list,” he suggested. “It might include swimming at Barton Springs, watching the bats under Congress Avenue, two-stepping at the Broken Spoke, or eating at Polvos or Top Notch. But the point is to experience what’s here, not just walk past it.”
Garner’s philosophy is simple: Champion what’s around you.
“Texas isn’t perfect, and neither is Austin,” Garner said. “But there’s still so much worth exploring, protecting and celebrating.”
FAST FIVE WITH CHET GARNER
If Austin were a person, what boots would they wear and where would they go on a Saturday morning?
“Some thrifted boots from a vintage store. And they’d be heading to Barton Springs, still wearing ‘em — just because that’s what was by the door.”
You can only eat one Austin taco the rest of your life. What’s in it?
“Bacon, egg, cheese, bean and potato on a flour tortilla. Bonus points if it comes from a gas station trailer with a number in the name.”
Which Texas town would you live in for a week? Which one would you only day trip through once?
“South Padre Island for a week. Give me seafood tacos and no buttons on my shirt. As for once? Let’s just say... Oklahoma.”
What’s your ultimate Austin showdown with Matthew McConaughey?
“Chili-off at Texas Chili Parlor. Followed by a no-phone navigation challenge from the UT Tower to McKinney Falls. Then a blindfolded walk to the edge of Mount Bonnell. Closest one wins.”
What’s the most ‘Only in Austin’ moment you’ve witnessed?
“Easy. A punk rock soap vendor at a farmers market — with a pet chameleon on her shoulder. Either that or Leslie walking past Joe’s Coffee... with everything hanging out.”
The Daytripper World Headquarters in Georgetown, TX. Photo by Julie Royce.
Photo courtesy of The Daytripper.
Photo courtesy of The Daytripper.
“TEXAS HAS EVERYTHING — CULTURE, FOOD, SCENERY, AND PEOPLE, ALL WITHIN A DAY’S DRIVE.”
Photo courtesy of The Daytripper.
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TEAKEASY TEA
SIP By Sip
EXPLORE TEA AND MUSIC WITH TEAKEASY
When Tara and Duane Godby set out to create Teakeasy Tea, their vision wasn’t just to sell tea — it was to create an experience. As a woman-owned, veteran-owned business, their mission combines luxury, community and a shared love for music, blending the richness of tea culture with a unique speakeasy twist.
Teakeasy Tea invites locals and visitors to explore the world of fine, full-leaf teas and enjoy an elevated, welcoming atmosphere one sip at a time.
Tara's journey into the world of tea began with a deep personal connection.
“I’ve always loved tea, and it reminds me of my mom, who had teapots all over the house,” Godby said.
Her initial inspiration, however, came from an encounter with a small tea lounge in Arizona, where tea was used not just for its flavor but for its healing properties. After years of talking about starting something similar, her husband, Duane, encouraged her to take the leap.
“It’s been about more than just business. It’s about building a legacy, not just for ourselves but for our community.”
“He said, ‘You should just do it,’” she said. “And that’s how it all started.”
Teakeasy’s signature blend of music and luxury reflects the couple’s shared passion for both. Music is at the heart of their concept, which is no surprise given their lifelong connection.
“When we got married, our wedding was Earth, Wind & Fire themed. Music has always been central to us,” Godby shared.
This love for music informed their branding, as their teas are even named after famous songs. For instance, the “Georgia on My Mind” blend features a peachy flavor that they associate with the iconic Louis Armstrong tune.
Beyond the aesthetic and sensory experience, Teakeasy’s business model is deeply rooted in community. The Godbys are committed to giving back through charitable contributions and community engagement.
“We’ve done pop-up shops for organizations like the Junior League of Austin and donated teas to charity events,” she said.
The couple’s future plans include a brick-andmortar tea lounge, which Tara describes as a “luxury experience without the million-dollar price tag.”
Teakeasy, expected to open this winter, will offer tea-infused cocktails, mocktails and live music in an elevated environment. Here, people can relax, connect and explore the world of tea.
“We want Teakeasy to be a place where you can slow down, sip by sip,” Godby explained. “It’s all about creating connections — whether it’s with friends, family or even strangers.”
In line with their commitment to building something enduring, she reflected on the journey of creating Teakeasy Tea.
“It’s been about more than just business. It’s about building a legacy, not just for ourselves but for our community.”
Whether through its carefully sourced teas from India, China and Sri Lanka or through the local support it gives back, Teakeasy is dedicated to making a difference.
To place an order, visit www.teakeasytea.com
Founder Tara Godby
EXPLORING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO BUILD AN ADU
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
As Austin’s housing policies shift toward denser and more flexible development, local builder Nick Ryza says there’s never been a better time to invest in an accessory dwelling unit — especially one built with sustainability in mind.
Ryza is the founder of Build Native, a company that has been at the forefront of green building since 2007.
“We started with the goal of building netzero energy homes,” he said, noting their early use of solar panels, geothermal heat pumps and
rainwater collection systems — long before they became standard options.
Today, the company focuses on energy-efficient builds in lockstep with Austin’s aggressive green building standards.
Austin’s Home Options for Mobility and Equity Initiative, implemented in February 2024, now allows up to three housing units on lots previously zoned for single-family use. It also permits building on smaller lots and relaxes other development restrictions, making it easier for homeowners to add ADUs.
According to Ryza, these changes aren’t necessarily driving construction costs down, but they are “increasing what’s possible to build.”
Still, affordability remains relative.
“A starter ADU is probably on the very low end, about half a million,” Ryza said. “But if you can afford to build one now, you should — costs aren’t going down.”
Supply chain disruptions, rising labor costs and tariffs are all factors contributing to ongoing price increases.
Beyond cost, Ryza emphasizes the potential return: “For a lot of people, adding an ADU isn’t about resale value right away — it’s about cash flow. Renting it out can help cover taxes or even a mortgage.”
That financial flexibility can be critical in a city where property values continue to soar.
Build Native’s process includes working closely with architects on feasibility studies that factor in zoning, tree protection ordinances, utility access and impervious cover limits. The company often builds in tandem with Native Solar, its sister company, to help homeowners achieve greater energy independence.
Their recent ADU in Travis Heights, used as an office and guest suite, incorporated modern brick features and was designed to complement the main home. Another in Dripping Springs was angled specifically for optimal solar panel efficiency.
“Know what you can do and partner with a builder who knows how to do it right.”
“Whatever you’re building should look like it belongs with your home,” Ryza said.
With Austin’s zoning now opening new doors, Ryza offers a final piece of advice: “Start with your budget. Know what you can do and partner with a builder who knows how to do it right.”
Photo by Stephen Smith
Photo by Twist Tours
Automation on the Road
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
Melendez Law Firm highlights hidden dangers of self-driving vehicles
Self-driving car Waymo.
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock.
Image courtesy of Kindle Media.
As Austin welcomes autonomous vehicles from Tesla and Waymo onto its streets, the promise of safer, more efficient transportation has captured residents' attention. But experts warn that the technology’s rapid expansion may be outpacing public awareness — and, in some cases, public safety.
A 2023 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration linked Tesla’s Autopilot system to over 800 crashes nationwide, including at least 19 fatalities since
2021. While Waymo's fully autonomous systems have a cleaner record, they’ve also drawn scrutiny after incidents such as a collision in Arizona involving a pedestrian and an automated vehicle.
Here in Travis County, a jury awarded $3.167 million to resident Austin Arnold after a 2018 golf cart crash caused by a GPScontrolled system on a local resort course. Handled by the Melendez Law Firm, this case resulted in the largest golf cart negligence injury award in Texas history. It showcased a wider concern: Even low-speed vehicles pose significant risks when automation is poorly managed.
“I was just going downhill when something went wrong with the newly updated GPS. The automated system thought I was out of bounds or not in the regulated zone,” Arnold said. “The cart suddenly slowed, and I lost control. It flipped over and broke my back.”
The incident left him with lasting injuries and lifelong complications.
“I’ve just never been the same,” he said. “I was 35 when it happened, and now I deal with back pain every day — I’ll be dealing with this the rest of my life.”
As traffic congestion intensifies across Austin, particularly in high-risk zones like the I-35 corridor, where crash rates have risen 22%, local attorneys say the public must understand the limitations of driver-assistance technologies.
“Many people assume these systems are foolproof, but they’re not,” said a representative from the Melendez Law Firm. “Our job is to hold companies accountable when that technology fails.”
Arnold hopes his case sparks awareness. “This is the way of the future,” he said. “But this technology has to be dialed in before it’s released to the public. You can’t just put people at risk to be first to market.”
CONTINUED >
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed, ask questions when using automated transport services and report malfunctions. Legal teams with technological and legal expertise may be essential for those injured by automation failures.
As self-driving vehicles continue to reshape Austin’s roads, residents must stay vigilant. The convenience of automation shouldn’t come at the cost of safety.
Melendez Law Firm
• In Texas alone, 370+ tech-related crashes have been reported since 2019
• Buckle up in all vehicles, including robotaxis and golf carts
• Tesla vehicles account for over 50% of U.S. tech-assisted crash reports
• Austin ranks #4 nationwide for autonomous vehicle incidents
• Crash rates in the I-35 construction zone jumped 22%
Overturned automated GPS golf cart that resulted in Austin Arnold's injuries. Image courtesy of Melendez Law Firm.
Image courtesy of Melendez Law Firm.
College Campus Tours
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
A quick guide for Austinites visiting top Texas colleges
Game day at the Dixie Chicken in College Station, TX. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.
A college road trip is more than just a tour — it’s a chance for families to explore the towns their teens may one day call home. For rising high school seniors in Austin eyeing Texas A&M, Texas Tech or Texas State, here’s a short guide to where to stay, eat and visit.
TEXAS A&M – COLLEGE STATION
Stay: The Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center offers upscale convenience on campus. For retro flair, Cavalry Court in Century Square is a lively alternative.
Eat : For student-approved bites, try Layne’s Chicken Fingers or Fuego Tortilla Grill. Dixie Chicken is a local legend near Northgate.
Visit : Tour the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, stroll Military Walk and don’t miss Downtown Bryan for boutique shopping and live music.
TEXAS TECH – LUBBOCK
Stay : Cotton Court Hotel offers boutique charm with modern amenities, including fire pits and a pool, just a mile from campus.
Eat : The Nicolett serves refined West Texas fare, while Cast Iron Grill is a breakfast favorite. For barbecue, locals swear by Evie Mae’s.
Visit : See the Buddy Holly Center, explore the National Ranching Heritage Center, enjoy a wine tasting at McPherson Winery and walk the First Friday Art Trail downtown.
TEXAS STATE – SAN MARCOS
Stay : Crystal River Inn provides a cozy, historic stay, while Comfort Suites offers convenience near campus.
Eat : Pho Tran 88 and Italian Garden deliver flavor on a student budget. North Street fuses Indian dishes with craft beer.
Visit : Float the San Marcos River, browse the outlet malls or catch live music at Cheatham Street Warehouse.
Campus visits may bring you for a day, but these towns offer a taste of the life that could await your student.
The Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock, TX. Photo by Julie Royce.
San Marcos River waterfall. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.
JULY 4TH
Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic
Germania Insurance Ampitheater
Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic and Fireworks returns to Austin, this time at Germania Insurance Amphitheater on July 4. America’s beloved icon Willie Nelson, who created this annual event in 1973, is bringing a star-studded lineup back, featuring Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers, The Mavericks, Asleep At The Wheel, and Tami Neilson.
JULY 4TH
H-E-B Austin Symphony July 4th Concert & Fireworks
Auditorium Shores
The Austin Symphony hosts an annual concert of patriotic music culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake.
JULY 11TH
Zilker Summer Musical
Zilker Hillside Theater | 8:00 PM
Pack a picnic and come enjoy the free, annual musical at the Zilker Hillside Theater. The outdoor theatre troupe will host live performances Thursdays through Sundays, beginning around 8:15 p.m.
JULY 12TH
Blanton All Day: The Swing Edition
200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd | 10:00 AM
The Blanton All Day Summer Dance series continues with swing dance, live band, art talks, crafts for all ages, and more! Get tix/plan your visit at: https://blantonmuseum.org/programs/blanton-all-day/ Members get in FREE to all events in this series.
JULY 19TH
Greater Austin Comic-Con
H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
The Greater Austin Comic Convention is a celebration that brings all things pop culture together with the Austin Vibe. It packs in two fun-filled days of entertainment that the whole family can enjoy at the beautiful H-E-B Center in Cedar Park!
JULY 23RD
MLS All-Star Game
Q2 Stadium | 8:00 PM
Top talent from across North America will take center stage at the Q2 Stadium on Wednesday, July 23. The 2025 MLS All-Star Game will feature the MLS All-Stars taking on a team of All-Stars from Mexico’s top soccer league, LIGA MX.
