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One of my top lake activities is paddleboarding and kayaking, and Lakeway Marina enhances the experience with their affordable rentals and friendly service. It's always a fantastic rental experience. For an adrenaline rush, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures offers an exhilarating zipline ride that's ideal for a thrill-seeker's summer bucket list.
With its sunny days, clear skies, and sparkling waters, the season offers endless hours of fun and relaxation. I always look forward to packing up summer essentials and heading out with loved ones to dive into the amazing adventures that await right in our backyard. From family-friendly outings to hidden gems, this issue will explore the best spots and activities to enjoy during the summer months. It’s the perfect time to have fun and beat the heat.
As you make memories with your family and friends this season over barbecue and grilling, let's also take a moment to honor our independence, patriotism and those who serve our nation, making these moments possible. Summer is here, so let's cherish every sunny day and the adventures it brings, celebrating everything that makes West Austin such a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
MICHELLE WOOD, EDITOR @WESTAUSTINCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Bryan Stone | Bryan.Stone@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Wood | Michelle.Wood@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Claire Smith | Claire@littleacornsphoto.com
Jessica Rockowitz | JessicaRockowitzPhoto@gmail.com
Kim Ortiz | Kim@kimortiz.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
1: Gather your friends and lounge by the pool this summer at Omni Barton Creek. 2: Take a day trip to Spicewood Vineyards for a delightful wine-tasting adventure. 3: Sip on refreshing, organic smoothies and juices at SunLife Organics in Bee Cave, TX. 4: Escape to the coastal and tropical flavors of Café Blue - Hill Country Galleria. 5: Celebrate Independence Day with spirited fun at Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery in Spicewood, TX. 6: Beat the heat with a sweet treat from Amy’s Ice Cream. 7: Soar over scenic views with Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, Texas’ longest and fastest zipline experience!
Your Success as the Destination.
Your success is our mission. Using our comprehensive knowledge of the everevolving markets, we fine-tune our strategies to reflect your needs. Whether you are moving in, moving out, or moving up, we’re your unwavering partner along the way. In every real estate venture, we stand by you, making your ambitions our own.
Your success, our shared journey.
Practice, train, and learn with Trackman data, HD video, and expert instructors to master your golf swing at ROK Golf. Play virtual golf on over 250 courses, indoors, anytime, and beat the heat. Enjoy socializing, watching games on a huge TV, shooting pool, and having a drink while competing with friends in the best Trackman virtual bays. ROK Golf is your ultimate golf cave. Transform your game at ROKGolf.com.
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At Nitro Swim School, the mission is simple: teach children to swim. Nitro builds confidence and lifelong lessons in water safety, making kids comfortable in any aquatic environment. With indoor Olympic-sized facilities, 23 swim lanes, and dedicated pools, the water is always a perfect 88°F for learn-to-swim comfort. Instructors are carefully selected and trained to ensure a safe, supportive, and fun learning experience. Register for summer classes at NitroSwim.com/Swim-School.
Dive into quality with American Spa and Pool! As West Austin's leading pool cleaner, American Spa and Pool provides top-notch services with unmatched expertise. Their team specializes in pool maintenance, repairs, upgrades, heater checks, filter cleaning, and hot tub maintenance. Serving families in Lakeway, Bee Cave, and surrounding areas, they offer affordable and reliable weekly pool cleaning. Choose them for an enjoyable pool ownership experience. Schedule your service today at AustinPoolCare.com
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Hotel Viata www.hotelviata.com | 844.306.6400
Lake Austin Spa Resort www.lakeaustin.com | 512.372.7300
Lakeway Resort and Spa www.lakewayresortandspa.com | 512.261.6600
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency | 512.308.1234
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa www.omnihotels.com/hotels/austin-barton-creek | 512.329.4000
Hill Country Herb Garden www.hillcountryherbgarden.com | 830.997.8615
Hotel Lulu www.hotellulutx.com | 979.249.5174
La Cantera Resort & Spa www.lacanteraresort.com | 210.558.6500
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Lajitas Golf Resort www.lajitasgolfresort.com | 432.424.5000
The Bygone www.thebygone.co | 512.890.2870
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF 7744 RANCH
Recently named the best glamping retreat and vacation rental in America by Eviivo’s Top 10 Vacation Rentals In The World, 7744 Ranch exemplifies luxury and innovation in the heart of Austin, Texas. Co-owned by Ron Anderson and his wife, Natalie, this family-owned resort has quickly gained recognition since its inception in 2022.
7744 Ranch offers a unique luxury RV resort experience with five on-site mobile estates previously owned by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith, Vin Diesel, and Simon Cowell. This adults-only resort features a
beautiful garden, barbecue facilities, a covered outdoor cowboy pool and ice bath to keep you cool during Texas summers, sauna, oversized game boards, and a versatile tent-like event space. Additionally, one can relax near the koi fish pond, or relax by its bank.
Inspired by the success of Anderson Mobile Estates, which catered to Hollywood’s elite, 7744 Ranch brings a first-class experience to Austin. Each trailer features luxurious interiors, combining comfort and elegance with nature. The mobile estates offer up to 1,200
Experience Celebrity Comfort in Serene Surroundings at 7744 Ranch
square feet of living space, making them perfect for glamping getaways and corporate retreats. The resort provides modern facilities and meeting spaces supported by Starlink satellites.
7744 Ranch promises a memorable stay, with opportunities to relax in the jacuzzi, explore the beautiful grounds, or enjoy modern amenities. This haven of luxury and tranquility perfectly blends rustic charm with modern convenience, making it a favorite destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Reserve your next retreat at 7744 Ranch, located at 7744 TX-130, Austin, TX 78724, by calling (512) 765-0094 or visiting 7744ranch.com. For the latest updates and exclusive offers, follow @7744ranch on Facebook and Instagram. Don’t miss out on the adventure!
• Customized Mobile Estates: Each estate reflects the personal style and tastes of the celebrities who owned them. Refined and beautiful, they make a lasting impact.
• Workspaces: Dynamic indoor and outdoor areas ideal for hosting seminars or workshops.
• Gym Spaces/Personal Trainers: A stateof-the-art gym with certified personal trainers to customize your workouts.
• Personalized Care: On-site masseuses, personal shoppers, and highly trusted caterer selections are available upon request.
• Koi Rescue Lake: A defining feature of the ranch, where guests can learn about the koi’s cultural significance and enjoy meditative strolls around the lake.
• Michael Phelps Jacuzzi: Equipped with over 100 jets, offering a luxurious and relaxing experience... and there’s even more!
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TEXAS TIPSY TOURS
Luxury Texas Hill Country Tours
Cheers to the perfect day in Texas Hill Country! Specializing in private tours of the top wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Austin, Dripping Springs, and Fredericksburg, Texas Tipsy Tours cater to groups of 2-14+ people. Made for locals and visitors, tours are ideal for bachelorette parties, corporate outings, or just a laid-back day with friends.
Their sister company, Paradigm Limo, provides black car services for events like weddings, concerts, and nights out. Texas Tipsy Tours also offers Lake Travis Party Boat Charters and Austin Bar Hops. With over six years of experience and more than 700 five-star reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook, their team takes great pride in their topnotch customer service.
Plan your next adventure at TexasTipsyTours.com, follow them on Instagram @texastipsytours, or call (512) 593-1858.
Established in 2008, Boat Beautiful has become the trusted choice for mobile boat detailing in Central Texas. With a mission centered on delivering exceptional detailing services and ensuring customer satisfaction, their team blends experienced professionals with enthusiastic technicians. This combination allows them to keep boats looking pristine making certain customers are left satisfied. As proud members of the vibrant lake community, they truly take pride in their work. Boat owners looking to get their vessel in top shape this summer can book online at BoatBeautiful.com, connect with them on social media @BoatBeautiful, or call during office hours at (512) 598-9916. Their office is located at 3217 Ranch Road 620 N Suite 1, Austin, TX 78734.
Here’s to a summer full of sunshine and smooth sailing!
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARINEMAX SAIL & SKI AUSTIN
Summer in West Austin means it’s time to hit the water, and there’s no better place to gear up than MarineMax Sail & Ski Austin. Having the right equipment and support for a fantastic day on the lake is essential. They offer a wide selection of boats from top brands like Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, and Nautique. It’s not just about the boats—they also provide repair and service options to keep your vessel in top shape. The staff are all boating enthusiasts who know the local lakes inside and out.
For water sports gear, MarineMax has everything from paddleboards to wakeboards. Planning a winter getaway? They even rent ski and snowboard equipment.
Located conveniently on U.S. Highway 183, close to Lake Travis and Lake Austin, MarineMax Sail & Ski Austin is perfectly situated to serve the boating community. As a full service Boating Lifestyle store, they pride themselves on providing unparalleled personal customer service.
Make the most of your summer with a trip to MarineMax Sail & Ski Austin at 12971 U.S. 183, Austin, Texas 78750, or give them a call at (512) 258-0733. Explore their website at MarineMax.com/Stores/Austin, and find more on Facebook @sailandskicenter and Instagram @marinemax_atx
Our luxury portable restroom trailers bring all the amenities of home to your event, including climate control, flushing porcelain toilets, as well as, full sinks and vanities.
| 512.884.3086
Discover family-friendly outdoor patios with activities and tasty dining options. Play games, enjoy summer comfort food, and relax by the water. Each spot offers a warm atmosphere where both kids and adults can have an enjoyable family outing.
Frontyard Brewing | Play a game of pickleball, sip a refreshing craft beer, and have some family fun. 4514 Bob Wire Rd, Spicewood, Texas | FrontyardBrewing.com
Grove Wine Bar | Savor New American cuisine al fresco style, featuring a special Grove Kids’ Menu. 3001 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, Texas | GroveWineBar.com
Hat Creek Burgers | Grab a tasty burger while kids play on the spacious playground. 1602 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, Texas | HatCreekBurgers.com
Ski Shores Cafe | Experience a casual Lake Austin hangout with classic ‘beach’ fare and waterfront activities. 2905 Pearce Rd, Austin, Texas | SkiShoresCafe.com
Sundancer Grill | Unwind at the lakeside bar on Lake Travis while the kids play. 16410 Stewart Rd, Lakeway, Texas | SundancerGrill.com
As the publisher of West Austin City Lifestyle, I am thrilled to share this curated guide for family-friendly outdoor patios. Enjoy exploring these perfect spots for fun, food, and relaxation this season. Each location offers a unique experience that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMFORT CREW FOR MILITARY KIDS
The Comfort Crew for Military Kids, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, supports the emotional and behavioral needs of children from military families. In our interview with Executive Director Angie Salyer, we uncover the inspiration behind the organization and its efforts to support military children.
As we celebrate the 4th of July, let’s remember the military kids and their families who show incredible resilience.
DISCOVER THE INSPIRATION AND EFFORTS BEHIND THE COMFORT CREW FOR MILITARY KIDS
“OUR VISION IS TO ENSURE ALL MILITARY
RECEIVE THE SUPPORT THEY NEED TO THRIVE.”
CAN YOU SHARE THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE FOUNDING OF COMFORT CREW FOR MILITARY KIDS?
In 2007, Trevor Romain and the late Ronda Englander founded The Trevor Romain Foundation to support children experiencing social and emotional adversity. In 2009, the foundation became a program partner of the United Service Organizations (USO) to directly support the children of men and women in the US Armed Forces. This partnership was particularly meaningful to both, as they had experienced personal challenges with military life. Before becoming an American citizen, Trevor served in the South African Army, learning firsthand the effects that war can have on children. Ronda was just three years old when she lost her father, Warrant Officer Rocky Armstead, in a helicopter crash during his deployment in Vietnam as a Medevac pilot.
According to the 2022 Blue Star Family Survey, the largest and most comprehensive survey of active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members, veterans, and their families, “The impacts of military service on family life continue to be a top concern for active-duty families, with time away from family as a top five issue for active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve family respondents.”
• One in three children with a deployed parent is at “highrisk” for psychological issues.
• Depression is seen in about one in four children.
• Academic problems occur in one in five children.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PROVEN RESOURCES AND PROGRAMS THE COMFORT CREW FOR MILITARY KIDS PROVIDES TO SUPPORT MILITARY
We provide specialized Comfort Kits, which are physical kits designed for ages 6 to 12 and are packed with resources to support military kids dealing with deployments, reintegration, injuries, and loss. Each kit includes a set of strategies to facilitate coping: a journal with prompts and space to write, draw, and express feelings and a Family Guidebook that contains information for parents.
Show your support for these brave young children by visiting ComfortCrew.org and learn how you can contribute to their mission.
Experience luxury and fun with Nautical Boat Club®, the first and only Boating Country Club®.
West Austin’s waterways are a boating enthusiast’s paradise, offering a dream playground to explore. If you’re considering diving into the boating lifestyle, Nautical Boat Club®Lakeway and Westlake are the perfect starting point. Imagine weekends spent cruising the serene waters of Lake Travis or admiring the beauty of Lake Austin, free from the hassles of maintenance and unexpected costs. Nautical Boat Club takes care of everything, providing fully equipped boats for you to enjoy without worry. Membership includes access to a comprehensive boating safety course, onboard orientation for every boat, high-quality life jackets, and regular safety checks.
The membership offers a diverse fleet and flexible scheduling, allowing you to enjoy various activities such as fishing, relaxing on a pontoon with family, or indulging in waterskiing and wakeboarding for an adrenaline rush. Each boat is equipped with essential safety gear and a detailed water map, ensuring you’re prepared for any adventure while avoiding potential hazards.
For more than 25 years, their ultimate goal has been to improve the quality of life in communities. At their Boating Country Club®, members can fully immerse themselves in boating adventures and meet like-minded individuals, knowing that safety and convenience are top priorities. You can experience the beauty of West Austin without limits and peace of mind, making cherished memories on the water.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
“This club has exceeded my expectations. The boat fleet at the club is impressive and well-maintained. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about boating. I highly recommend Nautical Boat Club for unforgettable adventures on the water.” - Member Review
Nautical Boat Club offers West Austin locals an unparalleled, trouble-free boating experience. With prime locations on Lake Travis and Lake Austin, members enjoy access to a top-notch fleet of fully-equipped boats. The club provides exceptional service, handling all maintenance, so members can enjoy the luxury and fun of boat life.
Lakeway & Westlake NauticalBoatClub.com
More locations and details online.
As one of Austin’s most experienced and recognized orthodontists, Dr. Adirana Da Silveira and her talented team specialize in
gentle treatment plans for kids, teenagers, adults and special-needs children.
Dr. Da Silveira and her team’s mission is to create beautiful and healthy smiles all over Central Texas and beyond!
(512) 334-0444 / info@beecaveortho.com / 11412 Bee Cave
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HIKE AUSTIN
Outdoor enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the next great adventure, and West Austin offers some of the best trails in the region. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the Founder of Hike Austin and Owner of Mesrie Construction Group, Matthew Guthrie, who boasts over 120,000 followers on Instagram. His passion for the trails of West Austin is contagious, and his guidance will inspire both novice and experienced hikers alike.
CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HIKING TRAILS IN THE WEST AUSTIN AREA, AND WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL?
Bull Creek is one of my favorites. The creek seems to stay flowing much longer than others when the heat really kicks in. St. Edwards Park along Bull Creek is really worth checking out!
River Place Nature Trail is another favorite, but make sure you are ready for a workout! There are a few thousand stairsteps if you do the whole thing.
The upper sections of Barton Creek are also really nice. You can start at the Lost Creek Greenbelt and work your way downstream. Many folks will drive over Mopac and not see any water and assume the whole creek is dry, when you could have beautiful waterfalls near Lost Creek/Hill of Life areas.
WHAT ESSENTIAL TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE NEW TO HIKING IN THIS REGION, ESPECIALLY DURING THE SUMMER?
Always take plenty of water! That is really the main thing to keep in mind, especially if you are planning to hike with pets. Also, if you are hiking with your dog, do not let them drink from the streams or creeks. It can be hard to do sometimes, but during the summer months, the water is not always safe for them to drink. It is also important to learn about the four venomous snakes in this region. Although they are very rare to see, they are out there.
HOW DO YOU STAY PREPARED AND SAFE WHILE HIKING IN THE TEXAS HEAT?
Water, water, water! That is really the main thing to keep in mind. People commonly underestimate how much water they should take on a hike, especially when it is 100+ out. Lightweight long-sleeved shirts are also very helpful. They will keep the sun off of you and, once you start sweating, they will help keep you cool.
ARE THERE ANY HIDDEN GEMS OR LESSER-KNOWN SPOTS AROUND LAKE TRAVIS THAT YOU RECOMMEND FOR AN ADVENTURE?
Tom Hughes Park is a personal favorite and not super well known. It’s a small park on Lake Travis with great views. Also, a great place to watch sunsets.
Hamilton Greenbelt in Lakeway has a really mellow trail with some great waterfalls to check out. It’s also stroller-friendly for folks with small kids.
The park is pretty well known, but Emma Long has some great trails along the ridge above Lake Austin that a lot of people overlook. Definitely worth checking out!
HOW HAS HIKING IN WEST AUSTIN INFLUENCED YOUR APPRECIATION FOR NATURE AND THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT?
West Austin holds some of the best parks and greenbelts. It’s really where the hill country begins. There are countless natural springs to find and dozens of beautiful waterfalls. The trails throughout West Austin will really make you appreciate all that Austin has to offer.
Raised in Austin with a greenbelt right outside his backyard, Matthew Guthrie’s love for nature started young. Through Hike Austin, he collaborates with various park organizations, including Texas Parks & Wildlife, Austin Parks & Recreation, LCRA Parks, and Travis County Parks, to provide a comprehensive resource for hikers. Follow @hikeaustin, tag your adventures, and use #hikeaustin to be featured on Instagram! For more details, email hikeaustintexas@gmail.com.
JULY 4TH
City of Lakeway July 4th Celebration
105 Cross Creek, Lakeway, TX 78734 | 8:30 AM
Join Lakeway's July 4th Celebration! Enjoy the parade at 8:30 AM and a hot dog reception at 9:30 AM. Get involved by volunteering or entering the parade. Share your photos and celebrate with us. Reflect on our freedom and community spirit. Be a part of the excitement, learn more Lakeway-TX.gov
JULY 4TH
Independence Day Festival at Hill Country Galleria
12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738 | 4:00 PM
Join us on Thursday, July 4th from 4pm-10pm for the annual Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival. Shop over 40 vendors and resident boutiques, enjoy live music in the Central Plaza, and bring the kids for rides, games, and face painting. Stay until dark for a spectacular fireworks show! Admission and parking are free. Get all the details at HillCountryGalleria.com/Events
JULY 6TH
8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735 | 11:00 AM
Omni Barton Creek's exclusive 4th of July celebration offers resort guests mouthwatering Texas BBQ, live music, family-friendly events, and a spectacular fireworks display against the stunning Hill Country backdrop. Enjoy the electrifying talent of Aaron McDonnell, a neo-traditional country artist. Don’t miss out—discover more and join the excitement at OmniHotels.com/Hotels/Austin-Barton-Creek
JULY 14TH
9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617 | 7:00 AM
Start your morning with a side of horsepower at Cars and Coffee Austin! Enjoy a free, family-friendly event featuring Texas' finest automobiles, including classics, racecars, exotics, and more. Held on select Sundays at Circuit of The Americas, this event promises excitement for car enthusiasts of all ages. Join the fun and fuel your passion for cars at CircuitofTheAmericas.com/Cars-and-Coffee
GOOD GUYS TREE SERVICE: EXPERT ARBORISTS FOR PRISTINE LANDSCAPES
Good Guys Tree Service stands out for their expertise in tree care, offering services that enhance the beauty and health of your property. From tree trimming to removal and stump grinding, their team of arborists ensures your landscape remains vibrant and safe. Tip: Before hiring any tree service, ensure they are licensed and insured to protect your property and assets.
EFFICIENT AC, ELECTRIC & PLUMBING: YOUR ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR HOME COMFORT
Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing provides comprehensive solutions to keep your home comfortable year-round. From AC repairs and installations to electrical services and plumbing repairs, they offer 24/7 emergency assistance for your convenience. Tip: Regular maintenance of HVAC systems can improve efficiency and prolong their lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
MAGNIFY ELECTRIC: ILLUMINATING HOMES WITH RELIABLE ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Magnify Electric specializes in electrical services that ensure your home is well-lit and safe. Whether you need installations, repairs, or upgrades, their skilled technicians deliver quality workmanship and reliable solutions. Tip: Consider upgrading to energy-efficient lighting to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
CONTACT
LOCAL EXPERTS:
Good Guys Tree Service (512) 201-2497
bob@goodguystreeservice.com GoodGuysTreeService.com
Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing (512) 501-2275
24/7 Emergency Service EfficientTexas.com
Magnify Electric (737) 497-9611
info@magnifyelectric.com MagnifyElectric.com
For more local businesses, visit our online business directory at CityLifestyle. com/WestAustin. Find the Top Home Services Companies in West Austin and the Surrounding Areas
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
Expert Tips and Home Services for a StressFree Summer
THE VIEWS YOU HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR…
• Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Canyon Lake and Horseshoe Bay Areas
• STUNNING hilltop views with elevations as high as 1,600 feet
• 13 to 20+ acre tracts of land ready to build your forever home
• Gated communities with paved roads and wildlife tax valuation
• Grottos, ponds, seasonal creeks, canyons and short/long views
• Close to urban development but tranquil, pastoral rural setting www.ranchesat.com
Developers Mike and Kim Clinard