Frommer's Review
Talk about fieldwork! The researchers at this lovely, colorful complex have 178 acres of wildflowers for their personal laboratory. Founded by Lady Bird Johnson in 1982, the center is dedicated to the study and preservation of native plants -- and where better to survey them than in the Texas Hill Country, famous for its glorious spring blossoms?
The main attractions are naturally the display gardens -- among them, one designed to attract butterflies -- and the wildflower-filled meadow, but the native stone architecture of the visitor center and observation tower is attention grabbing, too. Included among the interesting indoor displays is one of Lady Bird's wide-brimmed gardening hats and a talking lawn mower with a British accent. Free lectures and guided walks are usually offered on the weekends -- it's best to phone or check the website for current programs. The facility's research library is the largest in the United States for the study of native plants. The excellent gift shop sells packets of information about the species that are indigenous to your home state, as well as plant books and many creative botanical-related items. And you'll be buying for a good cause: Gift shop proceeds (as well as admission fees) all help fund the nonprofit organization. It'll take you about a half-hour to drive here from central Austin, so plan to eat lunch here and spend a leisurely half-day.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
